Best Smart Locks with Keypad (2026): No Subscription Picks

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Quick answer

Homeowners replacing a deadbolt: start with Yale Assure Lock 2 (Wi-Fi keypad) for codes + app without an unlock subscription, or Schlage Encode Plus if you want Grade-1 hardware and Apple Home Key. Renters: use SwitchBot Lock Pro + Keypad Touch so you keep the existing key (renter locks guide). ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro-class locks pack fingerprint + keypad cheaply — but note Wirecutter-style reliability caveats. Wyze Lock Bolt is the budget full-swap with fingerprint/keypad if the landlord OK’s it.

Comparison table

Prices change often; check the linked retailer page for the current price.

How we researched this

Circuit & Chime keypad roundups, Wirecutter 2026 smart locks, Schlage Encode Plus and Yale product pages, SwitchBot retrofit docs, and ULTRALOQ specs. Research-based only. We have not installed these locks. Renting? See renter locks.

Best overall: Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi keypad

Full deadbolt replacement with a clean keypad, built-in Wi-Fi on the Wi-Fi model, and swappable radio modules on many Assure 2 configs (Matter / Z-Wave paths). No subscription to unlock or manage codes. Strong “most doors” pick in 2026 keypad roundups.

Best-built / Apple: Schlage Encode Plus

ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 feel, touch keypad, Apple Home Key (iPhone / Watch tap). Built-in Wi-Fi. Premium price; buy when build quality and Home Key matter more than saving around $100.

Best for renters: SwitchBot Lock Pro + keypad

Interior retrofit keeps the exterior key; add Keypad Touch for codes without a full deadbolt swap. Matter via hub kit. Landlord-friendlier than ULTRALOQ/Wyze full replacements — still ask first. Details in our renter locks piece.

ULTRALOQ: value pick with a caveat

U-Bolt Pro WiFi-class locks market keypad + fingerprint + Wi-Fi at aggressive prices. Some major reviewers have warned about support/reliability — we include ULTRALOQ for shoppers hunting features-per-dollar and disclose that caveat instead of crowning it “most reliable.”

Budget full swap: Wyze Lock Bolt

Fingerprint + keypad energy at a low sticker, but it replaces the deadbolt — not a stealth renter pick. Fine for owners or approved installs.

Buying guide

1. Retrofit vs replace — renters → SwitchBot/August/Yale Approach class; owners → Yale/Schlage/ULTRALOQ/Wyze.
2. No unlock subscription — confirm in the listing; video plans are separate.
3. Apple Home Key → Encode Plus (or Matter paths you verify).
4. Codes for guests/cleaners — prefer easy scheduling in-app.
5. Fail-safe — physical key or documented battery-fail behavior.

Related guides

• Best smart locks for renters
• Best video doorbells without a subscription
• Smart home starter kit for a new move

FAQ

See front matter for schema-ready Q&A.