Introduction
Imagine coming home with your arms full of groceries. Instead of fumbling for keys, your phone quietly unlocks the door as you reach it. That’s the everyday magic of a smart lock with a great mobile app. The hardware matters, but the app is what makes using a smart lock feel effortless—clean design, fast setup, and clear alerts.
In this guide, we’ll look at big names like August, Yale, Schlage, Kwikset, Level, Eufy, and Ultraloq. You’ll see what their apps do well, how they fit into different smart home setups, and which ones people love most. By the end, you’ll know which lock and app combo fits your home and your daily routine.
What Makes a Great Smart Lock App
A top-notch app should give you:
- A clear, simple user interface
- Easy setup that works the first time
- Remote access so you can lock or unlock from anywhere
- Reliable push notifications
- Handy activity logs to see who’s come and gone
- The option to share custom access codes that expire when you choose
- Integration with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, or IFTTT
- Strong security like encryption, two-factor authentication, auto lock, tamper alerts, and a battery backup
Quick Snapshot: Ratings and Integrations
Here’s a current snapshot of iOS ratings and key integrations:
| Brand | iOS App Rating | Works With |
|---|---|---|
| August | 4.8/5 | HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Schlage | 4.8/5 | Home Key, Alexa, Google |
| Yale | New Yale Home app rolling out | Home Key on Assure Lock 2 Plus, some Matter support |
| Kwikset | High ratings on Android | Alexa, Google, IFTTT |
| Level | Sleek, design-focused | Home Key, needs Level Connect or HomeKit hub for remote |
| Eufy | Strong ratings | Alexa, Google, some Matter support |
| Ultraloq | Good reviews | Home Key, Alexa, Google, SmartThings, IFTTT |
Ratings change over time, so check your app store before you buy.
A Closer Look at Each Brand
August
Why it stands out
Clean design, fast pairing, and smooth remote control. You can share keys, set auto lock, and scroll through activity logs in seconds. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock connects directly—no extra bridge needed.
Smart home fit
Works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant, so it fits into most homes.
Security
August uses strong encryption and offers two-factor authentication. You can even require Face ID or fingerprint inside the app.
Heads-up
If you rely on SmartThings, double-check August’s compatibility list, since support can vary.
Yale
Why it stands out
Yale has two apps: Yale Home (rolling out globally) and Yale Access (for the US and Canada). Both make it easy to share codes and check activity. Updates keep the experience smooth.
Smart home fit
The Assure Lock 2 Plus supports Apple Home Key, so you can unlock with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. Some Yale models include Matter, which makes switching between Apple, Google, or Amazon ecosystems simpler.
Security
Yale uses two-factor authentication and solid encryption. Apple requires 2FA for remote control through HomeKit as well.
Heads-up
Make sure you download the right app for your region and model.
Schlage
Why it stands out
The Schlage Home app is reliable and simple. The Encode Plus adds Apple Home Key support—tap your phone or watch to unlock.
Smart home fit
Encode models work with Alexa and Google Assistant, and the Plus version adds HomeKit.
Security
When paired with Apple Home, you get Apple’s built-in 2FA on top of the Schlage app login.
Heads-up
SmartThings support varies, so check their “Works With” page if you use it.
Kwikset
Why it stands out
Kwikset’s Wi-Fi locks, like Halo, make setup and code sharing simple. Their app gets high marks on Android.
Smart home fit
Supports Alexa and Google Assistant, plus an IFTTT service for custom automations.
Security
Kwikset highlights encryption and two-factor authentication for peace of mind.
Level
Why it stands out
Level hides the tech inside the deadbolt, so your door looks like it has a regular lock. The app is clean and fast. For remote control without Apple, you’ll need the Level Connect bridge.
Smart home fit
Level Lock+ supports Apple Home Key. Add Level Connect for Google and other platforms.
Heads-up
If you want remote control and don’t use Apple Home, factor in the cost of the Level Connect bridge.
Eufy
Why it stands out
The Eufy app manages all your Eufy gear—cameras, vacuums, and locks—in one place. It supports Alexa, Google, and two-factor authentication. Some newer locks now work with Matter for wider compatibility.
Heads-up
App performance can vary by region and device, so check recent reviews in your country’s app store.
Ultraloq
Why it stands out
The U home app is straightforward and supports keypad, fingerprint, and NFC models. The latest Bolt NFC update adds Android tap-to-unlock alongside Apple Home Key.
Smart home fit
Depending on the model, Ultraloq works with Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, and IFTTT—great for power users and hosts.
Best Picks for Different Situations
Vacation rentals
For Airbnb hosts, Yale and August are top choices. Airbnb can auto-generate unique codes that activate at check-in and expire at check-out. No late-night code sharing, no stress.
Family access
Busy households will love August, Schlage, Yale, or Kwikset. Give each family member their own code and set auto lock so the door never stays open by accident. Apple users can tap to unlock with Home Key using Schlage Encode Plus, Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, or Level Lock+.
Delivery access
Need to let a delivery person in once? Create a temporary code. Kwikset’s IFTTT service can even turn on hallway lights when the door unlocks, then relock automatically.
Security Checklist
- Turn on two-factor authentication in the app
- Use a strong, unique password
- Enable auto lock and tamper alerts
- Keep the lock’s firmware updated
- Keep spare batteries on hand
- Learn your lock’s backup entry method—keypad, physical key, or NFC
Quick Troubleshooting Tips
- Can’t connect during setup: Reboot your phone and router. If you have a Level lock, check if you need the Level Connect bridge or a HomeKit hub for remote access.
- Remote access not working: Some locks need a bridge or hub. August Wi-Fi doesn’t; Level often does unless you use Apple Home with a hub.
- App crashes or lags: Update the app and your phone’s OS.
- Codes not working: Stand near the lock with the app open to sync, then re-create the code.
- Battery draining fast: Make sure the deadbolt moves smoothly and run the app’s calibration setup.
Buying Guide
- Best overall app feel: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock—great app and wide compatibility with no extra hardware.
- Best for Apple fans: Schlage Encode Plus, Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, and Level Lock+ for smooth Home Key tap-to-unlock.
- Best minimalist look: Level Lock—classic design, clean app, and optional Level Connect bridge.
- Best for automations: Ultraloq with its broad platform support and Android tap-to-unlock.
- Best budget choice: Kwikset Halo—solid app and IFTTT automations at a lower price.
Real-Life Snapshots
- Sam the host uses a Yale Assure 2 with Airbnb integration. Codes auto-generate for each guest, so no late-night messages.
- Mina and Ali gave their kids weekday codes in the Schlage app and turned on auto lock—no more “Did we lock the door?” moments.
- Riz, a design lover, chose the Level Lock+ for its classic look. With Home Key, she taps her Apple Watch to unlock after a morning run.
Final Thoughts
A smart lock is only as good as the app that runs it. If you want a polished, fuss-free setup, August is hard to beat. For Apple fans, Schlage Encode Plus, Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, and Level Lock+ give you the magic of Home Key. For automation geeks, Ultraloq and Kwikset are the most flexible.
Pick the lock that matches your lifestyle, turn on the security features, and enjoy that quiet sigh of relief every time the door just works.