Best smart door locks

The latest locks offer keyless entry using your smartphone, fingerprint or a keypad, as well as the ability to open the door remotely and grant access to people on specific days – a smart gadget that works hard for your home

New ways to secure your property

EXPERT TIP ‘Not all UK doors are compatible, so check beforehand, especially if your insurance requires a certain level of protection.’

CHRIS HASLAM, TECHNOLOGY JOURNALIST

Secure the shed MASTERLOCK BIOMETRIC PADLOCK, £89, MASTERLOCK.EU

There were more than 23,000 shed burglaries in 2019, many of which weren’t covered by insurance because they were left unlocked. This weatherproof biometric padlock records up to 10 different fingerprints so all the family – and the gardener – can get access. THE BEST BIT If the battery goes flat, it can be given a quick jump start using a standard 9V battery.

Easy installation LINUS SMART DOOR LOCK, £219.98, YALE

This design takes just a few minutes to install as it fits over your existing lock. Once connected, it uses Bluetooth (or Wi-fi with the Connect Bridge, £69.98) and opens as you approach. You can give timed access to visitors, open the door remotely (via Wi-fi) and check comings and goings via the app.

THE BEST BIT Works with Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Best of both ULTION SMART LOCK, £259

(PLUS £95 FOR INSTALLATION), BRISANT

The ideal device for those of us not quite ready to embrace technology, as it also comes with a standard set of keys. This cylinder compatible lock is packed with features and can integrate with other smart security systems. THE BEST BIT If the worst happens and someone breaks in, you’re covered by a £1,000 security guarantee.

Stylish solution NUKI FAMILY COMBO 2.0, £309, NUKI.IO

This design fits over your existing cylinder lock and lets you open with a tap of your smartphone, smartwatch or the Nuki Fob (three included). The app gives you total control of who has access and, by using the Bridge (included), you can grant entry from wherever you are in the world. THE BEST BIT Especially practical for people in flats and modern buildings.

Simple tech BOLD SMART CYLINDER LOCK, £189, ARGOS

A clever design with a two-year battery life that replaces your existing cylinder lock to give you keyless entry using the smartphone app and Bluetooth. The simple doorknob design has a discreet LED ring to show if locked or open. THE BEST BIT People can enter a unique PIN code by twisting the knob, rather like a safe cracker.