The Best Smart Locks for Airbnbs [2025 Guide]

Vacation rental guests expect a frictionless check-in – no hiding keys under planters, no frantic “Where’s the lockbox?” messages. Smart locks do just that, turning your front door into something akin to a concierge. No more key handoffs, no more midnight lockouts, and no more wondering if your property is secure between guests. Needless to say, smart locks have quickly become an STR essential. 

In this guide, we’re diving deep into the best smart locks for Airbnbs, covering:

• Overview of must-have features
• Reviews our favorite models
• How-to’s to install and maintain smart locks

Quick look: Best Airbnb smart locks

1. Level
   1. Level Lock+ (Wi-Fi) and Level Keypad
   2. Level Bolt (Wi-Fi) and Level Keypad
2. Yale
   1. Yale Assure Lock 2 Keypad
   2. Yale Assure Lock 2 Key-Free Keypad with Wi-Fi
3. Schlage
   1. Schlage Encode WiFi Enabled Electronic Keypad Deadbolt
   2. Schlage Encode WiFi Enabled Electronic Keypad Deadbolt and Latitude Lever Set 

Features to look for in the best smart locks for Airbnb

Smart locks transform guest access from your biggest headache to a seamless experience – but the marketing speak and technical jargon surrounding products might leave you unclear on what to look for. 

Skip the frustration of sifting through overhyped specs and focus on these practical features that actually matter for your Airbnb operation:

Remote access control capabilities

The ability to lock and unlock your door from anywhere is non-negotiable for Airbnb hosts. 

Remote access allows you to:

• Grant entry to maintenance staff without being on-site
• Let in guests who arrive early (if your cleaning is complete)
• Lock up if a guest forgets to secure the property
• Verify the property is secure between bookings

The right access methods

For short-term rentals, access codes reign supreme as the best entry method. 

Here's why:

• No app downloads required (guests hate this extra step)
• Zero learning curve for international visitors
• No physical keys or fobs to lose or forget
• Codes are customizable and expire after checkout
• Easy to share with cleaning staff on turnover days

Pro tip: Make sure your lock includes a physical key as backup. Power outages and electronic malfunctions are rare, but when they happen, you'll need a foolproof plan B.

Long battery life

Nothing ruins check-in faster than a dead smart lock. 

Look for smart locks with:

• At least 6-12 months of typical battery life
• Low-battery notifications sent to your phone
• Easy-to-replace battery types
• External battery backup options for emergencies

Some premium options even include rechargeable battery packs that last significantly longer than standard AA batteries.

Durability and weather resistance

Your Airbnb door lock will face constant use and potentially harsh weather conditions. 

Pick a lock that includes:

• Weather-resistant exterior components (IP65 rating or higher)
• High-grade materials (metal construction vs. plastic)
• Strong internal mechanisms designed for frequent use
• ANSI/BHMA security certification (Grade 1 or 2)

Software compatibility

Your lock should integrate seamlessly with both the Airbnb platform and any vacation rental management software you use. 

Reliability 

A smart lock is only as good as its performance record. 

Consider:

• Success rate for remote lock/unlock commands
• Connectivity reliability (how often does it go offline?)
• Customer service availability when issues arise
• Backup entry methods during system outages

The best smart locks for Airbnb

After extensive research, we’re curated this list of our top recommendations for the best Airbnb smart locks in 2025.

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Value option: Schlage Encode

The Schlage Encode family couples mid-range pricing with rock-solid WiFi — no extra bridge required. You’ll get 100 unique codes, auto-lock, and Alexa/Google compatibility. For hosts juggling multiple units, the Encode line is a budget-friendly workhorse.

Features:

• Built-in WiFi (2.4 GHz)
• 100 code capacity + activity log
• Auto-lock adjustable from 15 seconds to 4 minutes

Variants and colors:

• Matte Black
• Satin Nickel
• Aged Bronze
• Bright Chrome

Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring, Schlage Home app, Airbnb

Pros	Cons
No hub required	Plastic keypad bezel can scuff
ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 security	4x AA batteries every 6–8 months
Auto-lock and one-touch lock capability	Slightly bulky interior housing

Why we like it:

• Codes refresh instantly — critical when a last-minute booking hits.
• The lever bundle looks premium without premium pricing.
• Grade 1 rating rivals commercial hardware.

Models we recommend:

The Schlage Encode WiFi-Enabled Electronic Keypad Deadbolt is a solid, budget-friendly option if you prefer to keep your existing door handle.

The Schlage Encode with Latitude Lever Set pairs the classic keypad deadbolt with a modern lever for a cohesive look.

Premium pick: Yale Assure 2

Yale’s second-generation Assure series swaps the plug-in Wi-Fi module for built-in connectivity, slimming down the footprint while widening integrations (Airbnb, Apple Home, SmartThings).

Features:

• DoorSense™ sensor confirms the door is physically shut
• Auto-unlock via Bluetooth geofencing
• Built-in Wi-Fi + Matter-ready firmware

Variants and colors:

• Black Suede
• Satin Nickel
• Oil-Rubbed Bronze

Compatibility: Airbnb, Apple Home, Alexa, Google, SmartThings, IFTTT

Pros	Cons
Slender profile fits narrow jambs	Premium price point
Geofencing feels like wizardry to guests	Key-free design removes the option of a physical backup
Works with Yale Access app (code share, log, low-battery alerts)	DoorSense magnet requires precise alignment

Why we like it:

• Direct Airbnb integration, so reservations automatically create and expire codes.
• Door-ajar notifications keep your space secure and stop HVAC bleed (your utility bill will notice).
• One of the few locks already supporting Matter-over-Thread.

Models we recommend:

The Yale Assure Lock 2 Keypad has a sleek shell for a seamless look, though you’ll need a plug-in Wi-Fi bridge or Zigbee/Z-Wave module. 

The Yale Assure Lock 2 Key-Free Keypad with Wi-Fi is an equally sleek option with a key-free faceplate that ditches the keyway entirely.

Luxury lock: Level

Level locks are beautifully designed, hiding the “brains” of the lock inside the bolt itself, so from the street your door looks completely traditional. 

Features:

• Invisible motor tucked inside the deadbolt housing
• Auto-lock & auto-unlock via Bluetooth geofencing
• NFC “home keys” that guests can store in Apple Wallet
• One-year battery life on a single, easy-to-swap CR2 cell

Variants and colors:

• Satin Nickel
• Matte Black
• Polished Brass
• Satin Chrome

Compatibility: Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, Ring; Matter via firmware update

Pros	Cons
Maintains or upgrades your current door style	Highest price bracket on our list
Whisper-quiet motor feels luxe to guests	CR2 batteries aren’t as common as AA cells
IP65 weather-rated for rain, dust, and seaside salt air	Smaller code capacity (50) compared with Schlage’s 100

Why we like it:

• Level turns a security upgrade into a design flex — your 1920s craftsman latch or custom brass handle stays center stage while guests tap an iPhone or enter a code to unlock. 
• Creates a guest wow moment with tap-to-unlock NFC and Apple Wallet keys
• Design-first approach complements boutique and luxury rentals

Models we recommend:

The Level Bolt (Wi-Fi) and Level Keypad is a stealthy retrofit that slips inside your existing deadbolt, preserving your exterior hardware while adding remote Wi-Fi control, auto-lock, and keypad code entry for guests. Ideal when you want smart-lock convenience without changing the look of the door.

The Level Lock+ (Wi-Fi) and Level Keypad is a complete Grade 2 deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi, Apple Wallet “home keys,” and keypad support, delivering hotel-style tap-to-unlock flair and robust security in a sleek package.

Airbnb smart lock comparison

Model	Built-in Wi-Fi	Code capacity	Backup key	Battery life (est.)	ANSI/BHMA grade
Schlage Encode Century Deadbolt	✅	100	✅	6 – 8 mo (4 × AA)	Grade 1
Schlage Encode Century Deadbolt + Latitude Lever	✅	100	✅	6 – 8 mo (4 × AA)	Grade 1
Yale Assure Lock 2 Keypad (Bluetooth)	❌	250	✅	≈ 6 mo (4 × AA)	Grade 2
Yale Assure Lock 2 Key-Free Keypad (Wi-Fi)	✅	250	❌	≈ 6 mo (4 × AA)	Grade 2
Level Lock+ (Wi-Fi) + Keypad	✅ (via bridge)	50	✅	≤ 1 yr (1 × CR2)	Grade 1
Level Bolt (Wi-Fi) + Keypad	✅ (via bridge)	50	✅	≤ 1 yr (1 × CR2)	Grade 1*

*Overall grade depends on the exterior hardware you pair with the retrofit bolt.

Our criteria: How we chose the best smart locks

Before crowning any winners, we put every contender through the same gauntlet. After all, the prettiest keypad means nothing if it flakes at check-in.

When recommending smart locks, we consider: 

• Host-centric features first. 
  • We prioritized remote code generation, high success rates, and PMS integrations over flashy touchscreens.
• Guest experience. 
  • Locks had to be intuitive for technophobes and digital natives alike.
• Design flexibility. 
  • STRs range from boho bungalows to mountain cabins. Finishes, trim styles, and invisible installs matter.
• Security pedigree. 
  • Every pick meets or exceeds ANSI/BHMA grade 2, with Schlage pushing grade 1.
• Value over hype. 
  • We skipped over-engineered locks with subscription fees or gimmicky fingerprint sensors that struggle in freezing temps.

How to install your Airbnb smart lock

Smart locks are largely a DIY upgrade — no pro locksmith needed for most hosts. That said, a little prep work prevents headaches.

Follow this step-by-step checklist to get from unboxing to seamless check-ins:

1. Audit your door. 
   1. Confirm back-set (typically 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″) and bore size (2-1/8″).
2. Remove existing hardware. 
   1. Keep screws handy — you may reuse them.
3. Dry-fit. 
   1. Before tightening, align the deadbolt, strike plate, and keypad to avoid binding.
4. Calibrate. 
   1. Most locks run a self-check routine to learn door swing direction.
5. Add a fresh battery pack. 
   1. Low-charge cells on day 1 create phantom lockouts.
6. Run a test code from outside. 
   1. Confirm latch throw and auto-lock timing before announcing “It’s installed!”

Pro tip: Screenshot (or write down) the programming code printed on the interior housing. 

How to integrate smart locks with your Airbnb account

Airbnb’s official lock-connect portal supports Schlage, Yale, and August. 

The flow to connect your lock with Airbnb takes about five minutes:

1. In Airbnb, navigate to Menu → Listings → [Your listing] → Access settings.
2. Choose Connect a lock and sign into the manufacturer’s cloud.
3. Pick your property address, then approve permission to create/delete codes.
4. Test a dummy reservation (arrive in one hour, depart in two) to watch the PIN sync.
5. Archive the dummy reservation to kill the code.

And voilà — no more manually sending access codes, and each guest feels like they’re walking into a hotel suite.

How to maintain your smart lock

A quick maintenance for your Airbnb smart lock ritual keeps batteries fresh, firmware updated, and those effortless check-ins rolling in

We recommend doing the following routinely:

• Battery swaps
  • Replace at 25% remaining or sooner
• Firmware updates
  • Enable auto-updates so security patches slip in overnight
• Physical inspection
  • Check quarterly for loose screws, worn gaskets, or door sag.
• Emergency plan
  • Keep one physical key in a realtor box or give your cleaner a copy.
• Audit access logs
  • Review anomalies (ex: door opened at 3 am with an old code) to spot unauthorized entry.

What is an ANSI/BHMA rating?

ANSI/BHMA grades measure a lock’s ability to withstand brute force, cycles, and environmental abuse. 

• Grade 3 suits light residential use
• Grade 2 handles daily STR turnover
• Grade 1 — commercial-level — is the toughest 

Where to buy Airbnb smart locks

For the best prices on smart locks for your STR, shop with Minoan! 

Minoan is every STR host’s best friend, offering better-than-trade discounts on more than 160 brands so you can furnish your space without breaking your budget. Membership is free – all you have to do is sign up to start saving!

FAQs

Should I put a smart lock on my rental property?

Absolutely. A smart lock eliminates key-transfer friction, documents every entry, and can even sync with cleaning schedules. It’s the best door lock for Airbnb hosts juggling back-to-back turnovers because you never worry about guests losing or copying keys.

How do I protect my home on Airbnb?

Layer security like an onion: Outdoor cameras covering entrances (never indoor), motion-activated lighting, noise monitors, and a solid Airbnb door lock that logs every access attempt. Pair the lock’s entry alerts with your vacation rental management software so any curious midnight activity triggers an automatic heads-up.

How do I secure my door on Airbnb?

Start with a high-grade deadbolt — preferably one of the models above — anchored by 3-inch strike screws. Combine that with a smart alarm for forced-entry detection, and use the lock’s audit trail to confirm the doors are always locked.