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Smart Lock Buying Guide: Keypad, Fob, App and Backup Keys

How to choose a smart lock for your home or office, what to check before you buy and how installation works.

Published 2026-08-10 · 4 min read · By the 1800Install team

Know your door

Door thickness, backset, deadbolt style and whether the door is metal or wood all affect what fits.

Ways to unlock

Smart locks support several unlock methods:

  • Keypad codes
  • Phone app
  • Key fob or card
  • Fingerprint
  • Physical key backup

Power and backup

Most use batteries and warn you before they run low. Choose a lock with a backup method so you are never stuck outside.

Guest access

Temporary codes make it simple to allow guests, sitters and contractors and to remove access later.

Pair with cameras and automation

A lock is more useful with a doorbell camera. Control4 can lock everything with a Good Night scene.

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