Best Bluetooth Smart Locks for Apartments
Apartment renters and owners face a unique set of lock constraints: no drilling, no permanent damage, and often a landlord who needs a key. Bluetooth smart locks solve most of that, letting you unlock with a phone, issue temporary codes, and keep the original deadbolt in place.
Quick answer
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is the best overall Bluetooth smart lock for most apartments because it retrofits the existing deadbolt and adds app control without replacing the exterior hardware.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Cross-checked manufacturer-published specifications before writing any recommendation
- Verified US market availability and configuration for every model discussed
- Owner-feedback themes are summarized as feedback, never presented as our own hands-on testing
- No invented star ratings; see the visible Research Score criteria on this page
- Checked specifications against manufacturer documentation before publishing
- Every pick here is a currently sold US model, and we flag whether it needs a hub, a bridge, or a full deadbolt swap so renters can avoid a costly mistake.
Research updated September 2026.
What Matters Most for This Category
For apartments, the single most important factor is whether the lock replaces your deadbolt or retrofits the existing thumb turn. Retrofit models like August and Wyze keep the landlord's original keys working and avoid a permanent modification, which matters if your lease forbids alterations. If you can swap the deadbolt, a keypad model like Schlage or Yale gives you a backup entry method when your phone dies. Check the door thickness, the backset, and whether the building's Wi-Fi reaches the door, since most Bluetooth locks need a bridge or hub for remote access.
| Model | Best for | Key specs | Research Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | Best Overall | Retrofit deadbolt, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi built in | 94/100 |
| Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt | Best for HomeKit and Apple users | Full deadbolt replacement, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Thread | 92/100 |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best modular design | Full deadbolt replacement, Bluetooth standard, Wi-Fi or Z-Wave modules optional | 90/100 |
| Wyze Lock Bolt | Best Budget | Full deadbolt replacement, Bluetooth | 86/100 |
| Level Lock Plus | Best for invisible smart entry | Full deadbolt replacement, Bluetooth and Thread | 88/100 |
| Kwikset Halo Touch | Best fingerprint keypad | Full deadbolt replacement, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | 85/100 |
| Lockly Secure Pro | Best for guest and rental access | Full deadbolt replacement, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | 84/100 |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best retrofitPros
- Installs over the existing deadbolt interior in minutes
- Built-in Wi-Fi means no separate bridge for remote access
- Auto-unlock works well for arriving with hands full
Cons
- Bulkier interior profile than some renters expect
- Requires the August app for most advanced features
The August 4th Gen keeps your building's original key cylinder and exterior trim, so the door still looks untouched from the hallway. It adds app control, auto-unlock, and guest access over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits most standard US deadbolts with a compatible adapter.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Best keypad backupPros
- Physical keypad works when your phone is dead
- Supports Apple home keys in Wallet on compatible iPhones
- ANSI Grade 1 residential security rating
Cons
- Replaces the whole deadbolt, so check your lease first
- Costs more than retrofit options
The Encode Plus is a full deadbolt swap with a built-in keypad, Wi-Fi, and Thread support for Apple Home. It is one of the few locks that lets you tap an iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits standard 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inch doors.
Yale Assure Lock 2
Best upgrade pathPros
- Swappable radio modules let you change ecosystems later
- Slim, modern keypad design
- Works with the Yale Access app for guest codes
Cons
- Wi-Fi and HomeKit require a separate module purchase
- Installation is more involved than a retrofit
The Assure Lock 2 ships with Bluetooth and a keypad, and you can add a Wi-Fi or Z-Wave module later instead of buying a new lock. That modular approach suits renters who may move or change smart home platforms. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits standard residential doors with a 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inch backset.
Wyze Lock Bolt
Best under $100Pros
- Very low price for a fingerprint and keypad deadbolt
- Fingerprint reader is fast in owner feedback themes
- Simple install with a standard screwdriver
Cons
- No Wi-Fi without a separate Wyze hub
- No auto-unlock based on phone location
The Wyze Lock Bolt replaces your deadbolt and adds a fingerprint reader plus a backlit keypad for well under the price of most smart locks. It is Bluetooth only, so remote access needs the Wyze hub. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits standard US deadbolt prep.
Level Lock Plus
Best hidden designPros
- Looks like a standard deadbolt from both sides
- Thread support improves HomeKit reliability
- Key card and app entry options
Cons
- No keypad on the lock itself
- Remote access needs the Level Connect bridge
The Level Lock Plus hides all the smart hardware inside the bolt, so the door keeps a traditional look that many landlords prefer. It uses Bluetooth and Thread, with a key card for backup entry. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits standard deadbolt preparations.
Kwikset Halo Touch
Best touch entryPros
- Fingerprint reader stores multiple prints
- Built-in Wi-Fi needs no extra bridge
- Familiar Kwikset keyway and SmartKey rekey
Cons
- No Apple HomeKit support
- App experience draws mixed owner feedback
The Halo Touch combines a fingerprint reader with a touchscreen keypad and built-in Wi-Fi. SmartKey rekeying lets you match the lock to an existing Kwikset key. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits standard doors and includes a backup key.
Lockly Secure Pro
Best code managementPros
- Offline access codes work without internet
- Detailed guest code scheduling in the app
- Anti-peep keypad hides your code
Cons
- Bulkier keypad than some competitors
- Higher price than basic keypad locks
The Lockly Secure Pro is built around managing many codes for guests, cleaners, and family, with offline codes that work even if Wi-Fi drops. It includes a fingerprint reader and a physical key. Based on manufacturer specifications, it fits standard residential deadbolt prep.
Who Should Avoid the Top Pick
Skip any lock that requires drilling new holes or a commercial-grade mortise if you rent, and avoid models that only work with a hub you do not already own. If your building has a metal or glass door, or a non-standard backset, check compatibility before buying, because most consumer smart locks assume a standard wood or steel residential door.
Before You Buy
Measure your door thickness and backset, confirm whether your lease allows a deadbolt swap, and decide whether you need remote access or just Bluetooth range. If you want remote access, budget for a bridge or hub unless the lock has built-in Wi-Fi. Also check that your phone's Bluetooth and the lock's app support your iOS or Android version.
FAQs
Do Bluetooth smart locks work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Bluetooth locks connect directly to your phone for unlocking and code management, but remote access and voice assistant control usually need a bridge or built-in Wi-Fi.
Can I install a smart lock in a rental apartment?
Retrofit models like the August 4th Gen install over the existing deadbolt and keep the original keys, which is the least invasive option. Full deadbolt swaps are reversible but check your lease first.
What is the difference between a retrofit and a full deadbolt smart lock?
A retrofit keeps your existing deadbolt and exterior key cylinder, adding smart control to the inside. A full replacement swaps the entire deadbolt, giving you a new keypad and often a new key.
Do smart locks work with Alexa and Google?
Most major brands support Alexa and Google, but some require a hub or bridge. Apple HomeKit support is less common and often needs a specific model or module.
How long do batteries last in a Bluetooth smart lock?
Most use four AA batteries and last several months to about a year, depending on usage and Wi-Fi. Fingerprint readers and built-in Wi-Fi tend to drain batteries faster.
Can I keep my existing keys with a smart lock?
Yes, with a retrofit model or a lock that supports rekeying, such as Kwikset SmartKey. Full deadbolt replacements come with their own keys unless you rekey them.
Our verdict
For most apartments, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is the best balance of renter-friendly installation, built-in Wi-Fi, and reliable app control. If your lease allows a deadbolt swap and you want a keypad backup, the Schlage Encode Plus is the stronger long-term pick. Budget buyers who only need fingerprint entry should look at the Wyze Lock Bolt.