Top 5 Smart Locks for Airbnb and Vacation Rental Properties

Choosing the best smart lock for Airbnb is one of the most important steps in getting your vacation rental ready for guests. You need a device that will provide your renters with easy access while protecting both their safety and the security of your rental property.

With hundreds of options out there, it’s hard to select the top door lock for the needs of your short-term rental without being an expert. In this article, we’ve ranked the 5 best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals that feature all must-have integrations and functionalities to give hosts and guests the needed peace of mind.

Note, not all smart locks are keyless deadbolts. If you want something that gets installed directly into the door, that has to be a keyless deadbolt.

The 5 best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals include:

• Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt: Best Overall Airbnb Smart Lock
• Yale Assure Lock SL: Best Budget Airbnb Smart Lock
• Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: Best Airbnb Smart Lock for Smart Home Systems Integration
• August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: Best Airbnb Smart Lock for In-Built WiFi
• ‍RemoteLock OpenEdge 550: Smart Lock: Best Airbnb Smart Lock for Airbnb and Vrbo Integration

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How We Chose the Best Airbnb Smart Locks

Being a nationwide Airbnb management company, we talked to both hosts and guests to get their feedback on the top smart door locks for short-term rental properties. Hosts elaborated on their experiences with installation, integrations, ability to provide temporary access to others, maintenance, reliability, durability, and battery life. Airbnb guests talked about how easy or not it is to use different devices. We also analyzed the number of customer reviews and the overall rating of locks on online review websites and shopping platforms.

We used the following criteria to select the 5 best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals:

• Expert recommendations: We focused on smart locks that Airbnb hosts, property managers, and home security experts highly recommend based on their experiences.
• Guest feedback: We chose door locks that make it easy for Airbnb guests to access vacation rentals.
• Online reviews: We looked for locks with hundreds of positive, 5-star online reviews by customers on trustworthy websites.
• Integrations: We searched for smart locks that integrate seamlessly with Airbnb, automation tools, and smart home systems.
• Security: We took into consideration smart door locks that provide the highest level of security and safety, both for properties and occupants, as certified by accredited national agencies.
• Extra features: We aimed for locks with important additional features like Wi-Fi, bluetooth, app, camera, and doorbell.
• Installation, durability, and battery life: We went for smart locks that are not only easy to install but also last for a long time.
• Value for money: In brief, we selected the Airbnb smart locks that offer the best balance between features and price for hosts and their vacation rentals.

According to our criteria, the best smart lock for Airbnb hosts is the Schlage Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt. Its built-in WiFi connects seamlessly to your home’s network, making it accessible from anywhere. It’s compatible with various home automation platforms, connects with Apple’s Home Key, can store up to 100 custom codes, can be installed yourself, and comes in a variety of finishes to suit any home.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt: Best Overall Airbnb Smart Lock

The Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt tops our list of the best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals. It offers all the features and functionalities needed to provide short-term rental properties and their guests with the security they need, without being unnecessarily complicated. The price is comparable to other devices with similar parameters.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Integrations

Schlage Encode provides integration with Schlage Home, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Key by Amazon, Leviton, Ring Alarm, and Yonomi as an integral part of the ultimate smart home experience.

Schlage smart locks do not offer native integration with Airbnb and other vacation rental listing platforms. However, third-party Airbnb management software tools like Uplisting and Guesty For Hosts connect this deadbolt with Airbnb.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Guest Management

As this smart lock is compatible with Wi-Fi, hosts can connect it to their property’s Wi-Fi network to control it entirely remotely, through the Schlage Home app. As the device is Wi-Fi-enabled, you don’t have to buy a separate Wi-Fi adapter.

On the Schlage Home app, you can lock and unlock your home, manage up to 100 unique access codes, view lock history and receive customized notifications. The Schlage Home app even allows you to manage multiple locks at once, so it’s ideal for Airbnb hosts with a large portfolio and for vacation rental property managers. As you can have 100 access codes, it’s possible to also let in cleaning, maintenance, and other contractors if you’re self-managing.

As the passcodes are extremely easy and straightforward to use, guests can enter your rental right away and do not bother you with redundant communication.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Cost

The Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is sold on Amazon, starting from $289. Although this might seem expensive compared to other smart locks on the market, this price is reasonable considering the high level of security and the multiple smart home system integrations which this device offers. Refurbished devices are not available for Airbnb hosts on a budget.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Installation

The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt comes with easy installation which requires only a few minutes and a screwdriver. No drilling or wiring is needed. Short-term rental hosts don’t need to hire a professional to do the installation. Furthermore, this Airbnb smart lock is compatible with all standard door sizes.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Security

The Schlage Encode smart lock provides the highest level of security. It achieves this through implementing an encrypted connection. The device has a built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced attempts and fingerprint-resistant touchscreen. This means that intruders cannot enter your investment property, and you’ll be informed about any such attempt.

Because of the high-level security technology, the Schlage Encode system is awarded with a grade AAA for security, durability, and finish by the BHMA. This advanced level of security and protection is one of the main reasons to rank Schlage Encode as the best Airbnb smart lock on the market.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Durability and Battery Life

The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is made of nickel, which contributes to its durability and long life. It holds a grade A in durability according to the BHMA. The device is ideal for outside use as it can resist cold and hot temperatures, so it’s a perfect fit for front doors at Airbnbs.

The smart deadbolt works with four AA alkaline batteries. The batteries last for up to six months.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Reviews

There are thousands of online reviews of this smart lock, the vast majority of which are positive.

You can find Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt reviews on:

• Amazon: Currently 4.6/5 stars based on 12,241 reviews

Happy Airbnb hosts highlight the multiple features of this smart lock, the smoothness and lack of unnecessary sounds, the appearance of the lock, the mobile app, and the easy installation and use. Unhappy property owners discuss poor fit with standard doors, Wi-Fi connectivity problems, and issues with getting the mobile app to work.

Yale Assure Lock SL: Best Budget Airbnb Smart Lock

Next on our list of the best smart locks for vacation rentals and Airbnb is the Yale Assure Lock SL. This is yet another superior device that provides all the features and functions that short-term rental hosts and guests need for trouble-free check-ins, stays, and check-outs, at a lower price.

Yale Assure Lock SL Integrations

Unlike other top smart locks, the Yale Assure Lock SL integrates natively with the Airbnb platform. This means that the device sends messages to guests inside the Airbnb app to coordinate access codes and check-ins with no need for the host to do this manually. This minimizes the time necessary for communication with guests, bringing Airbnb investors one step closer to passive income.

When upgraded with a Yale network module, the smart lock works seamlessly with most smart home systems including Amazon Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit, Philips Hue, and others. The Yale Access app is available for smartphone and smartwatch. The device includes the Wi-Fi Connect Bridge, so there’s no need for additional hubs to connect it to the internet.

Yale Assure Lock SL Guest Management

To help optimize the management of Airbnb properties and Airbnb guests, the Yale Assure Lock SL provides the opportunity to set up and manage up to 25 unique PIN codes to share with guests and property management staff. Through the mobile app, hosts can adjust the lock features and personalize the settings. In this way, you can mainstream guest check-in and check-out from the other end of the country.

Yale Assure Lock SL Cost

The Yale Assure Lock SL is available on Amazon, starting at $198. This is a good price for a smart door lock with native integration with Airbnb and virtually all smart home systems. They sell refurbished smart locks of this type online for a discounted price.

Yale Assure Lock SL Installation

The installation process is simple and quick. All you have to do is to replace the existing door lock with the smart lock, using only a screwdriver. The Yale Assure Lock SL fits standard door sizes.

Yale Assure Lock SL Security

The Yale Assure smart lock provides the expected level of security and protection, both for vacation rental properties and their hosts and guests. PIN codes are generated and shared securely and hosts can track all entry access activity in real-time.

Yale Assure Lock SL Durability and Battery Life

This Airbnb smart lock is made of zinc or stainless steel (depending on variations), which ensures durability, weather resistance, and long lifetime. The lock works with four AA alkaline batteries, and there is 9V battery backup for access when the batteries run out. The average battery life is about 12 months, which is excellent.

Yale Assure Lock SL Reviews

The Yale Assure Lock SL has thousands of positive reviews online.

You can find Yale Assure Lock SL reviews on:

• Amazon: Currently 4.2/5 stars based on 5,966 reviews

Vacation rental hosts satisfied with this smart lock emphasize the simple installation process, the smooth integration with smart home systems, the device sturdiness, and the customer service quality. Dissatisfied customers, meanwhile, complain about constant malfunctions, door jamming, unexpected settings resetting, and battery draining.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt: Best Airbnb Smart Lock for Smart Home Systems Integration

Our review shows that the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt is the third best smart lock for Airbnb and vacation rentals. It covers all expected features at a reasonable price.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Integrations

The Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt integrates with all most popular smart home systems including Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Yonomi, and Schlage Sense.

This Schlage smart deadbolt does not have native integration with the Airbnb platform, but it can do this through third-party Airbnb automation tools like Uplisting and Guesty For Hosts. You can use the Schlage Sense iPhone or Android App to easily program a different code for each guest from the comfort of your smartphone. Then you can send it to your guest over Airbnb, Vrbo, Bookings.com, or any other platform where you list your property for a quick and smooth check-in process.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Guest Management

With the Schlage Sense mobile app, hosts can generate different four-digit passcodes for every guest and email them directly from the app. They can also delete access codes, manage lock settings, set access schedules, and monitor code usage right from the app. Meanwhile, access codes are extremely easy to use by guests, so there is no learning curve and no need for excessive guest communication.

To enable this function, you need to get the optional Schlage Sense Wi-Fi adapter, which also provides connection to compatible smart home automation systems.

Check-ins and check-outs can be done entirely online, with no need for handing over of mechanical keys.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Cost

This Schlage smart deadbolt is available on Amazon starting at $260 in a bundle with a handleset. Refurbished devices are available for under $200 on various online stores. The optional Schlage Sense Wi-Fi Adapter is sold separately, starting at $63 on Amazon.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Installation

Installing the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt is easy and does not require hiring a security expert or a handyman. All that Airbnb hosts need is a screwdriver and a few minutes of their time. No drilling is required. Customer reviews confirm this. Moreover, this Airbnb smart lock fits all standard door sizes via adjustable through-bolts.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Security

This deadbolt has received a grade A in security, so it provides the highest level of security and protection. This makes it one of the best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals that see a lot of different traffic.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Durability and Battery Life

The metal construction of the smart lock contributes to its durability and sturdiness, even when used outside on front doors. The smart deadbolt has been awarded a grade AAA for security, durability, and finish by the BHMA. This is the highest rating in the three categories.

The Schlage door lock uses batteries, so no wiring is needed. Without the Wi-Fi adapter, the batteries are supposed to last up to one year. However, some customers say that they barely last a few weeks.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Reviews

The Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt has generated thousands of online reviews by customers. Most of them are positive.

You can find Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt reviews on:

• Amazon: Currently 4.5/5 stars based on 4,667 reviews

Positive reviews focus on the easy installation, the as-described functions, the multiple unlocking options, the good fingerprint detector, and the sense of security. Negative reviews complain about technical bugs, poor durability (breaking after 3.5 years), and absent customer service.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: Best Airbnb Smart Lock for In-Built WiFi

The all-in-one August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has the features needed to be ranked among the best smart locks for Airbnb.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Integrations

Unlike some other smart locks, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock integrates directly with Airbnb, which eliminates the need to use an Airbnb management solution for this purpose. The Airbnb integration allows the smart lock to send messages to guests over the Airbnb app to share access codes, reducing the need for communication on behalf of the host. It’s important to note that only the primary host on Airbnb can connect the August smart lock to the listing.

The door lock also works smoothly with various smart home systems including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Siri, and others.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Guest Management

With the August app available on mobile devices, Airbnb hosts can manage access to their rental remotely at any point in time. Guest keys can be sent instantly for a remote check-in and check-out process. Moreover, property owners can track all entries into and exits from the home.

The native integration with Airbnb is a crucial feature which makes the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock one of the top choices on the market.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Cost

You can buy the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock on Amazon, starting at $199. This seems like a reasonable price, taking into consideration the direct Airbnb integration and the smart home system integrations. Refurbished August smart locks are available online for under $150.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Installation

The installation takes ten minutes and does not require contracting a professional. The smart lock has to be installed on the inside of the door, over the existing deadbolt. The lock is compatible with most single-cylinder deadbolts.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Security

This smart lock provides a good level of security. Hosts can rest assured that their rental and their guests are safe and protected. You can choose the time after which the door locks automatically, anything between 30 seconds and 30 minutes.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Durability and Battery Life

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is made of durable metal material so it will serve Airbnb hosts for years on end. The batteries are supposed to last between three and six months, which is not a lot compared to other best Airbnb smart locks. Moreover, property owners complain they get drained even faster than that.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Reviews

There are thousands of customer reviews of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock available online, and they result in a very good overall rating.

You can find August Wi-Fi Smart Lock reviews on:

• Amazon: Currently 4.2/5 stars out of 8,803 reviews

Positive reviews by happy Airbnb hosts highlight the effortless installation process, the apartment compatibility, the excellent performance, and the durability. Negative reviews by unhappy hosts mention poor performance, bugs, lack of operations offline, and need to change batteries every month.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock: Best Airbnb Smart Lock for Airbnb and Vrbo Integration

Finally, the RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock also made it on our list of the best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals because of the integration it offers with Airbnb, Vrbo, and other platforms.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Integrations

What makes this smart lock superior to many other options out there is that it integrates natively with Airbnb, Vrbo, and other vacation rental platforms. This is done through the in-built Wi-Fi so that short-term rental hosts can manage access remotely, through the web or through a mobile app. In this way, the device makes the management of Airbnb properties easier and more straightforward.

However, unlike the rest of the best Airbnb smart locks on our lists, this one doesn’t integrate with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. So it cannot be a part of the smart home environment of your vacation rental property.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Guest Management

The RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock improves the check-in and check-out processes for vacation rentals. By connecting the device to an existing Wi-Fi network, Airbnb hosts can manage guest access remotely, from a desktop or a mobile. Hosts can set up temporary codes and send them to their guests over Airbnb, Vrbo, and others with no additional hubs or controllers. Moreover, hosts can choose to receive access notifications via text or email.

On the flip side, full access to the Wi-Fi capabilities of this smart lock requires a monthly subscription to the EdgeState cloud software, and subscription plans start at $3/month. While this is a relatively small fee, keep in mind this recurring cost that is not required for other Airbnb smart locks.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Cost

This smart lock is available for sale on Amazon, starting at $269. This price is comparable to the price of other best Airbnb smart locks. While the device doesn’t integrate with smart home systems, it works with more vacation rental listing websites than other top choices. Used and refurbished smart locks of this type are not available on the market.

You should be ready to pay a monthly subscription fee for access to the EdgeState cloud software to take advantage of all Wi-Fi functionalities. Plans start at $3/month.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Installation

The installation of this Airbnb and Vrbo smart lock is supposed to be easy and not require hiring a professional. However, there are no online reviews by actual customers to confirm this.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Security

This device provides the level of security and safety expected from the best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals. Hosts can know that their property and their guests are safe when using this device.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Durability and Battery Life

This smart lock is made of zinc alloy, which makes it very durable and ideal for using both inside and outside.

The RemoteLock OpenEdge smart lock requires four AA batteries. According to the manufacturer, they can last up to one year if the Heartbeats are set up to the default value of one hour. The Heartbeats refer to the interval at which the device connects to the Wi-Fi. However, if you change these intervals of five minutes for extra security, the battery life expectancy will go down to about one month.

RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock Reviews

There are no online RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock reviews.

Takeaway

Among the hundreds of options available on the market, these are the 5 best smart locks for Airbnb and vacation rentals. The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is the top choice for Airbnb hosts as it provides the highest possible level of security, durability, and finish at a good price. If you are searching for direct integration with different short-term rental listing platforms, consider the RemoteLock OpenEdge 550L Smart Lock. If your priority is native integration with smart home systems, then you should look into the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt.