Is a Smart Lock Worth It? Pros, Cons and What to Check First

Smart locks are everywhere now, but they aren’t right for every door. Here’s an honest look.

The good

• No keys to lose or copy. Give each person their own code and delete it when needed.
• See who came and went, if the lock logs entries.
• Lock the door from your phone when you forget.

The trade-offs

• Batteries. Most last months, but you have to watch for low-battery warnings.
• Cold weather can shorten battery life, which matters in a Colorado winter.
• Cheap models may have weak deadbolts behind fancy keypads.

What to check before buying

Make sure the lock fits your door’s backset and bore size, and that the door closes cleanly without lifting or pushing. A smart lock on a misaligned door will jam and drain its battery.

If you’d rather have it done right the first time, smart lock installation includes checking the door alignment and strike. For a simpler option, a keypad lock gives code entry without Wi-Fi.

From Choice City Locksmith, a mobile locksmith in Fort Collins, CO.

Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.