Choose among our top recommendations for door locks.
The Best Door Locks and Deadbolts
8 min readNot all door locks are created equal, so we've rounded up the best options. If you don’t have the right lock, an intruder can break it, bypass it, or simply kick the door down.
Our market research uncovered the following door locks that can help keep you and your family safe. Keep reading to learn more about the best hardware for the doors around your home or office.
Best locks and deadbolts of 2023
Amazon.com List Prices (as of 8/22/2023). Offers are subject to change.
If you have SimpliSafe, you can always try the August Smart Lock. But it might be easier to go with the SimpliSafe SmartLock. This lock works exclusively with SimpliSafe home security systems. And get this—it actually seems to be good. It’s getting some buzz even though it hasn’t been on the market very long.
What to look for in a door lock or deadbolt
The foremost feature of any door lock or deadbolt is its ability to keep your door secure, but other features may help to determine the best hardware for your particular situation.
Door lock and deadbolt features:
- Price
- Lock type
- ANSI grade
- Smart home compatibility
- Included warranty
While the price of a door lock or deadbolt may be the first thing that draws your attention, there is much more to consider. For starters, what is the lock type, and how well has it proven to stand up to intrusions? The ANSI grade helps us answer this question.
Additionally, you may want a lock or deadbolt that works with your smart home, allowing you to unlock or lock the unit from your smartphone or a keypad. Of course, the overall warranty is also considered, as you shouldn’t worry about your new door lock or deadbolt failing.
Best deadbolts
Keep everything secure with the classic deadbolt
A deadbolt is one of the most basic and effective ways to secure a door. It works best when combined with your door’s standard lock. It also functions much better than a spring bolt lock since a deadbolt can’t move from its locked position without a key in the cylinder.
Kwikset 980 Single Cylinder
Kwikset offers some of the top-rated deadbolts on the market, and this ANSI Grade 1–rated lock is no exception. Its SmartKey technology makes it easy to rekey your lock and avoid locksmith fees.
Grade 1
Rekeying tech 
Lacks strike plate
Price:$29.99
Why we chose Kwikset 980 Single Cylinder
The Kwikset has no strike plate, but it’s designed to withstand a substantial amount of abuse. Take that, door kickers. It also comes in multiple finishes so you can get the color you like most. If you want to keep things simple yet safe, this is a good choice for you.
Remember, though, that a deadbolt on its own can’t be integrated into a smart home. You need to pair this Kwikset with a smart door lock if you want to access it remotely.
Tech specs
- Adjustable and fits all standard door thicknesses
- ANSI Grade: Grade 1
- Weight: 1.5
A lot of the residential door knobs you’ve touched have probably been Kwikset. With its rekeying tech and multiple finishes, Kwikset’s often used in homes and apartment buildings.
Deadbolt runner-up: Kwikset 991 Juno Entry Knob
Kwikset 991 Juno Entry Knob
The Juno is another, slightly more elegant Kwikset lock.
Strike plate included
Ambidextrous design
Materials could be improved
Price:$40.47
Like the 980, it’s Grade 1 and uses SmartKey rekey technology. But unlike the 980, Juno includes a strike plate. You just have to pay more for the extra security.
One other thing: this lock is both right- and left-handed. A perfect fit for the ambidextrous American!
Tech specs
- Adjustable and fits all standard door thicknesses
- ANSI Grade: Grade 1
- Weight: 2.72 lb.
Best mortise locks
The Schlage L9040 is the best mortise lock, with a Samsung biometric lock as the runner-up.
If you found yourself asking, “What’s a mortise lock?” don’t worry—you aren’t alone. Mortise locks are less common than deadbolts, but they provide better protection. It's a lot more difficult to break with a swift kick than a simple deadbolt would be.
Mortise locks are recessed and set in the frame of the door. This setup gives the lock an extra level of stability. A mortise lock is more difficult to break with a swift kick than a simple deadbolt would be.
Mortise locks are more expensive than deadbolts, but the cost is justified if you want extra safety. Still, mortise locks are better suited to commercial properties than residential. In a family home, a mortise lock could be overkill.
Schlage L9040
If you want your home or business to be as well-guarded as a government building, this ANSI Grade 1 product is the lock to choose.
Grade 1
Reinforced strike plate
No smart-tech compatibility
Price:$607.73
Why we chose Schlage L9040
The Schlage L9040’s description states that it’s best suited for educational, medical, or governmental uses.
The Schlage L9000 series of mortise locks have a feature called Vandlgard. It’s essentially a reinforced strike plate that prevents tampering from kicking, hitting, or even standing on the handle.¹ With a lock like this, a thief will need a battering ram to get into your house.
This mortise lock has no smart home capabilities. It’s also not compatible with most smart locks, which usually work with a deadbolt. So it’s your responsibility to lock and unlock this baby.
Tech specs
- ANSI Grade: Grade 1
- Weight: 6.65 lb.
Mortise runner-up: Samsung SHS-P718-LMK Biometric Lock
Samsung Digital Door Lock SHS-P718LBK
If you're looking for a mortise doorlock that's full of features, the Samsung Digital Door Lock SHS-P718LBK is for you.
Fingerprint scanning tech
Anti-tampering lockout
Very expensive
Price:$589.00
We like this mortise-smart lock combo. Its features include the following:
- Random security code software to throw off observers
- Fingerprint scans
- Two-factor authentication
- Intrusion alarm
- Anti-bump and anti-pick proofing
- Fire detection sensor
- Anti-tampering lockout
- 31 electronic keys to give to family, friends, or employees
- Key fobs
The issue we have with this lock? It’s not easy to install (although you can order a professional installation for about $100 on Amazon). It also has no ANSI Grade, a common problem with smart locks.
We recommend this lock if you want a mortise with the convenience of a smart lock. Otherwise, go with the Schlage.
Tech specs
- ANSI Grade: None
- Weight: 9.6 lb.
Best keyless entry locks
Our pick for best keyless door lock is the Schlage Touch Camelot Deadbolt BE375.
Keyless entry locks let you enter a combination and get inside without ever touching your key. They also make it easy to give out codes to your kids, your housesitter, and your contractors.
While these deadbolts offer the ultimate convenience, the key overrides are more vulnerable to being picked. Because of that, their ANSI ratings are usually lower than a regular deadbolt’s.
SCHLAGE BE375 CAM 619 Touch Keyless Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock
Schlage’s Camelot line has some of the best-rated keyless door locks on the market. Even the name alone conjures an image of peace and prosperity.
Fingerprint-resistant screen
Backlit keypad
Affected by cold
Price:$94.30
Why we chose Schlage Touch Camelot Deadbolt BE375
Of these evocatively named locks, the Touch Camelot Deadbolt BE375 is our favorite. It’s reasonably priced, and it has a fingerprint-resistant screen to keep others from guessing your code. If you’re prone to forgetting your keys or your kids or your housekeeper are constantly in and out, you should consider the Camelot.
Our only real beef with this keyless deadbolt is a lack of longevity. Most customers say it didn’t last as long as expected. It’s especially likely to malfunction in the extreme cold.
When browsing Amazon reviews, we noticed that almost every lock with an electronic component had a longevity problem. When exposed to the elements, especially the cold, the electronic functions might fail. To offset this issue, every lock we recommend in this review has a warranty.
Tech specs
- ANSI Grade: 2
- Weight: 3 lb.
Keyless entry lock runner-up: LockState LS-DB500
LockState LS-DB500
The LockState allows you to set up one-time use codes for guests and to program up to six permanent codes for members of the household.
Includes remote control
Reversible lock
No ANSI grade The LockState also comes with a remote that functions up to 30 feet away from the door. This remote can unlock the unit from your car—perfect for rushing inside on a rainy day.
As a bonus, the lock is reversible, so it works on both left- and right-handed doors. You can also temporarily lock out user access codes if you for some reason need to deny entry to a frequent visitor.
But this lock has no ANSI grade, making it difficult to say how effective it really is. Its batteries don’t last long, and it struggles in the cold and wet.
Tech specs
- ANSI Grade: None
- Weight: 16 oz
Best smart/Bluetooth locks
August and Ultraloq lead the smart lock category.
Smart locks differ from keyless locks because they’re linked to your phone and capable of home automation integration functions. For example, the door can automatically unlock when your phone comes near it.
Another feature: limited-use passcodes for guests. If you’re often away from home, you can grant guests access from your smartphone.
August Smart Lock (3rd Gen)
Like the keyless deadbolts we reviewed, the August Smart Lock doesn’t have a key. Instead, the lock operates with a series of virtual keys.
High smart-home compatibility
Geo fencing
No ANSI grade
Price:$146.43
Why we chose August Smart Lock
Every virtual key is unique, and the August Smart Lock keeps a log of who goes in and out of the home. You can monitor this log in real time from your smartphone. You can also unlock the door from anywhere via your phone. So if you need to let the plumber in, no problem. And if you forgot to secure the door behind you, August will automatically lock when you leave.
The August Smart Lock is compatible with Apple HomeKit, meaning you can use Siri to lock or unlock your door. But to do that (or to hook your lock up to Alexa and other protocols), you may need to get an additional August bridge. It's also compatible with Z-Wave technology. That allows users to hook it up to Z-Wave hubs like Samsung SmartThings and Wink.
The lock isn’t rated by ANSI. But if you want an ANSI Grade 1 lock, you can install a different lock and still use the August; it only replaces the interior side of the existing lock.
Overall, the August is the best lock choice for the smart home enthusiast.
Tech specs
- ANSI Grade: None
- Weight: 13.9 oz
We recommend the August Smart Lock over the August Smart Lock Pro because they’re extremely similar. But if you’re looking for a little more convenience, spend around $80 more on the Smart Lock Pro so that you don’t need an August bridge to connect to other devices.
Smart lock runner-up: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
Just like many other electronic locks, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro struggles in cold weather. But unlike other locks, the manufacturer states the lock limit up front: it shouldn’t be exposed to weather below 14°F.
Smartphone app control
Voice control available
Only two-fingerprints per user
Price:$152.10
Other features that put this smart lock in second place: fingerprint scanning and a “Magic Shake” that lets you open the door from your smartphone without using an app. There’s also an anti-peep protocol. As long as you enter your passcode in its entirety somewhere in the sequence, you can type strings of random numbers to throw off observers.
This lock tends to run a little more expensive than the August Smart Lock. It’s compatible with fewer protocols, and it’s not as sleek-looking. It’s also a mortise, so it’s not compatible with an ANSI-grade deadbolt.
Tech specs
- ANSI Grade: None
- Weight: 6 lb.
Best security extras
Here are some safety suggestions beyond the locks.
You’ve chosen a lock, but you’re not done yet. Security extras like door jammers and strike plates can secure your home even further to foil all but the most determined thieves. These are our recommendations.
Cocoweb Door Jammer
Cocoweb PortBlock Door Security Bar
The Cocoweb is designed to withstand up to 350 pounds of outside force. With 40 different height settings, it will fit almost any door.
Withstands up to 350 lbs.
Forty height settings
None of note
Price:$39.00
A door jammer doesn’t prevent a lock from being picked, but it makes it incredibly difficult to force the door open from the outside.
Another reason we like this door jammer is because it comes in sets of two—you can secure two doors with one package. And it’s portable, so you can even take one along on vacation and jam your hotel door.
Batallion Strike Plate
Batallion Box Strike Plate
Although you may have a secure door and a secure lock, the frame itself can be weak. The Batallion Strike Plate can solve this issue.
Made of steel
Multiple finishes available
Large for some door frames
Price:$16.17
Even if you reinforce the door, a smart thief will take advantage of the frame to pry the door out of place.
To counterbalance this problem, the Battalion Strike Plate reinforces a weak frame. The added layer of metal and the extra-long screws make the door frame almost unbreakable.
Recap
Whether you choose deadbolt, mortise, keyless, or smart, finding the right lock is an important step to secure your home. Just as a reminder, here’s what we recommend.
- Kwikset 980 Single Cylinder: This ultra-reliable lock is our recommendation for best deadbolt.
- Schlage L9040: For extra security, try this mortise lock.
- Schlage Touch Camelot Deadbolt BE375: If you don’t want to bother with keys, this keyless entry lock is for you.
- August Smart Lock: This is the smart lock we recommend for an automated home.
Methodology
While selecting the best door locks and deadbolts to keep your home or office safe, we had to consider the most important aspects of each offer. Through hours of market research, and product testing, we designed the list you see here, making selecting the perfect door lock easy.
- Price - We ensured that our selected locks and deadbolts offered a variety of choices for different price points. Furthermore, the value of each option was weighed against the competition to present you with the wisest decision.
- Lock type - Different lock types may be desired based on the situation. We featured deadbolts, mortise, and smart lock designs, so you could weigh features, security, and convince for yourself.
- ANSI grade - These security grades allow us to better showcase options for your home or office that can withstand potential strikes, keeping you safer. View our FAQ section for more information.
- Smart home - It’s the 21st century, so we took time to review products that would work with your smart home, allowing you to control your door with the push of a button or the shout of a voice command.
- Warranty - The warranty provided with each lock was considered so that you don’t need to worry about your door lock or deadbolt over the coming years.
FAQ
The ANSI grading system measures how much security a lock provides. Every lock graded under this system undergoes rigorous testing.
The results fall under three grades:
- Grade 1: Grade 1 locks can withstand ten strikes of up to 75 pounds and up to one million open-and-close cycles.
- Grade 2: Grade 2 locks can withstand five strikes of 75 pounds and up to 800,000 open-and-close cycles.
- Grade 3: Good. Grade 3 locks can withstand two strikes of 75 pounds and up to 800,000 open-and-close cycles.
Invest in solid doors.
Another way you can improve the security of your home is to replace any hollow-core doors with solid wood or metal. Hollow-core doors are weaker and more vulnerable to shattering than a solid wooden frame. Sure, solid exterior doors are more expensive, but they’re also much more durable and nearly impossible to break down.
Avoid doors with windows in them.
A super secure lock doesn’t do any good if the thief can just break a window and reach inside. So avoid installing doors with windows. If you need to see out, add a peephole.
Reinforce your doors.
Remember, thieves say they go for the front door first. Invest in deadbolts, strike plates, and chain locks to make your home much more challenging to break into.
A sturdy door, combined with a proper home security system, offers the best possible protection from thieves and other intruders.
There are pros and cons to each lock type. It usually depends on your needs and whether you prefer the convenience of a smart home.
For instance, a keypad lock means that you don’t have to have your key on you. But it also allows anyone who has the code to gain entry to your home.
A Wi-Fi smart lock lets you open your door remotely for visitors and repairmen. However, it can also be hacked.
Finally, a mechanical lock requires you to have a key, which can be inconvenient. But potential thieves may have a hard time finding a way around that requirement.
Always keep the pluses and minuses of each lock type in mind when making a decision.
When you’re moving to a new residence, we recommend changing the locks on the exterior door(s) when possible.
Sources
- Allegion, “What Is Vandlguard?”
- Wikipedia, “Lock Bumping”
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