Guides
Best SmartLocks for Airbnb
Our team spends countless hours testing smart locks (along with thermostats, cameras, noise sensors, and other IoT devices). As a result, we know a thing or two about smartlocks and are often asked, "which smartlock models do you recommend for an Airbnb host?" This in-depth guide is our attempt to answer this question.
Table of Content
1 — Smartlock Feature Overview
This section discusses the must-have features for a smart locks in order to be used for Airbnb and other vacation rental settings
2 — Compatible PMS Software
A list of compatible PMS with which you can link your smart locks in order to automate reservations
3 — Recommended Smart Locks
A complete list of devices recommended by Seam's team
4 — Best Practices
Tips and tricks for using smart locks in your Airbnb
Recommended Features
When evaluating a smart lock, the first questions we typically ask are, "Is it connected to the internet?" and "Can you program access codes on it?" If a device meets these two criteria, it means you will be able to remotely unlock the door, issue PIN codes, and monitor guest access as well as battery levels. Those are essential for any Airbnb operator.
Remote Unlock
You should be able to unlock or lock the door even if you are not standing in front or near the device. This nearly always implies that your smart locks has a direct connection to the internet or is connected to a nearby hub that is connected to the internet.
Access Code
In our opinion, the best way to let guests into your home is to give them a temporary access code. This code should be set to become active at check-in and inactive at check-out. You can automate this process by connecting your device with your PMS (see list below).
Battery Life
For obvious reasons, you want a door lock that won't immediately run out of battery. At Seam, we've tested over 500+ smart locks and have statistically identified the models with best battery life. You'll still have to replace batteries, but you won't have to do it as often.
Notifications & Events
Having a record of who unlocked the door and when is a great way to keep track of who is coming and going. This is useful to know whether your guests successfully checked-in or if your cleaners arrived on time. Note that this, again, requires an active internet connection.
Compatible Software PMS
In order to automate guest access, we first assess the smartlock's compatibility with major Property Management Systems (PMS) that support direct smart lock integration. Brands such as August, Yale, Kwikset, and Schlage can be connected with PMSs like Hospitable and Guesty, or guest journey apps like Enso Connect.
By connecting your smart lock to your reservation software, temporary access codes can be programmed for each reservation, ensuring that guests can access your Airbnb only during their stay. It is important to note that, at the time of writing, several PMSs such as OwnerRez, Streamline, and Track do not yet support smart lock integrations.
List of Compatible PMSs as of May, 2023
Recommended Locks for Airbnb
Lastly, find below a list of recommended smart locks for Airbnb hosts. We have selected these locks based on their reliability, feature set, ease of use, and compatibility with major PMSs.
Yale Assure Lock 2 keypad
Reviewer Note:
It's hard to go wrong with the Yale Assure 2. It's one of the best locks on the market and its physical key backup makes it even more reliable. It's also a beautiful device that will match the aesthetic of any home. Though it was just announced in 2022, it is already becoming one of the most popular smartlocks for Airbnb hosts.
Model ID:
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi
Color Variants:
Black Suede
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Reviewer Note:
Its minimalist look makes it one of the best looking lock on the market. However, it does not come with a built-in keypad so make sure to purchased its detached keypad. Some PMSs and Guest Experience apps like Enso also offer a web key that your guests can use to unlock it directly during the duration of their stays.
Model ID:
AUG-SL05-M01-S01
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi
Description:
The all-in-one Wi-Fi Smart Lock has all the convenience and intelligence you need in two colors: matte black and silver. It comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and smart features like remote access and auto-lock. In addition to being able to use your existing keys to lock and unlock the door, you can also use your smartphone or Apple Watch and the August App for added convenience.
Color Variants:
Silver
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Remote Unlock
Unlock from anywhere
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
User Manuals:
Igloohome Deadbolt 2S Metal Grey
Reviewer Note:
We're big fans of Igloohome devices and their algo pins. The recent launch of their bluetooth bridge now makes it possible to manage their locks remotely, making them an excellent choice for Airbnb hosts. Make sure to check out their mortise and keyboxes as well.
Model ID:
IGB4
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Color Variants:
Metal Grey
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
User Manuals:
Kwikset Halo Keypad Wi-Fi Enabled Smart Lock
Reviewer Note:
Kwikset is one of the best known smart lock brand in America and a popular choice for Airbnb hosts. Until recently though, their locks required a separate hub to be connected to the internet. Their new Halo lock now comes with a built-in wifi chip, making it a great choice for Airbnb hosts. Note that if you want to connect this lock to your PMS, you will to disable the MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) feature in the Kwikset app.
Model ID:
938 WIFI KYPD 15
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi
Color Variants:
Satin Nickel
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Remote Unlock
Unlock from anywhere
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
User Manuals:
Alfred DB2
Reviewer Note:
Alfred is one of the most innovative lock manufacturers at the moment and the DB2 is an excellent choice for Airbnb hosts.
Model ID:
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi, Z-Wave
Color Variants:
Black
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Remote Unlock
Unlock from anywhere
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
User Manuals:
Nuki SMART LOCK 3.0 PRO
Reviewer Note:
European hosts rejoice! Nuki is a great option for those more-difficult-to-retrofit doors on the European market. It easily adjusts to any door by mounting on it and has a detached keypad that can be mounted on the outside of the door.
Model ID:
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi
Color Variants:
White
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Remote Unlock
Unlock from anywhere
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
Wyze Lock
Reviewer Note:
Wyze is a decent option for Airbnb hosts with a tight budget. Though it's not the most robust hardware out there, it's easy on the wallet and dead simple to install.
Model ID:
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi
Color Variants:
White
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Remote Unlock
Unlock from anywhere
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Reviewer Note:
The Schlage has long made some of the most popular smart locks in America. The Encode happens to connect directly to wifi and is one of the best selling device out there. It's easy for guests to use and can store a good number of pin codes.
Model ID:
BE499WB CAM 619
Seam Status:
Lock Type:
deadbolt
Connection:
Wi-Fi
Color Variants:
Satin Nickel
Features:
Seam API Compatible
Control using the Seam API
Seam Dashboard Compatible
Manage with Seam Dashboard
Remote Unlock
Unlock from anywhere
Access Code
Program access codes to unlock
Schedules
Program temporary codes for guests
Physical Key
Unlock with a physical key
Battery Powered
Requires batteries for operations
User Manuals:
Best Practices
To get started, check your door and make sure that it will be compatible with which ever smartlock you purchase. Use the installation manual and cut sheet to determine this.
Once installed, refer to your PMSs instruction to link your smartlock with your PMS. Most likely, your PMS is using Seam to connect this device securely and reliably.
