Updated August 2026

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Smart locks can support the same voice assistant while differing completely on Apple Home Key, Matter, remote access, hubs and installation. This chart compares the leading models across the features that determine whether a lock will actually work for your home.

Compatibility was checked against manufacturer specifications in August 2026. Features requiring a separate hub, bridge or module are identified rather than counted as built-in support.

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How to Read the Chart

Yes means the lock supports the feature without an optional product-specific accessory. Standard platform requirements may still apply.

Via hub means you need compatible hardware such as a HomePod, Apple TV, Google Nest Hub or another Matter controller with a Thread border router.

Via bridge means the lock needs a separate plug-in bridge supplied or sold by the manufacturer.

Limited means support depends on the version, bundle or optional module you buy.

Not confirmed means the manufacturer has announced support but does not currently document it as generally available.

Smart-Home Compatibility Chart

Model

Apple Home Key

Apple Home

Matter

Built-in Wi-Fi

Alexa

Google Home

SmartThings

Airbnb

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Via hub

Via hub

Yes

Yes

Via hub

Via hub

Via hub

No

No

No

Not confirmed

No

Via bridge

Via bridge

Via bridge

Via bridge

No

Yes

Not confirmed

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited

Yes

Yes

No

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited

No

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Via hub

Via hub

Yes

No

Via hub

Via hub

Via hub

No

Via hub

Via hub

Yes

No

Via hub

Via hub

Via hub

No

Via hub

Via hub

Yes

No

Via hub

Via hub

Via hub

No

No

Via hub

Via hub

No

Via hub

Via hub

Via hub

No

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Installation and Entry-Method Chart

Model

Installation

Keypad

Fingerprint

Physical key

Automatic unlock

Door sensor

Power

Schlage Arrive

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

No

Yes

No

No

4 AA batteries

Schlage Encode

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

No

Yes

No

No

4 AA batteries

Schlage Encode Plus

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

No

Yes

No

No

4 AA batteries

Schlage Sense Pro

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

No

No

UWB

No

4 AA batteries; USB-C jump-start

Yale Approach

Interior retrofit

Optional

Optional

Yes

Auto-unlock

Yes

4 AA batteries; keypad uses 4 AAA

Yale Assure Lock 2

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

No

Depends on version

Auto-unlock

Yes

4 AA batteries

Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

No

No

Auto-unlock

Yes

4 AA batteries

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock

Interior retrofit

Optional

Optional

Yes

Auto-unlock

Yes

2 CR123 batteries

Aqara Smart Lock U400

Deadbolt replacement

Yes

Yes

Yes

UWB

Yes

Rechargeable lithium-ion battery

Aqara Smart Lock U200

Interior retrofit

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Rechargeable lock battery; keypad uses AAA or wired power

Level Lock Pro

Deadbolt replacement

Optional

No

Yes

No

Yes

1 CR2 battery

SwitchBot Lock Ultra

Interior retrofit

Optional

Optional

Yes

Limited

Yes

Rechargeable main battery with backup battery

Schlage Arrive

The Arrive is the straightforward value option in Schlage’s Wi-Fi lineup. It has a physical-button keypad, built-in Wi-Fi and a backup key, but it does not support Apple Home, Matter or Airbnb’s direct lock integration.

Our Schlage Arrive vs. Encode comparison explains when the Encode is worth the additional cost.

Schlage Encode

The Encode adds a touchscreen, built-in alarm and direct Airbnb integration. It remains one of the simpler choices for rental owners who want remote access without installing a hub or bridge.

Schlage Encode Plus

The Encode Plus adds Apple Home and Apple Home Key while retaining built-in Wi-Fi, a keypad and a physical key. It does not support Matter.

See our full Schlage Encode vs. Encode Plus comparison before paying extra for the Apple features.

Schlage Sense Pro

The Sense Pro combines Apple Home Key, UWB hands-free unlocking, Matter over Thread and built-in Wi-Fi. Apple hands-free unlocking requires a compatible Thread-enabled Apple home hub.

Yale Approach

The Approach installs over the inside of an existing deadbolt and preserves the exterior hardware. Remote access and smart-home integrations depend on the Yale Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, while keypad and fingerprint entry require the appropriate keypad bundle.

Yale Assure Lock 2

The standard Assure Lock 2 includes Bluetooth, Apple Home support, a keypad and DoorSense. Wi-Fi, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings and Airbnb support depend on buying the Wi-Fi version or adding the correct module.

Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus

The Plus is the Apple Home Key version of the Assure Lock 2. It has a key-free touchscreen design, so there is no traditional key cylinder. Choose the Wi-Fi version if you need Yale’s full remote-access and partner integrations.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock

August preserves the existing exterior deadbolt and key while putting Wi-Fi directly inside the retrofit lock. A keypad and fingerprint reader are available separately or in selected bundles.

Our August Wi-Fi Smart Lock vs. Yale Approach comparison covers the meaningful differences between these two retrofit systems.

Aqara Smart Lock U400

The U400 is a full deadbolt replacement with Apple Home Key, UWB hands-free unlocking, fingerprint entry, Matter over Thread and a built-in keypad. A compatible Thread-enabled Matter controller is required for smart-home integration and Apple’s hands-free feature.

See how it compares with Schlage’s UWB lock in our Aqara U400 vs. Schlage Sense Pro comparison.

Aqara Smart Lock U200

The U200 is an interior retrofit lock with an included wireless keypad, fingerprint reader and Apple Home Key support. It uses Matter over Thread rather than built-in Wi-Fi, so remote control requires compatible Matter and Thread hardware.

See how it compares with other retrofit options in our guide to the best smart locks for renters.

Level Lock Pro

Level hides nearly all of its hardware inside the door. It supports Apple Home Key and Matter over Thread, includes physical keys and detects whether the door is open or closed. The keypad is optional, and Matter integrations require a compatible hub.

SwitchBot Lock Ultra

The Lock Ultra fits over the interior side of many existing locks. Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home and SmartThings require a compatible SwitchBot Matter hub. Keypad and fingerprint entry require an accessory or bundle, and SwitchBot does not currently support Apple Home Key.

Which Compatibility Features Actually Matter?

Apple Home Key

Apple Home Key places a digital key in Apple Wallet. Depending on the lock, you can tap an iPhone or Apple Watch against the lock or use newer UWB hardware for hands-free entry.

Apple Home compatibility alone does not provide Home Key. Our guide to the best Apple Home Key smart locks focuses specifically on models that support the Wallet-based credential.

Apple Home

Apple Home support lets a lock appear in the Home app and work with Siri, scenes and automations. Remote control normally requires a compatible Apple home hub.

A lock can support Apple Home without supporting Home Key. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and standard Yale Assure Lock 2 are examples.

Matter

Matter allows one lock to work across supported ecosystems without relying entirely on a manufacturer-specific integration. Most current Matter locks use Thread and require a compatible Matter controller with a Thread border router.

Matter does not automatically mean the lock has Wi-Fi, Apple Home Key or every feature available in the manufacturer’s own app.

Wi-Fi

Built-in Wi-Fi is useful when you want remote control without buying another accessory. It can also increase battery use, particularly when the signal at the door is weak.

Locks using Thread, Bluetooth or a separate bridge can still offer remote access. They simply take a different route to the internet.

For a deeper explanation, read Do Smart Locks Work Without Wi-Fi?.

Retrofit Installation

An interior retrofit lock replaces or covers only the inside thumb turn. The exterior deadbolt and original key remain in place.

That makes retrofit models attractive for renters, but permission may still be required under a lease. Our best smart locks for renters guide covers the most practical options.

Best Starting Point by Situation

Apple Home Key household

Start with the Schlage Encode Plus if you want proven tap-to-unlock with built-in Wi-Fi. Consider the Schlage Sense Pro or Aqara U400 if hands-free UWB entry matters more and you already have the required Apple home hub.

Rental or apartment

Start with the Yale Approach, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Aqara U200 or SwitchBot Lock Ultra. All preserve the exterior hardware, although door and cylinder compatibility varies.

Airbnb or short-term rental

Prioritize a documented Airbnb integration, remote code management and a keypad. The Schlage Encode family, compatible Yale Wi-Fi models and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock are the clearest starting points.

Our guide to the best smart locks for Airbnb and rental properties looks beyond compatibility to guest access and property management.

Home without dependable Wi-Fi

Consider a Matter-over-Thread model or a lock with reliable local keypad, Bluetooth and physical-key access. Remember that remote control and cloud integrations can still fail when the home’s internet connection is down.

Fingerprint-first access

The Aqara U400 includes its fingerprint reader. The Aqara U200 includes one on its keypad. Yale Approach, August and SwitchBot can add fingerprint access through selected keypad bundles.

Lock that preserves exterior hardware

Choose an interior retrofit model: Yale Approach, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Aqara U200 or SwitchBot Lock Ultra. Level Lock Pro looks unusually discreet, but it still replaces the existing deadbolt assembly.

Important Compatibility Caveats

Compatibility can depend on the exact version in the box. Yale sells Bluetooth and Wi-Fi versions of several Assure Lock 2 models, while optional modules can change which platforms a lock supports.

Matter-over-Thread locks usually need both a Matter controller and a Thread border router. One device can perform both roles, but an older smart speaker or hub may not.

Some integrations are limited by region. Airbnb’s direct Yale, August and Schlage integrations are primarily documented for hosts in the United States and Canada.

A native lock integration may be free, while property-management platforms, advanced automation services or monitoring plans can charge recurring fees. Confirm the complete setup cost before buying hardware for several properties.

Manufacturers also announce features before they are broadly released. Yale has discussed Matter upgrades for the Approach and Assure Lock 2 family, but buyers should not treat an announced update as available until it appears in the current product instructions and app.

Methodology and Updates

We review current manufacturer specifications, support documents, app requirements and integration lists. We distinguish built-in features from those requiring a hub, bridge, module or separate accessory.

We do not claim hands-on testing unless Entry Scout has actually tested the product.

Last checked: August 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Apple Home compatibility mean Apple Home Key support?

No. Apple Home lets a lock work in the Home app and with Siri. Apple Home Key adds a digital key to Apple Wallet. A lock must specifically advertise Home Key support.

Does a Matter smart lock need Wi-Fi?

Not necessarily. Many Matter locks communicate over Thread instead of connecting directly to Wi-Fi. Remote access still requires a compatible Matter controller connected to the home network and internet.

Can one smart lock work with both Alexa and Google Home?

Yes. Many Wi-Fi and Matter locks support both. Check whether each platform connects directly through the manufacturer’s app or requires a Matter hub, bridge or optional module.

Which smart locks work without replacing the exterior hardware?

Yale Approach, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Aqara U200 and SwitchBot Lock Ultra are interior retrofit models. They preserve the exterior lock and, when installed on compatible hardware, the original physical key.

Do Airbnb integrations require a subscription?

Direct Airbnb integrations do not always require a separate lock subscription. Third-party property-management systems and advanced automation services may charge monthly or per-property fees.

Can smart locks still open when the internet is down?

Usually. Keypads, fingerprints, physical keys, Apple Home Key, NFC and nearby Bluetooth access can continue working without internet, depending on the model. Remote commands, new cloud-based codes and some automations may be unavailable until the connection returns.