The 10 Best Keypad Door Locks
This wiki has been updated 41 times since it was first published in March of 2015. Now you can add the same keyless convenience you enjoy with your car to your home or office, thanks to one of these electronic keypad door locks and deadbolts. Some of the more advanced models offer biometric identification, or provide wireless capabilities that let you lock or unlock your front door remotely, making it easy to provide access to guests and service personnel when you aren't home. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. PIN Genie Lockly PGD728F
2. U-Bolt Pro
3. Schlage Encode
Editor's Notes
December 10, 2020:
Many recent advances in smart lock technology are doing away with keypads entirely, in favor of biometric, RFID, or Bluetooth security, so most of the top entries on our list haven't changed since the last update. One notable exception is the PIN Genie Lockly PGD728F, which adds fingerprint recognition to our previous #1 pick, the PGD 728 from the same company. This upgrade is particularly useful for business settings, since it can store the prints of up to 99 employees at a time, eliminating the headache of users forgetting their codes. It's worth noting that it uses a 3D scanner, meaning that it won't respond to fingerprints lifted from a surface.
We also added the Wyze Bundle, which is technically three distinct devices that work in tandem to form a remarkably hassle-free keyless entry system. It can be installed quickly, modifying your existing deadbolt rather than replacing it, and doesn't require you to have an existing smart home hub in order to use its advanced features. Its main competitor is the Schlage Encode, which is noticeably pricier but offers better integration with home security systems like Ring, and can grant digital passkeys to guests without requiring them to download a new app.
We removed the Schlage Camelot E469ZP, which occupies an unfortunate middle ground between a simpler keypad model and a true smart lock. On its own, it doesn't have much advanced functionality besides automatically locking behind you, and there are less expensive options that do that. On the other hand, if you're looking for a device to pair with your Z-Wave system, you're probably better off with something that does more with its Wi-Fi capabilities, like the Yale Assure SL YRD256 or the U-Bolt Pro. We also replaced the SoHoMiLL YL 99 with the OrangeIOT Keyless Entry - the main selling point of the YL 99 was its budget-friendly price, but the OrangeIOT model is the clear winner in that department, and it can store a higher number of unique passcodes.
If you're looking to overhaul your home security, take a look at our lists of wireless doorbells and security cameras, or these alarm systems that you can install yourself. And if you're worried about your safety while you're traveling, you might consider a lightweight door lock that you can carry with you.
December 13, 2019:
Keypad door locks are designed to make it easier to access your home, so convenience was obviously a top priority when selecting models for this list. Of course, we also strove to include extremely reliable options, since we wouldn't want you to be unable to gain access because your keyless lock malfunctioned. In this same vein, we almost entirely excluded models that didn't also include a physical key backup, as without this, a dead battery could be very problematic if you didn't have another way to enter your home. In fact, the only model without a mechanical unlock feature to make our list is the Yale Assure SL YRD256, so be aware of that if you choose this model and make sure to pay attention to its low-battery alerts. The Lockey USA M210 is another option that doesn't include backup keys, however this is a fully mechanical unit that doesn't use batteries, so a physical backup key simply isn't needed.
For those who are hyper focused on security, we recommend the Pin Genie Lockly PGD 728. It features a digital touchpad and shuffles the numbers after each use, making it harder for anyone peaking at your pattern as you unlock your door to repeat it when you aren't around. This also means there is no chance of one particular set of numbers getting worn and being an obvious clue as to which digits your code contains. When it comes to ease of entry, though, the U-Bolt Pro probably tops the pack, since it allows for biometric, Bluetooth, number pad, or keyed access.
If you are trying to secure an interior door in your home or office, or simply don't have a deadbolt on your front door, you'll want to look to the Schlage Camelot FE595V or SoHoMiLL YL 99. It is worth noting that these two are designed to replace your current door knob, whereas the rest are deadbolt locks and will work on conjunction with your current knob.
Special Honors
Harney EDLRFU15 The Harney EDLRFU15 is a good choice for someone who wants quick access to their house, but who may not be well-versed in using a smartphone, such as an elderly parent. In addition to the number pad and mechanical key slot, it comes with two remote key FOBs that allow you to unlock the deadbolt when not physically standing at the door, which can be extremely helpful in an emergency. harneyhardware.com
Lockly Vision In addition to the ability to unlock it with a passcode, fingerprint, smartphone, or physical backup key, this versatile device can send you real-time video of anyone who's at your door so that you can let them in remotely through the app. You'll receive push notifications when your doorbell is rung, with the option to talk with your guest through a two-way intercom, in case you need to ask them a question or tell them where to leave a package. Bear in mind that the camera doesn't have great night vision, so you might want to pair it with a motion-activated porch light. lockly.com
4. Lockey USA M210
5. Wyze Bundle
6. Schlage Camelot FE595V
7. Yale Assure YRD216
8. OrangeIOT Keyless Entry
9. Yale Assure SL YRD256
10. Kwikset SmartCode 914
Keep Your Home Secure
You can choose to purchase a keypad door lock with a backlight that is weather resistant so it can be used on outside doors and is easy to access at night.
A keypad door lock is a type of electronic lock that uses electricity to mechanically turn a locking mechanism. It can be installed in nearly any type of door and requires a numerical passcode before the user can gain entry. They are convenient for use with private areas in businesses or with homes for added security.
Some are very basic, operate on battery power, and don't require additional wiring to be installed in the door. Most come with backup keys in the event that the keypad malfunctions. You can choose to purchase a keypad door lock with a backlight that is weather resistant so it can be used on outside doors and is easy to access at night.
You can choose your own passcode, and depending on the lock that you purchase, the code can be anywhere from four to ten digits long. You can choose from various designs to fit the decor of your home and choose a door handle or a deadbolt keypad. Some companies offer the aesthetically pleasing design of a touch screen instead of a push-button keypad. You can even opt for the convenience of remote unlocking so you don't have to get up to answer the door when your guests arrive.
The keypad door lock provides an extra element of security. You can still get inside your home if you lose your keys, but intruders will be stymied. Many of the deadbolts lock automatically or at the touch of a button so you can be sure that your home is secure. Additional options come with built-in alarms to deter intruders.
Because there is a wide range of options to choose from that are rather affordable, you can add a keypad door lock to all entrances of your home and even use them on specific rooms to keep your children or mother-in-law out. Keypad door locks enhance security, privacy, and peace of mind.
Keypad Door Locks Are Convenient And Versatile
Before you jump headfirst into buying your keypad door lock, take some time to consider the advantages and disadvantages to determine if it is the right choice for you. Once you have established compatibility with your door, take a look at some of the pros and cons:
The most obvious advantage to a keypad door lock is the convenience of keyless entry. This eliminates the need for keeping a spare key hidden outside your home and prevents you from getting locked out of the house if you forget your keys inside.
The most obvious advantage to a keypad door lock is the convenience of keyless entry.
The second advantage is that you don't have to worry about losing your keys when you're away from home. If your children frequently lose things when they are out with friends, they will still be able to get inside when they get home provided they have the code.
The third advantage is that you can allow friends into your home at your discretion. If you are on vacation and need someone to check on your house while you are away, you don't have to remember to leave them a key. A quick phone call with the code will do the trick. And you can choose to change the code upon your return for added security.
As with every purchase, there are disadvantages.
First, if someone sees you enter the code, they can enter your home. It is important to take precautions to protect your entry code. Change the code periodically or when you suspect someone may have gained access. Choose a code that you can remember, but also one that is not easy to guess.
The second disadvantage is that keyless door locks are generally more expensive than your average lock and key system. Most locksmiths can install a keyless door lock for no extra charge provided that additional wiring is not required.
The third disadvantage is that keyless door locks require a certain amount of maintenance. Sometimes the numbers wear off of the push button systems, batteries need to be replaced, and the codes need to be changed.
Regardless of the disadvantages, if you value convenience, versatility, and added security, a keyless door lock might be the right choice for you.
A Brief History Of The Keypad Door Lock
The origin of locks dates back to the ancient civilizations of the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. The first locks were made of knotted rope and other materials. Over time, the practice evolved, and craftsmen began using wood and metal to fashion locks.
Today, this same concept is used for keypad door locks so people can gain access to their homes, storage buildings, or private rooms.
It appears that the ancient Egyptians may have been the first to use a mechanical lock dating back to 4000 B.C.E. A wooden post was attached to a door, and another piece of wood was pushed through to prevent the door from opening.
It wasn't until the eighteenth century that technology advanced, and engineers and locksmiths began creating more complicated locking systems to protect homes and belongings. Robert Barronin created the double-acting tumbler lock in 1778. Other inventors followed suit over the next two centuries. Harry Soref created the first padlock in 1924.
It wasn't until 1980 that a keyless lock system was invented. Ford first used it on some of the cars it produced and dubbed it the Keyless Entry System. The cars could be accessed simply by entering a code near the door handle.
Today, this same concept is used for keypad door locks so people can gain access to their homes, storage buildings, or private rooms. They are a popular choice for businesses that need to maintain security in certain areas, especially those obligated to protect patient confidentiality.
Fred is a freelance writer and editor based in Chicago, and a lifelong bookworm with a love of genre fiction. Since receiving his degree in Biology from the University of Vermont, he’s worked as a student loan counselor, a remittance processor for an industrial supply firm, and a traveling farmhand. A passion for the laughter of strangers has given him several years of experience performing and teaching improv comedy, and much of his free time is spent inventing absurd scenarios on stage. Fred also hikes, skis, and records a weekly Dungeons and Dragons podcast with a group of longtime friends. His areas of expertise include gaming, gardening, outdoor gear, literature, and pop culture