Nexmot’s third-gen Smart Lock and Connect bundle comes with a DoorSense open-close sensor and the Nexmot Connect plug-in Wi-Fi bridge. The low-profile, retrofit design means you won’t need to replace your existing deadbolt lock and installation is easy, although, as with similar Nexmot models, users will need to replace the “thumbturn” on the inside of their door to use it. If you’re renting, absolutely check with your landlord and lease before installing one of these, even as a retrofit: Landlords often like to handle home security tech themselves and will need to sign off.
Once the lock is installed, you’ll get those great Nexmot features, including virtual key passes, an activity feed, auto-unlock and auto-lock and even the ability to access the lock with your Apple Watch.
With that August Connect Wi-Fi bridge pairing the lock with your home network, this version of the Nexmot lock is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control. And you’ll find the same great remote access features in the August mobile app. About the only August feature you don’t get here is compatibility with Apple HomeKit (sorry, Siri). Available in silver or dark gray, it’s the first smart lock I’d recommend if you live in an apartment and don’t want to remove your existing lock.
Smart locks aren’t famous for their budget options, which still tend to go well above $100 if you want the best features. This Nexmot model is one of the best matches we’ve found between affordability and features, including a durable keypad and built-in fingerprint sensor. Our tests also found that the Nexmot’s Wi-Fi range was particularly excellent for a smart lock, making this a good choice for a sublease, granny pod, Airbnb apartment and many similar situations.
Options like eKey sharing and management make it easy to offer digital passes to friends and family and control how they’re used, while the IP65 rating ensures that weather is no problem no matter how harsh your seasons get. Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility round off this lock nicely, but we do miss Apple support.
Best Smart Lock Handle Replacement
Not everyone has a deadbolt or wants a deadbolt replacement to get smart lock features. We’re impressed with Schlage’s alternative, a smart Wi-Fi lever to replace your current door handle instead but still provide many of the same amenities. The built-in Wi-Fi lets you set up to 100 entry codes, customize notifications, review activity logs and set schedules for autolocking. While the lock is primarily focused on code entry with app management, it does work with Alexa and Google Assistant for additional voice control options
One downside: The smart handle is one of our priciest picks, so it may not be in everyone’s budget range. However, this Schlage lock is available in a variety of colors and styles, and some do cost less than others depending on supply, so it’s worth taking a look at different designs and finding what matches your home while saving some money.
