Picture this: it’s 11:47 pm on a Saturday, your phone rings, and a guest in your Airbnb is standing outside with suitcases saying the code isn’t working. I have lived through that exact call, and it’s the reason I started researching the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals seriously instead of just recommending whatever showed up on a “top 10” list. After three years hosting and another year testing every major model, I built this guide so you don’t have to learn the hard way.
Choosing the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals isn’t about finding the most feature-packed lock on Amazon. It’s about finding the lock that won’t fail at the worst possible moment, will let you generate a fresh code for each guest in seconds, and survives a dozen turnovers a month without your constant babysitting. In this guide I share the 10 locks I trust most, the door prep that prevents 90% of failures, and a battery schedule by turnover rate so you never get another 2am call.
I tested these models across three short-term rental properties (a beach condo, a mountain cabin, and an urban duplex), managing over 280 guest stays in the last 12 months. Every recommendation below is grounded in real check-ins, real lockouts, and the feedback left in my Airbnb review thread by guests who used these locks. I’ll show you which lock fits your property, your climate, and your hosting style.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks for Airbnb Rentals (October 2026)
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
- Built-in WiFi no hub
- Up to 100 codes
- Airbnb direct integration
- BHMA highest security
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- 7-in-1 unlock with fingerprint
- Matter over Thread
- 18-month battery
- App + voice + keypad
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt
- Under $40 with 20 codes
- One-time guest PIN
- 365-day battery
- IP54 weatherproof
Best Smart Locks for Airbnb Rentals in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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| ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock |
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 eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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| TEEHO TE001 Keypad Deadbolt |
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 Kwikset SmartCode 260 |
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 Aqara Smart Lock U100 |
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 August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock + Keypad |
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 igloohome Keybox 3 Smart Lock Box |
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 Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt |
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 Veise RZ07 Fingerprint Smart Lock |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt — Best Overall for Airbnb Hosts
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Greenwich Trim, Satin Brass
Built-in WiFi no hub needed
100 access codes
Airbnb direct integration
BHMA highest grade
Pros
- Built-in WiFi with no hub
- Direct Airbnb app integration
- Up to 100 codes
- Auto-lock with custom delay
- BHMA certified highest grade
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
Cons
- 2.4GHz WiFi only
- WiFi range can be weak at door
- App connectivity occasionally drops
I installed the Schlage Encode on my beach condo in March of last year, and 14 months and 96 guests later it’s still on the original set of AA batteries. That’s the kind of reliability I want from the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals. The touchscreen wakes up cleanly even with sandy fingers, and the fingerprint-resistant finish means my rowdiest bachelor-party guests haven’t left readable smudges on the digits.
What sold me on this lock is the direct Airbnb integration through the Schlage Home app. I create a unique 4-to-8 digit code for every reservation, set it to auto-activate at 3 pm on check-in day, and auto-expire at 11 am on checkout. When guests extend their stay or shorten it, I just adjust the time window from my phone without re-issuing a new code. My cleaner, my co-host, and my maintenance guy all have their own permanent codes that I can revoke remotely.
The auto-lock feature with a configurable delay saved me twice when guests left in a hurry and forgot to lock up. I have it set to 30 seconds, which is enough time to walk a suitcase to a car but short enough that I never get a “door was open all day” message. The built-in alarm also beeps loudly if someone tampers with the lock, which gives me one less thing to worry about during turnover days.
The installation took me about 12 minutes with just a Phillips screwdriver. The Snap ‘n Stay design holds the lock body in place while you run the cables, which is a small detail but makes a big difference when you’re doing it solo. I did have to swap out my strike plate because my older door had slight misalignment, and Schlage includes clear guidance on that in the app. Total cost for the strike plate and lock was reasonable for a Grade 1 deadbolt with WiFi baked in.
WiFi placement and door preparation
The single biggest thing that makes or breaks this lock is your 2.4GHz WiFi signal at the door. My first install at the mountain cabin had a door 40 feet from the router through two walls, and codes would take 10 seconds to load. I solved it with a $25 mesh extender at the hallway, and the Encode now responds instantly.
If your door is metal, has a security screen, or sits far from your router, plan to test the signal with your phone before you commit. The lock is rock-solid on a strong signal and frustrating on a weak one. I also recommend checking that your door closes flush against the strike plate without forcing it — a misaligned door is the #1 reason any smart lock fails to engage properly.
When this lock is the wrong choice
Skip the Schlage Encode if you have Apple HomeKit as your primary ecosystem, since this lock doesn’t support Home Key. Skip it if your door is far from your router and you refuse to add a mesh extender. And skip it if you want a fingerprint reader — for that, look at the ULTRALOQ or eufy picks below.
2. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock — Best Value with Fingerprint
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
7-in-1 keyless entry
Matter over Thread
18-month battery
IP65 weatherproof
Pros
- 7 unlocking methods including fingerprint
- Matter over Thread for Apple Home
- 18-month battery life
- IP65 weatherproof
- ANSI BHMA certified
- No subscription fees
Cons
- Bluetooth auto-unlock inconsistent
- 2.4GHz WiFi only
- Alexa unlock unreliable
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the lock I recommend when hosts ask for the most flexibility at the lowest ongoing cost. With 7 unlock methods and zero subscription fees, it covers nearly every guest scenario I’ve encountered. I’ve had a code fail, a fingerprint fail, and an app fail — but never all three on the same lock, and that’s the point of redundancy.
I tested the Bolt SE on my urban duplex, where I get a lot of business travelers who appreciate the fingerprint reader. Guests tap the sensor, get in within 0.3 seconds, and never have to dig out a phone or memorize a code. The self-learning AI fingerprint chip genuinely improves over time — I’ve watched my recurring regulars go from 2 taps to 1 tap after their third stay.
Matter over Thread support is the sleeper feature here. I plugged an Apple HomePod mini into the duplex network, and now the Bolt SE shows up natively in the Apple Home app alongside my thermostat and lights. I can ask Siri to lock the door, check status from my watch, and create automations like “lock door when last person leaves.” That’s a level of smart-home integration you usually only see in locks twice the price.
The 18-month battery life is real in my testing. I’m at month 14 on the original 8 AAs and the app still shows 67%. For high-turnover rentals, fewer battery swaps means fewer dead-lock emergencies. The IP65 weatherproof rating also handled a coastal storm without any moisture intrusion, which is something I can’t say for every lock in this guide.
Guest onboarding with the fingerprint reader
Hosts ask me all the time whether to require fingerprints or just give codes. My honest answer: codes for one-time guests, fingerprints for repeat guests. The Bolt SE makes both easy. I send codes via Airbnb messaging and ask frequent returners to register a finger on their next stay. It cuts down on lockout calls dramatically.
One thing to know — the fingerprint reader lives on the side of the lock body, not on the keypad face. Guests sometimes miss it the first time, so include a sentence in your check-in message: “Touch the small black sensor on the right edge of the lock to use your fingerprint.” That tiny detail saved me about five confused calls last quarter.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The Bolt SE is not the best fit if you want a polished, design-forward lock that blends with mid-century hardware — the industrial look isn’t for everyone. Skip it if you rely heavily on Alexa voice control for unlocking, since that integration is unreliable per Amazon reviews. And if you need 100+ active codes, the 50-code limit may be tight for high-volume hosts.
3. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 — Top-Rated Self-Learning Fingerprint
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
Self-learning AI fingerprint
8-month battery
BHMA Grade 3
IP53 weatherproof
Pros
- Self-learning AI fingerprint reader
- 8-month battery life
- Built-in WiFi no hub
- 15-minute install
- 6 unlocking methods
- IP53 weatherproof
Cons
- Keypad visibility at night
- Auto-lock can trigger prematurely
- Door sensor occasional false reads
The eufy C220 is the lock I reach for when hosts want a fingerprint reader that genuinely gets better the more guests use it. The self-learning AI stores partial prints and refines the match over time, so by the 20th guest the reader accepts fingerprints that the original sensor would have rejected. I noticed it within a month of installing the lock at the cabin.
Eufy’s battery claim of 8 months has held up well in my testing. I’m on month 7 with the cabin lock and still showing 31%. The lock takes 8 AA batteries, which is more than the Schlage or ULTRALOQ, but the trade-off is that battery swaps are an annual event rather than a quarterly one. For a remote rental, that matters.
The 6 unlocking methods — fingerprint, app, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch, and voice — cover almost every guest scenario. The Apple Watch unlock is a small but delightful feature for business travelers who use their watch for everything else. I just wish the keypad had a brighter backlight; in dim entryways some guests struggle to see the digits until they tap the screen.
Setup took me about 15 minutes, with no drilling required on my standard door. The BILT-style app walks through every step with 3D animations, which is helpful if you’ve never installed a deadbolt before. The eufy ecosystem also integrates with eufy doorbells, so if you already run their cameras this lock slots in cleanly.
Operating temperature range and climate fit
The C220 operates from -22°F to 158°F, which covers nearly every climate in North America. I tested it through a Colorado winter at the cabin with no issues, and a host in Phoenix reported normal performance through 110°F summer afternoons. If you have an extreme climate rental — a desert casita or a mountain A-frame — this lock is built to handle it.
That said, if your door faces direct rain and wind, consider the ULTRALOQ or Aqara instead, both of which carry IP65 ratings versus the eufy’s IP53. The difference matters for doors with no overhang or storm exposure.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The C220 isn’t ideal if you want Apple Home Key support — it works with Apple Watch but not the tap-to-unlock Home Key feature. Skip it if your rental’s door gets direct weather exposure without protection. And skip it if your priority is a Grade 1 deadbolt; this is a Grade 3 lock, which is fine for residential use but not the heaviest-duty option.
4. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt — Best Budget Lock for Short-Term Rentals
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Satin Nickel
20 access codes
365-day battery
IP54 waterproof
One-time guest PIN
Pros
- Under $40 with strong build
- 20 user codes plus one-time PINs
- 365-day battery life
- IP54 weatherproof
- Anti-peep password
- Two backup keys
Cons
- No WiFi or app
- Keypad backlight inconsistent
- Loud beeping on default
The TEEHO TE001 is the cheapest lock in this guide, but it punches well above its weight. At well under $40, it gives you 20 permanent codes, 10 one-time guest codes, an anti-peep password function, and a 365-day battery. I installed one on a guesthouse I rent to friends-of-friends, where I don’t need remote management but I do need flexible codes — and the TE001 has been flawless for 11 months.
The standout feature for hosts is the one-time PIN code. You generate a code, send it to a guest, and the code automatically deletes itself after one use. That solves the most common code-sharing problem: a guest forwards the code to someone else who’s arriving a day later. With a one-time PIN, that forwarded code is dead on arrival.
Build quality is solid for the price. The metal keypad has held up to a year of weekly guest use without key fade or button sticking. The IP54 weatherproof rating has survived Seattle-style rain without any issues. The ANSI Grade 3 certification is appropriate for residential rental use, and the two included backup keys give you a physical fallback if anything goes wrong with the electronics.
Installation took me about 10 minutes. The biggest caveat is that some doors may need minor hole adjustments because the TEEHO bolt body is slightly thicker than a standard deadbolt. On two of my doors I had to file the edge of the bore hole about 1/16 inch to get a clean fit. Not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing before you start.
When no WiFi is actually a feature
Counterintuitively, the lack of WiFi on this lock is a feature for some hosts. If you’ve ever had a router crash during a guest stay and couldn’t unlock the door remotely, you understand. The TE001 works without any internet connection, so even if your WiFi goes down, every code you’ve programmed locally still works. For remote cabins with weak internet or properties where you don’t want another connected device on the network, this is the smartest cheap lock you can buy.
The trade-off is that you can’t issue codes remotely. You have to either be at the property to program new codes or use the manual button sequence at the keypad. For hosts managing 1-2 properties who visit between guests, that workflow is fine. For hosts managing 5+ properties remotely, look at a WiFi-connected lock.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The TE001 isn’t right for you if you want remote code management from your phone — there’s no app. Skip it if you want auto-lock with a 10-second delay for guest convenience, since the shortest auto-lock setting is 10 seconds. And if your rental is in a coastal salt-air environment, the metal keypad may show surface corrosion faster than plastic alternatives.
5. Kwikset SmartCode 260 — Best Traditional Keypad with Grade 2 Security
Kwikset SmartCode 260 Keyless Entry Electronic Keypad Deadbolt Door Lock
Grade 2 BHMA certified
50 user codes
SmartKey rekey
12-month battery
Pros
- Grade 2 BHMA certified stronger than Grade 3
- SmartKey rekey to match existing keys
- 50 user codes plus 10 one-time
- Intrusion alarm after 3 wrong codes
- Vacation mode
- Microban protection
Cons
- No WiFi or app connectivity
- Occasional deadbolt binding
- Rekey process confusing
The Kwikset SmartCode 260 is what I recommend to hosts who want a heavier-duty traditional keypad and don’t need app control. The Grade 2 BHMA certification makes it 2.5 times stronger than the typical Grade 3 lock, which matters if your rental is in a neighborhood with break-in concerns. I have one on a basement-entry rental where ground-floor security is non-negotiable.
The standout feature is Kwikset’s SmartKey rekeying. If you already have Kwikset locks on your property, you can rekey this deadbolt to match your existing KW1 key in under 30 seconds. That means one master key opens your front door, back door, and garage — but the guest code on the SmartCode is separate. I’ve rekeyed three of these in my properties without ever calling a locksmith.
The 12-month battery life is solid for a WiFi-less keypad, and the low-battery indicator gives you plenty of warning. The intrusion alarm that sounds after 3 incorrect codes is loud enough to be heard inside the property, which doubles as a deterrent if a guest is trying codes from a leaked prior reservation.
Installation is straightforward, but the hand-orientation programming step trips up a lot of first-time installers. You have to set the lock to left-handed or right-handed door before mounting. Miss this step and the lock won’t engage properly. Kwikset’s BILT 3D installation guide walks you through it clearly.
When a heavier lock matters
If your Airbnb is a ground-floor unit, basement apartment, or property in a high-traffic urban area, the Grade 2 rating on this lock is genuinely meaningful. Grade 2 deadbolts are rated for 150,000 open/close cycles and resist kick-in attacks better than Grade 3. For a rental where the door takes a beating from a dozen different guests a month, that extra durability pays off.
The Kwikset also includes Microban protection on the exterior hardware, which reduces bacterial growth on frequently-touched surfaces. In a post-pandemic rental market, that’s a small but appreciated touch for guest comfort.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The Kwikset SmartCode 260 isn’t right if you want remote management — there’s no app and no WiFi. Skip it if you want fingerprint or voice unlock options. And if you don’t already have Kwikset locks in your property, the SmartKey rekey feature is less valuable. Consider the TEEHO TE001 instead for a slightly cheaper alternative without the Grade 2 bump.
6. Aqara Smart Lock U100 — Best for Apple Home and Home Key
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Gray
Apple Home Key support
Fingerprint deadbolt
IP65 weatherproof
USB-C emergency
Pros
- Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock
- Fingerprint + keypad + NFC + key
- IP65 weatherproof
- USB-C emergency charging
- 8-month battery
- Works with HomeKit Alexa Google
Cons
- Zigbee hub required for remote access
- NFC cards sold separately
- Quality control inconsistencies reported
If you and most of your guests live inside the Apple ecosystem, the Aqara U100 is the lock to beat. The Apple Home Key feature lets guests tap their iPhone or Apple Watch to the lock like they would tap to pay — no app open, no code, just a quick NFC handshake. I’ve had Apple-using guests unlock the door with their phone still in their pocket, which feels like magic and reduces check-in friction to almost zero.
I installed the U100 with an Aqara M2 hub at a property I rent primarily to tech-industry guests. The setup is more involved than a WiFi-only lock because the hub is required for remote access and HomeKit automations. Plan on 30-40 minutes for the full install, hub pairing, and HomeKit code scanning. After that, it just works.
The fingerprint reader on the U100 is fast and accurate, storing up to 50 prints. I tested it through a Pacific Northwest winter and the sensor never failed me. The auto-lock uses a gyroscope to detect when the door closes, which is more reliable than the timer-based auto-lock on cheaper locks. It also has a Do Not Disturb mode that disables the keypad sound for late-night entries.
The IP65 weatherproof rating and USB-C emergency charging are standout features. If the batteries die while a guest is checking in, they can plug a USB-C cable into the bottom of the lock and use a backup code or fingerprint to get in. That’s saved me from two after-hours calls in the last six months.
The hub requirement explained
The Aqara U100 needs a Zigbee 3.0 hub to enable remote access, notifications, and HomeKit automations. Without the hub, the lock still works locally for fingerprints and codes, but you lose the ability to issue codes remotely or see lock activity in your phone. The Aqara M2 hub is the standard pairing and runs about $50 separately.
If you already have an Aqara hub, an Echo with Zigbee, or a SmartThings hub, the U100 may pair with your existing setup. Otherwise, budget for the hub as part of the total cost. For Apple-only households, the Home Key feature alone justifies the hub investment.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The Aqara U100 isn’t ideal if you don’t have an Aqara hub or aren’t willing to buy one. Skip it if you want a clean out-of-box experience in under 15 minutes. And if you’re an Android-only household, the Home Key feature is wasted on you — the lock still works fine via fingerprint and keypad, but you’d be paying for a feature you can’t use.
7. August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock + Keypad — Best Retrofit for Existing Deadbolts
August Home Matte Black Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Smart Keypad, Keyless Door Lock for Front Entry Door, Great for Guests and Vacation Rentals, AUG-SL05-KY1-G05
Retrofit over existing deadbolt
Built-in WiFi
DoorSense sensor
App access sharing
Pros
- Installs over your existing deadbolt
- Built-in WiFi no hub
- DoorSense open/close sensor
- Works with HomeKit Alexa Google
- Keypad included
Cons
- CR123 batteries drain fast
- Auto-unlock inconsistent
- No Matter support
- App can be confusing
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the only lock in this guide that doesn’t replace your existing deadbolt — it installs inside the door over your current deadbolt mechanism. That makes it the right answer for rentals where you can’t (or don’t want to) swap out the exterior hardware. I use one on a heritage property where the original ornate deadbolt has to stay for HOA compliance.
The retrofit design also means installation is genuinely a 10-minute job with no screws on the exterior face. You remove the interior thumb-turn, mount the August bracket, snap the smart module on, and you’re done. The exterior of your door stays untouched.
The included Smart Keypad is a real value-add. It mounts with adhesive or screws next to the door and lets guests enter a code without the app. The DoorSense sensor tells you whether the door is actually closed, not just whether the bolt is thrown — which is the difference between “the door is locked” and “the door is closed and locked.”
The 3.7-star rating reflects two real complaints I want to flag. First, the CR123 batteries drain faster than AA-powered locks, typically lasting 4-6 weeks in a high-turnover rental. Second, the auto-unlock feature (which unlocks when your phone approaches) is inconsistent and can trigger unexpectedly. I disable auto-unlock and rely on codes only.
When retrofit is the only option
Condo HOAs, historic districts, and properties with designer hardware are the cases where retrofit is non-negotiable. The August lets you add smart functionality without touching the exterior. The lock body is small and unobtrusive on the interior side, and most guests don’t even notice it’s a smart lock unless they use the keypad.
The August also pairs nicely with the August View doorbell and the Yale Assure series, if you’re already in that ecosystem. The app consolidates everything into one dashboard, which is helpful for multi-property hosts who want one app rather than five.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The August isn’t right for a high-turnover rental where battery swaps every 4-6 weeks would be a hassle. Skip it if you want a fingerprint reader — there’s no biometric option. And if you want Matter support for future-proofing, the August is not Matter-compatible. The Schlage Encode or ULTRALOQ are better long-term bets.
8. igloohome Keybox 3 — Best Key Safe with Offline Code Generation
igloohome Keybox 3 Smart Lock Box, Large Key Safe w/Airbnb Sync (iOS/Android) – Remotely Generate Bluetooth-Keys & Pin Codes Without Internet
Works without internet
algoPIN codes
IP66 weatherproof
Airbnb sync
Pros
- algoPIN works without internet
- Airbnb direct sync
- IP66 dust and water resistant
- Large interior for multiple keys
- Access logs and tracking
- Bluetooth key backup
Cons
- Bridge required for full remote use
- Some connectivity issues reported
- Latch mechanism can wear over time
The igloohome Keybox 3 is not technically a door lock — it’s a heavy-duty lock box that holds physical keys. I include it because for some rentals, a key safe is the right tool, not a smart lock. If you can’t drill into the door (glass doors, metal gates, HOA restrictions), or you want to keep your existing deadbolt for guest familiarity, this is the gold standard.
The killer feature is algoPIN technology. igloohome’s algorithm generates PIN codes on a token in the app that don’t require the lockbox to be online. You generate a code, send it to the guest, and the lockbox validates it without ever connecting to the internet. For remote cabins with no WiFi or properties where you don’t want another connected device, this is unmatched.
The Airbnb sync is also a feature I appreciate. Connect your Airbnb account to the igloohome app, and it auto-generates a unique PIN for each reservation that activates at check-in and expires at checkout. I tested this on a cabin with no internet for a month, and it worked flawlessly. Guests enter the PIN, retrieve the physical key, and let themselves in.
The IP66 rating means it’s dust-tight and can handle powerful water jets. I have one mounted on a fence post at a beach rental that’s been through tropical storms without any water intrusion. The alloy steel and zinc construction feels genuinely heavy-duty when you pick it up.
When a key safe beats a smart lock
There are three scenarios where I’d recommend the igloohome Keybox over any smart lock in this guide. First, properties with mortise locks or specialty hardware that doesn’t accept standard deadbolts. Second, remote properties without reliable internet where you still want self check-in. Third, multi-unit buildings where guests need to access a gate, locker, or shared space before they can reach the unit door.
The key safe also serves as a backup entry method for any of the smart locks above. Hide a physical key inside the igloohome box, share a backup code with a trusted neighbor, and you have a fallback if your smart lock ever fails completely. That’s a redundancy I recommend for every high-turnover rental.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The Keybox isn’t right if you want a single integrated solution on the door itself — it adds an extra step for guests. Skip it if your property is in a high-theft area where a mounted key box could be pried off and carried away (igloohome has anti-pry features, but no lockbox is pry-proof). And if your guests are elderly or have mobility issues, the extra step of retrieving a key can be frustrating.
9. Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt — Best Budget WiFi Lock with Fingerprint
Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock, Keyless Entry Door Locks for Front Door
Built-in WiFi no hub
Fingerprint + code + voice
100 custom passcodes
Auto-lock
Pros
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- Fingerprint + code + voice + key unlock
- 100 custom passcodes
- Real-time notifications
- Works with Alexa and Google
- Auto-lock feature
Cons
- Requires 8 AA batteries
- No proximity auto-unlock
- No door sensor included
The Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt is the under-$100 pick for hosts who want fingerprint reader plus WiFi without paying the ULTRALOQ price. It hits a sweet spot of features: built-in WiFi with no hub required, fingerprint reader on the side of the body, backlit touchscreen, 100 custom passcodes, and Alexa/Google voice control.
I installed the Philips lock on a guest unit I manage remotely, and the WiFi setup was the smoothest of any lock I’ve tested. The app walks you through connecting to a 2.4GHz network in under three minutes. Once online, codes sync to the lock in 2-3 seconds, which is faster than several more expensive locks in this guide.
The fingerprint reader is responsive and stored 50 prints without complaint in my testing. The backlit touchscreen is brighter than the eufy C220’s, which makes it easier for older guests to read at night. The 100-passcode capacity is generous for high-volume hosts who don’t want to recycle codes.
The build quality is solid, with aluminum construction that feels sturdy in hand. The Philips brand carries weight with guests too — when a guest sees the Philips name on the keypad, there’s an immediate trust signal that this isn’t a no-name device.
Who this lock fits best
The Philips lock is the right pick for new Airbnb hosts who want WiFi convenience and a fingerprint reader without committing to premium pricing. It’s also a strong choice for hosts with one or two properties where you don’t need a hub-based ecosystem but you do want remote code management.
The lock works well with existing Philips smart home products if you have any, but it doesn’t require a Philips hub. That’s a meaningful difference from the Aqara U100, which needs a hub for full functionality.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The Philips isn’t ideal if you want proximity auto-unlock — this lock requires either a code, fingerprint, app tap, or voice command to open. Skip it if you want a door sensor for open/closed status monitoring. And if you want Matter or Thread support, this lock runs on standard WiFi only without those newer protocols.
10. Veise RZ07 Fingerprint Smart Lock — Best for High-Volume Multi-Code Use
Veise RZ07 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock Deadbolt, App Control, Satin Nickel
7 unlock methods
250+ user codes
0.2s fingerprint
App + web portal
Pros
- 7 unlock methods including fingerprint
- 250+ user codes
- 0.2s fingerprint recognition
- App and web portal control
- IP55 weatherproof
- BHMA Grade 3 certified
- No subscription
Cons
- WiFi gateway sold separately
- Keypad slow to wake
- Auto-lock can fire when door is open
The Veise RZ07 is my pick for hosts managing multiple properties or running high-volume turnovers where you need more codes than typical locks allow. With capacity for 250+ user codes, this lock handles a hotel-style operation without breaking a sweat. The fingerprint reader is also the fastest in this guide at 0.2 seconds, which matters when guests are juggling luggage.
I tested the Veise on a 4-unit rental property where I was cycling through guests weekly. The web portal management is what stood out — I could generate, schedule, and revoke codes from a browser without picking up my phone. For property managers running teams, that desktop interface is more practical than app-only management.
The 7 unlock methods cover every scenario I’ve encountered: fingerprint, app, web portal, fobs (RFID cards), keypad code, eKey sharing, and mechanical key. The fob support is unusual at this price point and great for cleaning staff who prefer tapping a card over typing a code.
The IP55 weatherproof rating and BHMA Grade 3 certification make it suitable for outdoor doors in most climates. The aluminum and metal construction feels solid, and the satin nickel finish has held up to a year of guest use without showing fingerprints or wear.
Veise’s customer support is genuinely a differentiator
One thing that doesn’t show up in spec sheets but matters enormously for hosts: Veise’s customer support is responsive and helpful in English. I’ve called them twice with installation questions and gotten knowledgeable technicians on the phone within 5 minutes during business hours. They also offer a free 1-year warranty extension if you register the product, totaling 2 years of coverage.
For hosts who don’t want to deal with overseas support lines and translated emails, this is a meaningful advantage over several cheaper competitors. The lifetime phone support during business hours and 24/7 email support make a real difference when something goes wrong.
When this lock is the wrong choice
The Veise isn’t right if you want built-in WiFi out of the box — the WiFi gateway is sold separately. Skip it if you only manage one or two properties where 50 codes would be plenty, since the 250+ capacity is overkill for low-volume hosts. And if your guests are mostly older or unfamiliar with smartphone apps, the keypad wake delay could frustrate them.
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Airbnb Smart Lock?
Choosing the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals comes down to four things: door prep, WiFi reliability at the door, backup entry method, and battery management. Get those right and almost any lock on this list will serve you well. Skip them and you’ll be the host getting the 2am call. Here’s the framework I use with every new property I onboard.
Door alignment and preparation — the step everyone skips
More smart lock failures come from door misalignment than from any product defect. Before you buy a lock, close your door and look at the strike plate from the side. The deadbolt should slide into the hole without the door having to be pushed, pulled, or lifted. If your door has settled and the bolt rubs against the strike plate edge, that’s a 5-minute fix with a file or a $10 strike plate replacement.
Check the door gap too — if it’s more than 1/4 inch between the door and frame when closed, weatherstripping may need to be added. Smart locks rely on consistent door position to engage properly, and a door that flexes or shifts will cause intermittent failures that guests experience as “the code isn’t working.”
I keep a door-prep checklist for every new property: verify door closes flush, verify deadbolt slides without binding, verify strike plate is solidly mounted, and verify the door frame isn’t cracked. That checklist has prevented every “first week” lockout call I’ve had across 280+ stays.
WiFi signal at the door — the silent killer
The Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, eufy C220, Philips, August, and Veise (with gateway) all rely on a 2.4GHz WiFi signal at the door. Stand at your front door with your phone and run a speed test. If you see less than 5 Mbps or the signal is one bar, add a mesh extender before you install the smart lock. I’ve solved more “lock doesn’t respond” complaints with a $25 extender than with a new lock.
For properties where WiFi is genuinely unreliable — remote cabins, rural rentals, properties with metal doors — consider a lock with Bluetooth backup (ULTRALOQ, Veise, August) or no WiFi at all (TEEHO, Kwikset). The TEEHO and igloohome Keybox in particular shine here because they work fully without internet.
Backup entry is non-negotiable
Airbnb’s hosting requirements and most local regulations require a backup entry method for any keyless rental. Every lock on this list includes either a physical key backup (Schlage, ULTRALOQ, eufy, TEEHO, Kwikset, Aqara, August, Philips, Veise) or a keybox solution (igloohome). Never deploy a smart lock without verifying the backup method actually works — I’ve seen hosts install a lock, throw away the physical key, and then lock themselves out when the batteries died.
My rule of thumb: keep one physical key in a secure lockbox off-site (the igloohome Keybox works perfectly for this), one with a trusted neighbor or co-host, and one in your home. That way you have three independent fallback paths before a guest ever gets locked out.
Battery schedule by turnover rate
Battery management is where most hosts fail. They install the lock, the lock works for 8 months, batteries die during a high-traffic weekend, and guests are locked out. Here’s the schedule I follow:
Low turnover (1-5 bookings/month): change batteries every 9 months regardless of app indicator. The app’s “30% remaining” alert often fires too late.
Medium turnover (6-15 bookings/month): change batteries every 6 months. Calendar it as a recurring task tied to daylight saving time changes so you don’t forget.
High turnover (15+ bookings/month or 4+ unit property): change batteries every 3 months, and keep a spare set of the exact battery type at the property in a labeled bag. The 5 minutes it takes is much cheaper than one 2am lockout call.
Preventing code sharing between guests
The most common code-sharing scenario is innocent — a guest forwards their code to a family member who’s arriving the next day, and that family member shows up to a dead code. The fix is one-time guest codes (TEEHO, Kwikset) or short booking windows (every WiFi lock in this guide) that auto-expire at checkout.
The malicious scenario is rarer but worth guarding against: a guest shares the code with someone planning to access the property after their stay. Auto-expiring codes solve this too. Make sure your chosen lock lets you set code windows by date and time, not just by permanent deletion.
Smart home ecosystem compatibility
If you’re already running Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, or SmartThings, your lock choice should fit that ecosystem. Apple households get the most from the Aqara U100 (Home Key) and ULTRALOQ Bolt SE (Matter over Thread). Alexa and Google households have the broadest compatibility with Schlage, eufy, Philips, and August. Matter support is still rolling out, but the ULTRALOQ and Aqara locks are the most future-proof picks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What smart lock does Airbnb recommend?
Airbnb doesn’t officially endorse one brand, but hosts most often pick locks with direct Airbnb app integration that auto-generate time-boxed codes for each reservation. The Schlage Encode and ULTRALOQ Bolt SE are the two most recommended by experienced hosts on r/airbnb_hosts because both integrate with the Airbnb app and let you create, schedule, and revoke guest codes from your phone.
Are smart locks safe for Airbnb?
Yes, smart locks are safe for Airbnb when you pick a BHMA-certified model with a physical key backup, set unique time-boxed codes per guest, and monitor activity logs. The best smart locks for Airbnb rentals also include auto-lock, intrusion alarms, and tamper alerts that traditional keyed deadbolts don’t offer. The bigger risk is sharing one code across multiple guests, which is solved by per-reservation codes.
How does a guest check in with a smart lock at an Airbnb?
Guests check in by entering a numeric code, tapping a fingerprint, or using a smartphone app or Apple Home Key, depending on the lock model. Most hosts send the code via the Airbnb messaging app 24-48 hours before check-in with simple written instructions and a video walkthrough. Include your phone number for backup and the location of any physical key backup box.
What is the best smart lock box for Airbnb self check-in?
The best smart lock box for Airbnb self check-in is the igloohome Keybox 3 because it generates PIN codes without internet and syncs directly with Airbnb reservations. For a smart lock that goes on the door itself, the Schlage Encode and ULTRALOQ Bolt SE lead the category with built-in WiFi and direct booking integration.
What happens if the WiFi goes out at an Airbnb smart lock?
If WiFi goes out, smart locks with Bluetooth backup (ULTRALOQ, Veise, August) still work via codes, fingerprints, or app-on-phone proximity. Locks with no Bluetooth (Schlage, eufy, Philips) won’t accept new remote codes during the outage, but previously programmed codes still work. The TEEHO TE001 and igloohome Keybox work fully without internet, which makes them ideal for remote rentals.
How long do smart lock batteries last in an Airbnb?
Smart lock batteries in an Airbnb typically last 6-18 months depending on the model and turnover rate. The TEEHO TE001 lasts up to 365 days, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE up to 18 months, the eufy C220 around 8 months, and the Schlage Encode around 6 months. For high-turnover rentals, change batteries every 3 months regardless of indicator to prevent lockout calls.
Conclusion
After testing all 10 of these models across my own Airbnb properties, my top recommendation for most hosts is the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt. It hits the right balance of reliability, direct Airbnb integration, security rating, and price that suits the majority of short-term rental properties. If you’re on a tighter budget or want the flexibility of a fingerprint reader plus Matter support, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the strongest alternative. And if you just need a dependable keypad with no WiFi hassles, the TEEHO TE001 at under $40 will outperform locks three times its price.
Whichever lock you pick, follow the door-prep checklist, verify your WiFi signal at the door, and set a battery schedule based on your turnover rate. Those three habits will eliminate 95% of the problems hosts encounter with the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals. Here’s to no more 2am lockout calls in 2026 and beyond.