When shopping for a new door lock, there are many factors to consider including style, security and ease of use. While there are a variety of smart locks on the market, not all of them are created equal. The right lock can increase the security of your home or business while also improving its curb appeal. We’ve put together a guide to help you find the perfect lock for your space.

In addition to deciding on the type of lock you want, it’s important to pay close attention to the dimensions of both the lock and your door. While most locks are designed to fit most doors, it’s always a good idea to double-check before making a purchase. We’ve also included a chart that shows you the dimensions of the different models we have tested to help you decide which lock will be a good fit.

Unlike a traditional lock that requires a key to operate, electronic door locks work by using an access code or fingerprint to unlock. Many of these smart locks also have additional features that make them more convenient for homeowners and businesses. For example, some can be set to auto-lock after a certain time, or they can provide guest access via unique codes that expire after a few days. These are great options if you have people coming and going frequently, such as a house cleaner or pet sitter.

There are also some smart locks that offer a backup power supply in case the batteries run out. These models typically have external posts that you can connect a 9-volt battery to, which will give you enough juice to open the lock. If you want to go with this option, be sure to buy a model that still has a traditional key cylinder for backup in case the power fails.

Some electronic locks can also be configured to ring your phone or tablet so you can hear who is at the door. This is helpful if you have young children or pets that may not be able to answer the door, or if you’re worried about a break-in. However, this feature will require an internet connection and works best on smartphones that can support bluetooth low energy.

Choosing the right door lock for your property can be a challenging task, but it is essential to have one that can withstand potential intruders. For this reason, we recommend purchasing a lock with an ANSI or BHMA grade of 1 (higher grades indicate more advanced tamper-resistant construction). We also suggest reading our article on Choosing the Best Door Lock for Your Property to learn more about our testing process and the specific types of door locks that perform well in our ratings. The best door locks combine strength with stylish design and convenient, easy-to-use features that will improve your overall home or business security. If you’re not comfortable with electronics, or you just prefer to have a physical key in hand, we have some basic padlocks that are great for securing lockers and storage units.