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When it comes to smart locks , all model essentially fall into two categories . The first class will be familiar to most hoi polloi , as these are traditional smart locks built to replace your live deadbolt . That means you ’ll get a whole new set of keys for your front room access , as well as hardware that introduces voguish feature article to your home .
The 2d variety of smart lock is a retrofit smart lock . These far-out equipment are design to fit over your existing computer hardware — allowing you to keep using your old cay while also adding smart feature . Both types of impudent locks are great ways to kick upstairs your front threshold , but which is expert for your home ? Here ’s a closer look to help you decide if you should replace your traditional bolt with a smart lock chamber or instal a retrofit smart lock instead .
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Consider your DIY skills
One of the biggest differences between a traditional overbold lock and retrofit overbold lock is the installation process . Most shopper should be able to install both types of products , though retrofit bright lock chamber are doubtless soft . This is because you do n’t have to care about getting a new bolt to align right with your threshold , as you ’ll just be using your exist ironware . Instead , all you really want to do is drop off the young impudent lock chamber on top of the existing whole . With that done , so is your installation .
For traditional wise locks , you ’re essentially instal a whole new deadbolt arrangement . And depending on your ware and the layout of your current ironware , this could require the habit of power pecker to realine plate or carve out areas of the doorframe for a better fit . Again , this is normally a fairly square process , but it ’s no doubt more in - depth than with retrofit impudent locks .
Because of this , retrofit voguish locks are better for family line bear on about their DIY skills , as they ’re much easier to get up and running .
Check out all the models on the market
Retrofit and traditional smart ignition lock come in all shapes and sizes . However , you ’ll rule that the bulk of chic ringlet available today are of the “ traditional ” multifariousness . This makes traditional locks the best selection for discerning shopper , as there ’s a good fortune you ’ll be capable to find something that checks all the boxful on your regard list .
TheYale Assure Lock 2 , for example , is a traditional smart ignition lock that can be modified in a diversity of way , enabling you to choose options such as keyed , key - free , Wi - Fi backing , Bluetooth financial support , or fingerprint digital scanner musical accompaniment . Others , like the Lockly Vision , amount with solar panels to passively bear down the unit and are packed with unequaled safety features .
Retrofit smart locks are pretty sparse by comparability , offer limited functionality and fewer available model . Many do n’t even fall with a keypad , forcing you to get at them with either a physical key or their mobile companion app . This signify you ’ll in all probability have to settle for a retrofit smart lock chamber with fewer smart features or one that does n’t absolutely fit your needs and desire .
Some retrofit locks are starting to shoot down this trend , as you’re able to now geminate the August Wi - Fi Smart Lock with theYale Keypad — making it function more like a traditional smart whorl .
Smart connectivity
Regardless of which smart curl you prefer , there ’s a good chance it ’ll offer heaps of connectivity option . Most smart lock come with roving companion apps , allow you to customize their performance or access them remotely . Some models use Bluetooth or Wi - Fi , while others might proffer supporting for Matter or Z - Wave for increase functionality . Thankfully , this sort of connectivity can be ground on retrofit and traditional smart locks , so it should n’t act a big factor in your determination .
Both are great upgrades
Adding any fresh ignition lock to your front door is typically a wise to investment . These gadgets make it prosperous than ever to give Guest and kin fellow member access to your house while ensuring it stays dependable from strangers .
Shoppers try a robust smart lock with heaps of feature will belike find traditional fresh locks to be a well option , while retrofit smart locks are well for folks seek a quick install summons . Retrofit smart lock might also be a good option for renters since they do n’t require unexampled deadbolts or keys . You ’ll require to check with your landlord , but there ’s a strong opening they ’ll be permit by your lease correspondence .
