A keypad lock can be electronic without being smart. In the U.S. residential terminology used by the Department of Commerce, an electronic lock can work locally through a keypad, while a smart lock adds wireless communication with another device for operation or monitoring. Smart locks are therefore a connected subset of electronic locks in this comparison—not a guarantee of stronger physical security.
What makes a lock electronic, and what makes it smart?
“Electronic lock” is used inconsistently in consumer listings. Broadly, it can describe a lock whose operation or credential involves electronics, including PIN keypads, card readers, electromechanical hardware, and connected locks. The U.S. government’s residential category draws a narrower distinction: a non-connected digital lock is electronically operated at the door, while a smart lock can be operated or monitored wirelessly through another electronic device. The Department of Commerce describes these categories and the protocols used by smart locks.
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That makes connectivity the key difference here. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and low-power mesh protocols such as Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Thread can connect a lock to a phone or home system. A model may use one or more of these, and its exact features and network requirements depend on the product.
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Is a keypad lock the same as a smart lock?
Not necessarily. A keypad lock that accepts a PIN locally and has no wireless connection is electronic but not smart under this distinction. Some keypad models do connect to an app, so check the individual model rather than relying on “keypad” or “electronic” in a listing.
#1 Best Overall
- Connect to 2.4GHz WiFi, No Hub Needed：Connect your Philips 4200 Series Wifi Door Lock Deadbolt directly to your home WiFi network—no extra hub or bridge required. Manage your door anytime, anywhere through your smartphone. 𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙀: Please keep the smart lock within 33 ft (10 m) of your Wi-Fi router. Minimize obstacles such as walls, metal objects, and interference sources for a stronger connection.
- App Control with Real-Time Access：Control smart lock remotely via the Philips Home Access App: lock/unlock, manage user codes/fingerprints, check your door lock status, and monitor access history in real time, etc, whether you’re at work or on vacation.
- Voice Assistant Compatible：Hands full? No problem. Use voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant to lock or check the status of your front door lock set effortlessly.
- Versatile Passcode Options: This Keypad deadbolt supports permanent, one-time, periodic, and recurring PIN codes—perfect for family, guests, housekeepers, or Airbnb use. Easily manage and share access through the app for ultimate convenience and control.
- 0.3S Fingerprint Fast Access：With this fingerprint keyless entry door lock, unlock your door in 0.3 seconds with fast, secure biometric access. Store multiple fingerprints for family and trusted visitors.
Can an electronic door lock work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. A non-connected electronic lock can accept a local credential such as a PIN without wireless communication. Some smart locks also support local entry, but their app-based or remote functions may depend on a particular network, protocol, hub, app, account, or service. Confirm what remains available if internet access or a connected service is unavailable.
How the two types differ in everyday use
| Question | Non-connected keypad electronic lock | Smart lock |
|---|---|---|
| How do you use it? | Typically with a PIN or another local electronic credential; features vary by product. | May offer local entry as well as wireless communication with a phone or other device; features vary by model. |
| Can you manage it remotely? | Remote status and control are not part of the government’s non-connected definition. | May support remote status, locking, unlocking, codes, or history when the model’s app and network requirements are met. |
| Does it need a wireless connection? | No wireless connection in the cited non-connected category. | Connectivity and any hub, app, account, or service requirements vary by model. |
| What should guide a purchase? | A fit for someone who wants local code entry without remote management. | A fit for someone who values phone-based monitoring, control, or integration and accepts the model’s connectivity and account dependencies. |
As one manufacturer example, Schlage says its Encode line supports app-based remote locking and unlocking, customized access codes, lock history, and integrations. Those are claims for the cited product line, not features guaranteed by the term “smart lock.” Check the exact model and current compatibility details on Schlage’s Encode page.
Rank #2
- 𝐅𝐥𝐞𝐱𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐔𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤: Unlock the way you want: app, passcode, fingerprint, physical key, or voice via Alexa/Google Assistant. Everyone in the family can choose what works best — convenience meets flexibility. Batteries are not included.
- 𝐔𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐀𝐧𝐲𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: Built-in Wi-Fi lets you lock and unlock your door remotely anytime, anywhere from your smartphone — no extra hub needed. Stay connected and in control, even when you’re at work or on vacation. Only support 2.4Ghz network. Keep the router and lock with 65ft for better remote control.
- 𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆: Pair with Alexa or Google Assistant to unlock or lock with your voice. Great for when your hands are full or you're relaxing at home and still welcome who’s at the door. Note: Please log in to your own Google or Alexa account first before use Voice Control and make sure your network connection is stable.
- 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗞𝗲𝘆: Just one touch unlocks the door instantly. No need to search for keys — Your fingers is your keys, perfect for busy mornings. Philips wifi lock store multiple prints for easy family access.
- 𝐂𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞: Create up to 100 custom passcodes for family, friends, or renters. Easily share unlimited one-time or scheduled codes to guests, cleaners, or deliveries— no need to be home to open the door.
Does a smart lock provide better physical security?
Neither “smart” nor “electronic” establishes how resistant a lock is to physical attack. Evaluate the exact hardware, its relevant certification and performance grade, the door and frame, installation quality, and how access credentials are managed. For a connected lock, also decide whether remote access and account control fit your needs.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →ANSI/BHMA standards apply to particular hardware categories rather than to a broad marketing label. The standards catalog says A156.2-2022 covers bored and preassembled locks and latches, including dimensional, operational, strength, cycle, security, and material tests. A156.25-2023 covers electrified locking devices, including cycle, security, operational, strength, and environmental tests. A156.33-2024 concerns methods for verifying manufacturer battery-performance claims; it does not imply compliance with other applicable A156 standards. Check that a cited standard and grade apply to the actual product category. The ANSI/BHMA standards catalog explains these categories and test scope.
Rank #3
- 6 Ways to Unlock: Unlock with a touch for less than 1s with fingerprint lock. You can also open your front door lock via the eufy Security app, using the keypad or physical key, from Apple Watch, or use your voice with Alexa/Google Voice Assistant.
- 8 Months Battery Life: With 8 AA batteries, Smart Lock C220 runs around 8 months. Experience ultimate convenience and peace of mind with our long-lasting power solution. *May vary depending on the frequency of the lock being used.
- Self-learning AI: Fingerprint door lock recognition gets more precise with every touch, so you don't have to try agian and again to get in. Never be awkward or upset at unlocking the door.
- Control from Anywhere with Built-in Wi-Fi: No bridge required, you can control your wifi smart lock from anywhere via the eufy Security app. Easy setup.
- Integrated eufy ecosystem: If you have a eufy doorbell, you can add your wifi door lock to your routines and control devices together for keyless entry within the eufy Security app.
Laboratory performance may differ in use because of installation, maintenance, door and frame construction, and environmental conditions. As the ANSI/BHMA listing puts it, “No lock can provide complete security by itself.”
What to check before choosing or installing one
- Confirm door type and thickness, backset, existing bore and preparation, handing, and whether the product is a deadbolt, lever, strike, or another hardware type. Follow the exact manufacturer’s template and installation instructions.
- Look for a relevant ANSI/BHMA certification and performance grade for that hardware category; a “smart” claim is not a grade.
- For a connected lock, verify its wireless protocol, Wi-Fi band and network requirements, hub needs, app ecosystem, and whether remote features require an account or service.
- Review who can create and remove credentials, manage guest access, see lock history or alerts, and control the associated phone or account.
- Check power requirements, low-battery warnings, battery replacement, and mechanical or other backup access for the exact model.
- For a fire-rated door, shared building, egress-sensitive location, or commercial access-control system, check applicable code and product-listing requirements with a qualified professional. Fire-door assemblies need appropriate testing and listing for fire-door use.
Power and fallback: check the exact model
Battery life and backup access are product-specific, not properties of smart locks as a category. For the Encode BE489, Schlage lists four AA batteries, a physical backup key, a low-battery indicator, and up to six months of battery life under typical use. That duration is the manufacturer’s estimate, not an independent test or a guarantee for every usage pattern. See the BE489 product details and verify the current specifications for the model you are considering.
Rank #4
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes for keyless entry, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and easily manage multiple locks at once - all when paired to the Schlage Home app and connected to a secure WiFi network
- VOICE CONTROL: Works with Alexa and Google Home for optional, hands-free convenience when paired with the Schlage Home app and a voice enabled device
- ADVANCED SECURITY: Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating by BHMA industry experts
- EASY INSTALL: Install in minutes with just a screwdriver, no hardwiring required; Snap ‘n Stay design helps keep the lock on the door so both hands are free; fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in door thickness and 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in backset
For any electronic lock, understand what happens when batteries run low or power is lost: whether there is a warning, how replacement works, and what backup entry method is provided. For a smart lock, separately check which local functions remain available without internet or app access; do not assume remote features will continue to work.
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Which type fits your needs?
- Choose a non-connected keypad lock if your priority is code entry at the door without app-based or remote management.
- Consider a smart lock if phone-based status, remote control, access-code management, or integration matters enough to justify the model’s network and account requirements.
- For either type, decide based on the exact hardware, door compatibility, installation, credentials, power plan, and applicable performance evidence—not the label alone.
The distinction is common in U.S. residential terminology. Commercial access-control hardware may instead refer to a system of separate locking devices, input devices, controllers, and power supplies; do not assume it is equivalent to an app-connected residential deadbolt.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Passcode Entry: This keypad lock offers 20 access codes for family use and a temporary code for single-use guest entry
- One-Time Code: A one-time PIN code can be set for door opening and will automatically be deleted after use
- Smart Locking: Features an automatic door lock that can be set to lock in 10-99 seconds (off by default) and one-touch auto-lock by pressing and holding any key on the keypad for 2 seconds
- Long Battery Life & Low Battery Indicator: Powered by 4 AA batteries (not included), lasts up to 365 days. A red light indicator alerts you when battery level drops below 15%
- Security Deadbolt: Provides reliable home protection with its sturdy aluminum alloy construction, weather resistance (IP54), durability, anti-peeping user code protection, low battery indicator, and solid lock cylinder
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