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The Best Door Lock

Last updated on September 29, 2021

We looked at the top 11 Door Locks and dug through the reviews from 63 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Door Locks.

Best Door Lock

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

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If you’ve ever been locked out of your home, you probably know the frustration that comes with traditional door locks. But newer locks remove this risk, using key codes, fingerprint recognition and even Bluetooth connectivity to keep your home safe without the inconvenience of keys.

But before you invest in a high-tech lock, there are some simple things you should consider.

“The lock should have a wear-resistant screen or buttons,” says home expert Vicki Liston.  “It doesn’t make sense to set up a lock and have a secret code if the buttons show wear or the screen leaves your fingerprints. Intruders need only to look at the wear patterns or fingerprints to narrow down their PIN guesses.”

There are multiple types of door locks available. It starts with the type of knob. Traditionally, front doors came with knobs that you turned to open the door. But over time, that setup has been replaced with levers, which are more attractive and easier to operate, especially for those with arthritis. Just a simple downward push opens the door once you’ve unlocked it.

Unlike knobs, levers must be installed facing a specific direction — a requirement that can be tricky considering doors can have the hinges on either the right or left side. Many levers are reversible, allowing you to install it to match the way your own door faces. Make sure the lever you choose can be set up to work with your own door.

Many consumers now prefer keyless locks that allow them to unlock the door using a code or biometrics like a fingerprint sensor. One of the top complaints from consumers after buying keyless door locks is battery life. Check into the battery type and amount that’s required before you buy. You should also make sure you buy a lock that will still let you into your house if your battery dies.

Consider the location of the lock’s battery compartment before you buy.

“Ensure the battery compartment sits on the interior part of the door so that it isn’t subjected to outside temperatures,” says Liston. “A cold battery will lose its charge much faster than a room temperature battery.”

You should also check the thickness of your door before choosing a lock. Some are limited as to how far they can reach, so if you have an oversized door, you could be disappointed. Some keypad-based locks also won’t work on metal doors due to the way they’re built to prevent the lock from moving around. A little due diligence on the front end can save you time and frustration.

You’ll also want to consider the hardware used to install your new door lock, says Liston.

“The no-nonsense way of getting past a lock is to kick it in — seriously,” she says. “If your lock has a strike plate with only 0.25-inch long screws holding it into the door frame, a swift kick will dislodge the screws and your thief has open access. Look for a lock with much longer anchoring screws so they hold tight to the frame.  Four 3-inch screws should be your minimum length.”

Our Picks For The Top Door Locks

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
 Best Overall

HuTools Keyless Fingerprint Door Lock

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

HuTools

Keyless Fingerprint Door Lock

With this door lock, you'll get double the protection. Users will need to enter a code and submit their fingerprint to gain entry to the home. The keyless lock is oval in shape and coated with an attractive oil-rubbed bronze finish for added style.

Overall Take

Super VersatileA low battery alert lets you know when it's time to charge this keyless door lock.

 For Large Families

OrangeIOT Electronic Keyless Door Lock

OrangeIOT

Electronic Keyless Door Lock

Thanks to the auto lock feature on this door lock, you won't ever have to worry about forgetting to lock the door. The unit installs in minutes and has a solid construction that is also weather resistant. Users will appreciate the backlit keypad, as well as the backup key.

Overall Take

Handy OptionThis door lock supports up to 20 family members.

 Heavy-Duty Pick

Defender Security U-10827 Reinforcement Door Lock

Defender

Security Reinforcement Door Lock

Intruders won't be able to kick your door in when you use this door lock, as it is able to withstand 800 pounds of force. Not only is the lock easy to install, but it also features a spring-loaded design that is child-safe. Since the lock is sold in four different finishes, you won't have any trouble matching it to your current hardware.

Overall Take

Matches Any DecorYou'll find this door lock comes in the following finishes: bronze, brushed chrome, gold anodized and satin nickel.

Pros
" Great Value for money. It brings choices of 1” & 2” screws. It uses good quality materials."
 Easy to Install

Kwikset 92640-001 Electronic Customizable Keypad Deadbolt Door Lock

Kwikset

Electronic Customizable Keypad Deadbolt Door Lock

Thanks to the included adjustable latch, this door lock will fit all standard door preparations. The lock comes with a both a keypad and a keyed lock. Users can create their own custom codes, as well as temporary codes to provide to various service workers.

Overall Take

Low Battery IndicatorAll you need is a screwdriver to install this door lock.

Pros
" Overall, the Kiwkset 264 is a great electronic deadbolt that looks stylish and contemporary, is easy to install, and will provide you with added security for your home. With the flexibility built in with single use codes, you can save..."
Cons
"The number of entry codes is limited in comparison to many other keyless entry systems"
Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
18

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the door locks available to purchase.
11

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

View All Product Rankings

63

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: Secure Your Home and Family, Top 6 Pro, The Spruce, Keyless Door Lock Reviews, A Security Guide.

56,782

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 11 Door Locks and also dug through the reviews from 63 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Door Locks.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in their category.

Our Expert Consultant

Vicki Liston 
Home Improvement Expert

Vicki Liston writes, produces, and narrates “On The Fly…DIY,” an award-winning home improvement and DIY show of unique project tutorials for the casual DIY’er.

Home improvement and all things DIY have been Liston’s passion since she bought her first house in 2007 and she started making video blogs in 2014. She’s performed hundreds of DIY projects, from small ones to major, wall-smashing renovations and can teach you how to make a trendy DIY barn door for cheap. The proceeds earned from “On The Fly…DIY” are donated to no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations.

The Best Bang For Your Buck

Defender Security U-10827 Reinforcement Door Lock

Our Expert Score

0.0
1 expert reviews

User Summarized Score

9.2
4,670 user reviews

Our Take

Intruders won't be able to kick your door in when you use this door lock, as it is able to withstand 800 pounds of force. Not only is the lock easy to install, but it also features a spring-loaded design that is child-safe. Since the lock is sold in four different finishes, you won't have any trouble matching it to your current hardware.

What other experts liked

Great Value for money. It brings choices of 1” & 2” screws. It uses good quality materials.
- A Security Guide

What other experts didn't like

Its limitation is that it can only be used on inward swinging doors.
- A Security Guide

What to Look For

  • Some keyless locks can be complicated to install, so make sure you pay attention to the instructions before you buy. There are plenty of keyless locks that require no wiring or programming. Simply replace the lock you currently have and follow the instructions to change your key code. Some locks even come with a master code preinstalled that you can use if you prefer.
  • One thing that makes installation easier is that many modern locks are standardized, so you can easily switch one for another. Make sure your lock is marketed to replace most standard U.S. door locks.
  • Inputting your keycode in the dark can be frustrating. Some keypads make this easier with backlighting that lets you see the numbers even in pitch dark conditions.
  • Many locks also automatically re-lock after you’ve entered or exited. This is a handy feature that will reduce the risk that you’ll unwittingly leave your home’s exterior doors unlocked.
  • Battery types vary widely from one door lock to another, with some requiring 9-volt batteries and others needing AAA. Your battery should last for years, but some locks have a backup that kicks in if your batteries die, ensuring you’ll never be locked out of your house. At the very least, choose a lock that alerts you when your battery life is nearing an end so you won’t either be locked out of your house or have your home unsecured without even realizing it.
  • Your outdoor locks and knobs will be exposed to the elements, especially if your door isn’t covered by an overhang or roof. Look for a lock that promises weather-resistance to avoid having to deal with a lock that becomes difficult to work after a while.
  • In addition to different types of knobs, locks vary based on where they’re designed to be used. Exterior locks build in top-notch security, while interior locks are only designed for privacy. You’ll also find the doorknobs and latches used on bedrooms and bathrooms will have a different build than those meant for closets, which typically don’t even need a lock.

Door Lock Rankings

1. HuTools Keyless Fingerprint Door Lock

Overall Score: 9.4
Reviews Included: 1

2. OrangeIOT Electronic Keyless Door Lock

Overall Score: 9.3
Reviews Included: 1

3. Defender Security U-10827 Reinforcement Door Lock

Overall Score: 9.2
Reviews Included: 4

5. Schlage Plymouth Auto-Lock Keypad Door Lock

Overall Score: 8.9
Reviews Included: 5

8. AmazonBasics Exterior Knob & Deadbolt Door Lock, 2-Piece

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 3

10. CRANACH Swing Bar Reinforcement Door Lock, 2-Pack

Overall Score: 8.5
Reviews Included: 4

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Magician Harry Houdini was known for his ability to escape from impossible situations. Whether it was a pair of handcuffs, a straitjacket or locked chains, Houdini never failed to wow crowds with his great escapes. It should be no surprise, therefore, that he began working as a locksmith at the age of 11. Soon after beginning that job, he gained the ability to pick any lock. He was inspired to become a magician after reading a memoir by a famous magician named Houdin. In fact, Houdini’s born name was Ehrich Weiss. It was the previous magician who inspired the name of Houdini’s first venture with a friend: the Houdini Brothers, and Weiss kept the name after that partnership ended.

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