3 Best Smart Locks for Apartments: Top Picks for Renters

Smart Home Security Buying Guide

Finding the best smart locks for apartments starts with renter-friendly installation, reliable entry methods, and a clear backup plan.

This roundup compares three keyless door locks using supplied product facts, ratings, and feature data. No first-hand testing is assumed, so verify the current listing and exact U.S. model before you buy.

Quick Security Verdict

The eufy Security Smart Lock C33 is the strongest pick for renters who want fast, no-drill setup and fingerprint access. The ULTRALOQ Bolt is the best choice for Apple Home users, while the TMEZON offers the lowest-cost entry. Verify the exact U.S. model and current price for any of these locks.

Quick Product Comparison

Product Image Best For Current Price
1. eufy Security Smart Lock C33 eufy Security Smart Lock C33 with keypad and handle Renters who want fast, no-drill setup with fingerprint access See Price →
2. TMEZON Smart Door Lock TMEZON Smart Door Lock with keypad and handle in silver and black Budget-minded renters and hosts who want multiple entry methods See Price →
3. ULTRALOQ Bolt Smart Lock ULTRALOQ Bolt Smart Lock with fingerprint reader and handle Apple Home users who want wide smart home compatibility See Price →

What to Look For in the Best Smart Locks for Apartments

Renters face different limits than homeowners. Door changes may need landlord approval. Focus on these factors before buying.

Renter-Friendly Installation

Look for locks that fit standard doors and need little or no drilling. A reversible handle helps when your door swings the other way. Check whether renters can install smart locks in your building before you buy.

Entry Methods

Fingerprint, keypad, app, IC card, and physical key options give you backup choices. More methods help when your phone dies or your hands are full.

Power and Battery Backup

Most locks run on AA or AAA batteries. Check low-battery alerts and emergency charging options before relying on the lock.

Smart Home Compatibility

Apple Home, Alexa, Google, and SmartThings support varies by model. Verify the exact U.S. version and Wi-Fi band before purchase.

Physical Key Backup

A mechanical key opens the lock when electronics fail. Check whether the lock includes a physical key backup or keep a backup code safe.

Access Management and Privacy

Temporary codes and access logs help you control who enters. Review app permissions and how long event data is stored.

Our Top 3 Picks

These three locks were selected from supplied product data. Each one suits a different renter situation.

Best Overall

1. eufy Security Smart Lock C33, Keypad Door Lock with Handle, Built-in Wi-Fi for Remote Access

eufy Security Smart Lock C33 with keypad and handle

The eufy C33 combines a fingerprint reader in the handle with built-in Wi-Fi for remote access. It is rated 4.1 out of 5 across 900 reviews and runs on eight AA batteries. The main limitation is verifying the exact U.S. model and current price.

Key Features That Matter

  • Seamless fingerprint recognition in the handle grip unlocks quickly and adapts to daily use for every family member.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi supports remote access, access management, real-time notifications, and detailed event history.
  • Eight AA batteries provide consistent power for the lock and its electronic components.
  • 15-minute, no-drill installation works with left- and right-hand doors.
  • 24/7 customer service and 18-month coverage provide support after purchase.
Pros

  • Fingerprint unlock is built into the handle grip.
  • No drilling needed for most standard doors.
  • Remote access and event history come with built-in Wi-Fi.
Cons

  • Confirm the exact U.S. model, door fit, and current price.
  • Smart home platform support is not stated in the supplied facts.
Best Alternative

2. TMEZON Smart Door Lock, Fingerprint Keyless Entry, IP66 Weatherproof, Silver and Black, for Home/Hotel/Office

TMEZON Smart Door Lock with keypad and handle in silver and black

The TMEZON is a budget-friendly five-in-one lock with fingerprint, passcode, app, IC cards, and physical keys. It is rated 3.6 out of 5 across 98 reviews and claims IP66 weather resistance. Its lower rating means you should check recent buyer feedback before purchase.

Key Features That Matter

  • 5-in-1 keyless entry includes fingerprint, passcode, app control, two IC cards, and two physical keys.
  • DIY installation retrofits an old door knob in about five minutes with a screwdriver and no extra drilling.
  • Emergency charging uses four AAA batteries with a low-battery reminder; a key or USB power bank can unlock the door.
  • Temporary codes suit Airbnb hosts, property managers, and owners who want visitor access.
  • AES256 encryption and IP66 weatherproofing support outdoor use from -20°F to 122°F.
Pros

  • Five unlock methods include physical keys and IC cards.
  • IP66 weatherproofing supports outdoor use.
  • App software is free with no stated hidden charges.
Cons

  • Four AAA batteries are not included.
  • 3.6-star average is lower than the other picks.
  • Verify door fit and the exact U.S. model.
Best Value

3. ULTRALOQ Bolt Smart Lock with Fingerprint, WiFi, Handle, and App Remote Access for Keyless Entry

ULTRALOQ Bolt Smart Lock with fingerprint reader and handle

The ULTRALOQ Bolt earns the highest rating in this roundup at 4.3 out of 5 across 119 reviews. It supports Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, and IFTTT. The trade-off is that it needs 2.4GHz Wi-Fi with the router within about 70 feet.

Key Features That Matter

  • Apple Home support lets you unlock with the Apple Home app on iPhone or Apple Watch and share access.
  • Remote control shows door status, access logs, and door-left-open alerts from the smartphone app.
  • Multiple unlock methods include fingerprint, passcodes, app, web portal, EKey or code sharing, voice, and two mechanical keys.
  • Smart home integration works with Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, SmartThings, IFTTT, and the Xthings-Home app.
  • Live door status monitoring sends instant open or closed alerts with the included sensor.
Pros

  • Wide platform support includes Apple Home, Alexa, and Google.
  • Live door status sensor is included.
  • Many unlock methods plus two mechanical keys.
Cons

  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only; router should stay within 70 feet.
  • Verify the exact U.S. model and current price.
US Smart Home Compatibility

Compatibility varies by exact model and region. Confirm the U.S. version, Wi-Fi band, app, phone OS, and platform support for Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Matter, Thread, Z-Wave, or Zigbee before buying. A claim on one listing does not prove another model shares it.

Buying Guide for US Renters

US Price, Subscription & Value

Device priceListings show NZD pricing. Check the current Amazon listing for the exact U.S. price.
Possible extrasBatteries, replacement hardware, a hub, or professional installation may add cost.
Ongoing costTMEZON states its app is free with no hidden charges. Verify whether other app features or cloud services need a paid plan.

Buyer Check

Home fitDoor thickness, backset, handle side, weather exposure, and landlord rules.
Power & networkAA or AAA batteries, Wi-Fi band, router distance, hub needs, and offline behavior.
OwnershipApp access, event history, privacy controls, firmware updates, warranty, and support.
1

Confirm fit and requirements

Check door thickness, backset, Wi-Fi band, platform support, and the exact manual.

2

Plan safe placement

Check door alignment, weather, drilling, landlord approval, and emergency access.

3

Secure and test

Update firmware, enable MFA, review users, and test alerts, battery, and offline behavior.

Ownership Extras and Maintenance

Budget for batteries and possible replacement hardware. Test the lock monthly, clean the keypad, and keep a physical key or backup code outside your phone. Update firmware when the app prompts you.

Final Verdict for US Buyers

  • eufy Security Smart Lock C33: Best for renters who want fast setup and fingerprint access; verify the U.S. model and price.
  • TMEZON Smart Door Lock: Best budget pick with five entry methods and weather resistance; check recent buyer feedback.
  • ULTRALOQ Bolt: Best value for Apple Home users who want wide platform support and live door status.
  • Compatibility: Verify the exact U.S. model, door fit, Wi-Fi band, and installation needs before purchase.
  • Security: Use strong account settings, keep a key backup, and test alerts before relying on the lock.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Smart Locks For Apartments

Some smart locks install with no drilling and reuse existing door prep. The eufy C33 claims a 15-minute no-drill install, and the TMEZON claims a five-minute retrofit. Check your door thickness and ask your landlord before changing anything.

Fingerprint, keypad, and physical key entry usually still work without Wi-Fi because they run on the lock itself. Remote app control may stop until the connection returns. Confirm offline behavior in the manual.

Most locks give low-battery warnings before failure. The TMEZON can use a key or USB power bank for emergency charging. Keep a physical key or backup entry method available at all times.

The TMEZON includes two physical keys, and the ULTRALOQ Bolt includes two mechanical keys. The eufy C33 listing does not state a physical key option. Verify key backup before you buy.

The eufy C33 and ULTRALOQ Bolt include built-in Wi-Fi, and the ULTRALOQ states no bridge is required. The TMEZON uses app control with no stated hub. Check each manual for network requirements.

The ULTRALOQ Bolt supports Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, and IFTTT. The supplied facts do not list platform support for the eufy C33 or TMEZON. Confirm compatibility with the exact U.S. model.

Bottom Line

Choosing the best smart locks for apartments means balancing installation effort, entry methods, and platform support. The eufy C33 leads for fast setup, the TMEZON covers budget buyers, and the ULTRALOQ Bolt suits Apple Home users.

Before you buy, confirm the exact U.S. model, door fit, and current price on the Amazon listing. Keep a physical key or backup code, update firmware, and review privacy settings so your smart lock stays a convenience, not a risk.

How We Evaluated

Method or sourceSupplied product titles, features, images, links, and retailer data.
What it supportsEditorial comparison of use, setup, privacy, subscriptions, compatibility, and value.
Main limitationNo first-hand test is assumed. Confirm current specifications and compatibility before buying.


Author

  • Marcus Sterling, smart home security expert at DecaHome

    Hi, I'm Marcus Sterling, a smart home security expert with over 5 years
    of hands-on experience testing and reviewing hundreds of security cameras, smart locks, and alarm systems. My mission is to make smart home security accessible, affordable, and easy to understand—and every review I publish is 100% independent, unbiased, and honest. I don't accept payments for positive reviews, just practical advice to help you secure your home with confidence.

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