Should You Put A Smart Lock on Your Outdoor Gate?
Short Answer: Yes, let me explain more about my own experiences.
A smart lock on an outdoor gate provides added security and convenience.
With a smart lock, I can lock and unlock the gate from anywhere, using my smartphone. This comes in handy when I have friends or family coming over, and I don’t want to give them a physical key.
Also, with the ability to track who is coming and going, I can keep an eye on my property and ensure that my gate is secure.
In addition, in my home, I often set the lock to automatically unlock during the day, so my dog can go outside and play. This can help make life easier for both you and your furry friend.
Best Smart Locks for Outdoor Gate
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a popular and innovative smart lock designed to make your home smarter and more secure.
The lock combines advanced features and technology to offer you a convenient and reliable way to secure your home.
It also allows you to lock and unlock your door using your smartphone, voice commands, or a traditional key.
With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control the lock from anywhere using the August app, and you can also grant temporary access to guests and monitor who is coming and going.
Some Pros:
Easy installation: The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is easy to install, and you don’t need to replace your existing deadbolt. It cost me 20 mins to install on my door.
Remote access: You can control the lock from your smartphone, no matter where you are. This feature is especially useful if you need to give access to someone when you’re not at home.
And also, you can kick the physical keys on the curb since you don’t need them anymore.
Auto-unlock: The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock can automatically unlock the door as you approach it similar as same as your car key, making it convenient for you to enter without fumbling for keys.
Guest access: You can create temporary access codes for your guests and revoke them later.
Some Cons:
Price: The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is more expensive than traditional locks, so it may not be affordable for everyone.
Battery life: The lock uses four AA batteries, which need to be replaced periodically, normally about 1 year.
Ultraloq Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The Ultraloq Wi-Fi Smart Lock provides a range of features to make your life easier and your home more secure.
With its sleek design and advanced technology, this smart lock allows you to easily control access to your home without the need for keys.
I really like its waterproof and easy installation features.
Some Pros:
Multiple entry options – including fingerprint, key code, physical key, and smartphone app. You don’t need to worry about a wet finger that can not open the door or the battery dies.
Compatible – With both Android and iOS devices, and many mainstream smartwatches.
Battery – Battery life is quite long-lasting, and it sends alerts when the battery is running low.
The Smart Lock can also be charged using a USB connection.
However, carrying a power pack around all the time is not very convenient in case the lock runs out of battery.
My recommendation is to perform regular maintenance and change the battery every three months, which should prevent any battery-related worries.
Waterproof – Comes with an IP65 waterproof rating that makes it durable in extreme weather conditions.
Some Cons:
The fingerprint scanner may not always work consistently. Just like other scanners, it’ll not work properly when a wet finger.
The smart lock only operates on the 2.4 GHz network, which was a bit of a problem for me during setup because my phone usually connects to the 5 GHz network.
It took me a while to get the app to recognize the lock through the bridge.
I had to keep closing and reopening the app several times.
Eventually, I was able to connect it successfully.
However, when I recently switched to a new internet provider, I had difficulty changing the network settings in the app. It was very challenging, and I almost had to reset the lock or uninstall the app.
In all, this is a great smart lock suitable for your outdoor gate, and I’m satisfied after using it.
Kwikset Smart Lock
The Kwikset Smart Lock is a popular and reliable option for homeowners looking to upgrade their home security systems.
This smart lock provides the convenience of keyless entry and can be controlled remotely through a smartphone App.
It also features an easy-to-install design, making it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts.
With a sleek and modern look, this smart lock is sure to complement any home decor.
Overall, the Kwikset Smart Lock is an affordable and practical solution for those who want to enhance their home’s security and make their life a little more convenient.
Some Pros:
Easy installation: The Kwikset Smart Lock is designed for easy installation without any additional wiring required. This means that you can install it yourself without the need for a professional locksmith.
Easy to install with a simple screwdriver, I’m able to finish it in 20 minutes.
Multiple entry options: The Smart Lock offers multiple entry options, including keyless entry, traditional key entry, and remote access. This means that you can choose the entry method that works best for you.
Smart devices compatibility: The Smart Lock is compatible with your phone and smartwatch and can be controlled using the Kwikset mobile app. This means that you can lock and unlock your door from anywhere using your devices.
Guest access: The Smart Lock allows you to set up guest access codes for visitors. This means that you can give temporary access to friends, family, or service providers without having to give them a physical key.
Enhanced security: The Smart Lock provides enhanced security features such as auto-lock and tamper alerts. This means that you can rest easy knowing that your home is secure even when you’re away.
Some Cons:
Some users said sometimes the batteries drain, which might happen in most smart locks.
One major reason in my experience was if the door doesn’t align properly when closing, the lock may continuously attempt to lock itself, leading to battery drain.
This issue can occur even if the door is only slightly misaligned and the bolt has partially turned.
If the bolt cannot completely extend, the lock will continue to retry over and over again, which can quickly drain the batteries.
So, it’s annoying but you need to check sometimes.
Schlage Smart Deadbolt
It allows you to enjoy keyless entry, eliminating the need for traditional keys and making it easier to access your home.
The Smart Deadbolt is compatible with popular smart home systems, enabling you to control and monitor your lock remotely using your phone.
It also offers features like built-in alarm technology, which detects potential security threats and sends alerts to your phone.
Some Pros:
Enhanced security: The Schlage Smart Deadbolt offers advanced security features, including built-in alarm technology that alerts you to potential security threats such as forced entry or tampering.
Keyless entry: With the Schlage Smart Deadbolt, you can enjoy the convenience of keyless entry. No more fumbling for keys or worrying about lost or stolen keys.
It will even unlock automatically when you get close to your phone and no need to hit the App icon.
Remote access and control: The smart deadbolt can be controlled remotely using an app, allowing you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere, as well as monitor access and receive notifications.
Easy installation: The Smart Deadbolt is designed for easy installation, making it accessible to DIY enthusiasts if you want to upgrade your home security system.
Some Cons:
Price: The Smart Deadbolt may be more expensive compared to traditional locks, which can be in your consideration.
Power source: Some models require batteries for operation, which means you need to periodically replace them to ensure uninterrupted functionality.
Yale Smart Lock
The Yale Smart Lock is a super cool home security gadget that adds convenience and awesome features to your door.
It looks sleek and modern, fitting right in with your home’s style.
Say goodbye to fumbling with keys because this smart lock lets you unlock your door without them.
Just whip out your phone and use the app to control and monitor your lock from anywhere. It’s like magic!
It’s got extra security features like tamper alerts and auto-lock, keeping your home safe and sound.
Installing it is a breeze, and it works with most doors.
Some Pros:
No more key hassle: Say goodbye to digging through pockets or bags for your keys. The Smart Lock lets you unlock your door with a simple tap on your phone or a code.
Remote control: Control your lock from anywhere using your smartphone. Forgot to lock the door? No worries, just whip out your phone and secure your home in seconds.
Stylish design: The Yale Smart Lock is sleek and modern, adding a touch of tech-savvy style to your door. It’s like having a smart gadget that also keeps your home safe.
Compatible: Connect your lock to other smart home devices and create a fully automated and convenient home setup. It’s like living in the future!
Extra security features: Enjoy peace of mind with tamper alerts and auto-lock functionality. Your home will be protected, and you’ll feel like a security pro.
Some Cons:
Battery: The lock relies on batteries for power, so you’ll need to keep an eye on the battery level and replace them when needed. Just like changing the batteries in your TV remote.
Potential connectivity hiccups: Sometimes, technology can be a bit finicky. You might encounter occasional connectivity issues or delays in accessing your lock remotely.
But don’t worry, it usually gets sorted out with a quick reset or troubleshooting.
Wyze Smart Door Lock
It’s like having a magic key that you control with your smartphone.
This sleek and modern lock is not only super stylish but also adds a whole new level of convenience to your life.
Say goodbye to fumbling around for keys or worrying about losing them because this smart lock lets you unlock your door with just a tap on your phone or a code.
How cool is that? Plus, you can control and monitor your lock from anywhere using the handy app.
Forgot to lock up before leaving?
No problem! Just grab your phone and secure your home in a jiffy. It’s like having your own personal security guard.
Some Pros:
Say bye-bye to keys: No more digging through pockets or playing hide-and-seek with keys. The Yale Smart Lock lets you unlock your door with a tap on your phone or a secret code. Sayonara, key hassle!
Remote control: Imagine being able to lock or unlock your door from anywhere using your phone. Whether you’re chilling on the couch or sipping cocktails on a beach, you’ve got the power to secure your castle.
Security superhero: With cool features like tamper alerts and auto-lock, you can sleep soundly knowing your home is guarded against sneaky intruders.
Some Cons:
Battery blues: The lock runs on batteries, so keep an eye on them and be ready for occasional battery changes. It’s like having a pet that needs feeding, but way less cuddly.
Wi-Fi whoopsies: Sometimes the connection can be a bit wonky, causing a delay in accessing your lock remotely. But don’t worry, just a quick reset usually solves the Wi-Fi woes.
Conclusion
Using a smart lock has been a game-changer for me.
It’s not just about the convenience and security it brings; it’s also the feeling of empowerment and control it gives me over my home.
Walking up to my door and effortlessly unlocking it with my phone or a simple code feels futuristic and cool. It’s like having a secret superpower that only I possess.
Sure, there may be occasional hiccups with connectivity or battery life, but the benefits far outweigh those minor inconveniences.
Using a smart lock has made my life easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
It’s a small upgrade that has made a significant impact on my daily routine and overall peace of mind.
I can confidently say that once you experience the convenience and security of a smart lock, you’ll never want to go back to traditional locks again!