I Reviewed 7 Z-Wave & Zigbee Smart Locks on Amazon
Which one actually locks down your life — and which one just locks you out of good Wi‑Fi?
I hate fumbling for keys. I tested seven Z‑Wave and Zigbee smart locks from Amazon to see which ones actually save time and nerves. Short setup. Real reliability. No drama.
I focused on build quality, touchscreen responsiveness, integration, and extras like alarms and DoorSense. A couple stood out. A few had quirks. I’ll tell you which made my front door smarter — and which made me sigh.
Top Picks
Schlage Century Z-Wave Connect Deadbolt
I found the Century trim version to be a robust and polished option with the same dependable Z-Wave Connect platform and alarm features. Its heavier feel and finish make it stand out for curb appeal and durability.
Purpose and design highlights
I picked this when I wanted a premium-looking smart deadbolt with Z-Wave connectivity and the added confidence of an audible built-in alarm. The Century trim offers a more substantial, traditional visual that fits many architectural styles.
Real-world performance and usage notes
Installing the lock was straightforward, though Z-Wave pairing occasionally required patience. In daily use the lock felt robust — the motor action and tactile keypad feedback are consistent. Integrations with hubs like SmartThings and Ring provided remote locking and push notifications as expected.
Limitations and practical recommendations
As with other Z-Wave locks, the lock's smart features depend on your hub ecosystem; ensure compatibility for the exact features you rely on (code provisioning, named user logs, automations). If you want instant cloud-based remote control without a hub, this model is not a native Wi-Fi lock.
Closing thoughts
For those who prioritize a premium finish and a dependable Z-Wave platform with alarm capability, this is one of my favorite options. It balances aesthetic, mechanics, and smart features in a package I trust for primary entry doors.
Schlage Camelot Z-Wave Touch Deadbolt
I found this lock to be a reliable, well-built Z-Wave deadbolt with a responsive touchscreen and a useful built-in alarm. Its integration options and durable hardware make it a great choice for most smart-home setups.
What this lock does and who it's for
I use this model when I want a dependable smart deadbolt that integrates cleanly with Z-Wave hubs like SmartThings or Ring Alarm. It's built as a direct replacement deadbolt with a touchscreen and an audible alarm to discourage forced entry.
Key features and practical experience
Installation felt familiar if you've replaced a deadbolt before; wiring the interior/exterior escutcheons requires a little patience but nothing exotic. In daily use I appreciated the tactile feel of the keypad and the audible feedback: it's obvious when a code is accepted or rejected.
Limitations and real-world tips
Because it uses Z-Wave, remote access depends on a compatible hub and its cloud/app behavior — this is secure but adds a dependency. Pairing sometimes needed multiple attempts, so give yourself 20–30 minutes for inclusion and testing.
Bottom line
I consider this a top pick for homeowners who want a robust, no-nonsense Z-Wave deadbolt with alarm capabilities. It's not the cheapest option, but the build quality and integration flexibility justify the price for me.
Yale Assure Lock 2 Z-Wave Deadbolt
I appreciate its modern keypad, reliable Z-Wave module, and useful DoorSense support for improved automations. For the price you get a well-rounded lock that fits most use cases without unnecessary complexity.
Purpose and who should consider it
I recommend this model to users who want a modern keypad deadbolt with straightforward Z-Wave connectivity and DoorSense for reliable auto-lock and presence automations. It works well for primary entry doors where code sharing and activity tracking matter.
Experience with features and day-to-day use
Installing the lock was relatively painless and the included Z-Wave module makes pairing easier than buying a separate add-on. I liked the ability to generate and manage user codes, and the auto-lock paired with DoorSense helps prevent accidental lockouts or unexpected auto-locks when the door isn't fully closed.
Caveats and practical advice
The lock will not provide remote functionality without a hub, and certain advanced behaviors depend on how your hub exposes lock events. The keypad programming flow is powerful but can be unintuitive; I recommend setting a master code first and using the hub/app for guest codes when available.
Verdict
I view this as a reliable, feature-rich option for those who want a modern keypad lock that integrates into a Z-Wave smart home without breaking the bank.
Yale Assure Touchscreen Z-Wave Deadbolt
I liked the responsive backlit touchscreen and broad compatibility with many Z-Wave controllers. The combination of touchscreen convenience and solid Z-Wave support makes it an easy recommendation for smart-home users.
Who this lock fits and what it offers
I chose this model when I wanted a touchscreen-first experience with wide Z-Wave compatibility. It is ideal for households where multiple people use codes and you want the convenience of eliminating keys while still keeping a mechanical backup.
My experience installing and using it
Installation is comparable to other smart deadbolts — pay attention to bolt alignment and wire routing between the exterior and interior assemblies. The touchscreen is snappy and easy to read even at night. I used it with a SmartThings hub and found code management practical once you follow the right steps for creating codes via the hub.
Limitations and tips from the field
If you rely on a specific hub, double-check how that hub reports user codes and access logs — some hubs show only code numbers, others allow named users. A frequent source of confusion is creating codes directly on the keypad vs. through the hub; I recommend managing guest codes via your hub when possible.
Final thoughts
For a touchscreen-focused smart lock with broad Z-Wave support, this is one of the better picks. It blends style, usability, and smart-home compatibility in a package that works reliably for everyday use.
Kwikset 916 Zigbee Touchscreen Deadbolt
I liked that this model brings SecureScreen and Zigbee 3.0 for tight local integrations with compatible hubs. The touchscreen and SmartKey backup make it a versatile choice for Zigbee-based smart homes.
Who should choose this lock
I suggest this lock for users invested in a Zigbee ecosystem (SmartThings classic Zigbee hubs, Wink-like hubs, or Zigbee-compatible security panels). It brings touchscreen convenience along with anti-peek SecureScreen technology and SmartKey rekeying.
Day-to-day use and integration notes
Using the lock day-to-day felt smooth: the touchscreen is responsive and SecureScreen adds a small but valuable privacy layer when entering codes in public. Pairing with a Zigbee hub allowed me to create automations and monitor lock events without a third-party cloud in the middle.
Drawbacks and setup tips
The big requirement is a compatible Zigbee hub — without one you'll lose remote features and much of the smart functionality. Also, hub implementations differ in how they expose code names and event history, so test critical features before relying on them.
Verdict
For Zigbee users who want a polished touchscreen lock with privacy-minded features, this is one of the stronger options. It's not a plug-and-play cloud lock, but for local hub users it's a practical, secure choice.
Kwikset SmartCode 912 Z-Wave Lever Lock
I found this lock especially handy for doors that need a lever rather than a deadbolt, such as interior or garage entry doors. It offers keyless convenience and Z-Wave integration while retaining SmartKey rekeying for flexibility.
Use case and core functionality
I recommend the SmartCode 912 when you need keyless convenience in a lever style—think interior doors, garage entries, or rental units where accessibility matters. It adds Z-Wave connectivity without forcing a deadbolt installation.
Installation and everyday behavior
Installation is straightforward if replacing an existing handle; the advantage is you usually don't need new holes in the door. The motorized lock is fast and relatively quiet, and programming user codes is simple once you get the hang of the keypad flow.
Limitations I noticed and tips
Because this is not a deadbolt, it's inherently less secure against a forced kick-in compared with a grade 1 deadbolt. A robust strike and door reinforcement can help, but match the product to the security needs of the door.
Summary
I see this as a pragmatic choice for spaces that benefit from a lever-style smart lock. It trades some mechanical security for convenience and accessibility, which is appropriate in many interior or secondary-entry scenarios.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Z-Wave 5-in-1 Lock
I appreciated the value proposition: Z-Wave compatibility, multiple unlock methods, and included door sensor at a lower price point. It delivers strong feature density for the cost, though a few integration quirks and sensor reliability issues stood out.
Who should consider the Ultraloq U-Bolt
I recommend this lock to budget-conscious buyers who still want Z-Wave capability and a feature-rich package. It’s especially attractive if you want multiple unlock methods and a bundled door sensor without spending a premium.
Practical experience and integration notes
Installation is similar to other smart deadbolts, and pairing with Z-Wave hubs generally worked well in my tests. The included door sensor is convenient for automations that require knowing if the door is physically open, but I did notice variability in sensor reporting in some environments.
Known issues and practical tips
A common complaint is that jam or bolt error reporting isn't always precise; that can create false confidence if you expect the lock to detect mechanical problems perfectly. Additionally, some users dislike the mandatory app/account flow to enable certain features prior to hub pairing.
My recommendation
If you want a capable Z-Wave lock without paying top-tier prices, this is a compelling pick. I would buy it for a secondary entry or rental property where budget and feature set are the main drivers, while being cautious about relying on perfect jam detection.
Final Thoughts
I recommend the Schlage Camelot Z‑Wave Touch Deadbolt as my top pick for Z‑Wave homes. I found it to be the most dependable, with a responsive touchscreen, a useful built‑in alarm, and solid, durable hardware that gives real curb appeal. Buy this if you want a heavy‑duty exterior deadbolt that plays nicely with Z‑Wave controllers (SmartThings/Hubitat/most Z‑Wave hubs) and minimizes false alarms or flaky behavior.
If your setup is Zigbee‑centric, pick the Kwikset 916 Zigbee Touchscreen Deadbolt. I liked its Zigbee 3.0 support, SecureScreen anti‑peep keypad, and SmartKey backup — great for tight local integrations with Zigbee hubs and for users who want touchscreen convenience without cloud dependency. It’s the best choice for Zigbee homes that need a reliable touchscreen deadbolt with easy rekeying.
If you want an extra‑robust, upscale finish for a main entry and don’t need the Camelot’s aesthetic specifically, consider the Schlage Century Z‑Wave Connect Deadbolt as a close alternative — it shares the same platform and alarm features but with a heavier, more premium feel.
September 14, 2025 @ 11:40 am
Thinking about the Yale Assure Lock (YRD226-ZW2-BSP) because I use Ring Alarm already. The article says it works with Ring and SmartThings but requires a hub. Can anyone clarify:
1) If I have Ring Alarm, do I need anything else to get full features (like DoorSense and codes)?
2) How smooth is the user experience with the Yale touchscreen — any ghost presses or lag?
Thanks!
September 15, 2025 @ 4:01 am
I had a Yale touchscreen that got a little sticky after years on an exterior door with sun exposure — consider a covered entry or a model with better UV resistance if your door gets direct sun.
September 15, 2025 @ 2:39 pm
If you want the best local automation (no cloud), look for Z-Wave setups where your hub does the logic locally. Ring’s cloud path is convenient but sometimes slower for instant automations.
September 15, 2025 @ 8:20 pm
Short answers: 1) If you have Ring Alarm PLUS the Yale Z-Wave module, you can integrate the lock without another hub; some advanced features (like DoorSense/advanced automations) may be limited depending on Ring’s current API. 2) The Yale touchscreen on that model is generally responsive, though in low temps some people reported reduced responsiveness. DoorSense support is a real plus for automations when your platform supports it.
September 15, 2025 @ 10:57 pm
I run the YRD226 with SmartThings and Ring. Codes and locking/unlocking work fine. DoorSense shows up in SmartThings and has been reliable for me. Only lag I’ve seen is when cloud services are slow — otherwise it’s snappy.
September 19, 2025 @ 5:56 am
ULTRALOQ sounds like the ‘budget hero’ — 5-in-1 and a door sensor for cheap. But “integration quirks and sensor reliability issues” makes me laugh. Like “cheap and cheerful until it ghosts you at 3am” 😂
Has anyone actually had it fail and lock them out? Or is it just minor annoyances?
September 20, 2025 @ 4:56 am
Had one for a guest room. It was mostly fine but the fingerprint reader occasionally took multiple tries. Never got locked out (I left a backup key), but the Z-Wave inclusion was annoying — had to exclude/include a few times. For the price it’s good, but don’t rely on it for your only main entry.
September 20, 2025 @ 6:07 am
Totally fair, Jordan. The ULTRALOQ offers a lot for the price, but the review notes integration quirks because some hubs report sensor state inconsistently. If you’re going to buy it, I recommend keeping a physical backup key or a secondary entry during the first few weeks while you learn its quirks.
October 16, 2025 @ 2:07 am
Bought the Kwikset 916 (Zigbee) for a side entrance and it’s been solid. Love the SecureScreen feature — helps with smudges on the touchscreen — and integration with my Zigbee hub was straightforward.
One worry: SmartKey is great for rekeying but does it really stand up security-wise? Anyone rekeyed and had issues?
October 16, 2025 @ 6:03 pm
I rekeyed a Kwikset with SmartKey once — easy and worked as advertised. For peace of mind I also paired it with a door reinforcement kit and enabled auto-lock automations.
October 17, 2025 @ 5:26 am
SmartKey gives you convenience for rekeying but it’s not a magic bullet for security. If someone has physical access to the lock they could exploit it, as with most SmartKey systems. For most homeowners it’s fine; for high-security needs consider additional measures like reinforced strike plates and monitoring.
October 22, 2025 @ 8:20 pm
Great roundup — thanks for putting these head-to-head.
I’ve been leaning toward the SCHLAGE BE469ZP CAM 619 because of the “best overall” badge. The touchscreen + alarm sounds ideal for my front door, but I live on a busy street and worry about false alarms or constant chirping.
Does the alarm sensitivity have adjustable thresholds, or is it pretty binary? Also, anyone tried the Century trim (BE469ZP CEN 625) vs the Camelot for weathering/finish? Curious if the heavier feel you mentioned really makes a difference long-term.
October 23, 2025 @ 5:10 am
I have the Camelot in satin nickel for 2 years. No random chirping here, but I do have it connected to a SmartThings hub — I suspect a lot depends on your hub’s notifications. If you don’t plan to integrate, test alarm settings before final install. Also, the Century DOES feel beefier—tiny detail but noticeable when you close the door.
October 24, 2025 @ 2:58 am
One more note: if you get a lot of false positives from vibration, check firmware and your hub automations. Sometimes automations (like auto-lock or door sensor triggers) cause what looks like alarm noise.
October 24, 2025 @ 5:40 am
Good question, Emily — glad the roundup helped. The Schlage Connect models do have an internal alarm with settings you can tweak through Z-Wave command classes (depending on your hub) and via the lock’s local settings for some versions. In practice, you can usually adjust the alarm sensitivity and set it to trigger only on forced entry vs. vibration.
The Century trim (CEN) tends to have a slightly heavier, more solid look and finish in my experience — better curb appeal and it holds up marginally better outdoors, but functionally they’re the same platform.