Airbnb hosts have a responsibility to provide secure and convenient access to their properties for guests. A smart lock is an excellent option for granting keyless entry while maintaining control over access. With many smart lock options available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best choice for an Airbnb rental property.
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What are the benefits of a smart lock for Airbnb hosts?
Smart locks provide several advantages that make them well-suited for Airbnb rental properties:
- Keyless entry – Guests can unlock the door using a code, smartphone app, or other method, eliminating the need for hosts to manage physical keys.
- Remote access – Hosts can control and change access codes/permissions from anywhere using an app.
- Enhanced security – Access codes can be created, changed, or revoked electronically to control who has entry.
- Guest convenience – No meetup required for exchanging keys, and guests can check-in easily on their own.
- Locking options – Many smart locks auto-lock after a certain time for added security and peace of mind.
- Activity tracking – Hosts can see a log of lock activity to monitor use.
- Ease of use – Smart locks are designed to be simple for guests to operate upon arrival.
With instant and reliable keyless access, smart locks make the check-in process smooth for Airbnb guests. And with remote control and monitoring, hosts can easily manage access and enhance security from anywhere.
What are the essential features to look for?
When comparing smart locks for an Airbnb, there are certain key features that hosts should look for:
- Remote access – The ability to control the lock and manage access remotely via smartphone is essential for Airbnb hosts.
- Multi-user support – The lock should allow multiple guest codes to be created and deleted individually.
- Instant guest access – Guest codes should provide immediate access with no delay for more convenience.
- Automatic locking – Locks that automatically re-lock after a certain time provide an extra layer of security.
- Access activity logs – Logs allow hosts to monitor usage and entry times.
- Power options – Battery powered, hardwired, or bridge connectivity for flexibility.
- Smart home integration – Compatibility with smart home platforms allows for easy integration and broader control.
Prioritizing these key smart lock capabilities helps ensure the solution will be optimized for Airbnb hosting.
What are the top smart lock options for Airbnb in 2023?
Based on the essential features, capabilities, and overall value, here are the best smart locks to consider for Airbnb in 2023:
| Smart Lock | Key Features |
|---|---|
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock |
|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
|
| Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro |
|
| Lockly Secure Pro |
|
While there are many great smart lock options on the market, the models highlighted here stand out for Airbnb hosting based on their convenient access features, advanced management capabilities, durability, and overall value. Any of these would make an excellent smart lock choice for an Airbnb rental property.
In-Depth Review of Top Choices
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a versatile, easy-to-install smart lock that’s ideal for Airbnbs. It conveniently replaces most existing deadbolts while retaining the original keys as backups if needed. The lock auto-locks after each guest enters, and gives hosts full visibility into who is coming and going via the activity log.
Key features include:
- Remote access from anywhere via WiFi connectivity
- Auto-locks and alerts if door is left open
- DoorSense technology detects when the door opens or closes
- Voice control integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.
- Virtual keys provide secure guest access
- Hosts can set schedules, permissions, and revoke access
- encrypts and stores activity records
With robust features tailored for hosting, August makes it simple to manage virtual keys and control access no matter where hosts are. And the ability to auto-lock and track activity gives added peace of mind. Overall, the August WiFi Smart Lock is a top pick for combining convenience and control in an Airbnb smart lock solution.
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is a heavy-duty smart lock ideal for the security-focused Airbnb host. With both keypad and WiFi connectivity, it provides flexible access options while still enabling full remote control.
Standout features include:
- Capacity for up to 100 access codes
- Built-in alarm technology senses tampering
- Works offline too, reverting to codes
- Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant voice control
- Create and delete codes remotely
- Scheduling, auto-lock, and monitoring
- Stores up to 500 activity entries
Between its heavy-duty build, encrytion, and multiple ways to unlock, the Schlage Encode provides very robust security. And flexibility is unlocked with support for home automation platforms for broader smart home control. For Airbnb hosts who prioritize security and technology integration, the Schlage Encode is an ideal smart lock selection.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro
As an easy-to-install smart deadbolt, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro delivers six months of battery life and versatile unlock methods. It offers hosts flexibility through features like fingerprint ID, knock-to-open, and shake-to-open functionality.
Key details include:
- 6-month battery life for low maintenance
- Fingerprint unlocking for keyless convenience
- Knock or shake to open options
- Generate timed access codes
- Manage users and activity logs remotely
- Auto-lock and tamper alerts
- Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
For Airbnbs where convenience is a priority, the U-Bolt Pro allows multiple guest access options while still giving hosts full remote control. With long battery life and flexibility, it’s one of the most convenient smart lock choices for vacation rentals and other Airbnb properties.
Lockly Secure Pro
The Lockly Secure Pro deadbolt combines both keypad and biometric unlocking capabilities for flexible keyless access. As a durable smart lock with advanced features, it’s built for heavy usage in an Airbnb or other rental property.
Notable features include:
- Keypad and fingerprint unlock options
- Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity
- Remote management from anywhere
- Share virtual keys and schedules
- Auto-lock and lock status alerts
- Access and activity history logs
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.
With solid metal construction and multiple ways to unlock, the Lockly Secure Pro provides robust access management for hosts and convenience for guests. Advanced capabilities like voice integration lend flexibility, while remote administration allows hosts to maintain control. For high-traffic Airbnbs, this is a feature-packed smart lock option to consider.
What factors should influence the decision?
When selecting a smart lock for Airbnb hosting, there are a few important factors hosts should consider:
- Installation – How easy is it to install and connect? Retrofit locks are often simpler than full replacements.
- Power source – Battery, hardwired, or bridge connectivity? The power system should align with the property setup.
- Connectivity – Wifi or Bluetooth? The connectivity should enable remote access.
- Cost – Upfront cost plus any subscription fees for enhanced features.
- Design – Aesthetic appeal and durability are important for the rental.
- Compatibility – Smart home platform integration capabilities.
- Features – The right mix of access options, security, and monitoring.
Analyzing these factors in the context of their specific rental property helps hosts select the ideal smart lock.
Conclusion
Adding a smart lock to an Airbnb rental property enables convenient, self-service access for guests while giving hosts full control and monitoring capabilities. Solutions like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Schlage Encode, Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, and Lockly Secure Pro stand out based on their secure access features tailored for hosting and remote management via smartphone.
By choosing a smart lock optimized for Airbnb, hosts can provide a seamless, secure experience for guests. The ability to manage virtual keys, schedules, and real-time activity from anywhere provides confidence and control. For Airbnb rentals that see a steady stream of visitors, a smart lock is one of the wisest investments a host can make.