After spending four years in my search for the best smart lock for Airbnb business, I can tell you there are a lot of misleading products out there in the market and when it comes to using them only a few smart locks stand up to to the expectations of an Airbnb host.
Things you should be looking for in a smart lock for Airbnb
- It should be able to connect with your Airbnb account and automatically generate a unique access code for each guest.
- Each access code should be valid only for the duration of the guests stay.
- You should be able to monitor the lock's activity remotely ideally via a phone app.
- You can manage the lock remotely.
- It should be easy to install and take off when needed, without causing permanent changes to the door.
- It should have all the above features without any compromise on the security you expect from a lock.
Here is the list of three best smart lock for Airbnb which do all of the above and more..
August - #1 Best Smart Lock For Airbnb
Price: USD 150-180
Good
- Reasonably priced
- Attaches to your existing deadbolt lock; use your existing keys anytime
- Very easy to install, you can install it using a screwdriver within 10 minutes
- Control and monitor your door from anywhere using the phone iOS & Android phone app
- Works with most standard single cylinder deadbolts
- Auto locks behind you
- It can connect with your Airbnb account and automatically generate and send a custom personal entry code for each guest that’s valid from check-in to check-out
Bad
- Guest has to install a phone app to be able to open the door – not everyone uses a smartphone
- Guest may be locked out if their phone battery dies or if they lose their phone
- If there is a communal entry door, you will still need to find a solution to let the guest in from there
Summary: It is the best smart lock for Airbnb in 2023 and has been the most popular choice of Airbnb hosts around the world for many years.
Pro tip: Let your guest open the door using the Phone app for the first time and ask them to immediately collect the physical key once they are in the property to use after that or keep it as a backup to avoid lockouts if they lose phone or if the battery dies.
iGlooHome - #2 Best Smart Lock For Airbnb
Price: USD 150-225
- Smart Keybox
- Smart Deadbolt
- Smart Mortise
Good
Smart Keybox ($149.99)
- No installation is required – you can quickly secure it on a firm structure such as railings or door handle
- Keys or any other stored inside the Keybox for guests to retrieve when they arrive at the property
- It can be unlocked via PIN code, which you can generate via a mobile app
- You can select the duration for which the PIN code is valid for
- Works offline
- Hassle-free setup, just hand the lockbox somewhere secure and it is good to go
- Offer keyless entry to guest using an auto generated code which is unique to each guest
- Optionally you can provide physical keys or key cards
- Manage and control access remotely using phone app
Bad
- As with the all touch screen locks, the user leaves fingerprints on the panel which can be good enough hint of intruders
- Less reliable than other brands offering smart lock for Airbnb
- Customer support is not very responsive
- Inaccurate documentation
Summary: The smart lockbox solution is one of a kind and is the best product by igloohome. It is reliable and does what it says on the tin.
Compared to the traditional infamous Airbnb lockboxes, it is one to go for especially if your door is in an area with poor Wifi connectivity.
Nuki #3 Best Smart Lock For Airbnb
Price: USD 339
Good
- Super easy installation, you can fix it on any lock in less than 5 minutes
- Guest can unlock the door via phone app, code or key fob
- Comes with smart hub with which it connects to internet
- Manage and monitor the lock from phone app
- Integrates with Airbnb and it can send access link to your guests automatically
- Guest access is valid only during the stay
Bad
- Expensive
- Battery life is short, you will need to change them every 1-2 months
- It is bulky and noticeable on the door
Summary: Easy to fit, easy to use and with plenty of unlocking options, this is amongst the best smart lock for Airbnb available in the market – if you don’t mind having a bulky device hanging off your door lock.
Also, check the best Airbnb hosting templates.
