Smart home automation can strengthen your security — or weaken it. We review smart locks, video doorbells, and smart home hubs with the same criteria: does it actually make you safer?
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Smart home devices can make your home more convenient — but convenience and security aren't always the same thing. Here's what to look for in each category.
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Always isolate smart home devices. Put your smart locks, cameras, doorbells, and speakers on a separate guest or IoT network — not your main Wi-Fi. A compromised smart TV on your main network can reach your computers and phones. On a separate network, it can't. See our IoT Security Guide for step-by-step setup instructions.
Every product below has been evaluated against our published criteria — security first, then convenience, then cost.
The best smart lock overall — Apple Home Key, built-in Wi-Fi, keypad, and fingerprint-resistant finish. No hub required, no monthly fee.
Matter-compatible and platform-agnostic — works with Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung out of the box. Slim profile fits standard door prep.
Installs on the inside of your existing deadbolt — keeps your outside hardware unchanged. Perfect for renters or anyone who wants to preserve existing keys.
Best video quality in its class — 960p HDR with wide field of view, on-device processing, and 3-hour event history without a subscription.
Pre-roll video captures 4 seconds before motion triggers — the best feature in its price range. Color night vision and 1080p HDR. Works wired or battery.
The best all-in-one smart home security hub — built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router, cellular backup, and the most complete Ring ecosystem integration.
The most platform-agnostic smart home security system — works with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Z-Wave devices. No ecosystem lock-in.
Not sure where to start with smart home security?
Our IoT Security Guide walks you through securing every smart device in your home in under 30 minutes — including how to set up a separate IoT network.
A smart lock is only as secure as the deadbolt underneath it. Many smart locks use ANSI Grade 2 or Grade 3 hardware — lower security ratings than what a good traditional deadbolt provides. The Schlage Encode Plus is notable specifically because it uses Grade 1 hardware (the highest residential rating) underneath its electronics.
The real security advantage of a smart lock isn't the lock itself — it's the access control. Timestamped logs that show who entered and when, the ability to immediately revoke a guest's code after a visit, and auto-lock that ensures you never accidentally leave the door unlocked: these are genuine security improvements over physical keys.
The real security risk is connectivity. Any lock that requires an internet connection to operate is dependent on a third-party server staying online and staying secure. Look for locks that work locally when the internet goes down — and always keep keypad backup access enabled.
Compare smart lock options side by side: August WiFi vs. Schlage Encode Plus →
The smart home space attracts fraudulent vendors selling products that don't exist, don't ship, or don't work as advertised. Here's how to verify before you buy — and how to report fraud after the fact.
Before You Buy: Verify
After a Scam: How to Report
Verified Alternatives: Smart Displays
Looking for a legitimate smart display for home security monitoring? These are from established manufacturers with real support channels:
Smart locks and doorbells are one layer. Pair them with the right alarm system, camera coverage, and cybersecurity setup for full protection.