Managing guest access is one of the most annoying parts of running an Airbnb. Lost keys, late-night lockouts, coordinating check-ins across time zones—it's a headache that never ends.
TL;DR: The Yale Assure Lock 2 is our top pick for most Airbnb hosts. It has native Airbnb integration, reliable WiFi connectivity, and a solid track record with vacation rental owners. If you're on a budget, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi offers fingerprint access and 8-in-1 functionality at a lower price point.
We analyzed feedback from r/airbnb_hosts and r/AirBnB communities, cross-referenced with Amazon reviews, to find smart locks that actually hold up in real rental situations—not just marketing claims.
Quick Picks
| Rank | Product | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 | Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best Overall | Check Price |
| 🥈 | Schlage Encode | Best for Airbnb Integration | Check Price |
| 🥉 | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | Best Retrofit | Check Price |
| 4️⃣ | Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi | Best Value | Check Price |
Why Trust This Guide?
We didn't test every smart lock ourselves. Instead, we analyzed real-world feedback from Airbnb hosts on Reddit—people who've dealt with guest lockouts at 2 AM, battery failures in freezing weather, and WiFi connectivity nightmares. We cross-referenced their experiences with Amazon reviews to find patterns that single reviews miss.
How to Choose a Smart Lock for Airbnb
Remote Access & Code Management
This is non-negotiable for vacation rentals. You need to create, share, and delete access codes remotely—ideally with scheduled expiration. Some locks integrate directly with Airbnb, automatically generating codes when guests book.
Connectivity Type
WiFi locks let you control everything from your phone without a hub. Bluetooth-only locks require you (or a hub) to be nearby. Z-Wave locks need a smart home hub. For most Airbnb hosts, built-in WiFi is the simplest option.
Battery Life & Backup
Reddit hosts consistently complain about battery drain. Look for locks that last 6+ months on standard batteries and have a backup power option (like a 9V battery terminal) for emergencies.
Durability & Weather Resistance
If your rental is in a cold climate, pay attention to keypad performance in freezing temperatures. Some hosts report keypads becoming unresponsive below 20°F.
WiFi Reliability Analysis
| Product | Connectivity Issues | Based On |
|---|---|---|
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | 🟢 Low | Hosts report stable connection after initial setup |
| Schlage Encode | 🟢 Low | Built-in WiFi praised for reliability |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | 🟡 Medium | Some hosts report intermittent disconnections |
| Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi | 🟢 Low | Consistent performance reported |
WiFi reliability is the #1 complaint among Airbnb hosts. A lock that goes offline means you can't generate codes remotely—and that's a disaster when guests are standing at your door.
Best For Your Situation
| Scenario | Best Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Multiple Properties | Yale Assure Lock 2 | Native Airbnb integration, easy code management |
| 💰 Budget-Conscious Host | Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi | Best feature-to-price ratio with fingerprint |
| 🔧 Keep Existing Deadbolt | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | Installs over your current lock |
| 🏔️ Cold Climate Rental | Schlage Encode | Most reliable keypad in freezing temps |
1. Yale Assure Lock 2 – Best Overall
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is our top recommendation for Airbnb hosts who want a reliable, feature-rich smart lock with native vacation rental integration.
Why It Works:
- Native Airbnb Integration: Automatically generates unique codes for each guest booking. No manual code creation needed.
- Built-in WiFi: No hub required. Control everything from the Yale Access app, including remote lock/unlock and code management.
- Backup Key Option: Unlike some smart locks, you get a physical key for emergencies—peace of mind when technology fails.
- DoorSense Technology: Knows if your door is actually closed and locked, not just if the deadbolt is engaged.
The Catch: The initial WiFi setup can be frustrating. Multiple Reddit hosts mention needing to reset and reconnect during installation. One host on r/airbnb_hosts said it took "three attempts before it finally stayed connected." Once it's working, it's solid—but that first hour might test your patience.
Who Should Skip This: If you're looking for fingerprint access, this isn't it. The Yale Assure Lock 2 is keypad and app only.
Best For: Hosts managing multiple properties who want smooth Airbnb integration and reliable remote access.
Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi
Check Latest Price2. Schlage Encode – Best for Airbnb Integration
The Schlage Encode has been a favorite among vacation rental hosts for years. It's reliable, well-built, and does exactly what you need.
Why It Works:
- Direct Airbnb Integration: Works with Airbnb's built-in smart lock feature to auto-generate guest codes.
- 16,000+ Amazon Reviews: This is one of the most battle-tested smart locks on the market. The sheer volume of feedback means issues get identified and fixed quickly.
- Solid Build Quality: Schlage has been making locks for over a century. The Encode feels substantial and durable.
- Works with Alexa & Google: Voice control for hands-free operation when you're home.
The Catch: Some hosts on Reddit report codes "stopping working over time" and needing to be re-entered. One user on r/airbnb_hosts mentioned having to delete and recreate codes every few months. It's not a dealbreaker, but it's annoying.
Who Should Skip This: If you want fingerprint access or the newest smart home features, the Schlage Encode is more traditional in its approach.
Best For: Hosts who prioritize reliability and brand reputation over cutting-edge features.
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Check Latest Price3. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock – Best Retrofit
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the only option on this list that installs over your existing deadbolt. If you're renting your property or don't want to replace your current lock, this is your pick.
Why It Works:
- Keeps Your Existing Deadbolt: Installs on the inside of your door in about 10 minutes. Your exterior hardware stays the same.
- Auto-Unlock Feature: Uses your phone's location to unlock as you approach. Great for hosts who visit their properties frequently.
- Guest Access via App: Share virtual keys with guests through the August app—no physical codes needed.
- Compact Design: The 4th generation is significantly smaller than previous versions.
The Catch: This lock has the most mixed reviews on Reddit. Multiple hosts describe it as a "continual headache" with connectivity issues. One r/AirBnB user said they "couldn't remote unlock it half the time." The 3.8-star Amazon rating reflects this inconsistency. When it works, it's great. When it doesn't, you're stuck.
Who Should Skip This: If remote reliability is critical (and for Airbnb, it usually is), the August's connectivity issues are a real concern. Also, no keypad option means guests need the app or you need to add a separate keypad.
Best For: Hosts who can't or don't want to replace their existing deadbolt and are willing to troubleshoot occasional connectivity issues.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Check Latest Price4. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi – Best Value
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi packs more features into a lower price point than any other lock on this list. If you want fingerprint access without paying premium prices, this is it.
Why It Works:
- 8-in-1 Access: Fingerprint, keypad, app, auto-unlock, key, shake to open, magic shake, and eKey. More ways to get in means fewer lockout scenarios.
- Fingerprint Reader: Stores up to 100 fingerprints. Great for repeat guests or cleaning crews.
- IP65 Waterproof: Rated for outdoor use, which matters if your lock is exposed to weather.
- Door Sensor Included: Knows when your door is open or closed, not just locked or unlocked.
The Catch: The fingerprint reader can be finicky in cold weather. Reddit hosts in northern climates report it "takes multiple attempts" when temperatures drop below freezing. The keypad still works, but the fingerprint convenience disappears.
Who Should Skip This: If you're in a cold climate and fingerprint access is your main reason for choosing this lock, you might be disappointed in winter.
Best For: Budget-conscious hosts who want maximum features, especially fingerprint access, at a reasonable price.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
Check Latest PriceFrequently Asked Questions
Do smart locks work with Airbnb's built-in integration?
Yes, but only certain models. Yale Assure Lock 2 and Schlage Encode both support Airbnb's native smart lock feature, which automatically generates unique codes for each guest booking. August and Ultraloq require manual code management through their own apps.
How long do batteries last in smart locks?
Most smart locks last 6-12 months on 4 AA batteries with typical use. However, Airbnb properties with frequent guest turnover may drain batteries faster. Reddit hosts recommend checking battery levels monthly and keeping spares on-site.
What happens if the WiFi goes out?
All four locks on this list have backup access methods. Yale and Schlage have physical keypads that work without WiFi. August requires the app (which works via Bluetooth when nearby). Ultraloq has fingerprint, keypad, and physical key options. The codes you've already programmed will still work—you just can't create new ones remotely.
Can guests copy the access code?
Technically, yes—anyone who sees the code can write it down. That's why most hosts use temporary codes that expire after checkout. Yale and Schlage's Airbnb integration handles this automatically. For other locks, set codes to expire or delete them manually after each guest.