Locks & Access

The best smart locks for renters

The renter-friendly smart lock is the retrofit kind: it mounts over the inside of your existing deadbolt, so the exterior keyhole is untouched and the change is fully reversible. Still, ask your landlord first.

Best smart locks

#1
August Wi-Fi retrofit smart lock
Representative photo · confirm exact model on Amazon
Best overall

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (Retrofit, 4th Gen)

August

It mounts over the inside of your existing deadbolt, so the exterior keyhole is untouched — reversible, usually landlord-friendly, and it comes with you when you move.

Best for
Keyless entry on a rental without replacing the lock or altering the door.
Skip if
Doors with an incompatible deadbolt — check fit and ask your landlord first.
Watch out
Confirm your deadbolt is compatible and get landlord permission for any lock change. Keep the physical key as backup.

Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon
#2
SwitchBot Bot smart button pusher
Representative photo · confirm exact model on Amazon
Best value

SwitchBot Bot Smart Button Pusher

SwitchBot

A tiny stick-on robot that physically presses buttons and flips switches — it makes a 'dumb' wall switch, coffee maker, or panel smart with zero wiring, and peels right off.

Best for
Automating an existing wall switch or appliance button without rewiring.
Skip if
Those who can simply use a smart bulb or plug instead.
Watch out
Sticks on with adhesive (removable); voice/remote control may need the optional SwitchBot Hub. Confirm your switch/button style.

Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.

Check price on Amazon

Key buying criteria

  • Retrofit (interior-only). Keeps the exterior and your key intact.
  • Deadbolt compatibility. Confirm your deadbolt is supported.
  • Reversible install. Comes off cleanly when you move.

What to check on Amazon before buying

  • Retrofit vs full replacement.
  • Deadbolt compatibility.
  • Landlord permission.
  • Backup access.

Setup and usage tips

  • Check deadbolt fit first. Compatibility makes or breaks it.
  • Keep the key. Backup for battery or WiFi issues.
  • Take it when you move. Reinstall your original thumbturn.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Replacing the whole lock. Retrofit models avoid altering the door.
  • Skipping landlord permission. Ask first, even for reversible changes.
  • No backup key. Keep the physical key for dead batteries.

How we choose

  • We start from the buyer's actual problem, not the highest commission.
  • We prioritize products with a long track record and broad availability.
  • We call out who a product is wrong for, not just who it is right for.
  • We tell you exactly what to verify on Amazon before you buy.

We only earn if you buy through our links, and it never changes the price you pay or what we recommend.

Final recommendation

The August retrofit lock keeps your exterior keyhole and key intact while adding keyless entry — the renter-friendly choice. Confirm deadbolt fit and ask your landlord before installing.

Buying guideThe best no-wiring smart home devicesComparisonWi-Fi smart lock vs keypad entryGuideSmart lock options for renters

Editorial guide last updated 2026-07-02. Product details require manual verification on Amazon before purchase.