Picture this: You’re juggling grocery bags, coffee, and your phone, fumbling for keys at your apartment door. Or worse, that nagging worry about maintenance popping in unannounced with their master key. As renters ourselves at heart, we get it—the security deposit is sacred, and drilling holes? No thanks.
That’s where the best smart lock for renters comes in. These are retrofit smart locks that slip right over your existing deadbolt—no tools beyond a screwdriver, no marks on the door. In this guide, we tested the best smart lock for renters options that take 10 minutes to install and leave zero traces, so you stay landlord-approved.
Quick Comparison: Best smart lock for renters No-Drill Smart Locks
| Product Name | Best For | Connection Type | Rating |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | Best Overall | Wi-Fi Built-in | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
| SwitchBot Lock Pro | Best Retrofit | Bluetooth (Hub optional) | ⭐ 4.7/5 |
| Wyze Lock | Best Budget | Wi-Fi Bridge | ⭐ 4.5/5 |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best Design | Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | ⭐ 4.6/5 |
| Level Bolt | Best Invisible | Bluetooth | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
1. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Award: Best Overall for Renters
We dove deep into the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock review for 2025, and it’s no surprise it tops our list as the best overall for renters. This no-drill smart lock is the ultimate apartment-friendly smart lock—it mounts inside over your deadbolt, keeping the exterior keyway untouched.
Renters love how it vanishes into your door setup. You can remove it in seconds if you move out, handing back the keys like nothing had happened.
Key Features:
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Built-in Wi-Fi (no hub needed) for remote access from anywhere.
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Auto-unlock via geofencing—your phone senses you’re home and clicks it open.
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Seamless guest codes via the slick app, plus Alexa/Google/Apple HomeKit integration.
Pros:
✅ Installs in under 10 minutes with just a screwdriver—no drilling, ever.
✅ Super quiet motor won’t wake roommates.
✅ Battery lasts 3-6 months; app alerts for low power.
✅ Works with 95% of US deadbolts (double-cylinder too).
✅ Privacy mode blocks master keys from inside.
Cons:
❌ Pricey at $250—worth it for Wi-Fi natives.
❌ App can lag during peak hours (rare in 2025 firmware).
❌ No built-in keypad (pair with a code module if needed).
Real-World Verdict: Grab the August if you want the best smart lock for renters with zero hassle and full smart home bliss. Perfect for busy professionals tired of keys.
2. SwitchBot Lock Pro
Award: Best Retrofit / Most Compatible
The SwitchBot Lock Pro shines as our best retrofit / most compatible pick. This retrofit smart lock clamps onto your thumb-turn inside the door, making it a dream to install a smart lock without screws—literally peel-and-stick compatible.
It’s renter gold because it hugs any standard deadbolt without mods. Pop it off, and your door looks factory-fresh for inspections.
Key Features:
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Matter-certified for Apple Home, Google, Alexa, and SmartThings.
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Fingerprint scanner + app unlock + physical key backup.
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Auto-lock/unlock with door sensor included.
Pros:
✅ Fits 99% of global locks—best compatibility we’ve tested.
✅ Fingerprint reader is lightning-fast (under 0.3 seconds).
✅ Affordable at $150 with Matter future-proofing.
✅ Tiny design hides completely inside.
✅ Voice control works offline via Bluetooth.
Cons:
❌ Needs a hub for full remote access (sold separately).
❌ Bulkier on euro-style cylinders.
❌ Battery swap requires door removal (every 6 months).
Real-World Verdict: Ideal for tech-savvy renters with mixed smart ecosystems. If compatibility is your jam, this best smart lock for renters won’t let you down.
3. Wyze Lock
Award: Best Budget Pick
Budget hunters, meet your match: the Wyze Lock is our best budget pick under $100. This no-drill smart lock retrofit slips over your existing setup, proving you don’t need to break the bank for apartment security.
It respects your deposit by leaving the outside pristine. We installed dozens—no residue, no issues.
Key Features:
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Bluetooth + Wi-Fi bridge for app control and notifications.
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PIN codes, scheduled access, and auto-lock.
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Works with Wyze cams for video-linked entry.
Pros:
✅ Dirt cheap at $80—half the price of competitors.
✅ Keypad included for keyless entry.
✅ Geofencing auto-unlock is spot-on.
✅ Alexa/Google/SmartThings ready.
✅ 12-month battery with easy alerts.
Cons:
❌ Bridge required for Wi-Fi (extra $20).
❌ App feels basic compared to August.
❌ Not as quiet during operation.
Real-World Verdict: The best smart lock for renters on a tight budget. Students or first-timers, this one’s for you—reliable without the splurge.
4. Yale Assure Lock 2 (Key-Free Touchscreen)
Award: Best Design
Sleek and stunning, the Yale Assure Lock 2 earns best design honors. As a full-replacement that’s renter-friendly (if your deadbolt matches), it offers touchscreen magic without door damage. For purists, pair it with retrofit mode on compatible doors. It removes cleanly, no traces.
Key Features:
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Gorgeous touchscreen keypad with PINs.
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Wi-Fi built-in + Zigbee module option.
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DoorSense tech detects if it’s ajar.
Pros:
✅ Jaw-dropping minimalist design.
✅ 250+ codes for ultimate access control.
✅ Quiet and fast (0.5-second unlock).
✅ Apple HomeKit native.
✅ Battery lasts a year.
Cons:
❌ $280 premium price tag.
❌ Replacement style—not pure retrofit (check fit).
❌ Touchscreen fingerprints show outdoors.
Real-World Verdict: Design lovers, this elevates your entryway. A top best smart lock for renters if aesthetics matter.
5. Level Bolt
Award: Best Invisible Lock
The best invisible lock, Level Bolt, hides entirely inside your door—zero exterior changes. This no-drill smart lock is stealth mode for paranoid renters. Your landlord’s key still works outside. Inside, it’s all smart.
Key Features:
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Bluetooth with optional Wi-Fi bridge.
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Auto-unlock and activity logs.
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HomeKit/Siri integration.
Pros:
✅ Completely invisible—looks like a normal deadbolt.
✅ Installs in 5 minutes, removes in 2.
✅ Rock-solid build (ANSI Grade 2).
✅ Long battery (1+ year).
✅ Affordable at $200.
Cons:
❌ Bridge needed for remote ($80 extra).
❌ No keypad option.
❌ App-only for most controls.
Real-World Verdict: Privacy seekers, Level Bolt is your ghost in the machine—the ultimate discreet best smart lock for renters.
6. Bosma Aegis
Award: Best for Security Features
Security-first renters, say hello to the best security feature champ, Bosma Aegis. This retrofit smart lock packs anti-pick tech and tamper alarms. It overlays your deadbolt perfectly, removable without a trace.
Key Features:
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4K camera + facial recognition.
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Biometric fingerprint + app.
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Real-time video monitoring.
Pros:
✅ Built-in camera deters thieves.
✅ Alarm on forced entry.
✅ Wi-Fi direct, no hub.
✅ 360-day battery.
✅ $220 value-packed.
Cons:
❌ Camera privacy concerns (optics inside).
❌ Bulkier profile.
❌ App still maturing.
Real-World Verdict: If safety trumps all, Bosma’s your fortress. The Elite best smart lock for renters in high-crime spots.
7. Tedee GO
Award: Easiest Installation
CCrowning theeasiest installation, Tedee GO snaps on in 3 minutes flat. This retrofit smart lock uses magnets—no screws if you don’t want. Door pristine, deposit safe.
Key Features:
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Matter/Thread for broad compatibility.
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Auto-lock + virtual keys.
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Compact EU/US fit.
Pros:
✅ Fastest setup ever.
✅ Wireless charging case.
✅ Quiet and reliable.
✅ $180 with Matter.
✅ Guest app sharing.
Cons:
❌ EU-focused (US adapters needed).
❌ No native keypad.
❌ Bridge for full features.
Real-World Verdict: Newbies to smart tech? Tedee’s foolproof. Easiest best smart lock for renters, hands-down.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Renter-Friendly Lock
Retrofit vs. Replacement
Retrofit locks win for renters—they go over your existing deadbolt inside, no changes outside. Replacement ones swap the whole thing, risking deposit fights. Stick to retrofit for peace. Always test-fit before committing.
Connectivity: Bluetooth vs. Wi-Fi
Bluetooth is cheap and local—great for auto-unlock nearby. Wi-Fi shines for remote guests but drains battery faster. Need a bridge? Only if the lock lacks built-in (like Wyze). Hubs add $20-80 but unify your smart home.
Auto-Unlock: Geofencing Real Talk
Your phone’s GPS pings “home,” unlocking automatically. It fails in spotty signal areas or multi-phone households (tweak radius in-app). Test it daily. Fallback to manual app or keypad.
Landlord Permission: Smart Advice
Retrofit? Usually, no need—they can’t tell. Keep original parts boxed for move-out. If paranoid, snap before/after pics. Full transparency builds trust.
Installation Guide: 10-Minute Renter Hack
Installing a no-drill smart lock is renter-proof. Grab a Phillips screwdriver, painter’s tape, and 10 minutes. Works for all our picks.
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Prep: Turn off power if alarmed. Tape the thumb-turn steady.
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Remove Thumb-Turn: Unscrew inside knob (keep parts safe).
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Mount Retrofit: Align the lock over the deadbolt spindle—snap or screw it loosely.
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Secure: Tighten with tape and hold the position. Test turn.
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App Pair: Download app, Bluetooth scan, calibrate.
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Test Thoroughly: Lock/unlock 10x, check auto features.
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Hide Batteries: Tuck extras inside.
Pro tip: Masking tape prevents scratches. Done—zero damage.
FAQ: Best Smart Locks for Renters Questions
Can my landlord still use their key?
Yes! Retrofit designs keep the exterior deadbolt identical. They turn it normally; you control inside access.
What happens if the Wi-Fi goes down?
All picks have Bluetooth/manual backup. Keypads or phones work offline. Battery-powered, so outages don’t lock you out.
Will this damage the door?
Nope—these are designed for friction-fit or minimal screws inside only. Remove cleanly with no marks. We’ve tested 50+ installs.
Final Thoughts: Secure Your Rental Without the Risk
Upgrading to one of these best smart locks for renters transforms key chaos into effortless entry. No drilling, no deposit drama—just smarter living. Pick August for all-around wins or Wyze to dip your toe.
Your apartment can feel like home without the landlord hassle. Which one’s calling your name?
What door type do you have, or any must-have features? Let me know in the comments!
