Reliable keypad entry for guests
Jul 6 – Oct 25, 2026Updated Oct 25, 2026
Reviewed by Dimitry Apollonsky
AI summary
Schlage has a wide lead for reliable keypad entry for guests.
It depends
Yale Assure Lock 2 is the runner-up in this topic.
Which brands AI mentions
Mentioned in
ChatGPTChatGPTGoogle AI ModeGoogle AI Mode
Widest split: Yale Home, 58% on ChatGPT and 14% on Google AI Mode.
- #1SchlageChatGPT 83%Google AI Mode 86%
- #2Yale Assure Lock 2ChatGPT 75%Google AI Mode 50%
- #3tiedAugustChatGPT 50%Google AI Mode 45%
- #3tiedYale HomeChatGPT 58%Google AI Mode 14%
- #5tiedEufyChatGPT 42%Google AI Mode 0%
Questions and answers
ChatGPTOct 25, 2026
For reliable guest access, I’d prioritize a smart lock that lets you create unique keypad codes, set expiration times, revoke access remotely, and still unlock the door when Wi-Fi goes down. A physical backup key and auto-lock are also valuable.
My top two choices are the Schlage Encode Plus for overall reliability and the Yale Assure Lock 2 for flexible guest-code management. Both have keypad entry and built-in Wi-Fi in the appropriate configuration, so you can manage access without requiring guests to install an app.
Best smart locks with keypads
1. Schlage Encode Plus
(Best overall)
$285–$330 approx.
A strong choice for a busy front door or rental property. It has built-in Wi-Fi, a physical keypad, scheduled guest codes, a backup key, and a published ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 deadbolt rating. It supports up to 100 scheduled access codes.
Best for: Frequent guests, remote management, and prioritizing physical lock security.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt — Home Depot listing:
2. Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi
(Best for guest codes)
$197–$260 approx.
Designed for flexible access management, with temporary, recurring, and one-time codes on supported configurations. You can manage access remotely, and stored codes work locally even if the internet goes down. A keyed version is available for backup entry.
Best for: Vacation rentals, visiting family, cleaners, and service providers.
Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi —
3. ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro WiFi
$180–$210 approx.
Combines keypad entry with fingerprint recognition, app control, auto-lock, and a mechanical key. Its scheduled and one-time code features make it a versatile alternative if you want convenient entry for your household as well as guests.
Best for: Families and hosts who want fingerprint entry for themselves and PINs for visitors.
ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro WiFi —
4. Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi
Midrange alternative
Offers built-in Wi-Fi, keypad access, remotely managed codes, and SmartKey re-keying if you need to change the mechanical key. Worth comparing if you want flexibility for a property with multiple occupants.
Best for: Homeowners who value easy re-keying as well as digital guest access.
Prices are approximate US retail ranges from recent listings and may vary by trim, finish, and configuration. The recommendations are based on published features and security specifications, not a claim that every model has been independently tested head-to-head.
What matters most for guest access
- Unique codes per guest: Avoid reusing the same PIN for every visitor.
- Automatic expiration: Make codes stop working at checkout or after a visit.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: Needed for convenient remote code management; confirm the exact model includes it.
- Offline entry: Previously stored PINs should continue working if the internet drops.
- Auto-lock: Prefer a model with a door-closed sensor, where possible.
- Backup access: Keep a mechanical key or a clearly documented emergency-entry method.
These features reduce lockouts and make guest turnover easier.
Help me narrow it down
One question: What kind of guest access do you need?
1. Where will you use it?
Airbnb or short-term rental
My home — family, friends, cleaners
Long-term rental property
Office or other shared property
2. What's your budget per lock?
Under $150
$150–$200
$200–$300
$300+
3. Any smart-home preference?
No preference — reliability first
Apple Home
Google Home
Amazon Alexa
4. Do you need to keep your existing physical key?
Yes, keep the existing key and deadbolt
Either is fine; a backup key is enough
Prefer completely key-free entry
[Find my best options]
Sources cited in this answer7
- sensorandlatch.comBest Smart Locks for Airbnb and Rentals | Sensor & Latch
- circuitandchime.comBest Smart Locks for Airbnb & Rental Hosts (2026): Ranked | Circuit & Chime
- theverge.comI've tested 30 smart locks, and these are the best
- pickprism.comSmart Lock Keypad vs Fingerprint vs App Entry for a Rental Property
- homedepot.comView price and reviews
- homedepot.comView price and reviews
Google AI ModeOct 25, 2026
When it comes to guest access, you want a lock that lets you easily
create, schedule, and revoke temporary PIN codes remotelywithout needing the guest to download a specific app.Top-rated and reliable smart locks with keypads designed for guest management include:
A top pick by The New York Times (Wirecutter) , known for its heavy-duty mechanical reliability and built-in Wi-Fi. It allows you to store up to 100 access codes and schedule temporary or recurring guest codes easily through the Schlage Home app.
Highly versatile and reliable, this lock comes in various finishes and offers seamless integration with major smart home ecosystems (Apple, Alexa, Google). You can buy dedicated bundles suited for rental hosts that let you easily share temporary codes and track check-ins via activity feeds.
If you are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, this is an exceptional choice. It features a physical backlit keypad for guest PINs, fingerprint scanning, and Apple Home Key support, allowing temporary access management right through Apple Home.
A great mid-range option with built-in Wi-Fi that offers quick keypad code entry alongside a responsive fingerprint scanner. It stores biometric data locally for privacy and lets you manage remote access codes through the app.
To help narrow down the best fit, let me know:
- Do you need integration with a specific smart home platform (like Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa)?
- Do you prefer a full deadbolt replacement or a retrofit lock that keeps your existing exterior keyhole?
Sources cited in this answer1
ChatGPTOct 16, 2026
For managing guest entry, I’d prioritize reliable keypad operation, remotely managed guest codes, scheduled access, entry logs, and a dependable backup if Wi-Fi or batteries fail. You want guests to get in without an app, while retaining control over who can enter and when.
My top two picks are the Schlage Encode Plus for security and straightforward remote management, and the Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi for flexible guest access and door-status monitoring. Both support keypad entry and smart access management.
Best smart keypad locks for guest access
1. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
(Best overall)
Typical price: $300–$330
A strong choice for homeowners and vacation-rental hosts who want built-in Wi-Fi, remote locking, keypad codes, activity monitoring, and a physical backup key. Its Grade 1 security rating is a major advantage.
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Best for: Frequent guest turnover and security-conscious owners.
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Why it stands out: No separate Wi-Fi bridge required; supports Apple Home Key.
-
Trade-off: Relatively expensive, with a smaller code capacity than some alternatives.
Schlage Encode Plus
Retailer listing: Home Depot · Listed at $329
2. Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi
(Best for guest-code flexibility)
Typical price: $240–$280
Supports remote access management, guest codes, activity tracking, and DoorSense on compatible configurations, which can tell you whether the door is actually closed.
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Best for: Family visitors, cleaners, property managers, and recurring guests.
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Why it stands out: Multiple keypad styles and configurations, with optional smart-home upgrades.
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Trade-off: Confirm Wi-Fi is included in the exact model you buy; Bluetooth-only versions don't offer the same remote access independently.
Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi
Retailer listing: Home Depot · Listed at $259
3. Yale Assure Lock 2 with Push-Button Keypad
Typical price: $140–$170
A more affordable option if you mainly need code-based entry and straightforward everyday use.
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Best for: A guest room, secondary entrance, or budget-conscious property.
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Why it stands out: Physical buttons are familiar and easy for guests to operate.
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Trade-off: The Bluetooth version requires a compatible nearby connection for direct control; buy a Wi-Fi configuration or compatible upgrade if you need remote management.
Yale Assure Lock 2 Push-Button
Retailer listing: Home Depot · Listed at $169.99
4. Aqara Smart Lock U100
Typical price: around $190–$230
Worth considering if you want a keypad plus fingerprint access and Apple Home Key support.
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Best for: A smart-home household with several preferred ways to unlock.
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Why it stands out: Guests can use codes while household members have additional entry options.
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Trade-off: Check hub requirements and your existing smart-home setup before buying; remote management depends on the configuration.
Aqara Smart Lock U100
Retailer listing: Lowe's · Price varies by configuration
Quick comparison
Feature Schlage Encode Plus Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi Remote management Built-in Wi-Fi Wi-Fi module Guest codes Up to 100 Up to 250 Temporary/scheduled access Yes Yes Door-open detection No equivalent built in DoorSense on compatible models Physical backup key Yes Depends on model Security grade Grade 1 Grade 2 Typical battery life About 6 months Up to 3 months with Wi-Fi under Yale's stated typical conditions Sources: manufacturer specifications and product comparisons. Battery life varies with usage and connectivity.
What matters most for guest management
- For vacation rentals: Look for unique guest codes with expiration times, or integration with your booking platform. Schlage advertises Airbnb integration across its Encode family, but confirm the exact model and workflow before purchasing.
- For frequent visitors and service providers: Yale's larger code capacity may be useful when you want separate codes for cleaners, maintenance staff, and repeat guests.
- For dependable entry: Keep a mechanical key or documented emergency-entry procedure, replace batteries promptly, and test the lock with the door fully closed before relying on it.
- For privacy and security: Give each guest a unique code, remove access when their stay ends, and review entry history periodically.
One important caveat: these are strong candidates based on security ratings, features, and manufacturer documentation—not a guarantee that every unit will be trouble-free. Door alignment, Wi-Fi signal, installation, and battery maintenance all affect real-world reliability.
My recommendation: Start with the Schlage Encode Plus if security and uncomplicated remote control are your priorities. Choose the Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi if managing a large roster of guest and service-provider codes is more important.
One question to narrow it down
Are you managing a short-term rental (such as Airbnb), a second home, or a primary residence with occasional guests? The best lock can differ depending on whether you need automatic guest-code scheduling and booking-platform integration.
Sources cited in this answer10
- smartdeviceranked.comSchlage Encode Plus vs Yale Assure Lock 2: Which Smart Deadbolt Wins in 2026? – Smart Device Ranked
- servicetechguide.comSchlage Encode Plus vs Yale Assure Lock 2: Which Is Better? | Tech Guide
- homedepot.comYale Assure Lock 2; Smart Door Lock with WiFi and Touchscreen Keypad; Black Suede
- homedepot.comSchlage Century Satin Nickel Electronic Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt with Alarm
- lowes.comView at Lowe's
- smarthomefieldguide.comSmart Lock Shootout 2026: Nuki Ultra vs Schlage Encode Plus vs Aqara U400 vs Yale Assure Lock 2 — Smart Home Field Guide
Google AI ModeOct 16, 2026
The Yale Assure Lock 2 and Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt are widely considered the most reliable smart locks with keypads for managing guest entry, balancing robust build quality, flexible temporary code creation, and dependable remote connectivity.
Watch this overview of top-tested smart locks to compare performance features like keypads and remote access:
12:27Best Smart Locks 2026: 8 Models Tested for Every BudgetYouTube · Consumer Pick · 2.1K views · 3 months ago
Managing guest entry smoothly requires reliable remote code generation, strong ANSI security ratings, and independent keypad functionality so guests aren't reliant on smartphone apps or Bluetooth handshakes.
Top Reliable Smart Locks with Keypads
Known as a top overall pick for its compact size, customizable standalone touch or push-button keypads, and modular network communication (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Z-Wave options). It allows you to easily generate, schedule, and track distinct entry codes via app integration.
Highly praised for its heavy-duty BHMA Grade 1 certification (the highest commercial security rating for residential locks). It features a built-in Wi-Fi radio that connects directly to your home network without needing a separate hub, making remote code updates and guest logs exceptionally stable.
A budget-friendly yet reliable choice that combines a unique numeric keypad ring with biometric fingerprint access and fast Wi-Fi connectivity. It handles temporary e-keys and shareable guest codes efficiently through its mobile app.
Excellent for an easy, non-destructive retrofit that mounts on the interior while letting you place a separate, flexible touch keypad anywhere within Bluetooth range, preserving your existing exterior hardware.[2][3]
Key Factors for Guest Management
- Code Scheduling : Look for systems that let you set time-bound or date-restricted entry codes so guest access automatically expires after checkout or a visit.
- Offline Capability : Ensure the keypad can store codes locally in its memory so guests can enter even if your home Wi-Fi drops temporarily.
- Activity Logs : Real-time push notifications and historical access logs let you see precisely when a guest or service provider uses their code to enter.
- Connectivity Method : Direct Wi-Fi or hub-based protocols (like Z-Wave or Matter) ensure you can remotely delete or add codes from anywhere rather than needing to stand next to the door with Bluetooth.[1][2]
If you can share how you plan to manage the guests (e.g., short-term rental property vs. occasional house visitors) and your preferred smart home ecosystem (Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa), I can recommend the ideal specific model and integration setup.
Sources cited in this answer1
ChatGPTSep 24, 2026
If temporary guest codes are the key requirement, I’d focus on locks with a keypad, Wi-Fi/remote management, and time-limited codes.
Good options
Yale Assure Lock 2 Key-Free with Wi-Fi
$259.99
Schlage Encode Wi-Fi Deadbolt
$299.99
eufy C220 Wi-Fi Smart Lock
$169.99
Yale Approach Retrofit + Keypad
$63.16
- Yale Assure Lock 2 — particularly well suited to guests. Yale supports temporary, recurring, and permanent entry codes, with start/end times for temporary access.
- Schlage Encode — supports temporary, recurring, and permanent guest codes and has built-in Wi-Fi, so you don't need a separate hub.
- eufy C220 — a less expensive option with Wi-Fi, keypad entry, and app management.
- Yale Approach — worth considering if you don't want to replace your existing deadbolt; it's a retrofit lock with a separate keypad that can issue temporary or permanent codes.
My main advice: get a model with built-in Wi-Fi, rather than Bluetooth-only, if you'll be giving codes to people while you're away. Also make sure it has a physical-key or other emergency backup.
If you tell me your budget, whether this is for an Airbnb/rental or your home, and whether you want to keep your existing deadbolt, I can narrow it down to 2–3 specific models.
Sources cited in this answer1
Google AI ModeSep 24, 2026
For creating and managing temporary access codes for guests, a smart lock with built-in Wi-Fi and an integrated keypad is the best solution. These locks let you schedule specific active times for codes—such as for dog walkers, house cleaners, or rental guests—directly from your smartphone without needing extra hubs.[1][2]
The top three smart locks on the market for scheduling guest codes include:
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Best For : Overall reliable scheduling. You can easily program up to 100 codes for recurring, temporary, or permanent entry.
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Key Features : Built-in Wi-Fi, push notifications, and built-in alarm technology. It is available at Home Depot.
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Best For : Apple users. It offers all the same robust temporary scheduling features as the standard Encode.
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Key Features : Adds Apple HomeKit and Apple Home Key compatibility, letting you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock. It is available at Home Depot.
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Best For : Retrofitting. This bundle allows you to keep your existing exterior deadbolt and key while adding a smart interior mechanism and a wireless exterior keypad.
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Key Features : Tracks entry logs via the Yale Access app and allows highly customizable temporary schedules. It is available at Yale Home.[1][2][3]
To help narrow down the choice, please tell me:
- Do you use a specific smart home platform like Apple Home, Amazon Alexa , or Google Home?
- Do you want to completely replace your existing deadbolt , or would you prefer a lock that attaches to your current keys?