What is the best smart door lock?

The question "What is the best smart door lock?" is on the minds of many homeowners and renters alike.  In this article, we will explore the world of smart door locks, with a particular focus on Locstar's offerings - the LS-C91, LS-C81, and LS-S61. By delving into their features, benefits, and how they stack up against the competition, we aim to help you make an informed decision.

Smart door locks have come a long way from their humble beginnings. In the past, traditional mechanical locks were the only option, requiring a physical key for access. However, this came with its own set of drawbacks. Lost keys, the need to make duplicates for family members or guests, and concerns about security in case of key theft were common issues. 

These innovative devices leverage technology such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and biometric sensors to provide a seamless and secure access experience. They offer multiple ways to unlock the door, including through a smartphone app, fingerprint recognition, keypad entry, and even through voice commands when integrated with smart home assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri. Additionally, they provide features like remote access, activity monitoring, and the ability to create temporary access codes for guests or service providers. This level of convenience and control has made smart door locks increasingly popular among consumers.

Before we dive into the Locstar models, it's essential to understand the key features that define a great smart door lock.

The more diverse the unlocking methods, the more convenient the smart lock. As mentioned earlier, common methods include app - based unlocking, fingerprint scanning, keypad entry, and RFID card access. Some high - end models even offer facial recognition. App - based unlocking allows users to control the lock from anywhere in the world as long as they have an internet connection. Fingerprint recognition provides a quick and secure way to access the home, eliminating the need to remember codes. Keypad entry is useful for those who prefer a traditional numeric code, and RFID cards are convenient for family members or guests who may not be comfortable with other methods.

Wi - Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are crucial for smart door locks. Bluetooth is often used for initial setup and for unlocking the door when the user is in close proximity to the lock. It has a relatively short range, usually up to a few meters. Wi - Fi, on the other hand, enables remote access. With Wi - Fi connectivity, you can lock or unlock your door, check the lock status, and manage access codes even when you're miles away from home. Some smart locks also support other connectivity protocols like Zigbee or Z - Wave, which can be useful in a more extensive smart home ecosystem.

Security is a top priority when it comes to door locks. Smart door locks use advanced encryption technologies to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access. They often have built - in sensors that can detect if the door is being tampered with, and some models can even send alerts to the user's phone in case of suspicious activity. Additionally, features like auto - locking, which automatically locks the door after a set period of time, add an extra layer of security.

Since most smart door locks are battery - powered, battery life is an important consideration. A long - lasting battery means less frequent replacements and fewer hassles. Some smart locks are designed to last for months or even years on a single set of batteries. Additionally, many models have a low - battery indicator that notifies the user when it's time to change the batteries. Some also offer an external power source option, such as a USB port, which can be used to power the lock in case the batteries die completely.

In today's connected world, compatibility with other smart home devices is a major plus. A smart door lock that can integrate with your smart home assistant, security cameras, or other smart devices can create a more cohesive and efficient home security system. For example, you could set up a scenario where the door unlocks automatically when you arrive home, and the lights turn on simultaneously. 

Now, let's take a detailed look at three of Locstar's smart lock models - the LS - C91, LS - C81, and LS - S61.

The LS - C91 offers a comprehensive range of unlocking options, making it suitable for a wide range of users. It features a 3D fingerprint sensor, which can identify up to 100 fingerprints in less than 1 to 1.5 seconds. This is particularly convenient for children and the elderly, as it provides a quick and easy way to access the home. In addition to fingerprint recognition, the lock also supports password entry via a touch pad. You can create up to 200 different passwords, giving you plenty of flexibility when it comes to managing access for family members, guests, or service providers.

The LS - C91 also comes with RFID card access. Two RFID cards are included with the lock, which can be used by those who may not be comfortable with using the fingerprint sensor or entering a password. For those times when technology fails or you need a backup option, the lock also has a mechanical key override. This ensures that you can always gain access to your home, even in an emergency. And of course, there's the app - based unlocking option. The LS - C91 is compatible with both the TTlock and Tuya apps, allowing you to control the lock from your smartphone. With the app, you can lock and unlock the door, view the lock history, and manage access codes, all from the palm of your hand.

In terms of connectivity, the LS - C91 offers both Bluetooth and Wi - Fi options. Bluetooth is used for the initial setup of the lock and for unlocking the door when you're in close proximity. It provides a quick and easy way to connect to the lock without the need for an internet connection. For remote access, the LS - C91 supports Wi - Fi connectivity. However, it's important to note that a Wi - Fi gateway (sold separately) is required for this feature. Once connected to the Wi - Fi gateway, you can control the lock from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection on your smartphone. This is a great feature for those who are often away from home or for landlords who need to manage access to rental properties.

Security is a top priority for Locstar, and the LS - C91 is no exception. The lock uses advanced encryption technology to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access. It also has a number of security - related features built - in. When entering a password, you can enter random digits before or after the correct access code, making it more difficult for someone to steal your code by looking over your shoulder.

The LS - C91 has an auto - locking function, which can be enabled or disabled as per your preference. By default, the lock will automatically lock after 30 seconds, but you can adjust this time to be anywhere between 3 and 30 seconds. This ensures that your home is always secure, even if you forget to lock the door manually. Additionally, the lock has an indoor electronic double - lock switch. 

Battery Life
The LS - C91 is powered by 4 AAA batteries, which are not included with the lock. The battery life of the LS - C91 is quite decent, and it can last for a significant amount of time depending on usage. The lock also has a low - battery indicator, which will notify you when it's time to change the batteries.

While the LS - C91 may not have native compatibility with popular smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa out of the box, it can still be integrated into a smart home setup. Through the TTlock or Tuya apps, you can potentially connect the lock to other Tuya - compatible smart home devices. This allows you to create a more integrated and convenient smart home experience, although it may not be as seamless as direct integration with the major smart home platforms.

The LS - C81 offers a similar set of unlocking methods to the LS - C91. It has a fingerprint sensor, which can store a certain number of fingerprints (although the exact capacity may vary from the LS - C91). This provides a fast and secure way to unlock the door. In addition, it features a keypad for password entry. You can create multiple passwords, making it easy to manage access for different people. The lock also supports RFID card access, and like the LS - C91, it comes with a mechanical key override for emergencies. App - based unlocking is also available, allowing you to control the lock from your smartphone.

The LS - C81 also offers both Bluetooth and Wi - Fi connectivity options. Bluetooth is used for local access and setup, while Wi - Fi enables remote control. Similar to the LS - C91, a Wi - Fi gateway may be required for full remote functionality, and this may need to be purchased separately. Once connected to the Wi - Fi network, you can lock, unlock, and monitor the lock's status from anywhere with an internet connection.

Security features on the LS - C81 are designed to keep your home safe. It uses encryption to protect data transmitted between the lock and your smartphone. The lock may also have features like auto - locking, which helps prevent the door from being left unlocked accidentally. Additionally, it may have a way to detect if the door has been tampered with, although specific details on this feature may vary compared to the LS - C91.

Powered by batteries, the LS - C81 is designed to have a reasonable battery life. It likely has a low - battery indicator to alert you when it's time to replace the batteries. In case of a dead battery, there may be an external power source option, such as a USB port, to provide temporary power for unlocking the door.

Similar to the LS - C91, the LS - C81 may not have direct compatibility with major smart home ecosystems. However, through the app it uses for control, it may be possible to integrate it with other smart home devices that are compatible with the same app ecosystem. This can still offer some level of integration within a smart home setup, although it may not be as comprehensive as direct integration with platforms like Apple HomeKit or Google Home.

The LS - S61 provides users with multiple unlocking options. It has a fingerprint sensor, allowing for quick and secure access. The keypad enables password - based unlocking, and RFID cards can also be used. As with the other Locstar models, there is a mechanical key override for emergencies. App - based unlocking via a compatible app gives you the flexibility to control the lock from your mobile device.

This model also offers Bluetooth and Wi - Fi connectivity. Bluetooth is useful for initial setup and local access, while Wi - Fi enables remote control of the lock. A Wi - Fi gateway may be necessary for remote functionality, and this might need to be purchased separately. Once connected to the Wi - Fi network, you can manage the lock from anywhere with an internet connection.

Security is a key aspect of the LS - S61. It likely uses encryption to safeguard data and has features like auto - locking to enhance security. There may also be sensors to detect door tampering, although the exact capabilities and features may differ from the other Locstar models.

Battery - powered, the LS - S61 is engineered to have a decent battery life. It should have a low - battery indicator to let you know when it's time to change the batteries. In case of a battery failure, there may be an external power source option available to provide temporary power for unlocking the door.

Like the LS - C91 and LS - C81, the LS - S61 may not have native compatibility with major smart home ecosystems. However, through its associated app, it may be possible to integrate it with other smart home devices within the same app's ecosystem, allowing for some level of smart home integration.

When considering the best smart door lock, it's important to compare Locstar's offerings with other popular brands in the market.

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a highly regarded smart lock. It offers fingerprint, code, and digital pass options, along with native compatibility with Apple HomeKit. This makes it a great choice for Apple users who want seamless integration with their existing smart home setup. In contrast, Locstar locks may not have such direct and seamless integration with Apple HomeKit. The Aqara lock also has a solid and reactive design, and with an Aqara hub, it offers full Matter support and remote control. It has a long list of features, including one - time pass creation and automatic locking via a built - in gyroscope. However, it is relatively expensive compared to some Locstar models.

The Schlage Encode Smart Wi - Fi Lever is another strong competitor. It replaces the door handle and provides smart lock features. The built - in Wi - Fi allows for setting up to 100 entry codes, customizing notifications, reviewing activity logs, and setting auto - locking schedules. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. One of the main differences from Locstar locks is its focus on being a door handle replacement, while Locstar locks are more traditional deadbolt - style replacements in many cases. The Schlage lock is also relatively expensive, but it may offer a more polished look and feel in terms of design.

The Ultraloq U - Bolt Pro with Wi - Fi offers a good balance of affordability and features. It has a durable keypad and a built - in fingerprint sensor. It has excellent Wi - Fi range, which is great for larger homes or for use in rental properties. It also offers e - key sharing and management, and has an IP65 rating for weather resistance. Compared to Locstar locks, it may have a more robust Wi - Fi range in some cases, but Locstar locks offer a wider variety of access methods in some models, such as the multiple password and fingerprint storage options in the LS - C91.

When deciding which smart door lock is the best for you, several factors come into play.

Smart door locks can range in price from relatively affordable models to high - end, feature - rich devices. Locstar locks, such as the LS - C91, LS - C81, and LS - S61, generally offer a good balance between price and features. They are often more affordable than some of the top - tier brands like Aqara or Schlage, while still providing a comprehensive set of features. If you're on a tight budget, but still want a reliable smart lock with multiple access options, a Locstar lock could be a great choice.

If you already have a well - established smart home ecosystem, such as an Apple HomeKit - based setup or a Google Home - centered system, compatibility is crucial. Brands like Aqara offer native compatibility with Apple HomeKit, which can be a huge advantage for Apple users. However, if you're not tied to a specific ecosystem and are open to using apps like TTlock or Tuya (which Locstar locks are compatible with), you may find that Locstar locks can still be integrated into a functional smart home setup.

Think about how you prefer to unlock your door. If you're a fan of biometric access, the fingerprint sensors on Locstar locks, especially in models like the LS - C91 with its 3D fingerprint sensor, can provide a fast and secure option. If you prefer the simplicity of a keypad or the convenience of RFID cards, Locstar locks offer those options as well. Consider which methods will be most convenient for all members of your household.

Everyone wants a secure door lock. Look for features like advanced encryption, auto - locking, and tamper detection. Locstar locks have several security features, such as encryption, auto - locking, and scramble codes. However, if you have specific security concerns, such as living in an area with high crime rates, you may want to compare the security features of Locstar locks with those of other brands in more detail.

In the world of smart door locks, there is no one - size - fits - all answer to the question of what the best smart door lock is. The Locstar LS - C91, LS - C81, and LS - S61 offer a range of features that make them strong contenders in the market. They provide multiple unlocking methods, decent connectivity options, good security features, and reasonable battery life.

Ultimately, the best smart door lock for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you choose a Locstar lock or another brand, a smart door lock is a valuable addition to any modern home, offering a new level of control and peace of mind.