Quick picks
| Pick | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Yale August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with Keypad Touch | Best overall renter retrofit | Interior-only installation; bundle includes keypad and fingerprint reader; original deadbolt and key stay |
| SwitchBot Lock Ultra with Keypad Touch | Best for multiple entry methods | Fingerprint keypad and retrofit motor; check door clearance and deadbolt fit before buying |
| Aqara Smart Lock U200 | Apple Home Key and fingerprint fans | Retrofits compatible single-cylinder deadbolts; check the mixed customer feedback and hub requirements |
Top recommendations
Best for: Best overall for renters who want keypad and fingerprint entry while keeping the existing key
Yale August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with Keypad Touch
PCMag’s 2026 roundup selects the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock as its best retrofit model. The current Yale/August Amazon bundle adds the Keypad Touch with a fingerprint reader. The motor mounts on the inside of the door, leaving the existing exterior deadbolt and key in place, and the listed bundle has Wi-Fi built in. August says its locks fit most single-cylinder deadbolts, so check the door before ordering.
- Keeps the existing outside hardware and mechanical key, which can preserve landlord access
- This Amazon bundle includes the keypad and fingerprint reader instead of requiring a separate keypad purchase
- Built-in Wi-Fi enables app access without a separate Wi-Fi bridge for the listed model
- August says compatibility is for most single-cylinder deadbolts, not every apartment or mortise lock
- PCMag lists battery life as a trade-off; keep the original key available and respond to low-battery alerts
Best for: Fingerprint, passcode, and app control on a compatible existing deadbolt
SwitchBot Lock Ultra with Keypad Touch
SwitchBot’s Lock Ultra is a retrofit motor that keeps the original lock hardware, and the Amazon listing B0F841YB1P is the Lock Ultra with Keypad Touch and fingerprint entry. Compatibility is not universal: SwitchBot’s checker says an inward-opening door needs at least 33 mm between the lock backset and the frame; an outward-opening door needs more than 40 mm. Mortise and Jimmy-proof locks require additional measurement and may need an adapter or confirmation from support. SwitchBot says Matter integration uses its Matter Hub.
- The bundle combines a retrofit lock with a fingerprint-capable keypad
- SwitchBot lists a main battery plus backup and emergency power features
- Keeps the original lock in place when the existing mechanism and door clearances are compatible
- Measure the door: the manufacturer specifies different clearance requirements for inward- and outward-opening doors
- Matter integration requires a SwitchBot Matter Hub, which may be an extra purchase depending on the bundle
Best for: Apple Home Key users who want a retrofit lock with keypad and fingerprint access
Aqara Smart Lock U200
Aqara’s U200 is a retrofit lock for compatible US deadbolts that retains traditional-key access. Its included wireless keypad supports fingerprint and PIN entry, and the lock supports Apple Home Key. For connection to third-party Matter platforms, Aqara says a Matter controller with Thread Border Router functionality is required. This is a feature-rich but higher-risk pick: the Amazon listing showed 2.7 out of 5 stars from 2,099 ratings when checked on November 8, 2026, and Wirecutter said its existing adapter-lock picks were a better buy. Read recent reviews and confirm platform support before choosing it.
- Supports Apple Home Key, fingerprints, PIN codes, and the original mechanical key
- Aqara confirms support for compatible US single-cylinder deadbolts
- The included keypad can provide code or fingerprint entry without replacing the exterior hardware
- Amazon customer feedback was notably mixed at the time of research, and Wirecutter did not prefer it over its current adapter-lock picks
- Matter smart-home integration needs a compatible controller and Thread Border Router; check the exact hub setup for your ecosystem
How to choose a renter-friendly smart lock
- Get permission first. A retrofit installation can be reversible, but it still changes the inside of the door and may be restricted by a lease, landlord, condo association, or fire-safety rule. Confirm in writing and ask who needs a physical key.
- Identify the lock type. These picks are designed for compatible deadbolts, especially single-cylinder deadbolts. A mortise lock, multipoint lock, unusual thumb turn, or door without a deadbolt may need a different product. Use the manufacturer’s compatibility checker rather than relying on photos alone.
- Measure the door and clearance. For SwitchBot Lock Ultra, the official guide calls for at least 33 mm clearance on an inward-opening door and more than 40 mm on an outward-opening door, measured from the lock/backset to the frame. Other retrofit locks also have mounting and thumb-turn requirements.
- Decide how guests will unlock it. A phone-only lock is simplest for one user. A keypad is useful for roommates, cleaners, or guests, while a fingerprint reader avoids memorizing codes. Confirm whether the keypad is included in the exact bundle; some listings sell it separately.
- Check smart-home and remote-access needs. Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread, and Matter are different capabilities. A lock may work locally but need a separate hub for remote control or a third-party platform. Verify the exact ecosystem you use before paying for an accessory.
Keep the original key accessible even after setup. Before installing, test that the deadbolt turns smoothly by hand and compare your lock with the official fit guide. A retrofit motor cannot fix a sticky bolt or a door that is out of alignment.
Related guides: subscription-free video doorbells, smart thermostats for heat pumps, mesh Wi-Fi systems, no-subscription outdoor security cameras.
FAQ
Can renters install a smart lock without changing the outside lock?
Some retrofit models attach only to the inside of a compatible deadbolt and preserve the existing key. August and Aqara describe their models this way, and SwitchBot says Lock Ultra keeps the original lock. Still check the lease, building rules, and the door’s fit before installing.
Do renter-friendly smart locks work with every deadbolt?
No. August says its locks fit most single-cylinder deadbolts. Aqara U200 supports compatible single-cylinder deadbolts, while SwitchBot publishes door-clearance measurements and additional checks for mortise and Jimmy-proof locks. Use the exact manufacturer compatibility guide for your model.
Does the Aqara U200 work with Apple Home Key?
Yes. Aqara lists Apple Home Key as an access method. For third-party Matter integration, Aqara says you need a Matter controller with Thread Border Router functionality; check Apple’s current Home Key hub requirements for your exact setup.
Does SwitchBot Lock Ultra need a hub?
The lock can be controlled through SwitchBot’s own setup, but SwitchBot says Matter integration uses a SwitchBot Matter Hub. Bundle contents vary, so check whether the Amazon package includes the hub if you need Matter or remote smart-home integration.
Will a smart lock still work if the battery dies or Wi-Fi is down?
The smart features may be unavailable until power or connectivity returns, depending on the model. Keep the original mechanical key, install fresh batteries when prompted, and check how the chosen lock handles backup power and local keypad access.