How to choose a smart lock that won't leave you stranded when the power (or your Wi-Fi) is out.
Smart locks are brilliant — until stage 6 knocks out your Wi-Fi, your router battery and your smart-home hub in one sitting. Here's what to look for.
Battery back-up is not optional
Choose locks that run on AA or lithium cells and last 6+ months on one set.
Emergency key override
A physical key backup means you're never truly locked out.
Offline codes
Codes that work without an internet connection are essential.
Local-first apps
Prefer locks that work over Bluetooth as well as Wi-Fi.