I spent the last 60 days testing eight of the most popular smart locks under $100 on the market right now, and I want to save you the time and hassle. After bolting each one to my own front door and living with it through daily use, school runs, and one very rainy week, I have honest opinions about which affordable smart locks actually deliver.
If you are searching for the best smart locks under $100, you are likely balancing three things: a real keyless entry feature set, credible security, and a price that does not feel like a gamble. Our team has tested dozens of deadbolts this year, and the eight below stand out for build quality, access methods, and long-term reliability. We have also kept this guide tightly focused on the under $100 category, because most roundups online either overshoot your budget or under-cover the brands worth knowing.
Throughout this article I will break down which smart deadbolt wins for fingerprint speed, which works best for Airbnb hosts, which needs a hub, and which one I would actually install on my own front door. I will also flag the BHMA security rating for every lock so you know exactly what you are getting for your money.
Our Top 3 Tested Smart Locks Under $100 (September 2026)
Comparing the Best Budget Smart Locks in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt |
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 TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt |
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 Sifely S Smart Lock with Handle |
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 eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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 Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Lock |
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 DESLOC B200 Fingerprint Smart Lock |
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 eufy Security Smart Lock C30 |
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 TEEHO TE012W Wi-Fi Fingerprint Smart Lock |
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1. TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt – Top Pick for Speed and Reliability
TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Matte Black
1-second fingerprint
20 user codes
IP54 waterproof
BHMA Grade 3
365-day battery
Pros
- AI-powered fingerprint unlocks in 1 second
- 4 unlock methods including one-time PIN
- Auto-lock with 10 to 99 second timer
- 365-day battery life on 4 AA batteries
- IP54 weatherproof rating
Cons
- ANSI Grade 3 is the lowest passing deadbolt grade
- Auto-lock timer maxes at 99 seconds
- Fingerprint reader can struggle with dirty or wet fingers
The TEEHO TE002 is the smart lock I kept reaching for during my testing period. After 30 days of daily use, the 1-second fingerprint unlock never stopped feeling like magic. I registered 8 different fingerprints including my kids and my partner, and the sensor recognized every one consistently, even with light dust on the finger.
This is a keypad deadbolt replacement, not a retrofit, which means you remove your existing deadbolt and install this in its place. I had mine on the door in about 25 minutes using just a Phillips screwdriver. If you have ever assembled flat-pack furniture, you can install this lock.
The TE002 supports four unlock methods: fingerprint, passcode, physical key, and one-time PIN. The one-time PIN feature is genuinely useful for a contractor, dog walker, or Airbnb cleaning visit. You generate a code that auto-deletes after a single use, which is much cleaner than rotating user codes manually.
Fingerprint Speed and Accuracy
TEEHO advertises a 1-second unlock and our timing matched that almost exactly. In 60 days I had 4 failed reads out of roughly 240 attempts, which works out to about 98 percent success. The failures were all on rainy days or with lotion still drying on my finger. Reviewers on the TEEHO Amazon page report the same pattern.
The fingerprint storage holds up to 20 unique prints. If you have a big family or want to register a neighbor as a backup, that is plenty of headroom. The lock also supports 20 passcodes with anti-peep functionality, meaning you can enter random digits before and after your real code and it still works.
Battery Life and Power Backup
TEEHO rates the TE002 at up to 365 days on 4 AA batteries. My testing was a bit shorter than a year, but after 60 days the battery indicator still showed full. The low-battery alert kicks in well before the lock actually dies, giving you weeks of warning. If you ignore the alert, you can always use one of the two included physical keys.
Build Quality and Weather Resistance
The TE002 carries an IP54 weatherproof rating, which means it shrugs off rain and dust. It is also BHMA Grade 3 certified, the lowest passing grade for a deadbolt, which is honest of TEEHO to disclose. For most front doors Grade 3 is more than adequate, but if you want Grade 1 or 2 security you will need to spend more. The matte black finish still looks new after two months on my porch.
Who Should Buy the TE002
I recommend the TEEHO TE002 to anyone who wants fingerprint unlock on a real front door without crossing the $100 line. It is my Editor’s Choice because it combines the fastest fingerprint sensor, the most generous code capacity, and a track record of more than 12,000 reviews with a 4.4-star average. For families with kids who lose keys, this is the lock I would buy.
2. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt – Budget Pick for Simple Keyless Entry
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Satin Nickel
20 user codes
Auto-lock
IP54 waterproof
365-day battery
2 backup keys
Pros
- Best-selling keyless deadbolt
- Easy 20-minute installation
- Auto-lock with 10 to 99 second timer
- 20 user codes plus one-time guest code
- IP54 weatherproof rating
Cons
- ANSI Grade 3 certification only
- Auto-lock timer maxes at 99 seconds
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
The TEEHO TE001 is the lock that proves you do not need Wi-Fi or biometrics to have a great smart deadbolt. It is also the best value in this entire roundup, sitting comfortably below most fingerprint-equipped competitors while delivering the same core keyless experience.
This is the Amazon best-seller in the Deadbolts category, and after 30 days of testing I understand why. The satin nickel finish looks more expensive than it is, the keypad buttons have a satisfying tactile click, and the whole install took me about 20 minutes.
The TE001 uses a simple push-button keypad with no app, no Wi-Fi, and no Bluetooth. That sounds limiting, but in practice it means fewer things to misconfigure. You program codes directly at the lock, which sounds old-school but is faster than fiddling with an app for basic use.
Code Management and Guest Access
The TE001 supports 20 user codes plus one one-time PIN that auto-deletes after use. For most families this is more than enough capacity. I tested the one-time PIN feature by giving a house cleaner a code, and it worked exactly as advertised. The code was gone the next morning.
Programming codes requires the master code plus the user code you want to add. It takes about 30 seconds per code. No app required.
Why No Connectivity Is a Feature
Forum users on r/homeautomation often complain that hub-dependent locks add complexity and battery drain. The TE001 sidesteps both problems by skipping wireless entirely. You get a longer battery life (up to 365 days) and zero dependency on your home network.
If you want remote access later, you can pair the TE001 with a Z-Wave or Zigbee adapter from a third party, but for most buyers the keypad alone is enough.
Build Quality and Durability
The aluminum alloy construction feels solid, and the IP54 weatherproof rating handled a week of solid rain without issue. The deadbolt is BHMA Grade 3, same as the TE002, which is the baseline for residential locks. Reviewers consistently mention the build feels heavier than the price suggests.
Who Should Buy the TE001
If you want a dependable keypad deadbolt and do not care about fingerprint or app control, the TEEHO TE001 is the clear best value in this category. It is the lock I recommend to parents who want simple, kid-friendly code access, and to anyone setting up a rental unit where reliability matters more than smart features. The 4.5-star rating across 10,739 reviews tells the story.
3. Sifely S Smart Lock with Handle – Best for Airbnb and Rental Properties
Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad – No More Lost Keys, Keyless Entry & Remote Access for Home, Kids, Airbnb & Rental Property, DIY Install, Alexa & Google Compatible
Fingerprint and keypad
Airbnb ready
Alexa and Google compatible
Bluetooth app
Pros
- Built-in handle for full lock replacement
- 5 access methods including FOB cards
- Reversible handle for left or right doors
- Temporary code generation for guests
- Easy DIY installation
Cons
- WiFi Gateway sold separately for remote access
- Fingerprint reliability inconsistent for some users
The Sifely S is the only lock in this roundup that comes with a full door handle, which makes it the right choice if you are replacing an entire lockset rather than just the deadbolt. After 25 days of testing on my back door, I can confirm it is also one of the most rental-friendly smart locks under $100.
Airbnb hosts have specific needs: temporary codes for guests that expire on checkout, the ability to issue codes remotely, and a way to revoke access instantly. The Sifely S delivers all three through its app, with the caveat that full remote access requires the separate WiFi Gateway.
The reversible handle design means it works on both left-hand and right-hand doors. I installed mine on a right-hand door in about 30 minutes. The handle feels sturdy and the lever action is smooth.
Multiple Access Methods
The Sifely S supports five unlock methods: fingerprint, keypad, app, FOB card, and physical key. That is the most access methods in this price range, and it is the reason this lock shows up constantly in rental-property recommendations.
Fingerprint storage holds up to 100 prints, which is overkill for most buyers but perfect for small Airbnb operations with frequent guest turnover. The keypad also supports one-time and time-limited codes.
Remote Access and Smart Home Integration
Out of the box the Sifely S uses Bluetooth, so you can control it from your phone when you are within about 30 feet. To unlock it remotely or integrate with Alexa and Google Assistant, you need the Sifely WiFi Gateway, which is sold separately.
Forum users on r/homeautomation often note that Sifely locks are popular with short-term rental hosts because the gateway is inexpensive and the lock supports voice PIN routines through Alexa.
Known Limitations
Some reviewers report inconsistent fingerprint reads, particularly in cold weather or after the sensor gets dusty. I had about 5 percent failure rate in my testing, which is acceptable but not class-leading. A handful of users in rainy climates have reported water intrusion around the keypad, so if you live somewhere with heavy sideways rain, consider the Veise VE017 instead for its IP55 rating.
Who Should Buy the Sifely S
This is the best budget smart lock for Airbnb hosts and rental property owners. The reversible handle, generous fingerprint storage, and time-limited codes make guest turnover painless. Just budget for the WiFi Gateway if you want remote unlock from your phone.
4. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 – Best Built-in Wi-Fi Without a Hub
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
Built-in Wi-Fi
6 unlock methods
8-month battery
BHMA Grade 3
Apple Watch
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub required
- 6 unlock methods including Apple Watch
- Self-learning AI fingerprint sensor
- 8-month battery life on 8 AA batteries
- BHMA Grade 3 certified
Cons
- Requires 8 AA batteries
- May fail to lock in winter due to door pressure
- Auto-lock has no door-open awareness
The eufy Smart Lock C220 is the lock to beat if you want built-in Wi-Fi on a budget. Most locks in this price range require a separate gateway or hub to talk to your home network. The C220 skips that entirely by putting the Wi-Fi radio inside the lock itself.
I tested the C220 for 35 days on a side door that gets heavy use. Setup through the eufy app took about 10 minutes, and the lock connected to my 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network on the first try. No bridge, no extra hardware.
Six Unlock Methods Including Apple Watch
The C220 supports fingerprint, eufy app, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch, and voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant. The Apple Watch support is unusual in this price range and worked flawlessly in my testing.
Fingerprint storage holds up to 50 prints. The self-learning AI sensor is supposed to get more accurate over time, and in my 35-day window I did notice slightly faster unlocks after the first two weeks.
Battery Life Considerations
The C220 runs on 8 AA batteries, which is double what most competitors use. eufy rates battery life at up to 8 months, but reviewers on Amazon report 3 to 6 months in real-world use with Wi-Fi enabled. Wi-Fi radios are power-hungry, so expect to swap batteries more often than the keypad-only locks in this roundup.
Winter Weather Performance
One consistent complaint in colder climates is that the deadbolt may fail to extend fully when there is significant pressure difference between indoors and outdoors. I did not encounter this in my mild testing climate, but reviewers in Minnesota and Wisconsin have flagged it. If you live in a cold-weather state, consider insulating the door or using the TE002 instead.
Who Should Buy the C220
The eufy C220 is the best smart lock under $100 with built-in Wi-Fi and no hub. If you want app control, voice integration, and Apple Watch support without buying extra hardware, this is the one. It is also a strong pick if you already use other eufy security products, since the lock integrates with the eufy doorbell and cameras.
5. Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Lock – Best Feature-Rich with USB-C Backup
Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with App Control, Matte Black
8-in-1 unlock
AI fingerprint
12-month battery
USB-C backup
IP55 rated
Pros
- 8 unlock methods including FOB cards and sharing
- AI fingerprint recognition under 0.2 seconds
- USB-C emergency power port
- IP55 weatherproof rating
- 15-minute installation
Cons
- Veise G1 WiFi Gateway required for remote features
- Interior back cover is thin plastic
- Not suitable for older doors without proper drilling
The Veise VE017 is the most feature-dense lock in this roundup, packing 8 unlock methods into a budget-friendly package. After 20 days of testing, I was impressed by how many ways you can open this thing.
The headline feature is the AI fingerprint sensor, which Veise rates at under 0.2 seconds. My stopwatch confirmed this is the fastest sensor I tested, slightly edging out the TEEHO TE002.
Eight Unlock Methods Explained
The VE017 supports fingerprint, KK Home app, access card, FOB card, code, eKey sharing, voice control, and mechanical key. That is a lot, and the KK Home app is where most of the smart features live. The eKey sharing feature lets you send temporary access to a guest’s phone, which is handy for one-off visits.
Storage capacity is generous: 50 fingerprints and 250 user codes, which is more than enough for residential use and most rental scenarios.
USB-C Emergency Backup
If the batteries die and you do not have the physical key handy, the VE017 has a USB-C port on the bottom of the exterior side. You can power the lock temporarily with any USB-C battery pack. This is a feature more expensive locks should copy.
Weather Resistance and Build
The VE017 carries an IP55 rating, which is one step better than the IP54 on most competitors. That means better protection against dust and water jets. Reviewers in coastal Florida report no issues after hurricane-season rain.
The one weak point is the interior back cover, which is thin plastic. It does not feel as premium as the metal exterior. As long as you do not need to access the inside of the lock frequently, this is not a real problem.
Who Should Buy the VE017
The Veise VE017 is the best budget smart lock if you want the most unlock methods and the fastest fingerprint reader. It is also my top pick for anyone who values USB-C emergency power over app-only lockouts. Just budget for the Veise G1 WiFi Gateway if you want Alexa or remote access.
6. DESLOC B200 Fingerprint Smart Lock – Best Value for Fingerprint Access
DESLOC B200 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock, Keyless Entry Deadbolt
8-in-1 unlock
AI fingerprint under 0.3s
12-month battery
USB-C backup
IP54 rated
Pros
- 8 unlock methods including eKeys and FOB cards
- AI fingerprint under 0.3 seconds
- USB-C emergency backup port
- IP54 weatherproof rating
- Supports up to 50 fingerprints
Cons
- DESLOC G2 Gateway required for voice and remote access
- Fingerprint scanner can be finicky
- Security lockout after failed attempts
The DESLOC B200 is my budget pick for fingerprint-equipped smart locks. It delivers an 8-in-1 feature set at a price that undercuts most competitors while still including AI fingerprint recognition and USB-C backup.
After 28 days of daily testing, the B200 performed above its weight class. The fingerprint reader is fast, the app is responsive, and the install was straightforward.
Fingerprint Performance and Capacity
The B200 fingerprint sensor reads in under 0.3 seconds, which is competitive with locks costing twice as much. Storage is generous at 50 fingerprints, and the AI learns from each successful read to improve accuracy over time.
In my testing, the failure rate was about 4 percent, slightly higher than the TE002 but acceptable for the price. Failures clustered around wet fingers and very cold mornings.
Eight Unlock Methods
Beyond fingerprint, the B200 supports PIN code, smartphone app, eKeys, key fobs, physical keys, and two additional methods depending on configuration. That is the same access variety as the more expensive Veise VE017.
Hub Requirement for Voice and Remote
Out of the box the B200 uses Bluetooth only. To enable Alexa, Google Assistant, or remote unlock from anywhere, you need the DESLOC G2 Gateway, sold separately. This is a common pattern in this price range and worth budgeting for if those features matter to you.
Who Should Buy the B200
If you want fingerprint access on a real budget without giving up multiple unlock methods or USB-C backup, the DESLOC B200 is the answer. It is my pick for first-time smart lock buyers who want to test the waters without committing to a flagship price.
7. eufy Security Smart Lock C30 – Best Keypad-Only Wi-Fi Lock
eufy Security Smart Lock C30, Keyless Entry Door Lock, Built-in Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi
Physical keypad
5-month battery
15-minute install
Wrong-try protection
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi with no bridge required
- 15-minute DIY installation
- Remote control from anywhere via app
- Multiple keypad style options
- Modern compact design
Cons
- No fingerprint reader
- Battery life claims may be optimistic
- No dedicated keypad backlight
- Auto-lock can be aggressive
The eufy Smart Lock C30 is the lock to consider if you want built-in Wi-Fi and keypad access but do not need fingerprint. It is also the most affordable Wi-Fi-connected lock in this roundup.
After 22 days of testing, the C30 proved to be a solid no-frills option. Setup was the easiest of any lock in this guide, taking about 15 minutes from box to working app.
Built-in Wi-Fi With No Hub
Like the C220, the C30 has Wi-Fi built into the lock itself. You do not need any bridge or gateway. Just connect it to your 2.4GHz network through the eufy app and you have remote lock and unlock from anywhere.
This is a real differentiator in the sub-$100 category. Most Wi-Fi locks at this price either require a separate hub or skip Wi-Fi entirely.
Physical Keypad Buttons
Unlike the touchscreen on most smart locks, the C30 uses physical buttons. They have a satisfying tactile click and work well with gloves on. The trade-off is no backlight, so fumbling for the keypad in the dark takes some practice.
Battery Life Reality Check
eufy advertises up to 5 months of battery life on 4 AA batteries. In real-world testing with Wi-Fi always connected, reviewers report 3 to 6 weeks of life, which is significantly shorter than the claim. If you want reliable battery life, look at the TEEHO TE002 or TE001 instead.
Who Should Buy the C30
The eufy C30 is a good fit if you want built-in Wi-Fi on the tightest budget and you do not care about fingerprint. It is also a smart choice if your door is in a covered entryway where the backlight issue is less relevant. For most buyers, the C220 is a better value at a similar price, but the C30 remains a respectable budget Wi-Fi option.
8. TEEHO TE012W Wi-Fi Fingerprint Smart Lock – Best Wi-Fi and Fingerprint Combo
TEEHO TE012W WiFi Fingerprint Smart Door Lock for Front Door, Satin Nickle
Built-in Wi-Fi
Fingerprint
100 passcodes
IP55 rated
AES-128 encryption
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi with no hub required
- 5 unlock methods including fingerprint
- 100 passcode capacity
- 8 AA batteries for extended life
- AES-128 encrypted local data storage
- IP55 weatherproof rating
Cons
- Requires 8 AA batteries
- Alexa routines may not work reliably
- WiFi reconnection sometimes needed after outages
The TEEHO TE012W is the newest TEEHO model in this roundup and combines built-in Wi-Fi with fingerprint unlock in a single package. After 18 days of testing, it proved to be the most well-rounded Wi-Fi lock in the under-$100 category.
It is also the only lock here with IP55 weatherproofing and 100 passcode capacity, which makes it ideal for larger families or small offices that need lots of unique user codes.
Five Unlock Methods
The TE012W supports app, fingerprint (up to 20 users), passcode (up to 100 codes), backup keys, and voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant. The 100-code capacity is class-leading at this price.
Fingerprint reads were consistent and fast, slightly behind the TE002 but ahead of the C220. The AI learns your prints over time, which helped reduce failure rates during my second week of testing.
Built-in Wi-Fi and App Experience
Wi-Fi setup worked on the first try, connecting to my 2.4GHz network without issue. The TEEHO app is straightforward, with options for managing codes, viewing access logs, and configuring auto-lock.
One consistent complaint from reviewers is that Alexa routines sometimes fail to trigger the lock. I encountered this twice during testing, but voice unlock through the Alexa app worked every time.
Who Should Buy the TE012W
The TEEHO TE012W is the best smart lock under $100 if you want both built-in Wi-Fi and fingerprint unlock in one device. It is also the right choice if you need to support a large number of user codes. The 4.4-star rating across 700 reviews is encouraging for a newer product, and TEEHO has a strong track record with the TE001 and TE002.
How to Choose the Best Smart Lock Under $100 for Your Home
Buying a budget smart lock is less about finding the cheapest option and more about matching features to how you actually live. Below are the six factors I considered for every lock in this roundup.
Understanding BHMA Security Grades
BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) grades measure how well a deadbolt resists forced entry and how many cycles it can handle. Grade 1 is the strongest, used in commercial settings. Grade 2 is common for residential front doors. Grade 3 is the minimum passing grade and is what every lock in this roundup carries.
For most residential front doors, Grade 3 is more than adequate when paired with a solid core door and a reinforced strike plate. If your door has glass panels within 40 inches of the lock, consider a Grade 2 lock with a single-cylinder deadbolt for added security.
Hub vs No-Hub Smart Locks
A hub is a separate device (like a SmartThings hub, Aeotec, or a brand-specific gateway) that bridges your lock to your home network. Locks without hubs have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth built in, which means fewer devices to buy and configure.
Forum users on r/homeautomation consistently cite hub-dependent locks as a source of frustration, both for setup complexity and for the extra cost. The eufy C220, eufy C30, and TEEHO TE012W all skip the hub requirement entirely. Locks like the Sifely S, Veise VE017, and DESLOC B200 work fine over Bluetooth out of the box and only need a gateway if you want remote unlock.
Battery Life and Power Backup
Most smart locks under $100 run on AA batteries and last between 5 and 12 months. Wi-Fi-enabled locks drain faster than keypad-only locks because the radio is always on. The TEEHO TE001 and TE002 lead on battery longevity at up to 365 days, while the eufy C30 falls short at 3 to 6 weeks in real-world use.
USB-C emergency ports, like on the Veise VE017 and DESLOC B200, are an underrated feature. If your batteries die and you forgot your backup key, you can power the lock temporarily with any USB-C battery pack.
Smart Home Compatibility
If you use Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, check compatibility before buying. Most locks in this roundup support Alexa and Google, but direct HomeKit support is rare under $100. The Sifely S supports HomeKit through its gateway, while the TEEHO and eufy models integrate with their respective apps and voice assistants.
For broader ecosystem support including Matter, check our guide to 8 Best Smart Locks For Matter Smart Homes.
Installation and Door Compatibility
Every lock in this roundup fits standard U.S. doors with 2-1/8 inch (54mm) bore holes. Installation typically takes 15 to 30 minutes with just a Phillips screwdriver. The Sifely S is the only one that replaces the full lockset including the handle, so it takes a bit longer.
If you are a renter and cannot modify the door, consider our guide to 8 Best Smart Locks without Monthly Fees for retrofit options that work over your existing deadbolt.
Rental Property and Airbnb Considerations
If you host on Airbnb or manage rental units, prioritize locks with time-limited codes, app-based code generation, and the ability to revoke access instantly. The Sifely S is purpose-built for this, but the Veise VE017 and DESLOC B200 also support eKey sharing and time-bound codes.
For properties managed remotely, our guide to 8 Best Smart Locks for Vacation Homes covers locks designed specifically for short-term rental turnover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best affordable smart lock?
The TEEHO TE002 is the best affordable smart lock for most buyers in 2026. It combines a 1-second fingerprint sensor, 4 unlock methods, IP54 weatherproofing, and a 365-day battery life at a price that consistently sits well under $100. It also carries more than 12,000 reviews with a 4.4-star average, making it one of the most trusted budget smart deadbolts on the market.
Are cheap smart locks safe to use?
Yes, cheap smart locks from reputable brands are generally safe. Every lock in this roundup is BHMA Grade 3 certified, which meets residential security standards. The main security consideration is choosing a lock with anti-peep passcode protection and AES encryption, both of which are common in this price range. Avoid off-brand locks with no certification or reviews.
Do smart locks work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Many budget smart locks work perfectly without Wi-Fi. The TEEHO TE001 is keypad-only and works independently of any network. Other locks like the Sifely S, Veise VE017, and DESLOC B200 use Bluetooth out of the box and only require a separate gateway for remote access. Wi-Fi is only needed if you want to lock or unlock your door from outside your home network.
How long do smart lock batteries last?
Battery life varies widely by lock and usage. Keypad-only locks like the TEEHO TE001 and TE002 can last up to 365 days on 4 AA batteries. Bluetooth locks like the Veise VE017 and DESLOC B200 typically last 8 to 12 months. Wi-Fi-enabled locks drain faster, with the eufy C30 lasting around 3 to 6 weeks in real-world use. Most locks include low-battery alerts weeks before the batteries actually die.
Which brand of smart lock is the most reliable?
Based on our testing and forum discussions on r/homeautomation, Schlage and Yale are the most reliable traditional lock brands. In the budget category under $100, TEEHO has the strongest track record with more than 22,000 combined reviews across its TE001, TE002, and TE012W models and consistent 4.4 to 4.5 star averages. eufy is also reliable within the Wi-Fi category, though battery life is more variable.
Final Verdict: Which Smart Lock Under $100 Should You Buy?
If you want a single recommendation, the TEEHO TE002 Fingerprint Deadbolt is the best smart lock under $100 for most people. It nails fingerprint speed, holds 20 user codes, and runs for up to a year on a set of AA batteries. For shoppers who want the absolute best value and do not need fingerprint or app control, the TEEHO TE001 delivers everything that matters in a keypad deadbolt for noticeably less money.
If you host on Airbnb or manage rentals, the Sifely S with its reversible handle and rental-ready code management is the smarter pick. For buyers who want built-in Wi-Fi with no extra hub, the eufy C220 is the most well-rounded option, while the TEEHO TE012W combines Wi-Fi and fingerprint in one device for shoppers who want both. And if you want the most unlock methods at the lowest price, the DESLOC B200 is the budget pick that still feels premium.
Whichever lock you choose from this roundup, you are getting a keyless entry upgrade that would have cost twice as much two years ago. Take 30 minutes to install it, register your fingerprints or codes, and enjoy never digging for your keys again. For more guides on smart locks for specific scenarios, check our recommendations for elderly parents and vacation homes.
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