Upgrading to a smart lock is one of the best ways to improve your home’s convenience and security. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one for your Calgary home?
As a certified, full-service locksmith company, Super G&R – Locksmith In Calgary has expert technicians who install and service the industry’s top brands. We’ve seen what works, what lasts, and what’s worth the investment—especially in our challenging Alberta climate. Here is our research-backed comparison of the best smart lock brands to help you decide.
At a Glance: The Best Smart Lock For You
- Best Overall Security: Schlage
- Best for Renters & Easy Upgrades: August
- Best All-Around & Smart Home Integration: Yale
- Best for Multiple Entry Options (Fingerprint): Ultraloq
- Best for High-End Design & Customization: Emtek
- Best Value & Re-Keying Convenience: Kwikset
In-Depth Brand Comparison
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the top brands we professionally install, blending our hands-on experience with current market research.
1. Schlage
- Our Summary: Security & Unmatched Durability
- Top Model: Schlage Encode Plus
- Why We Trust It: When your number one priority is security, Schlage is the industry leader. Many of their smart locks, including the Encode Plus, boast an ANSI Grade 1 certification—the highest possible security rating, typically reserved for commercial buildings. This means it’s built to withstand serious forced entry attempts.
- Research Confirms: The hardware is exceptionally durable, with drill-resistant plates and solid construction. The Encode Plus is a favorite for Apple users due to its seamless Apple HomeKey support (just tap your Watch or iPhone to unlock), but it works great with Alexa and Google Home, too.
2. Yale
- Our Summary: Cold Weather Reliability & Broad Integration
- Top Models: Assure Lock 2, Nest x Yale Lock
- Why We Trust It: Yale offers the best balance of robust security (most models are ANSI Grade 2), smart features, and reliability. The Assure Lock 2 is consistently rated one of the “best for most people” because it’s compatible with everything (including Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google, and Matter) and has a sleek, modern design.
- Research Confirms: Your information on cold weather is spot on. The Assure Lock 2 is rated to operate in temperatures as low as -22°F (-30°C), making it a top choice for Calgary homes where other touchscreens might fail.
3. August
- Our Summary: Best for Upgrading Existing Hardware
- Top Model: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- Why We Trust It: August’s genius is its “retrofit” design. It’s the only lock on this list that installs on the inside of your door, replacing your existing thumbturn. This means you can keep your original door handle and, most importantly, your original keys.
- Research Confirms: This makes it the undisputed champion for renters or anyone who wants a “stealth” smart lock. Because the main component is indoors, it’s also completely weatherproof. Its app is consistently praised for top-tier features like geofencing (auto-unlock as you approach) and easy guest access.
4. Ultraloq
- Our Summary: Feature-Rich & Great for Families
- Top Models: U-Bolt Pro, Bolt Fingerprint
- Why We Trust It: If you want every possible way to unlock your door, Ultraloq delivers. This brand is for the user who wants features, features, and more features.
- Research Confirms: Ultraloq is consistently rated “Best for Fingerprinting.” The U-Bolt Pro is a 6-in-1 lock, offering access via a highly accurate fingerprint scanner, a keypad (with an anti-peek “decoy code” feature), a smartphone app, auto-unlock, and a physical backup key.
5. Kwikset
- Our Summary: Patented Re-Keying & Great Value
- Top Models: Halo, SmartCode
- Why We Trust It: Kwikset’s standout feature is its patented SmartKey technology. This allows you to re-key the lock yourself in seconds, without a locksmith. This is a massive benefit for new homeowners, landlords, or if you ever lose a key.
- Research Confirms: Kwikset offers fantastic value, packing features like Wi-Fi and 250 user codes into a very competitive price point. While its security is good, security experts generally agree that Schlage’s core construction is more resistant to brute-force attacks.
6. Emtek
- Our Summary: High-End Style & Total Customization
- Top Model: Emtek EMTouch Deadbolt
- Why We Trust It: Emtek is the “designer” choice. This brand is for when the lock is a statement piece for your home. You’re not just buying a lock; you’re buying heavy, solid-forged brass hardware.
- Research Confirms: Emtek offers extensive customization with dozens of finishes and styles to match any home’s aesthetic. Under the hood, Emtek often partners with the best in the business, using the smart technology of August or Yale. This gives you the best of both worlds: luxury, designer-grade hardware on the outside and proven, top-tier smart technology on the inside.
Comparison: Which Smart Lock Should You Buy?
| Brand | Key Strength | Security (General) | Best For… |
| Schlage | Unmatched Security & Durability | Highest (ANSI Grade 1) | Security-First Homeowners |
| Yale | Broad Integration & Reliability | High (ANSI Grade 2) | All-Around Smart Homes, Cold Weather |
| August | Retrofit (Keeps Your Keys) | Uses Your Existing Lock | Renters, Easy Installation, Discreet |
| Ultraloq | Multi-Function Access (Fingerprint) | Good | Families, Users Wanting Options |
| Kwikset | Value & SmartKey Re-Keying | Good (ANSI Grade 1-2) | Budget-Conscious, Landlords |
| Emtek | Luxury Design & Customization | High (Uses Yale/August Tech) | Design-Focused Homes |
Your Local Smart Lock Experts in Calgary
There is no single “best” lock, only the best lock for your needs.
Need help deciding? As a certified and experienced locksmith company, Super G&R – Locksmith In Calgary provides professional smart lock installation and setup. We ensure your new lock is installed correctly for maximum security and convenience, giving you total peace of mind.