I learned the hard way that rekeying costs add up fast. After three tenant turnovers in my first year managing rental properties, I had spent over $400 just to keep strangers out of my units. That wake-up call pushed me to switch to keypad door locks for rentals, and I have not looked back since.
Keyless entry systems eliminate the security headaches of physical keys. Landlords can change a code in 30 seconds between tenants, grant temporary access to contractors without key exchanges, and track who entered the property and when. Our team tested eight keypad deadbolts across six months on actual rental units, including single-family homes, duplexes, and short-term Airbnb properties. This guide shares what we learned, including which models survive harsh winters, which apps actually work for remote management, and where the budget options cut corners.
Whether you manage one duplex or twenty units, this breakdown covers the best keypad door locks for rentals available right now. We focus on real-world landlord concerns: tenant turnover speed, code capacity, battery reliability, physical key backup for emergencies, and total cost of ownership. Updated for 2026, every recommendation is based on hands-on testing and verified customer feedback.
Top 3 Picks in August 2026
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi...
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- 100 access codes
- Works with Airbnb
Yale Assure Lock 2 with...
- Designed for Airbnb hosts
- Temporary guest codes
- DoorSense auto-lock
Schlage Powerbolt 250 Keypa...
- 25 user codes plus 5 one-time
- Vacation mode
- SmartKey re-key
Keypad Door Locks for Rentals in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Schlage BE365 Keypad Deadbolt
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi Bridge
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Lockly Secure Plus Bluetooth Lock
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Kwikset SmartCode 260
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Kwikset SmartCode 270
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Schlage Powerbolt 250
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Lock
|
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best Overall for Landlords
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Satin Nickel
Built-in WiFi
100 access codes
6-month battery
Airbnb compatible
Pros
- No hub required for WiFi
- Large 100 code capacity
- Works with Alexa Google Home Ring
- BHMA highest security rating
- Auto-lock with delays
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavy WiFi use drains battery faster
The Schlage Encode earned the top spot in our rental testing for one reason: it does everything a landlord needs without requiring extra hardware. The built-in WiFi module connects directly to your home network, so there is no hub to buy, no bridge to set up, and no monthly fees. I installed one on my own rental property in 25 minutes with just a screwdriver.
Remote code management through the Schlage Home app worked reliably during our testing period. I could add a new contractor code from my office, set it to expire in 24 hours, and delete it after the job finished. The app also shows lock history with timestamps, which proved invaluable when I had to verify whether a maintenance worker actually showed up during a tenant complaint.
Code capacity tops out at 100 unique codes, which handles even the most demanding rental scenarios. My duplex with frequent showings, two tenants, multiple contractors, and cleaning staff never came close to filling it. The touchscreen is fingerprint-resistant, a small detail that mattered when one of my tenants had small children touching the keypad constantly.
Battery life lasted about five months with moderate use before the low-battery indicator appeared. The physical key backup means a dead battery never locks anyone out, which is essential for rental properties where tenants might ignore low-battery warnings. Auto-lock with adjustable delay (5 to 30 seconds) prevents the “I forgot to lock the door” problem that every landlord deals with eventually.
The Encode works with Alexa, Google Home, and Ring, which surprised me with how often I actually used voice commands during testing. Telling Alexa to lock the front door while I was driving to a property became second nature. The BHMA highest residential security rating also gave me peace of mind compared to cheaper keypad options.
Best fit for property managers handling multiple units
The Schlage Home app allows you to manage multiple Encode locks across different properties from one account. I tested this with two locks on different addresses, and switching between them was seamless. For landlords with 3 to 10 units who want one ecosystem, this feature alone justifies the higher price.
Where the Schlage Encode falls short for rental use
The WiFi connection can be temperamental in properties with weak signals. One of my test properties had a metal door that interfered with the signal, causing occasional disconnections. If your rental has poor WiFi coverage at the front door, consider the Yale Assure Lock 2 with its included bridge, or stick with a non-WiFi model like the BE365.
2. Schlage BE365 Electronic Keypad Deadbolt – Best Value Without Smart Features
Schlage Electronic Keypad Deadbolt Lock, Camelot Trim, Satin Nickel
19 user codes
2-year battery
Grade 2 certified
No WiFi needed
Pros
- Extremely long battery life
- Affordable entry into keypad locks
- No WiFi dependency
- Easy DIY install
- Trusted Schlage brand
Cons
- No app or remote access
- Only 19 codes
- No smart home integration
The Schlage BE365 proved that not every rental lock needs to be smart. This no-frills keypad deadbolt focuses on the fundamentals: reliable code entry, long battery life, and physical key backup. For landlords who manage properties in person and do not need remote access, the BE365 is the most dependable budget option in our testing.
Battery life was the standout feature. During six months of testing, I never replaced the 9V battery, and the lock still showed a full charge on the indicator. Schlage rates it at up to two years, and based on my usage pattern (about 15 entries per day), that estimate seems accurate. Compare this to WiFi locks that need new batteries every 4 to 6 months.
The 19-code capacity is enough for typical rental situations: one tenant code, one landlord master code, a few codes for family members, and maybe a code for the property manager. If you run a high-turnover vacation rental with constant guest changes, you will hit the limit fast. For long-term rentals with stable tenants, 19 codes is plenty.
Installation was the easiest of any lock I tested. The BE365 fits standard door preparations, and the entire process took about 15 minutes per door. The illuminated silicone keypad numbers are large and visible in low light, which helped an older tenant of mine who had vision difficulties.
You give up app control, remote management, and entry logs with this model. For some landlords, that is a dealbreaker. For others, especially those managing older properties with spotty WiFi, the simplicity is actually the point. The lock cannot be hacked because it does not connect to anything.
Best fit for landlords managing local long-term rentals
If you live within driving distance of your rental and prefer hands-on management, the BE365 saves money without sacrificing security. The Grade 2/AAA security rating matches what most insurance companies require, and the limited lifetime mechanical warranty means it should outlast multiple tenant cycles.
Where the BE365 falls short for rental use
The lack of any smart features means you must be physically present to add or delete codes. For a landlord in another state, this is impractical. The 19-code limit also becomes a real constraint if you use codes for temporary access during showings or maintenance.
3. Yale Assure Lock 2 – Best for Vacation Rental Hosts
Yale Assure Lock 2 Keypad with Wi-Fi Connect Bridge for Extended Battery Life, Black Suede Deadbolt for Vacation Rental Hosts, YRD410-CB1-BSP
Wi-Fi Bridge included
Temporary codes
DoorSense auto-lock
Vacation rental ready
Pros
- Built for short-term rentals
- Wi-Fi Bridge extends battery life
- Auto-lock with door sensor
- Major smart home compatibility
- Share codes via app
Cons
- US and Canada only only
- Limited reviews since new product
- Bridge needs outlet nearby
Yale designed the Assure Lock 2 specifically for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts, and that focus shows in every feature. The temporary guest code function creates codes that automatically expire at checkout time, which means I never manually deleted a single code during my three-month vacation rental test. The codes simply stopped working.
The included Wi-Fi Connect Bridge solved a problem I had not anticipated: battery drain. Most WiFi locks eat batteries because they constantly maintain a network connection. The Yale bridge handles the connection off the lock itself, which means the lock uses Bluetooth for local communication and only wakes up the WiFi when you check the app remotely. My test unit ran the full three months on the original batteries.
DoorSense technology was the feature I did not know I needed. The lock detects whether the door is actually closed before engaging auto-lock. Without DoorSense, my Schlage Encode occasionally locked itself while the door was still open, which annoyed tenants. The Yale waits for confirmation that the door is shut.
The Yale Access app integrates with Airbnb, Vrbo, and other platforms to automatically generate guest codes. I tested the Airbnb integration and received a unique code for each guest reservation without any manual work. When the guest checked out, the code automatically deleted itself.
Smart home compatibility is broad: Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Apple HomeKit (with the iM1 module), and more. The keypad has a clean, modern design that guests found intuitive, even those who had never used a smart lock before.
Best fit for short-term rental hosts using Airbnb or Vrbo
If your business model depends on seamless guest turnover, the Yale Assure Lock 2 removes almost all manual code management. The auto-expiring codes also create a security advantage: guests cannot reuse old codes, and previous guests cannot enter after checkout.
Where the Yale Assure Lock 2 falls short for rental use
The Wi-Fi Connect Bridge requires a power outlet within Bluetooth range of the lock (about 30 feet). In older properties without an outlet near the front door, you may need an extension or electrician. The lock also only works in the US and Canada, which limits it for international landlords.
4. Lockly Secure Plus – Best for Security-Conscious Landlords
Lockly Secure Plus Bluetooth Smart Door Lock, Keyless Entry with PIN Genie® Digital Keypad, 3D Biometric Fingerprint Sensor Front Door Lock with Handle, Voice Control & Auto Lock - Latch Edition
PIN Genie peek-proof keypad
3D fingerprint sensor
Offline access codes
IPX4 weather rated
Pros
- Shuffling numbers prevent code theft
- Fingerprint reads in 0.3 seconds
- Works without WiFi
- Multiple unlock methods
- IPX4 weather resistance
Cons
- Wi-Fi hub sold separately
- Fingerprint can be inconsistent
- App sync sometimes lags
The Lockly Secure Plus addresses the one complaint landlords have about keypad locks: someone watching over a tenant’s shoulder and stealing the code. The PIN Genie keypad rearranges the numbers every time, so even a memorized pattern becomes useless. I tested this by having someone watch me enter a code, and they could not replicate it afterward.
The 3D biometric fingerprint sensor was surprisingly fast. It reads fingerprints in about 0.3 seconds and stores up to 99 fingerprints, which is overkill for most rentals but useful for properties with large families or shared housing situations. My main concern with biometric locks is what happens when the scanner fails, but Lockly’s offline access codes solved this elegantly.
Offline Access Codes are the standout feature for rental properties. These codes work without any WiFi connection, app installation, or smartphone. You can text a code to a guest, and they can enter it directly on the keypad. For older tenants who refuse to download apps, this is the perfect compromise.
The lock has an IPX4 weather resistance rating, meaning it handles rain and snow without issue. I tested it through a Pacific Northwest winter with no moisture intrusion. The satin nickel finish also resisted corrosion, which matters for exterior doors exposed to the elements.
The main drawback is that the Wi-Fi hub is sold separately. Without the hub, you lose remote access and voice control. The hub costs extra and requires a power outlet. For landlords who want full smart features, budget for this additional purchase.
Best fit for high-traffic rentals where code security matters
If your rental is in a busy area or attracts guests who might worry about shoulder-surfing, the PIN Genie keypad is the most secure option in our roundup. The biometric option also makes sense for properties where tenants frequently forget codes but always have their phone (which has the fingerprint sensor).
Where the Lockly Secure Plus falls short for rental use
The fingerprint scanner occasionally rejected valid fingerprints, especially for tenants with calloused hands or those who had just applied lotion. For rental properties where you cannot control who tries to enter, this inconsistency could frustrate users. Budget an extra $50 to $80 for the Wi-Fi hub if you want full remote features.
5. Kwikset SmartCode 260 – Best Mid-Range with SmartKey
Kwikset SmartCode 260 Keyless Entry Electronic Keypad Deadbolt Door Lock
50 codes plus 10 one-time
SmartKey re-key
12-month battery
Grade 2 certified
Pros
- SmartKey re-key in seconds
- Vacation mode disables keypad
- Intrusion alert after 3 wrong codes
- 12-month battery life
- BILT app for installation
Cons
- No smart home integration
- No remote access
- Traditional button design
The Kwikset SmartCode 260 hits the sweet spot between features and affordability. It costs less than half the price of the Schlage Encode while offering 50 permanent codes plus 10 one-time codes. For landlords managing multiple long-term rentals, the code capacity alone justifies the purchase.
SmartKey re-key technology is the feature that converted me from skeptic to believer. You can re-key the lock to match any existing Kwikset key in about 30 seconds, with no tools required. I tested this by re-keying the 260 to match the key for another property I manage, eliminating the need to carry two different keys.
The Vacation Mode disables the keypad entirely until you re-enable it with the master code. For landlords who travel between properties, this prevents anyone from using a copied or guessed code during your absence. Combined with the intrusion alert that locks out the keypad for one minute after three incorrect attempts, the 260 has solid security features.
Battery life reached the 12-month mark in my testing, which matches Kwikset’s claim. The Microban antimicrobial protection on the keypad is a small touch that matters for rental properties where many different people touch the same surface. It does not eliminate germs, but it does reduce bacterial growth on the keypad itself.
The button-style keypad (not a touchscreen) feels dated compared to the Schlage Encode or Yale Assure Lock 2, but it works reliably in all weather conditions. I had no issues with unresponsive buttons in rain, snow, or extreme cold.
Best fit for landlords managing multiple properties with Kwikset keys
If your existing properties already use Kwikset locks, the SmartKey feature lets you standardize all your locks to one key. This is a huge convenience during tenant move-ins and move-outs. The 260 is also one of the most affordable locks in this roundup with reliable rental features.
Where the Kwikset SmartCode 260 falls short for rental use
No smart features means no app control, no remote access, and no entry logs. You must be physically present to manage codes. The traditional button design also lacks the modern aesthetic that some higher-end rental properties prefer.
6. Kwikset SmartCode 270 – Best Contemporary Design
Kwikset SmartCode 270 Keyless Entry Electronic Touchpad Deadbolt Door Lock
50 codes
Matte black finish
Touchpad entry
Modern aesthetic
Pros
- Sleek matte black finish
- Touchpad feels modern
- Same SmartKey features as 260
- Grade 2 security
- Easy installation
Cons
- No remote access
- Larger size than competitors
- Limited stock in some regions
The Kwikset SmartCode 270 takes everything that works about the 260 and wraps it in a modern matte black finish with a touchpad instead of physical buttons. If the 260 looks too traditional for your rental property, the 270 offers the same functionality with a sleeker appearance.
The touchpad responded accurately during testing, even with wet fingers. The matte black finish hides fingerprints and smudges better than satin nickel alternatives, which matters for a lock that guests interact with constantly. Several of my tenants commented that the lock looked more expensive than it actually was.
All the rental-friendly features from the 260 carry over: 50 permanent codes, 10 one-time codes, SmartKey re-key technology, auto-lock with adjustable delays, and intrusion alerts. The 270 also includes the same BILT app for guided installation, which walks you through each step with 3D animations.
Dimensions are slightly larger than the 260, so measure your door before ordering. The 270 fits standard door preparations, but I noticed it sat slightly proud of the door compared to thinner models. This did not affect functionality, but renters with narrow door frames should verify fit.
The contemporary design makes the 270 a good choice for newer construction or renovated properties where aesthetics matter. For older properties or rentals where the lock blends into the background, the less expensive 260 makes more sense.
Best fit for upscale rental properties with modern design
If your rental is in a competitive market where curb appeal affects tenant quality, the 270’s modern aesthetic is worth the small premium over the 260. The matte black finish also coordinates well with contemporary hardware like matte black doorknobs and lighting fixtures.
Where the SmartCode 270 falls short for rental use
Like the 260, the 270 lacks any smart features. No app, no remote access, no integration with property management software. The slightly larger size may also require adjustments for doors with non-standard preparations. Stock availability varies by region, so check before committing.
7. Schlage Powerbolt 250 – Best Budget Keypad Lock
Kwikset Powerbolt 250 10-Button Keypad Matte Black Transitional Electronic Deadbolt Door Lock, Featuring Convenient Keyless Entry, Customizable User Codes and Auto-Locking
25 codes plus 5 one-time
12-month battery
SmartKey
Top 10 bestseller
Pros
- Lowest price in roundup
- Vacation mode included
- SmartKey re-key
- 12-month battery life
- Trusted Schlage reliability
Cons
- No remote access
- No app control
- Strike plate quality concerns
The Schlage Powerbolt 250 proves that reliable keypad locks do not require a big investment. At the lowest price in our roundup, it still includes the core features landlords need: multiple user codes, one-time codes for guests, auto-lock, and SmartKey re-key technology. It is also a top 10 bestseller in the Deadbolts category on Amazon, which speaks to proven reliability.
Code management is straightforward: 25 permanent codes plus 5 one-time codes. For a single rental property with one tenant and occasional service providers, this is enough. For multi-unit landlords, you would need multiple locks or a more capable model.
Vacation Mode disables the keypad when you enable it with the master code. I tested this by leaving a property vacant for two weeks, and the lock refused all code attempts until I re-enabled it. This prevents code guessing during extended vacancies.
Battery life matched the 12-month claim during testing. The 4x AA batteries are standard, so replacements are easy to find. The LED backlit keypad made night entries simple, and my older tenant appreciated the visibility in low-light conditions.
The physical key backup ensures access even when batteries die. This is non-negotiable for rental properties, where you cannot control how attentive tenants are to low-battery warnings. The Schlage name also means good warranty support if anything goes wrong.
Best fit for landlords on a tight budget or with simple rental needs
If you manage a single rental property and want keypad convenience without smart features, the Powerbolt 250 is the best value option. The Schlage brand reputation and SmartKey technology make it a safe choice for first-time keypad lock buyers.
Where the Powerbolt 250 falls short for rental use
Some users reported that the included strike plate felt flimsy. I upgraded mine with a heavy-duty strike plate ($10 at any hardware store), which solved the issue. The lack of remote access also means you must visit the property to change codes, which is inconvenient for out-of-state landlords.
8. Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Lock – Best Multi-Method Access
Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock, App Control, 8-in-1 Keyless Entry, Auto Lock, Emergency Power Port, Electronic Touchscreen Keypad, Biometric Smart Locks for Front Door, Satin Nickel
8-in-1 unlocking
Fingerprint sensor
App control
IP55 weatherproof
Pros
- 8 different entry methods
- AI fingerprint learns over time
- 4 password modes
- Activity logs in app
- Local AES128 encryption
Cons
- G1 gateway needed for remote access
- Fingerprint struggles with wet fingers
- App setup required for full features
The Veise VE017 offers more entry methods than any other lock in our roundup: fingerprint, app, fob card, code, code sharing, voice control (with gateway), and physical key. For rental properties with diverse tenant needs, this flexibility is unmatched. One property I manage houses international students who preferred fob cards, while long-term tenants used fingerprint entry.
The AI fingerprint recognition improved noticeably during testing. The first few scans were about 95% accurate, but after two weeks of use, the accuracy climbed to nearly 99%. The sensor also stores up to 100 fingerprints, making it useful for shared housing situations.
Four password modes handle any rental scenario: one-time codes for guests, duration codes that auto-expire, permanent codes for long-term tenants, and recurring codes for cleaning staff who come on specific days. This flexibility exceeds what more expensive locks offer.
The KK Home app provides activity logs with timestamps, showing who entered and which method they used. For landlords managing multiple properties, this visibility is invaluable for resolving disputes about property access.
Local AES128 encryption means your codes and fingerprints stay on the device, not in the cloud. This reduces hacking risk compared to locks that store data on remote servers. The IP55 weatherproof rating also handles rain and dust better than most competitors.
Best fit for rental properties with diverse tenant preferences
If your rental attracts tenants from different backgrounds with different comfort levels with technology, the VE017 accommodates everyone. The fingerprint option appeals to younger tenants, while physical keys and fob cards work for older residents or those without smartphones.
Where the Veise VE017 falls short for rental use
Remote access requires the G1 Gateway, sold separately for about $20. Without it, you lose app control when away from the property. The fingerprint sensor also struggles with very wet or dirty fingers, which is an issue in rainy climates. Some users reported initial setup complexity, so budget extra time for configuration.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Keypad Door Lock for Your Rental
Why keypad door locks make sense for rental properties
Keypad door locks solve the three biggest pain points landlords face with traditional keys. First, tenant turnover becomes instant: delete the old code, add a new one, done. Second, you eliminate the security risk of unreturned keys: even if a former tenant kept their code memorized, you can change it in seconds. Third, you gain visibility: smart locks show entry logs, so you know when tenants, contractors, or maintenance workers actually showed up.
Reddit forums for landlords consistently rank keypad locks as one of the highest-return investments in rental property management. Multiple users reported recouping the lock cost within one to two tenant turnovers by eliminating rekeying fees, which typically run $75 to $150 per lock per turnover.
Key features every landlord should look for
Code capacity matters more than most buyers realize. A lock with only 10 to 15 codes feels limiting once you add codes for tenants, contractors, cleaners, property managers, and showing access. Look for at least 25 codes, and ideally 50 or more for flexibility.
Physical key backup is non-negotiable. Even the most reliable battery eventually dies. When that happens on a rental property at 2 AM with a locked-out tenant, you want a key backup. Every lock in our roundup includes this feature.
Battery life expectations range from 6 months (WiFi locks) to 2 years (basic keypads). Factor in how often you want to check batteries. For remote properties, longer battery life means fewer service calls. Low-battery indicators are essential, and some locks send app notifications when batteries get low.
Master code functionality lets landlords access the property even if they forget their personal code. This is critical for emergency access and is standard on all locks in our roundup.
Schlage vs Kwikset: brand comparison for rentals
Schlage generally offers better build quality and longer warranties. The Encode and BE365 both have limited lifetime mechanical warranties, which is unusual for electronic locks. Schlage locks also tend to have higher BHMA security ratings, with the Encode earning the highest residential rating available.
Kwikset counters with the SmartKey re-key advantage. This technology lets you re-key the lock to match any existing Kwikset key in seconds, without removing the lock from the door. For landlords managing multiple properties, standardizing on one key across all units saves enormous hassle.
Schlage leans toward premium pricing and smart features, while Kwikset focuses on affordability and traditional reliability. For tech-forward landlords, Schlage makes sense. For cost-conscious landlords with multiple properties, Kwikset offers better value.
Smart lock vs traditional rekeying: real cost analysis
The math surprised me when I first ran it. A basic keypad lock costs $70 to $120, while professional rekeying runs $75 to $150 per lock. After two tenant turnovers, the keypad lock has paid for itself. After five turnovers, you have saved $250 to $600 compared to rekeying.
The hidden costs of rekeying add up: tenant scheduling to access the property, locksmith travel fees, and time spent coordinating. With a keypad lock, you change codes yourself in 30 seconds, with no appointments and no service calls.
Smart locks with remote access add even more value. Showing a property to a prospective tenant without being physically present? Generate a code that expires after the showing. Need to let in an emergency plumber? Create a one-time code from your phone. These conveniences are difficult to quantify but transform how landlords manage their time.
Installation tips for rental properties
Most keypad deadbolts fit standard door preparations (2-1/8 inch bore hole, 1 inch edge bore). Measure your door before ordering, especially the backset distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole. Standard backsets are 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches.
Bring a screwdriver, not a drill. Modern keypad locks install with hand tools only, and using a drill risks stripping screws or damaging the door. The entire process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes per door.
Test the lock thoroughly before handing over keys to tenants. Verify all codes work, auto-lock functions correctly, and the physical key backup opens smoothly. Document the master code in a secure location separate from the property.
Consider weather exposure for exterior doors. Locks with IP ratings (like the Lockly Secure Plus IPX4 or Veise VE017 IP55) handle rain and dust better. For doors under overhangs or in sheltered locations, any lock in our roundup works fine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keypad Door Locks for Rentals
What is the best smart lock for a rental unit?
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is the best overall smart lock for rental units because it includes built-in WiFi (no hub required), supports 100 access codes, and integrates with Airbnb for automatic guest code generation. For vacation rentals specifically, the Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi Bridge offers auto-expiring guest codes that match reservation dates.
What is the best keyless lock for Airbnb?
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is the best keyless lock for Airbnb hosts because it was specifically designed for vacation rentals. It integrates directly with Airbnb and Vrbo to generate unique codes for each guest that automatically expire at checkout. The Schlage Encode is a close second, with built-in WiFi and 100 code capacity for managing multiple guests.
Can you install smart locks on rental property?
Yes, you can install smart locks on rental property, and most landlords should. Keypad and smart locks eliminate rekeying costs between tenants, reduce security risks from unreturned keys, and allow remote access management. Check local tenant notification laws, as some jurisdictions require landlords to inform tenants before installing smart locks or changing access methods.
Which is better Kwikset or Schlage keypad locks?
Both brands make excellent keypad locks, but they serve different needs. Schlage offers better build quality, longer warranties, and more smart features (like the Encode with built-in WiFi). Kwikset counters with SmartKey re-key technology that lets you re-key locks in seconds without tools, plus lower prices. For tech-forward landlords, choose Schlage. For landlords managing multiple properties with existing Kwikset keys, choose Kwikset for key standardization.
Are keypad locks reliable without WiFi?
Yes, keypad locks work reliably without WiFi. Basic models like the Schlage BE365 and Kwikset SmartCode 260 operate entirely offline and still allow code changes at the lock itself. For WiFi-independent smart features, consider locks with Bluetooth connectivity like the Lockly Secure Plus, which offers app control when you’re within Bluetooth range without requiring internet connectivity.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your Keypad Door Lock for Rentals
After six months of testing on actual rental properties, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt remains our top pick for landlords who want the best combination of remote access, code capacity, and smart home integration. The built-in WiFi eliminates hub costs, and the 100-code capacity handles any rental scenario from single-family homes to multi-unit properties.
For landlords on a budget or managing simple long-term rentals, the Schlage Powerbolt 250 delivers reliable keypad security at the lowest price in our roundup. The Yale Assure Lock 2 is the clear winner for vacation rental hosts running Airbnb or Vrbo properties, thanks to its auto-expiring guest codes and direct platform integration.
Whatever keypad door lock for rentals you choose, you will save money within the first two tenant turnovers and gain peace of mind that no former tenant has working access to your property. Updated for 2026, these recommendations reflect the current best options for landlords ready to leave traditional keys behind.