TL;DR:
Smart locks have become essential for Airbnb hosts, offering convenience, security, and contactless check-ins. This article explores the best smart locks for Airbnb properties, discussing their features, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your rental. We also cover installation tips, guest instructions, and how Guesty’s Locks Manager can improve your hosting experience.
In the ever-evolving world of short-term rentals, smart keyless door locks have become a game-changer for Airbnb hosts. These innovative devices not only enhance security but also provide a seamless, contactless check-in experience for guests. As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the demand for touchless solutions in the hospitality industry continues to grow, making smart locks an indispensable tool for modern Airbnb management.
The Evolution of Airbnb Access Control
Gone are the days of traditional lock-and-key systems. Today’s Airbnb hosts are embracing smart door locks for their properties, recognizing the numerous benefits they offer. These keyless door locks for Airbnb not only eliminate the hassle of lost keys but also provide hosts with unprecedented control and flexibility in managing property access.
Why Smart Locks are a Smart Choice
The best smart locks offer a host of benefits that make managing access more convenient and secure. With remote access management, hosts can grant or revoke entry from anywhere at any time. Unique access codes provide added security by allowing the creation of temporary codes for each guest. They also enable easy, contactless check-ins, ensuring a hassle-free arrival experience. Activity monitoring adds another layer of control by keeping track of who enters and exits the property. Additionally, smart locks can integrate seamlessly with smart home systems, enhancing overall property automation and convenience.
Choosing the Best Smart Lock for Your Airbnb
When selecting a smart keyless door lock for your Airbnb property, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility with your door type
- Ease of installation and use
- Battery life and power backup options
- Connectivity features (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave)
- Integration with property management software
- Guest-friendly interface
- Security features and encryption
Installation and Setup
Most smart locks can be installed in under an hour with basic tools. However, it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with your door before purchase. Many hosts opt for professional installation to guarantee proper functioning and integration with existing systems.
Educating Your Guests
While smart locks offer convenience, not all guests may be familiar with the technology. Provide clear, concise instructions on how to use the lock, including:
- Downloading any necessary apps
- Activating Bluetooth or Wi-Fi when approaching the property
- Using backup entry methods (e.g., physical keys or keypads)
Guesty’s Locks Manager: Stepping up Your Hosting Experience
Guesty’s Locks Manager feature takes smart lock management to the next level. This powerful tool integrates easily with various smart lock brands, allowing hosts to:
- Automatically generate and send unique access codes to guests
- Sync lock codes with reservation dates
- Manage multiple properties and locks from a single dashboard
- Set custom access schedules for cleaning and maintenance staff
- Receive real-time notifications on lock activity
By leveraging Guesty’s Locks Manager, hosts can save time, enhance security, provide a superior guest experience, and make their day-to-day management so much easier.
The Best Smart Locks for Your Airbnb
To help you find the best smart lock for your Airbnb, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top smart lock hardware and software available in 2025. These options offer cutting-edge features and seamless integration with property management systems.
Aqara Smart Lock U100
The Aqara Smart Lock U100 stands out as a top choice for Airbnb hosts. This versatile lock offers multiple entry methods, including a keypad, fingerprint reader, and emergency key access. Its robust features include:
- One-time passcode generation
- Auto-lock functionality with built-in gyroscope
- Exceptional battery life
- Emergency USB-C power port
- Customizable settings via the Aqara app
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock remains a popular retrofit option, ideal for hosts who want to keep their existing deadbolts. Key features include:
- Broad third-party integration support
- Compatibility with major voice assistants
- Seamless integration with various smart home platforms
- Remote access and control via Wi-Fi
Yale Assure Lock 2
Yale’s Assure Lock 2 offers a sleek, keyless design perfect for modern Airbnb properties. Notable features include:
- Keypad and app control options
- Auto-lock and unlock capabilities
- Unlimited digital key sharing
- Direct integration with the Airbnb app
- Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro with Wi-Fi
For budget-conscious hosts, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro provides an excellent balance of affordability and functionality]. Its features include:
- Durable keypad and fingerprint sensor
- Exceptional Wi-Fi range
- Digital key sharing and management
- Weather-resistant design (IP65 rated)
- Compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant
Schlage Encode
The Schlage Encode continues to be a reliable choice for Airbnb hosts, offering robust security features and user-friendly management[1]. Key attributes include:
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
- Up to 100 programmable access codes
- Integration with major smart home platforms
- Built-in alarm technology
RemoteLock Universal Access Control
RemoteLock offers a comprehensive access control solution that works with various lock brands and types. Benefits for Airbnb hosts include:
- Cloud-based management from a single dashboard
- Remote locking and unlocking capabilities
- Elimination of physical key management
- Integration with property management systems
Continues to be a leading provider of smart lock solutions for Airbnb hosts in 2025. Their offering now includes:
- Vikey Smart Lock 2.0: Features motorized locking, double locking, and unlocking with easy, reversible installation.
- Vikey Handle: A smart handle option for various property types.
- Vikey4: A device that connects to intercoms, allowing guests and hosts to open the main entrance using a digital key on their mobile phones.
Vikey’s system facilitates a fully contactless check-in process, automating guest access with minimal host intervention. The Vikey app allows guests to submit required documents, make payments, and access their rental using a reservation code. Property owners can monitor guest arrivals and departures while maintaining privacy and optimizing operational costs.
Has evolved its technology, maintaining its phone-as-key concept. It now offers enhanced integration capabilities for various Airbnb smart door locks, utilizing advanced encryption protocols for heightened security.
Has expanded its automation features, providing temporary access codes, movement alerts, and automated notifications for cleaning staff upon guest checkout.
Nuki Home Solutions
Remains a prominent player in the European smart access market. Their Smart Lock continues to offer easy, retrofittable installation without the need for drilling or lock replacement. It transforms smartphones into smart keys, giving Airbnb hosts comprehensive access control for guests and staff.
Has strengthened its position as a versatile access management solution, compatible with a wide range of lock and cloud providers. Its smart guest platform now offers more seamless integration with property management systems, automatically assigning digital keys and keycodes to guests upon reservation confirmation. The DACK Operator Portal has been enhanced to provide more robust remote management capabilities for staff access.
Continues to be a leading provider of smart lock solutions for Airbnb hosts in 2025. Their platform now offers:
- Enhanced keyless entry with advanced automation for guest and staff access
- Improved audit trail functionality for real-time operational insights
- Expanded compatibility with a wider range of smart devices and locks
- Advanced property visibility features, including AI-powered movement analysis
- Integration with popular property management systems for seamless operations
Has evolved its enterprise-level platform, now offering:
- AI-driven smart home technology management across multiple properties
- Enhanced energy-saving algorithms for improved cost efficiency
- Advanced staff coordination tools with predictive scheduling
- Upgraded security measures, including biometric authentication options
- Improved offline functionality for reliable operation without Wi-Fi
Has refined its online door-locking system:
- Streamlined cloud platform with an intuitive user interface for hosts and guests
- Enhanced compatibility with a broader range of smart lock brands
- Advanced encryption for improved security of time-sensitive PIN codes
- Integration with popular vacation rental platforms for automated check-in processes
Expanded its ecosystem of smart access products:
- New range of smart cylinders and locks with improved durability
- Enhanced Akiles Cloud platform with predictive maintenance features
- Improved offline access methods, including NFC and Bluetooth options
- Integration with smart home systems for comprehensive property automation
Strengthened its position as a guest experience platform:
- Expanded hardware compatibility, supporting most major smart lock brands
- Advanced personalization features using AI for tailored guest interactions
- Improved monetization tools for upselling and cross-selling services
- Enhanced integration capabilities with property management software
Refined its remote access and automation capabilities:
- Simplified setup process for connecting to existing smart locks and garage doors
- Improved security protocols for guest and service provider access
- Enhanced mobile app for easier management of multiple properties
- Integration with popular smart home ecosystems for broader functionality
Evolved into a comprehensive smart building platform:
- Advanced room automation features for enhanced guest comfort
- Expanded access control options, including facial recognition for secure entry
- Improved energy management system for cost-effective property operation
- Enhanced integration with property management systems for streamlined operations
Maintained its position as a compact and innovative smart lock solution:
- Further miniaturization of lock design without compromising strength
- Improved battery life and power management
- Enhanced mobile app with augmented reality features for easier installation
- Expanded integration options with popular smart home platforms
Expanded its smart lock offerings:
- New models with advanced biometric access options
- Improved mobile app with predictive access patterns for enhanced security
- Expanded ecosystem of compatible smart home devices
- Enhanced property management tools for multi-unit Airbnb hosts
These advancements reflect the ongoing evolution of smart keyless door lock technology, offering Airbnb hosts improved security, efficiency, and guest experience options in 2025.
By choosing one of these smart lock solutions, Airbnb hosts can enhance their property’s security, streamline guest access, and improve overall operational efficiency. Remember to consider factors such as compatibility with your existing setup, desired features, and budget when making your selection.
FAQs: Smart Locks for Airbnb
Smart locks offer comparable security to traditional locks with added benefits like encryption and activity monitoring. However, proper setup and management are crucial for maintaining security.
Most smart locks have backup entry methods, such as physical keys or keypad codes, ensuring access even during connectivity issues.
Yes, you can install multiple smart locks for different entry points, managing them all through a centralized system like Guesty’s Locks Manager.
Battery life varies by model, but most smart locks last 6-12 months on a set of batteries. Many locks provide low-battery alerts to ensure timely replacement.
Yes, many smart locks can integrate with property management software like Guesty, allowing for automated code generation and access management.
Summary
Smart locks have revolutionized access control for Airbnb properties, offering hosts enhanced security, convenience, and guest satisfaction. By choosing the right smart lock and leveraging tools like Guesty’s Locks Manager, hosts can streamline their operations and provide a cutting-edge experience for their guests.
As the short-term rental industry continues to evolve, staying ahead with smart technology is crucial. Investing in a quality smart lock for your Airbnb not only simplifies your hosting duties but also sets your property apart in a competitive market.
Ready to upgrade your Airbnb with smart lock technology? Explore how Guesty’s Locks Manager can transform your hosting experience. Learn more by visiting us at www.guesty.com/features/guesty-locks-manager/ and take the first step towards smarter, more
Guesty’s talented marketing team is comprised of passionate professionals who share insightful industry knowledge and shape brand narratives. By bringing a diverse blend of expertise to the table, we are the visionary architects behind the Guesty brand and innovative campaigns that help people understand our product.
