The Short Answer: A good keyless deadbolt means never fumbling for a key again, without giving up ANSI-grade exterior security. In our experience installing locks across Manhattan and beyond, the Schlage Encode Plus stands out as the premier choice for most front doors, balancing robust mechanical strength with a simple keypad or app-based unlock.

Here at DoorSecurityGroup.com, located in the heart of Manhattan, we know door hardware. We spend our days testing, specifying, and installing residential and commercial security solutions. While our headquarters is firmly planted in NYC, we serve clients nationwide through a vetted partner network, bringing elite security standards directly to your front door.

Why Trust Us?

Our team has over 20 years of hands-on experience in the physical security industry. We are practitioners who have installed thousands of keypad and app-controlled deadbolts across every kind of exterior door — from pre-war Brooklyn entries to modern suburban builds. We focus this guide specifically on code-and-app entry (no fingerprint sensor required), since that's what most homeowners actually want on a front door: a simple PIN for family and a temporary code for guests. For a deeper dive into overall protection, see our guide on door reinforcement.

Top Picks for Keyless Deadbolt Locks

1. Schlage Encode Plus

Price: ~$320 Our top overall recommendation for a keyless front door deadbolt. It connects directly to Wi-Fi with no separate hub, and supports Apple Home Key for tap-to-unlock alongside its keypad.

Pros: Native Wi-Fi, BHMA Grade 1 rating, built-in tamper alarm.
Cons: Premium price point, six-month typical battery life.

2. Kwikset Halo Select

Price: ~$200 A pure keypad-and-app deadbolt without the added cost of a fingerprint sensor.

Pros: Direct Wi-Fi, SmartKey re-keying, straightforward guest-code scheduling in the app.
Cons: No physical keyway backup on the keyless-only configuration.

3. Yale Assure Lock 2 (Keypad)

Price: ~$230 Yale's keypad-only configuration is compact and pairs with nearly every smart home ecosystem.

Pros: Slim profile, broad Z-Wave/Zigbee/Wi-Fi module options, quiet motor.
Cons: Touchscreen keypad can show fingerprint smudges that hint at your code.

4. Level Lock+

Price: ~$329 For homeowners who want keyless entry without a lock that looks like a lock — Level's hardware hides inside the door edge.

Pros: Nearly invisible from the outside, keeps your existing exterior keyway and deadbolt look, HomeKit-native.
Cons: Requires a separate keypad accessory for code entry; among the pricier options here.

5. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro

Price: ~$200 A budget-friendly keypad deadbolt that also happens to include fingerprint and key access if you want them later.

Pros: Competitively priced, four access methods available, auto-lock/unlock geofencing.
Cons: Wi-Fi requires an add-on bridge; app polish trails Schlage and Yale.

Comparison Table

| Model | Entry Method | Hub Required? | ANSI Grade | Approx. Price | |---|---|---|---|---| | Schlage Encode Plus | Keypad, app, Apple Home Key | No | Grade 1 | $320 | | Kwikset Halo Select | Keypad, app | No | Grade 2 | $200 | | Yale Assure Lock 2 | Keypad, app | Varies by module | Grade 2 | $230 | | Level Lock+ | Keypad accessory, app | No | Grade 2 | $329 | | Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro | Keypad, app, key | Optional bridge | Grade 2 | $200 |

Buying Guide

Guest and Temporary Codes

The main reason most homeowners go keyless is code management — creating a code for a dog walker, a cleaning service, or a house guest that expires automatically. Every lock above supports scheduled or one-time codes through its app; confirm this feature works without a paid subscription before buying.

Security Grading and Ratings

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) grade lock hardware independent of its electronics. Grade 1 offers the highest level of residential security, Grade 2 is highly secure and standard for most quality residential locks, and Grade 3 provides basic security. We advise aiming for Grade 1 or 2 on any exterior door. You can learn more in our deadbolt grades guide.

Wi-Fi vs. Hub-Dependent

Direct Wi-Fi locks (Schlage, Kwikset, Level) skip the extra hardware but drain batteries faster. Hub-dependent models can last well over a year on a set of batteries but add a device to manage.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

Most of these retrofit onto a standard door prep with a Phillips screwdriver, but proper strike plate alignment is critical — a misaligned deadbolt will jam and drain batteries quickly. Our nationwide partner network can handle installation if you'd prefer it done professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use a physical key as backup? Most models on this list keep a keyed backup; the Kwikset Halo Select's keyless-only configuration is the exception. Confirm the specific configuration before buying if a spare key matters to you.

What happens if the battery dies? Nearly all keypad deadbolts include external emergency power terminals (often a 9V contact) so you can jump-start the lock from outside.

Can I get professional installation? Absolutely. While we are headquartered in Manhattan, our vetted partner network provides professional installation and security assessments nationwide.

Conclusion

A keyless deadbolt should make daily entry simpler without lowering your door's actual security rating. The Schlage Encode Plus remains our top all-around pick, while the Level Lock+ is worth the premium if you want your door to look completely untouched.

If you are unsure which option best suits your specific needs, we encourage you to utilize our security assessment tool. Alternatively, you can reach out directly via our contact form.

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Not sure where to start? Take our free security assessment for a personalized recommendation — or meet our Manhattan-based team.

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