Best Kwikset Keyless Entry Locks

TL;DR: The Kwikset SmartCode 955 delivers commercial‑grade durability, SmartKey quick‑rekeying and a backlit keypad for $89.48, though its 9 V battery and heavier build may not suit every home.

The standout feature is SmartKey technology, which lets you rekey the lock without removal—a big win for property managers who rotate access often. The lock also supports up to 30 unique user codes and three lock modes (Auto Lock, Passage, Disable Passage), all backed by a 500,000‑cycle durability rating.

At 4.5 pounds, the SmartCode 955 is heavier than the Powerbolt 250 (2.255 lb) and Powerbolt 240 (1.825 lb), but comparable to the Halo Touch (3.88 lb). Its depth of 3.87 inches matches the SmartCode 917, while its height of 9.49 inches and width of 4.11 inches place it in the mid‑range of the lineup. Compared with the ultra‑light SmartCode 260 (1.0 lb), the 955 feels more robust, aligning with its light‑commercial designation.

Reviewers consistently praise the backlit, motion‑activated keypad for easy night‑time entry and applaud the BHMA certification as a sign of reliability. Professional commentary highlights the quick‑rekey feature as a time‑saver for multi‑unit properties. The main complaint centers on the 9 V battery requirement, which some users find less convenient than AA/AAA options, and a few note that detailed installation dimensions are not fully listed.

Additional technical context includes a three‑year battery life, a 1x 9V battery type, and a satin‑chrome finish that blends with modern décor. The lock’s electronic deadbolt with mechanical key override ensures you still have a fallback key, and the keypad’s backlit sensor adds a touch of convenience without draining power.

Best for: Property managers or landlords who need a well‑reviewed, reliable lock with quick rekeying and multiple user codes — the Kwikset SmartCode 955 offers Depth: 3.87 inches and robust commercial features.

Avoid if: You require a lightweight lock, AA/AAA battery convenience, or highly detailed installation specifications.

TL;DR: The Kwikset SmartCode 917 in satin‑nickel delivers keyless entry with 30 user codes, SmartKey anti‑pick tech, and a three‑year battery life for $106.33, making it a solid mid‑range choice.

What really sets the 917 apart is its blend of security and convenience. It supports up to 30 unique user codes and one‑time codes, while SmartKey technology lets you re‑key the lock in seconds without removing it. The lock also carries an ANSI/BHMA Grade 2, AAA rating and a UL 20‑minute fire rating, giving you confidence against picking, bumping, and short‑duration fires. A 9 V alkaline battery is rated for up to three years of operation, and the keypad offers several auto‑lock delay options (30 sec to 10 min).

Compared with the other six locks in this roundup, the 917 sits on the heavier side at 3.8 lb—lighter than the Kwikset SmartCode 955 (4.5 lb) but heavier than the Powerbolt 250 (2.255 lb) and Powerbolt 240 (1.825 lb). Its dimensions (9.49 in H × 4.11 in W × 3.87 in D) are on par with the SmartCode 955 and more compact than the Halo Touch, which is notably wider. Feature‑wise, the 917 lacks app control and smart‑home compatibility that the Halo Touch and Home Connect 620 provide, but it offers more user codes than the Powerbolt 240 (12) and Powerbolt 250 (25). Its backset options of 2‑3/8 in (60 mm) or 2‑3/4 in (70 mm) match standard residential doors, and the decorative Tustin/Halifax lever adds a contemporary look.

Users consistently praise the lock’s reliability and the satin‑nickel finish, noting that the battery truly lasts multiple years and that programming the codes is straightforward. Professional reviewers highlight the three‑year battery life and SmartKey anti‑pick feature as major strengths. The most common complaint is the absence of smart‑home integration—no Alexa, Google, or Apple Home support—and the lack of remote app control, which can be a deal‑breaker for tech‑savvy households. Some users also mention the requirement that the first four digits of each code be unique, which adds a small programming hurdle.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the Kwikset SmartCode 917 Satin Nickel offers Backset: 2‑3/8 in (60 mm) or 2‑3/4 in (70 mm).

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget, need full smart‑home connectivity, or prefer a lock with remote app control.

TL;DR: The Kwikset Home Connect 620 delivers long‑range Z‑Wave connectivity, a 10‑digit illuminated keypad and SmartKey re‑keying, all wrapped in a satin‑nickel finish for $149.05.

What really sets this lock apart is its Z‑Wave 700 Long Range module, which advertises connectivity up to 1 mile line‑of‑sight. Coupled with S2, 128‑bit AES encryption, the deadbolt can store 250 user codes and a 10‑digit illuminated keypad makes entry easy in the dark. The motorized deadbolt and SmartKey re‑keying with BumpGuard add a layer of convenience and tamper resistance, while the unit weighs about 3.4 lb.

Compared with the six other locks in this roundup, the Home Connect 620 offers far more user slots – 250 versus 50 on the Halo Touch, 30 on the SmartCode 917 and 955, 25 on the Powerbolt 250 and just 12 on the Powerbolt 240. In terms of heft, its 3.4 lb weight is heavier than the Powerbolt 250 (2.255 lb) and Powerbolt 240 (1.825 lb), roughly on par with the Halo Touch (3.88 lb) and SmartCode 917 (3.8 lb), and lighter than the SmartCode 955 (4.5 lb).

Users consistently praise the reliable keypad and the “set‑and‑forget” feel of the SmartKey re‑keying system. Reviewers also note the lock’s excellent battery life when powered by four AA alkaline cells. The most common complaints revolve around the need for a Z‑Wave hub before any remote features work, occasional bolt jamming on shallow strike plates, and the lack of ADA compliance.

Technical details reinforce its premium positioning: a UL 20‑minute fire rating, a 1‑inch deadbolt throw, and operating temperature ranges from –40 °F to 150 °F outdoors and 32 °F to 140 °F indoors. Battery efficiency is highlighted as “excellent,” and the lock integrates smoothly with Ring Alarm, SmartThings, Hubitat and other major ecosystems.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the Kwikset Home Connect 620 offers User Code Capacity: 250

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $149.05

TL;DR: For $67.89 the Kwikset SmartCode 260 delivers Grade 2 security, a 10,080‑month AA‑battery life and 50 programmable codes, but it lacks Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.

The standout spec is its battery longevity – the lock is rated for 10,080 months on four AA alkaline cells, meaning you’ll rarely swap batteries. It also includes Kwikset’s SmartKey re‑key technology, letting you re‑key to any KW1 key without tools, a feature usually reserved for higher‑priced models.

At roughly 1.0 pound, it is lighter than the Powerbolt 250, Powerbolt 240, SmartCode 955, SmartCode 917, Halo Touch and Home Connect 620, all of which weigh well over a pound. It also carries a lower price point than the SmartCode 917 and Home Connect 620, though it offers fewer smart‑home integrations – none of the peers list Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth, but Home Connect 620 does require a hub and Halo Touch adds fingerprint scanning.

Users consistently praise the convenience of keypad entry and the ability to set up to 50 user codes for family and guests. Reviewers highlight the reliable auto‑lock timer options and the intrusion alert that sounds after three wrong entries. A few owners note occasional programming hiccups and the need to purchase AA batteries separately, which aligns with professional feedback that installation errors are a common source of trouble.

The lock meets BHMA Grade 2 standards and holds a UL 20‑minute fire rating, offering solid durability for a residential door. Microban‑treated keypad surfaces add antimicrobial protection, and the backlit LED indicator helps you see the code entry in low light.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Kwikset SmartCode 260 offers Battery Life: 10,080 months.

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range or need built‑in Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth smart‑home features.

TL;DR: The Kwikset Powerbolt 250 delivers keyless entry with 25 user codes, SmartKey DIY rekeying and a backlit keypad for $61.40, but it lacks any smart‑home connectivity.

The standout spec is its 25 permanent user codes plus five one‑time codes, giving families plenty of flexibility without a hub. Auto‑lock can be set to 30 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes or 10 minutes, and the lock’s SmartKey technology lets you rekey it in seconds. At 2.255 pounds and 4.59375 inches tall, it feels solid yet fits standard door preparations (cross bore 2‑1/8 in, backset adjustable).

Compared with the other six locks in this roundup, the Powerbolt 250 is heavier than the Kwikset Powerbolt 240 (1.825 lb) and the SmartCode 260 (1.0 lb), but lighter than the SmartCode 917 (3.8 lb) and Halo Touch (3.88 lb). Its height of 4.59375 inches is a touch taller than the Powerbolt 240’s 112.7 mm (≈4.44 in), while the overall dimensions stay compact enough for most door jambs. Unlike the Home Connect 620 or Halo Touch, it offers no Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, Matter or Z‑Wave, so it sits on the “stand‑alone” side of the spectrum.

Professional reviewer Dave Taylor praised the lock’s easy installation and the illuminated 10‑button keypad, noting the brightness makes night‑time entry painless. Users echo this sentiment, highlighting the convenience of one‑touch locking and the peace of mind from the intrusion‑alert that disables the keypad after three wrong entries. The only recurring drawback is the lack of smart‑home integration, and the fact that four AA alkaline batteries must be purchased separately.

Additional technical notes include a 12‑month battery life on AA alkaline cells, a low‑battery alert that flashes red lights and beeps ten times, and a vacation mode that suspends all user codes. The lock’s finish is matte black, and it comes with two keys, a latch, strike and hardware, all covered by a lifetime mechanical warranty and a one‑year electronics warranty.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Kwikset Powerbolt 250 offers Keys Included: 2

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range

TL;DR: The Kwikset Halo Touch blends a 1‑inch bolt throw, built‑in Wi‑Fi and a 100‑fingerprint capacity into a matte‑black deadbolt that costs $142.79, offers Grade AAA security, but carries a premium price and lacks a door sensor.

The standout feature is its fingerprint reader, which stores up to 100 fingerprints and supports 50 users, letting family members unlock the door with a touch of the finger. Combined with auto‑lock and Wi‑Fi connectivity, you can lock or unlock the deadbolt from the Kwikset app without a separate hub, and the lock works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Compared with the six other Kwikset models in this roundup, the Halo Touch is heavier than the Powerbolt 250 (2.255 lb) and Powerbolt 240 (1.825 lb) and also heavier than the ultra‑light SmartCode 260 (1.0 lb). It is lighter than the SmartCode 955 (4.5 lb) but comparable in weight to the Home Connect 620 (about 3.4 lb). Feature‑wise, it adds Wi‑Fi and fingerprint access, whereas the Home Connect 620 relies on Z‑Wave and the SmartCode 917 offers a keypad but no biometric scanner. The Halo Touch also includes Microban antimicrobial protection, a benefit not listed for the Home Connect 620.

Users consistently praise the quick fingerprint unlock and the straightforward Wi‑Fi setup, noting that the lock feels solid at 9.82 inches tall and 3.88 lb. Professional reviewers highlight the Grade AAA rating, SmartKey security and local fingerprint storage as strong security points. However, the missing door sensor is a frequent complaint, as it can make the auto‑lock feature feel unreliable. The lack of Apple HomeKit support also surfaces in user feedback, especially among iOS‑centric households.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Kwikset Halo Touch offers Bolt Throw: 1 inch

Avoid if: You need Apple HomeKit integration, a keypad entry option, or the most reliable auto‑lock performance.

TL;DR: At $40.42 the Kwikset Powerbolt 240 delivers a 5‑button LED keypad, auto‑lock intervals from 30 seconds to 10 minutes, and a 12‑month battery life, making it a solid budget choice for residential keyless entry.

The lock’s auto‑lock feature lets you pick intervals of 30 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes or 10 minutes, so the deadbolt can secure your door automatically after you walk away. Coupled with a 5‑button LED keypad and an adjustable backset, it fits standard doors with a thickness of 1.375‑1.75 inches. Its zinc construction and Venetian Bronze finish give a sturdy look while keeping the unit at a manageable 1.825 lb (828 g).

Compared with the other six locks in this roundup, the Powerbolt 240 is the lightest after the SmartCode 260 (1.0 lb) and considerably lighter than the Powerbolt 250 (2.255 lb), SmartCode 955 (4.5 lb), SmartCode 917 (3.8 lb), Halo Touch (3.88 lb) and Home Connect 620 (about 3.4 lb). It also offers fewer permanent user codes—12 versus the Powerbolt 250’s 25—and only 2 one‑time codes compared with the Powerbolt 250’s five. However, its depth of 26.2 mm and height of 112.7 mm are in the same ballpark as the Powerbolt 250’s 4.59‑inch height, keeping it compatible with most standard door preparations.

Professional reviewers praise the straightforward screwdriver‑only installation and the long 12‑month battery life on four AA alkaline cells. Users appreciate the customizable audible alerts and the intrusion‑alert threshold that disables the keypad after three wrong entries. On the downside, the BHMA Grade 3 rating means the lock is intended for residential use only, and the batteries are not supplied in the box, which some buyers note as an extra cost.

Best for: Shoppers on a tight budget who want the most for their money — the Kwikset Powerbolt 240 offers Depth: 26.2 mm

Avoid if: You need commercial‑grade security or extensive user‑code management