Best Z‑Wave Smart Door Locks

TL;DR: The Schlage Connect Aged Bronze delivers premium Z‑Wave security with a 900 MHz S2‑encrypted radio, up to 30 keypad codes, and a rugged brass‑steel build, but it requires a compatible hub for remote access.

The lock’s standout spec is its 900 MHz Z‑Wave Plus radio paired with S2 enhanced security encryption, letting you lock or unlock from a smartphone or web portal when linked to a hub. It also supports up to 30 user‑defined access codes (4‑8 digits) and carries ANSI/BHMA Grade AAA certification, putting it at the top end of residential security standards.

At 8.0 lbs, the Schlage unit is noticeably heavier than the Yale Real Living Z‑Wave (around 4.34 lbs) and the Yale Assure SL Z‑Wave (about 3.0 lbs), which many installers note makes it feel more solid on the door. It also offers more programmable codes than the Assure SL’s 25‑code limit, while the Real Living model doesn’t list a code count. All three models need a Z‑Wave hub, but only the Schlage lock mentions built‑in alarm modes for activity, tamper, and forced entry.

Reviewers consistently praise the durable resistive touchscreen and the peace‑of‑mind from the built‑in alarm, noting that the solid brass/steel construction lives up to its premium price. The main complaint is the reliance on an external hub—users without one can’t take advantage of remote lock/unlock, and there’s no native Wi‑Fi or standalone app. Installation notes highlight the adjustable backset (2‑3/8" to 2‑3/4") and the generous inner trim height of 8 in, which fits most standard doors.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Yale Assure SL Z‑Wave lock offers a sleek oil‑rubbed bronze design, backlit capacitive touchscreen, and Z‑Wave integration, but its price may feel high for budget‑focused shoppers.

The lock’s standout feature is its backlit capacitive touchscreen keypad, which lets you enter up to 25 PIN codes (250 when you add a network module). The one‑touch auto‑lock and privacy button add convenience, while the oil‑rubbed bronze finish gives a premium look. It measures 66 mm W × 92 mm H × 17 mm D and weighs 1.361 kg (about 3.0 lb), fitting standard 54 mm bore doors.

Compared with the other three Z‑Wave deadbolts in this roundup, the Assure SL is noticeably lighter than the Schlage Connect Aged Bronze at 8.0 lb and the Yale Real Living Z‑Wave at 4.34 lb, making it easier to handle during installation. While all four support Z‑Wave, only the Assure SL offers a backlit touchscreen; the Yale Electronic Deadbolt relies on a push‑button interface and the Real Living model uses a traditional keypad, and the Schlage Connect’s specs focus on trim dimensions rather than a touchscreen.

User reviews frequently highlight the smooth, glare‑free keypad and the quick auto‑lock as real time‑savers, and many appreciate the modern bronze aesthetic. However, several reviewers note that the $219.99 price tag feels steep compared with other Z‑Wave options that provide similar core functionality.

The lock operates in temperatures from -25 °C to 60 °C and tolerates humidity up to 95 %, so it’ll handle most climates. Power comes from four AA alkaline batteries with a 9 V backup option, and the adjustable backset of 60‑70 mm lets it fit a range of door preparations.

Best for: Homeowners who want keyless entry, Z‑Wave smart‑home compatibility, and a premium bronze finish.

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

TL;DR: The Yale Electronic Deadbolt offers Z‑Wave smart lock functionality with a push‑button deadbolt, a solid 132.16 mm thickness and a $139.99 price tag, making it a solid entry‑level choice for budget‑conscious homeowners.

The lock’s most noticeable dimension is its 132.16 mm thickness, giving it a robust feel on the door jamb while the 70.25 mm width keeps the exterior profile tidy. It’s fully motorized and works with Z‑Wave hubs, plus Alexa can control it when a compatible hub is present. Users can toggle the auto re‑lock feature with a single button, and privacy mode lets you lock out all codes instantly.

Compared with the other three contenders, this Yale model lands in the budget tier. The Yale Assure SL Z‑Wave is priced higher and carries extra features like a touchscreen, while the Yale Real Living Z‑Wave sits at a premium price point with an adjustable 30‑second auto‑re‑lock timer. The Schlage Connect Aged Bronze is notably heavier at 8.0 lb, suggesting a more substantial build, but it also commands a higher price. In contrast, the Yale Electronic Deadbolt delivers core Z‑Wave functionality at a lower cost, though it lists fewer advanced specs.

Reviewers consistently praise the straightforward push‑button operation and the convenience of remote locking via Z‑Wave. Many note the ease of installing the transitional design on existing doors. A recurring theme is the desire for more detailed battery information, as the spec sheet doesn’t list battery life or a low‑battery indicator. Nonetheless, the 4.1‑star rating from 305 reviewers indicates general satisfaction with reliability and value.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget

Avoid if: You need powerful performance or professional‑grade features

TL;DR: The Yale Real Living Z‑Wave lock offers a fully motorized deadbolt, 30‑second auto‑relock, and weather‑resistant construction for $399.99, but its low 2.8‑star rating and premium price may give pause.

The lock’s standout feature is the motorized tapered deadbolt that self‑hands in the unlocked position, keeping it aligned on doors that aren’t perfectly square. The lock sets the auto‑relock timer to 30 seconds by default (adjustable 10‑180 s), and after five wrong PIN entries it defaults the shutdown timer to 60 seconds (also adjustable). Those timers give you control over security without constantly reaching for the keypad.

Compared with the three peers in this roundup, the Yale Real Living sits in the middle of the weight spectrum—lighter than the 8.0 lb Schlage Connect Aged Bronze but heavier than the 3.0 lb Yale Assure SL Z‑Wave. All four units support Z‑Wave, yet the Real Living offers a larger backset range (adjustable 2‑3/8" to 2‑3/4") and a higher ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 rating, which the Assure SL does not list. The lock supports 25 PINs (4‑8 digits), matching the Assure SL, but you must add an extra network module to reach the 250‑code ceiling that the Schlage Connect achieves with its built‑in module.

Professional reviewers praise the motorized bolt for compensating misaligned doors and note the weather‑resistant gasket that lets the lock handle temperatures from –22 °F to 140 °F. Consumer sentiment is mixed: the lock’s easy DIY installation and backlit keypad are frequently highlighted as positives, while the 2.8‑star rating and the requirement for an extra module to unlock its full code capacity are common complaints. The manufacturer lists battery life as one year on four AA alkaline cells, and the tamper‑resistant battery cover flashes red when low, giving a clear visual cue.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance

Avoid if: Reliability and user satisfaction are your top concerns