Smart locks compared: Matter, Thread and what the makers actually say
Four current deadbolts, compared on published support only. A lock is a security device, so the install details below are as important as the table.
Lock categories
- Retrofit (interior-only) replaces the thumb-turn and keeps your exterior keyway.
- Full deadbolt replacement with a keypad or touchscreen outside; most of the models below.
- Auto-lock, keypad codes, fingerprint are feature choices; Matter / Thread is the connectivity choice — Thread locks need a border router in range.
Comparison
| Model | Matter | Ecosystems / radio (as published) | Power | Notes | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yale Yale Smart Lock with Matter manufacturer page | Yes | Matter over Thread; "Designed for Google Home". Requires a Matter-enabled Thread border router for setup and remote access (manufacturer). | Battery ("long-lasting power with Matter over Thread" per manufacturer). | Keyed deadbolt with keypad. | 2026-10-02 |
| Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt manufacturer page | Yes | "Matter Certified", "Works with Thread"; Alexa and Google Assistant listed; Z-Wave Plus variant noted (manufacturer). | Battery (deadbolt). | Single-bore door retrofit per manufacturer. | 2026-10-02 |
| Kwikset Halo Select Touchscreen Wi-Fi + Matter manufacturer page | Yes | Wi-Fi and Matter via Thread; Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, SmartThings listed (manufacturer). | Battery. | 2026-10-02 | |
| Aqara Smart Lock U200 manufacturer page | Unknown | Apple Home referenced on manufacturer site; Matter support for this model not stated plainly on the page we fetched. | Not stated on fetch. | Re-verify from Aqara spec sheet. | 2026-10-02 |
Methodology
Same bar as our thermostat page: manufacturer page, fetched on the date shown; “unknown” is not “no.” We do not publish review scores.
Failure modes homeowners actually hit
- Dead batteries. Every model here runs on batteries; keep a backup key or 9V jump method where the maker provides one, and put battery changes on the calendar.
- Wi-Fi or hub dependence. Remote control needs the bridge/hub or border router online; local keypad codes keep working.
- Bored-door misalignment. A door that needs a shoulder to latch will strip a motorised bolt. Fix the strike first.
- Code hygiene. One code per person, delete contractor codes when the job ends, and don’t share the admin code.
When to use a pro
Misaligned or non-standard bores, multi-door setups you want on one schedule, integration with an alarm panel, or rental turnover workflows. A single standard deadbolt on a well-hung door is a reasonable DIY.
Safety note: a smart lock is a convenience and access-management tool, not a guarantee against forced entry. Keep a physical key available and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your model.
Want locks that work with your phone, your platform and your door?
We check the door, pick a Matter model your platform supports today, and set up codes, schedules and battery alerts.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-02. Product facts come from the manufacturer pages linked in each row (SKU DB v2026-10-02); “unknown” means the page we checked did not state it. No ratings or review scores are used on SmartHouse. Housing and neighborhood context lives on HomeNews. See our disclosure & privacy page.