While traditional padlocks still depend on dial or rotary locks, the new wave of smart models use more advanced features like fingerprint sensors. This makes unlocking these padlocks easier, and it allows you to keep a list of specific people who are allowed access — all while still providing tough and mobile protection.
If it is time to upgrade your padlocks, we’ve rounded up some of the best options. Take a look at our guide, check out the smart features, and see what’s right for you. You can also check out our list of the top smart locks.
Master Lock 4400D Indoor Bluetooth Smart Padlock
This is a basic Bluetooth lock, but it comes from a reliable brand. Designed primarily for indoor use, this lock works with your phone and lets you quickly open up your locker, safe, or lock box using a quick touch. If you leave your phone in your locker, you can use a directional code to open the lock.
With a durable, 47mm wide metal body and 7mm (diameter) shackle, you shouldn’t have to worry about breaches. The 4400D comes with a CR2450 battery you can jump in the event that it dies while locked. You also can share access to your lock and monitor access via the app.
Igloohome Smart Padlock
If you’re not a big fan of Bluetooth sensors, the Igloohome Smart Padlock substitutes a number pad that can work with or without a connection. The mobile app is no slouch, though: It allows you to immediately unlock the padlock, set PINs and send them to friends, and track when the lock has been used in the past. You also can do a timed remote unlock for letting special cases have access. It’s an ideal hybrid lock that works indoors or outdoors, and even has a customized fit for hooking over larger obstacles. The app also helps you keep track of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery, so you know when it needs to be recharged.
Master Lock Lock Box
Have you ever toured homes and seen one of those lock boxes on the front door? Your realtor opens the box to find a key inside. This is a similar product by Master Lock, as it holds a cavity inside for keys, key cards, or even small trinkets.
Designed for indoor and outdoor use, this weather-resistant lock box gives you access via Bluetooth and your smartphone. There’s also a keypad for backup access. Once you open the lock, you can access the internal key. This is an excellent option for Airbnb hosts.
BoxLock Package Delivery Lock
The BoxLock is specifically designed for protecting porch boxes and containers designed to hold shipments. It allows you to share access codes with friends and family, but its real talent is tracking packages received by shippers like UPS, USPS, and FedEx. You can get notifications on your phone when a package is delivered, and rest assured that it’s safe from porch pirates and other thieves. The lock is weather-resistant and comes with a battery that you will need to recharge every 45 to 90 days, depending on how much you use the lock.
SL Elite Fingerprint Bike Lock
Some buyers looking for a smart padlock have a very specific need: They want a good padlock for their bike. This SL Elite model is specifically designed for bikes (and other transport, etc.) with its 40 steel cable and waterproof capabilities. The fingerprint settings can hold up to 20 different fingerprints (which also makes it suitable for more commercial duties, like protecting a commercial trash bin). While the SL Elite Fingerprint Bike Lock can unlock around 3,000 times without needing to recharge, recharging is quite easy with a USB port protected behind a sealed compartment. There’s no Bluetooth connection here, which helps support the long battery life.
Tapplock Lite
If you need a smart lock for gym bags, luggage protection, and other portable belongings, Tapplock’s small smart lock is ideal. Its three unlocking settings include fingerprint reading, unlocking with the use of Morse code for emergencies, and BlueTooth use via a smartphone app. The battery is rechargeable, taking only two hours to charge, and lasts for a whopping eight months. If you need a lock for smaller, less tedious tasks, the Tapplock Lite is an excellent option.
Master Lock 4401DLH Padlock
Master Lock’s reputation for sturdy, impenetrable locks doesn’t falter when it comes to their Bluetooth padlock. The device is made with anti-shim and boron carbide and can withstand any weather elements, making it an excellent choice for both indoors and outdoors. There is a keypad security feature; however, you can also share temporary Bluetooth codes with other people through a smartphone app.
The Master Lock 4401DLJ Padlock can keep fences, sheds, and more safely locked. You won’t need a Wi-Fi connection to secure this lock because it’s operated via Bluetooth. So if your Wi-Fi range doesn’t extend to your shed outside, it won’t be an issue. Do keep in mind that your battery is not rechargeable; you must replace it. Your app will notify you when the battery is low.
MyPin Fingerprint Padlock
Built for both indoor and outdoor use, this affordable lock by MyPin serves as an excellent bike lock, locker lock, or lock box lock. It has a 240MAH lithium battery, which powers the device for around 2,500 unlocks on one charge. A full charge takes around three hours. The easy-to-use fingerprint design lets you quickly and easily unlock the device without much hassle. Plus, it can store up to 10 fingerprints, so you can give access to friends and family.
The IP66 weatherproof design means it has some protection against dust and water, but you shouldn’t leave it outside in torrential rain.
Megafeis Fingerprint Padlock
Water resistant and USB rechargeable, this affordable lock can hold up to 15 sets of fingerprints so you can easily share access with friends and family. IP65 water resistance means you can use the lock outdoors without too much fear of damage, while the battery has enough juice to allow for 2,500 unlocks. You can use your phone as the key or use your fingerprint, and when you connect the companion app, you can check the last 1,000 unlock activities. This is one of the more feature-rich locks available for under $35.
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