Best Smart Locks Without a Subscription (2024)

Most smart locks work without a subscription. The ongoing fee is typically for cloud features like remote access history, video integration, or professional monitoring - not for the lock itself to function. Here are the best smart locks that deliver full smart home functionality without requiring a monthly plan.

Do Smart Locks Require a Subscription?

No. Every smart lock on this list works without a subscription. A subscription may add cloud-based activity history storage, video doorbell integration, or access to a larger event log, but the core smart lock functionality - locking, unlocking, app control, voice control, and keypad entry - works without paying a monthly fee.

Best Smart Locks Without a Subscription

Schlage Encode Plus

The Schlage Encode Plus is one of the most capable subscription-free smart locks available. It supports Matter and works natively with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home without any hub or bridge. The built-in Wi-Fi and Matter support mean no additional hardware is required. All core features work without a subscription.

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Matter, HomeKit
• Subscription required: No
• Works with: Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home
• Price: Around $200-$230

Schlage Encode

The original Encode offers Wi-Fi connectivity and works with Alexa and Google Home without a subscription. No hub required. A solid choice if you do not need Apple HomeKit support and want to save money over the Encode Plus.

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
• Subscription required: No
• Works with: Alexa, Google Home
• Price: Around $150-$180

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

August connects via Wi-Fi without a hub and works with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. The August app provides activity history without a subscription - paid plans extend the history length but are not required for basic functionality. The lock installs inside the door and keeps your existing deadbolt hardware.

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
• Subscription required: No for basic features
• Works with: Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home
• Price: Around $150-$180

Yale Assure Lock 2

The Yale Assure Lock 2 is available in Wi-Fi and Matter versions. The Matter version works with all major ecosystems without a hub. Yale does not require a subscription for standard smart lock functionality.

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi or Matter (version-dependent)
• Subscription required: No
• Works with: Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home (Matter version)
• Price: Around $150-$200

What Features Typically Require a Subscription?

• Extended activity log history (beyond 7-30 days)
• Video doorbell integration with cloud storage
• Remote management of multiple locks for property managers
• Auto-lock and unlock reminders via push notifications (varies by brand)

None of these are required for a smart lock to function as a smart lock in your home.

FAQ

Does Schlage charge a monthly fee? No. Schlage smart locks do not require a subscription for any core functionality.

Does August require a subscription? August provides basic activity history free. The August Connect subscription extends history to 90 days and adds some additional features, but is not required for the lock to work.

Can I use a smart lock without the internet? With a keypad, yes - you can always use the physical keypad code. Remote unlocking via app requires an internet connection.