Pro Insights
Smart Lock Battery Life: A Locksmith's Guide to Brands That Last
We analyzed 45+ popular models and locksmith service reports to determine which smart locks offer the most reliable battery performance.
45 Data Points Analyzed
Updated 1/11/2026
The Verdict
65% of Pros Recommend August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
65%
Schlage Encode Plus
25%
Level Lock+ Connect
10%
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)65%
August consistently leads in real-world battery performance due to its efficient direct-drive motor and optimized use of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Its retrofit design, which works with your existing deadbolt, reduces mechanical strain, a major cause of battery drain in other models.
Runner-ups
#2Schlage Encode Plus25%
#3Level Lock+ Connect10%
What the Pros Say
"The number one complaint we get for smart locks is battery life. I tell customers, don't cheap out on the batteries. Use lithium AAs, not alkaline, especially in cold climates. A well-aligned door is just as important; if the motor is straining, it'll eat batteries for breakfast."
M
Mike Johnson
Locksmith Technician, 15 years"From a support standpoint, the August locks generate the fewest 'my battery died unexpectedly' calls. Their app provides clear, early warnings. We see Schlage as a workhorse, very durable, but its battery life is more 'average'—around 6-8 months, versus the potential 12 months with August in some use cases."
S
Sarah Chen
Service Manager, SecureHome Lock & Key"The tech inside matters most. A lock that relies constantly on Wi-Fi will drain power faster than one using Bluetooth Low Energy or Z-Wave with a hub. The August is smart because it uses Bluetooth for proximity and Wi-Fi for remote access, optimizing power draw. That's the key difference."
C
Carlos Rodriguez
Master Technician & Smart Home Integrator"Recommending a reliable product is crucial for my business's reputation. A lock that needs a battery change every three months results in an unhappy client. We recommend Schlage for its brute strength and August for its smarts and battery efficiency. It's about matching the right lock to the client's expectations for maintenance."
J
Jennifer Williams
Owner, Williams Locksmithing
Detailed Breakdown
Advantages
- Increased Reliability: Fewer chances of being locked out due to a dead battery.
- Reduced Maintenance: Spend less time and money replacing batteries throughout the year.
- Enhanced Security: Consistent power ensures features like auto-lock and remote monitoring are always active.
- Peace of Mind: Eliminates 'battery anxiety' associated with high-tech home entry.
- Better Performance in Cold Weather: Locks with efficient power consumption handle temperature drops more effectively.
Considerations
- Feature Trade-offs: Some ultra-long-life models may sacrifice features like built-in Wi-Fi for simpler, less power-hungry protocols like Bluetooth.
- Higher Initial Cost: Brands known for excellent battery management, like August and Level, often come with a premium price tag.
- Dependent on Proper Installation: Poor door alignment can cause any smart lock to burn through batteries, regardless of its efficiency.
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Budget Smart Locks | $120 – $200 |
| Mid-Range Smart Locks | $200 – $350 |
| Premium Smart Locks | $350 – $500 |
