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The Best Smart Locks for Tech Lovers in 2026: Is the Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max Worth the Hype?
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Buying Guide • Hands-on Review

The Best Smart Locks for Tech Lovers in 2026: Is the Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max Worth the Hype?

Updated on 2026-01-22

For tech lovers, a front door lock should feel more like a gadget than hardware: AI, biometrics, app control, and deep smart-home integration are now table stakes. The latest wave of smart locks promises facial recognition, self-charging power systems, and seamless control from your phone or voice assistant.

The Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max enters this space as a self-charging, face-recognition–driven smart lock aimed squarely at smart-home enthusiasts. It’s up against some heavy hitters from Lockly, Yale, Schlage, TP-Link, Wyze, SwitchBot, and Eufy—all offering various combinations of Wi‑Fi, biometrics, and automation.

Below, we compare the Lockin V7 Max to the best-known alternatives to help tech lovers pick the right smart lock for their setup.

Introduction

For tech lovers, a front door lock should feel more like a gadget than hardware: AI, biometrics, app control, and deep smart-home integration are now table stakes. The latest wave of smart locks promises facial recognition, self-charging power systems, and seamless control from your phone or voice assistant.

The Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max enters this space as a self-charging, face-recognition–driven smart lock aimed squarely at smart-home enthusiasts. It’s up against some heavy hitters from Lockly, Yale, Schlage, TP-Link, Wyze, SwitchBot, and Eufy—all offering various combinations of Wi‑Fi, biometrics, and automation.

Below, we compare the Lockin V7 Max to the best-known alternatives to help tech lovers pick the right smart lock for their setup.

How We Compared

  • Advanced access tech
    Biometric options (face, fingerprint, palm vein), AI or “true AI” positioning, proximity unlock, and novel self-charging or backup systems.
  • Smart-home friendliness
    App control, Wi‑Fi support, voice assistant compatibility, and ecosystem reach (e.g., Apple Home Keys, Siri, Alexa, Google).
  • Everyday usability
    Keyless entry flexibility (codes, biometrics, app), family and guest access, auto-lock, activity logs, and remote notifications.
  • Design & installation style
    Deadbolt vs lever vs retrofit, keeping an eye on how renter- and DIY-friendly each option is.
  • Value & positioning
    While we don’t have exact prices for all models, we considered each product’s described value proposition (flagship vs value, promotions, brand trust, etc.).

Given the mix of category-wide positioning and multiple competitors, this is a Buyer’s Guide rather than a single-product hands-on review.

Everything we recommend

Our pick

Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Zeno Deadbolt Wi‑Fi Smart Lock

Summary: For tech lovers who want the most futuristic door experience available right now, the Lockly Visage Zeno stands out. It combines industry-first facial recognition, radar-based proximity unlock, a 3D biometric fingerprint sensor, and Apple Home Keys support, all tied into a broad smart-home ecosystem. If you’re chasing cutting-edge features with a mature ecosystem, this is the lock to beat.

Feature Highlights:

  • Industry-first facial recognition unlocking
  • Radar sensing for proximity-based unlock
  • 3D biometric fingerprint sensor for fast, secure access
  • Apple Home Keys support for iPhone/Apple Watch
  • Broad smart-home ecosystem integration via Wi‑Fi
Pros:
  • Arguably the most feature-rich, future-forward access tech in this list
  • Deep ecosystem and Apple Home Keys support make it a top choice for Apple-centric homes
Cons:
  • Advanced features may be overkill for simpler smart homes
  • Complexity could mean more setup and learning curve for some households
Runner-up

Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max

Summary: The Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max is a promising newcomer designed for tech lovers who want a self-sustaining, AI-forward lock with face-based access. While details are still emerging, Lockin positions the V7 Max as its new, self-charging smart lock and leans hard into the “Your Face. Your Key.” tagline. With early-access perks and strong family- and smart-home messaging, it’s an exciting option for early adopters.

Feature Highlights:

  • Face-based access (“Your Face. Your Key.”) for frictionless unlocking
  • Self-charging design, suggesting reduced battery anxiety and maintenance
  • Part of a lineup that includes deadbolt, deadbolt with camera, mortise, and retrofit solutions
  • Targeted at better security, smart home users, and family access
  • Early-access program: secure priority for $1 and get $100 off at launch
Pros:
  • Self-charging concept is highly appealing for tech lovers who hate battery swaps
  • Face-recognition positioning fits perfectly into an AI-centric smart home
Cons:
  • Still in early-access mode; tech lovers may be acting as early adopters
Best for experimental biometrics

Wyze Palm Lock

Summary: The Wyze Palm Lock is one of the most inventive options here, aimed right at experimental tech users. Instead of fingerprints or traditional codes, it offers contactless palm vein recognition, which is harder to spoof and doesn’t require touching a sensor. Add auto-lock and emergency USB‑C backup, and you get a lock that’s both futuristic and practical.

Feature Highlights:

  • Palm vein biometric access for contactless unlocking
  • Auto-lock functionality for added peace of mind
  • USB-C emergency backup power
  • Dual battery system and Wi‑Fi connectivity
Pros:
  • Unique biometric tech that will impress any gadget lover
  • Contactless design is hygienic and quick to use
Cons:
  • Palm vein recognition is still niche; guests may prefer more familiar methods
  • Brand perception leans more “budget smart home,” which may not suit every premium setup
Best for Apple ecosystem

Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Smart Lock

Summary: The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus blends serious smart-home tech—like Apple Home Key support—with Yale’s longstanding reputation in locks. For tech lovers invested in Apple’s ecosystem, this is an obvious contender: you can tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock, manage access in the app, and keep tabs on who’s coming and going via activity tracking.

Feature Highlights:

  • Apple Home Keys integration for tap-to-unlock using Apple devices
  • App-based access management
  • Activity tracking for security and family monitoring
  • Wi‑Fi smart lock design
Pros:
  • Ideal if your smart home is built around Apple Home
  • Backed by Yale’s long-standing lock expertise
Cons:
  • Best experience is skewed toward Apple users
  • Less emphasis on novel biometrics compared with Lockly or Wyze
Best for reliable keypad

Yale Assure Lock 2 Smart Lock Wi‑Fi Deadbolt

Summary: The Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi‑Fi Deadbolt is a smart, mainstream choice that fits both tech lovers and everyday users. It provides a touchscreen keypad, Wi‑Fi-backed remote control, and solid smart-home compatibility. While it doesn’t have the biometric flair of some competitors, it’s a dependable hub-friendly option.

Feature Highlights:

  • Touchscreen keypad for keyless entry
  • Remote locking/unlocking over Wi‑Fi
  • Seamless smart home compatibility
  • Widely adopted and well-reviewed
Pros:
  • Proven, widely used platform ideal for mixed-tech households
  • Touchscreen keypad is intuitive for guests and family members
Cons:
  • No advanced biometrics like face or fingerprint built into this description
  • Less of a “wow” factor for hardcore gadget enthusiasts
Best for code capacity

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Latitude Lever

Summary: The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Latitude Lever targets tech lovers who still value traditional brand trust. As a Wi‑Fi lever lock, it brings remote control, app access, up to 100 access codes, and notifications, alongside compatibility with voice assistants. It’s appealing if you’re tech-forward but want something from a brand with a long security history.

Feature Highlights:

  • Wi‑Fi smart lever with remote locking/unlocking
  • Up to 100 access codes for guests and family
  • Activity notifications via app
  • Voice assistant compatibility
Pros:
  • Trusted, longstanding security brand
  • Generous access code capacity is perfect for home offices or rentals
Cons:
  • No biometric mention; more smart access than “true AI”
  • Lever style may not fit all doors or aesthetics
Best for voice assistant support

neufy E31 Smart Lock

Summary: The neufy E31 Smart Lock (a keyless Wi‑Fi deadbolt) offers a strong blend of fast fingerprint recognition, a built-in keypad, and app control, plus compatibility with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. For tech lovers who want solid biometrics and top-to-bottom voice control support, this is a very compelling mid-range choice.

Feature Highlights:

  • Fast fingerprint recognition
  • Built-in keypad for PIN codes
  • App control via Wi‑Fi
  • Works with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant
Pros:
  • Balanced combination of fingerprint, keypad, and app access
  • Excellent multi-assistant compatibility for mixed-device households
Cons:
  • Less brand prestige than Yale or Schlage in traditional lock hardware
  • No mention of more exotic biometrics like face or palm
Best for easy install

Eufy Smart Lock C30

Summary: The Eufy Smart Lock C30 is pitched as an easy-to-install Wi‑Fi deadbolt that covers the essentials for day-to-day smart-home use. You get remote control, app access, and real-time notifications, making it an approachable option if you want a clean, reliable smart lock rather than an experimental biometric playground.

Feature Highlights:

  • Wi‑Fi deadbolt with remote access
  • App-based control and management
  • Real-time notifications for activity monitoring
  • Emphasis on easy installation and reliable power
Pros:
  • Straightforward, user-friendly smart-home upgrade
  • Real-time alerts add peace of mind for frequent travelers
Cons:
  • No standout biometric features called out
  • More utility-focused than exciting for hardcore tech tinkerers
Budget pick

TP‑Link Tapo DLW10 Smart Deadbolt

Summary: The TP‑Link Tapo DLW10 smart deadbolt is a strong value choice for tech lovers who prioritize smart features over biometrics. It offers custom passcodes, app monitoring, auto-lock, and full smart assistant integration, backed by TP‑Link’s growing Tapo ecosystem.

Feature Highlights:

  • Custom passcodes for family and guests
  • In‑app monitoring and activity logs
  • Smart assistant integration for voice control
  • Auto-lock for hands-off security
Pros:
  • Great feature-to-value ratio for budget-conscious tech users
  • Activity logs and app monitoring suit security-minded homeowners
Cons:
  • Lacks biometrics like fingerprint or facial recognition
  • More incremental upgrade versus a game-changing smart gadget
Budget pick

Tapo DL100 V1 Smart Door Lock

Summary: The Tapo DL100 V1 continues TP‑Link’s theme of accessible smart security, focusing on Wi‑Fi, keyless entry via passcodes, app control, and Alexa/Google Assistant compatibility. It’s a practical, affordable choice if you’re already using Tapo smart plugs, cameras, or bulbs and want everything under one app.

Feature Highlights:

  • Wi‑Fi smart deadbolt
  • Keyless entry via passcode or app
  • Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Tactile buttons for reliable access
Pros:
  • Tight integration with TP‑Link’s Tapo ecosystem
  • Simple, reliable controls that work for all ages
Cons:
  • No biometric capabilities highlighted
  • Less exciting than AI- or face-focused options for gadget obsessives
Best for renters

SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro

Summary: The SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro is the go-to option for renters and anyone wary of drilling or replacing an entire deadbolt. This retrofit smart lock attaches to your existing deadbolt from the inside, adding app-based and keyless entry without changing your keys. For tech lovers in apartments, it’s one of the easiest “no-commitment” upgrades.

Feature Highlights:

  • Retrofit design that attaches to existing deadbolts
  • Enables keyless entry and app control
  • Praised for ease of installation and reliability
  • Compatible with broader SwitchBot smart-home devices
Pros:
  • Ideal for renters or historic homes where you can’t replace the hardware
  • Minimal installation effort with strong reliability reputation
Cons:
  • You still rely on existing mechanical lock quality
  • Not as visually integrated as purpose-built smart deadbolts
Budget pick

TP‑Link Tapo DLW10 Smart Deadbolt (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: This entry describes the same TP‑Link Tapo DLW10 Smart Deadbolt as above—a value-centric smart deadbolt emphasizing app monitoring, custom codes, and auto-lock. We include it here to reflect all distinct product references provided, but in practice, it’s the same lock as #9.

Feature Highlights:

  • Custom passcodes
  • In‑app monitoring and activity logs
  • Smart assistant integration
  • Auto-lock function
Pros:
  • Strong value-oriented smart deadbolt
  • Good for users already in the Tapo ecosystem
Cons:
  • Duplicates the capabilities of the previous DLW10 entry
  • Still lacks advanced biometrics
Best for experimental biometrics

Wyze Palm Lock (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: A second listing for the Wyze Palm Lock, reiterating its palm vein recognition, auto-lock, and emergency USB‑C backup. As with the DLW10 duplicate, this is the same core product as #3, included here to reflect the provided comparison set.

Feature Highlights:

  • Palm vein biometric access
  • Auto-lock
  • Dual battery plus USB‑C emergency power
  • Wi‑Fi connectivity
Pros:
  • Unique, contactless biometric option
  • Good for tech enthusiasts wanting something distinctly different
Cons:
  • Redundant with the earlier Wyze Palm Lock entry
  • Niche biometric method may not be for everyone
Best for Apple ecosystem

Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Smart Lock (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: This is a duplicate reference to the Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus—again emphasizing Apple Home Keys and app-based management. It remains one of the best choices for Apple-focused smart homes.

Feature Highlights:

  • Apple Home Keys
  • App access and activity tracking
  • Wi‑Fi smart lock design
Pros:
  • Top choice for Apple ecosystem users
  • Trusted Yale branding
Cons:
  • Duplicate of earlier entry
  • Apple-centric benefits don’t fully translate to non-Apple homes
Our pick

Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Zeno Deadbolt Wi‑Fi Smart Lock (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: Another entry for the Lockly Visage Zeno, restating its blend of facial recognition, proximity radar, fingerprint, and Apple Home Keys support. It maintains the top ranking overall but appears here in the list solely to capture all supplied references.

Feature Highlights:

  • Facial recognition unlocking
  • Radar-based proximity unlock
  • 3D fingerprint sensor
  • Apple Home Keys and Wi‑Fi ecosystem
Pros:
  • Best-in-class feature set for tech lovers
  • Robust ecosystem and biometrics
Cons:
  • Duplicate of the top-ranked entry
  • May be more complex than some households need
Best for renters

SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: A second listing for the SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro highlights its retrofit approach and ease of installation. Still ideal for renters who want app control without changing their existing deadbolt.

Feature Highlights:

  • Retrofit on existing deadbolts
  • App control and keyless entry
  • Focus on ease and reliability
Pros:
  • Great renter-friendly solution
  • Minimal tools or modifications needed
Cons:
  • Duplicate entry
  • Depends on the mechanical reliability of your current lock
Best for easy install

Eufy Smart Lock C30 (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: This duplicate entry reiterates the Eufy Smart Lock C30’s strengths: easy install, Wi‑Fi control, and real-time notifications, ideal for straightforward smart-home adoption.

Feature Highlights:

  • Wi‑Fi smart deadbolt
  • App control and remote access
  • Real-time notifications
Pros:
  • Easy on-ramp to smart locks
  • Reliable, everyday performance
Cons:
  • Duplicate of earlier C30 entry
  • Limited novelty for tech enthusiasts seeking experimental features
Best for code capacity

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Latitude Lever (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: A second reference to the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Latitude Lever, emphasizing its Wi‑Fi connectivity, multiple access codes, and notifications from a proven security brand.

Feature Highlights:

  • Wi‑Fi lever lock
  • Up to 100 access codes
  • App notifications
  • Voice assistant compatibility
Pros:
  • Strong brand confidence factor
  • Great for homes needing many recurring or guest codes
Cons:
  • Duplicate listing
  • Still lacks biometrics for tech enthusiasts chasing cutting-edge access methods
Budget pick

Tapo DL100 V1 Smart Door Lock (Duplicate Listing)

Summary: The final listing repeats the Tapo DL100 V1 and its pitch as a Wi‑Fi smart deadbolt with app and passcode control, plus Alexa/Google support.

Feature Highlights:

  • Wi‑Fi smart deadbolt
  • Keyless entry via passcodes and app
  • Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant
Pros:
  • Works well in budget-friendly smart-home setups
  • Simple, tactile interface
Cons:
  • Duplicate entry
  • Not designed to dazzle biometric-obsessed tech lovers

Quick Comparison

Product Key Features Price Range Ideal For Notable Strength
Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Zeno Deadbolt Wi‑Fi Smart Lock Facial recognition, radar proximity unlock, 3D fingerprint, Apple Home Keys, Wi‑Fi smart-home integration Premium Tech lovers wanting the most advanced biometrics and Apple integration Most feature-rich, future-facing access tech
Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max Face-based access, self-charging design, smart-home and family focus, early-access launch offer Expected mid–upper Early adopters and AI-focused smart-home enthusiasts Self-charging plus AI-style face unlock
Wyze Palm Lock Palm vein recognition, auto-lock, USB‑C emergency power, dual battery, Wi‑Fi Budget–mid Gadget lovers who want unusual biometrics Innovative contactless palm vein access
Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Smart Lock Apple Home Keys, Wi‑Fi, app management, activity tracking Mid–premium Apple-centric smart homes Deep Apple ecosystem integration
Yale Assure Lock 2 Smart Lock Wi‑Fi Deadbolt Wi‑Fi deadbolt, touchscreen keypad, remote access, smart-home compatibility Mid Mixed households wanting a trusted, keypad-focused lock Trusted brand with mainstream smart features
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Latitude Lever Wi‑Fi lever, app access, up to 100 codes, notifications, voice assistant support Mid–premium Users who value Schlage’s reputation and need many access codes Strong code management from a legacy lock brand
neufy E31 Smart Lock Wi‑Fi deadbolt, fast fingerprint, keypad, app, Siri/Alexa/Google support Mid Tech lovers who want fingerprints plus broad voice support Well-balanced biometric and voice assistant combo
Eufy Smart Lock C30 Wi‑Fi, easy install, app control, real-time notifications, reliable power Budget–mid Everyday smart-home users wanting simple security upgrades Easy-to-use, notification-rich smart deadbolt
TP‑Link Tapo DLW10 Smart Deadbolt Custom passcodes, app monitoring, auto-lock, activity logs, assistant integration Budget Value seekers and Tapo ecosystem users Strong value with robust logging and controls
Tapo DL100 V1 Smart Door Lock Wi‑Fi deadbolt, passcode + app entry, Alexa/Google voice control, tactile buttons Budget Budget smart-home builders wanting simple Wi‑Fi control Affordable Wi‑Fi lock with voice control
SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro Retrofit design, app control, keyless entry, easy install, SwitchBot integration Budget–mid Renters and non-DIYers who can’t change deadbolts Renter-friendly retrofit design
TP‑Link Tapo DLW10 Smart Deadbolt (duplicate) Same as above: passcodes, app monitoring, auto-lock, activity logs Budget Same as above Same strong value profile
Wyze Palm Lock (duplicate) Same as above: palm vein recognition, auto-lock, USB‑C backup Budget–mid Same as above Same innovative biometrics
Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Smart Lock (duplicate) Same as above: Apple Home Keys, app, tracking Mid–premium Same as above Apple-centric strength
Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Zeno Deadbolt Wi‑Fi Smart Lock (duplicate) Same as above: facial recognition, radar, fingerprint, Apple Home Keys Premium Same as above Same top-tier feature set
SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro (duplicate) Same as above: retrofit app control Budget–mid Same as above Same renter-friendly design
Eufy Smart Lock C30 (duplicate) Same as above: Wi‑Fi, app, notifications Budget–mid Same as above Same ease-of-use strength
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Latitude Lever (duplicate) Same as above: Wi‑Fi lever, 100 codes, notifications Mid–premium Same as above Same legacy-brand reliability
Tapo DL100 V1 Smart Door Lock (duplicate) Same as above: Wi‑Fi, passcode/app entry, voice control Budget Same as above Same budget-friendly Wi‑Fi control

Buying Tips

  • Decide which biometric excites you most.
    - Face-based access: Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max, Lockly Visage Zeno
    - Fingerprint: neufy E31 Smart Lock
    - Palm vein: Wyze Palm Lock
  • Check your ecosystem first.
    - Apple power users: Lockly Visage Zeno or Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus for Apple Home Keys.
    - Mixed Siri/Alexa/Google homes: neufy E31, TP‑Link Tapo DLW10, Tapo DL100 V1, Eufy C30.
  • Decide if you can replace the deadbolt.
    - Owners comfortable with hardware changes: any deadbolt/lever option.
    - Renters: SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro for a retrofit approach.
  • Consider maintenance and power.
    - If you hate battery changes, the self-charging positioning of the Lockin V7 Max is promising.
    - USB‑C emergency backup (Wyze Palm Lock) is handy if you travel often or live in harsher climates.
  • Balance novelty vs reliability.
    - For pure tech thrills: Lockly Visage Zeno, Lockin V7 Max, Wyze Palm Lock.
    - For dependable, familiar smart access: Yale Assure line, Schlage Encode, Eufy C30, Tapo models.

Conclusion

For tech lovers, the Lockly Visage Facial Recognition Zeno currently sets the benchmark with its stacked biometric arsenal and ecosystem reach. The Lockin True AI Smart Lock V7 Max is a promising newcomer, especially if the self-charging and face-recognition experience deliver on the “True AI” promise—it’s one to watch if you like being early to new platforms.

If you prefer a more mainstream smart lock that still plays nicely with your smart home, Yale, Schlage, TP‑Link, Wyze, SwitchBot, and Eufy all offer well-rounded options at different price points.

Before you buy, narrow down which ecosystem you live in, what biometric style you want, and whether you’re ready to replace your deadbolt. Then check current prices and launch offers—particularly for the Lockin V7 Max’s early-access discount—before making your final pick.

Overview

Design & Features

Performance

Comparisons with Other Brands

Verdict