Alexa Door Lock

 The lock features built-in Wi-Fi, so it doesn't require a hub. Its surface is resistant to fingerprints so that it won't give away your passcode pattern. It also works with the Amazon Key program, so that you can pair it with connected cameras to see who is coming and going, as well as grant access to trusted visitors and vendors. While it does support these features, you can't get it to unlock automatically with your device based on your proximity to the door.

When you picture a traditional smart door lock, the Yale Assure is probably what you have in mind. It works perfectly with Alexa — with the additional purchase of a hub — and you can manage the lock from anywhere. It can remember 250 unique PIN codes, so you can assign codes to guests without giving out our master PIN. You can also lock every code out of the system at once just in case something goes wrong. There are two physical keys included if you need them as well, and installation only takes a few minutes and a screwdriver. This lock is also equipped to work with the Amazon Key service.

Daniel Wroclawski I'm obsessed with smart home tech and channel my obsession into new stories for Consumer Reports. When I'm not writing about products, I spend time either outside hiking and skiing or up in the air in small airplanes. For my latest obsessions, follow me on Facebook and Twitter (@danwroc).

Installing a smart lock is one of the easiest ways to give your family a little extra convenience and peace of mind. Alexa integration takes things to the next level, as you can check on the status of your home at any time, even while you are leaving for the day or from the comforts of your bed. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is one of the best locks around as it combines an affordable price with easy installation and Alexa support. The latest 4th generation version is slimmer than ever, and it no longer requires a separate hub.

More on Smart Home Smart Tips for Buying a Smart Speaker Which Smart Appliances Work With Alexa, Google Home, and More What Parents Need to Know About the Amazon Echo Dot Kids Edition Best Smart Locks With Electronic Keys “If you’re going to use this feature, make sure you don’t use an easy-to-guess PIN code, such as 1-1-1-1, and make sure you change any default passwords,” says Robert Richter, Consumer Reports’ privacy and security testing program manager. 

“You’ll also want to keep the Alexa and corresponding smart lock apps up to date to avoid any potential security breaches.” The feature will be rolled out to users gradually, via an update to the Amazon Alexa app. Other lock makers likely will join Schlage, August and Yale in the days and weeks ahead. A few smart locks, including the Kwikset Kevo and August Smart Lock, already offered custom Alexa skills that let you ask Alexa to unlock the door with a PIN. 

But these were features added by the companies, not Amazon. By including this capability on the Amazon Alexa app, Amazon seems to be embracing a feature it shied away from when it brought smart locks into Alexa’s domain about a year ago. For more on smart locks that work with Alexa or models that offer electronic keys, check out CR’s smart-lock ratings.