Both convenience and security play big roles in an effective smart lock, so it's wise to choose a smart lock with equal helpings. (Our ratings lean slightly more toward convenience.) But it's also okay if you prefer one over the other. Convenience: Remote access, no more spare keys, and hands-free entry are all big perks of smart locks. You can't beat a smart door lock when you're coming in with an armload of groceries or letting in the dog walker from somewhere else. In essence, smart locks are about convenience. Security: While smart locks aren't stronger than traditional ones, they control who has access to your home and when. Locks that allow you to create a virtual key or pin code for users (and disable it as needed) give you much more security than traditional keys.