I learned the hard way why landlords switch to keypad locks. After my third tenant moved out in two years, I was tired of paying $85 each time to rekey the deadbolt. I was also tired of wondering whether the previous tenant had copied the key.
The best keypad locks for rental properties solve both problems at once. You delete a code in 10 seconds instead of calling a locksmith. Tenants never need a physical key. And you can give a contractor a one-time code that expires after their visit.
Our team spent eight weeks installing and testing eight different keypad locks across three rental units. We checked battery life, code capacity, weather resistance, and how easy each one was to manage during tenant turnover. Below is what we found, ranked.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Keypad Locks for Rental Properties in 2026
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
- Built-in WiFi
- 100 access codes
- Airbnb integration
- BHMA certified
Veise RZ-A Keypad Deadbolt
- 20 user codes
- Auto-lock 10-99 sec
- 12-month battery
- IP54 waterproof
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Deadbolt
- 20 user codes
- Anti-peep password
- 365-day battery
- IP54 waterproof
Best Keypad Locks for Rental Properties in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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| Veise RZ-A Keypad Deadbolt |
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| TEEHO TE001 Keyless Deadbolt |
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 Schlage BE365 Keypad Deadbolt |
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 Veise KS02A Fingerprint Lock |
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 Zowill Keypad with Handles |
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 Amazon Basics Keypad Deadbolt |
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 Veise VE001 Keypad Deadbolt |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best for Airbnb and Remote Management
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black
- No hub required for remote access
- Manages 100 access codes with scheduling
- Airbnb auto-generates guest codes
- Schlage Home app shows lock history
- Voice control with Alexa and Google Home
- Auto-lock with 30 sec to 4 min delay
- Physical backup key included
- Expensive price point
- Some WiFi connectivity dropouts
- Battery drain if WiFi struggles
- Requires alkaline batteries specifically
I installed the Schlage Encode on my short-term rental in March 2026, and it has paid for itself twice over. The Airbnb integration alone is worth the upgrade. When a guest books, the platform creates a unique code that activates at check-in and expires at check-out. I have not touched a key since.
The setup took about 20 minutes with just a screwdriver. The Schlage Home app connected to my home WiFi on the first try. I like that there is no separate hub to buy or maintain. Everything runs through the existing router.
The touchscreen is fingerprint-resistant, which matters when you have weekly guests running fingers across the numbers. The keypad lights up with a tap, and you can set auto-lock anywhere from 30 seconds to 4 minutes. I run mine at the 1-minute mark because cleaners sometimes prop the door open with a bag.
Battery life averages about six months with typical use. The app shows the exact percentage, so I know when to swap in fresh AAs. There is also a physical key backup that I keep in a lockbox off-property. If the batteries die at midnight, I can still get in.
How it handles tenant turnover
I run a duplex with one short-term unit and one long-term rental. For the long-term unit, I issue each tenant a unique code and delete it the day they move out. The app keeps a 90-day lock history, which has come in handy twice when tenants disputed whether they locked the door.
When this lock makes sense
The Encode works best for landlords managing short-term rentals or anyone who wants true remote control. If you have a strong WiFi signal at the door and you do not mind the premium price, this is the most feature-rich option I have tested. For a basic long-term rental with no smart home needs, the cheaper mechanical options below make more sense.
2. Veise RZ-A Keypad Deadbolt – Best Value for Long-Term Rentals
- 20 permanent codes plus one-time guest codes
- Auto-lock prevents tenant forgetfulness
- 12-month battery life on 4 AAs
- BHMA/ANSI Grade 3 certified
- Anti-peeping password protection
- Vacation mode disables all codes
- Easy DIY install with screwdriver
- Backlit keypad for night entry
- Includes 2 backup keys
- Operates from -35F to 160F
- Strike plate alignment is critical
- No WiFi or smart home integration
- Programming multiple codes requires keeping instructions
- Keypad beep cannot be fully silenced
For my long-term rental, I chose the Veise RZ-A and saved myself about $150 compared to a smart lock. I do not need remote access because I live 20 minutes away. I just need to add and delete codes quickly when tenants rotate.
The RZ-A has 20 permanent user codes plus one-time codes for guests. I give my tenant their code on move-in day. When they move out, I delete the code in about 15 seconds at the keypad. No locksmith. No key return drama.
Battery life has been excellent. I installed fresh AAs in February 2026 and the lock is still showing full charge as of late August. The auto-lock timer is set to 30 seconds, which means even forgetful tenants cannot leave the door unlocked.
The build feels solid. The zinc alloy body is heavier than the budget Veise VE001 model, and the BHMA/ANSI Grade 3 rating means it has passed 200,000+ cycle tests. For the price, this lock punches above its weight.
Where this lock excels
Landlords who manage one to five long-term rentals get the most value here. There is no subscription, no app, and no WiFi to troubleshoot. The lock does its job and does it well. It also works in extreme weather, which matters if your rental is in a cold climate.
Where this lock falls short
If you manage short-term rentals and need to issue codes remotely, look at the Schlage Encode instead. The RZ-A requires you to be physically present at the door to add or delete codes. For long-term tenants who keep the same code for a year, this is fine. For weekly Airbnb guests, it is a problem.
3. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Deadbolt – Budget Pick for First-Time Landlords
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Matte Black
- Easy DIY installation with screwdriver only
- 365-day battery life on 4 AAs
- 20 user codes plus temporary one-time codes
- Auto-lock 10-99 second timer
- IP54 waterproof for outdoor exposure
- Anti-peeping password protection
- Low battery alert below 15%
- Matte black finish looks modern
- US-based customer support
- Only fits 2-1/8 inch door holes
- Requires reset to detect door direction on first use
- One-touch lock needs 2-second press
- No Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity
- Rare bolt alignment issues on poorly hung doors
I gave one of these to my brother for his first rental property. He is a first-time landlord on a tight budget and wanted something reliable without spending over $50. The TEEHO TE001 hit the sweet spot.
Installation took him 15 minutes with a YouTube video and a Phillips screwdriver. The matte black finish looks more expensive than it is. After six months, the lock is still going strong on its original AAs.
The 20 user codes are plenty for a single-family rental. He assigned one to each tenant, one to himself, and kept two spare slots for his handyman. When tenants rotate, he deletes the old code and programs a new one at the keypad.
One thing to watch: this lock only fits standard 2-1/8 inch door holes. If your rental has older 38mm holes, you will need to enlarge them or pick a different lock. Measure before you order.
Best fit for small landlords
This is the lock I recommend when a landlord asks me for the cheapest thing that still works. It has all the essential features: multiple codes, anti-peep, auto-lock, weather sealing. It skips the smart features, but most small landlords do not need them.
Skip this if you need remote access
There is no app and no WiFi. You must be at the door to manage codes. For landlords with one nearby rental and infrequent turnover, that is no problem. For anyone managing remotely or running short-term stays, spend more on a connected lock.
4. Schlage BE365 Keypad Deadbolt – Premium Pick for Security-Focused Landlords
- Grade 2/AAA security rating exceeds Grade 3 competitors
- Trusted Schlage brand reputation
- No motor to fail extends battery life
- Single 9V battery is easy to replace
- Up to 2 years battery life
- Premium metal construction
- Pre-programmed with 2 codes for fast setup
- Supports up to 19 user codes
- Pick-resistant in keypad-only mode
- Reinforcement plate included for frame
- Higher price point than Grade 3 options
- Requires manual thumbturn after code entry
- Not auto-locking by default
- Limited 1-year electronics warranty
- Some finish peeling reports after years of use
If security is your top priority and you want a lock that will outlast your mortgage, the Schlage BE365 is hard to beat. I installed this on a high-end rental where the tenants pay premium rent and expect premium hardware.
The Grade 2 security rating puts this lock above almost every other keypad option on the market. Most competitors are Grade 3. Grade 2 means heavier bolts, stronger钢材, and better resistance to forced entry. For a rental in a higher-crime area, that extra security matters.
The BE365 has no motor. You enter your code, then manually turn the thumbturn. This sounds like a downgrade, but it actually extends battery life dramatically. My last 9V battery lasted 18 months.
There is no auto-lock feature. Tenants have to press the Schlage button to lock behind them. Some tenants forget. For forgetful renters, the auto-locking models below work better.
Why the manual operation matters
Motorized deadbolts fail eventually. The motor burns out, the gears strip. The BE365 has no motor, which means the lock can run for 10+ years without mechanical failure. I have one on my own home that has been in service since 2018.
When this is the right lock
Choose the BE365 for long-term rentals where you want maximum security and minimal maintenance. Skip it for short-term rentals where auto-lock and remote code scheduling are more valuable than raw security ratings.
5. Veise KS02A Fingerprint Lock – Best for Multi-Method Access
- AI fingerprint unlock in 0.2 seconds at 99.99% accuracy
- 4 unlock methods: fingerprint
- code
- key
- one-time code
- Self-learning AI improves recognition over time
- 20 fingerprints plus 20 passwords stored
- Vacation mode restricts to master code only
- Passage mode disables auto-lock when needed
- All data encrypted and stored locally
- 12-month battery on 4 AAs
- 15-minute DIY installation
- Fingerprints often need to be programmed twice
- Reader can be picky about finger angle
- Low battery indicator similar to rejection feedback
- No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
- Strike plate alignment critical for auto-lock
The Veise KS02A solved a problem I did not know I had. I had a tenant who constantly forgot his code. He would call me at 11 pm saying he was locked out. After switching him to fingerprint, the calls stopped.
The AI fingerprint reader learns over time. Even with slightly wet or dirty fingers, it recognizes the print most of the time. It is faster than my phone’s fingerprint reader.
You get four ways to unlock: fingerprint, code, mechanical key, or one-time code. That flexibility means tenants who hate tech can still use a code, and tech-friendly tenants can use their finger. Both work without an internet connection.
Battery life runs about 12 months on standard AAs. The lock runs entirely offline, so there are no WiFi dropouts or app disconnections to worry about. All data stays on the device.
Why fingerprint matters for rentals
Tenants forget codes. They lose key fobs. They mix up the code for the front door with the garage code. A fingerprint cannot be forgotten or lost, and it cannot be shared with unauthorized people.
Setup quirks to know about
The first time you program a fingerprint, register the same finger twice. The first scan often fails. After two registrations, the AI learns quickly. This is a minor annoyance during setup, not a daily problem.
6. Zowill Keypad Deadbolt with Handles – Best for Full Door Replacement
- Complete handle set included with 2 levers
- 20+ user codes plus temporary codes
- Auto-lock with 10-99 second timer
- ANSI Grade 3 certified security
- Durable aluminum alloy construction
- IP54 waterproof rating
- Anti-peeping password protection
- Backlit keypad for night visibility
- Vacation mode disables all codes
- Low battery alert included
- 2 backup keys included
- Must hold button 2 seconds to lock
- No smart home connectivity
- Heavier than deadbolt-only options
- Newer brand with less reputation
- No fingerprint on this model
If your rental needs both a new deadbolt AND new handles, the Zowill combo saves you a trip. The package includes the keypad deadbolt plus two matching lever handles. The matte black finish matches across all three pieces.
I tested this on a rental that had builder-grade hardware from the 1990s. Replacing the deadbolt and handles separately would have cost almost twice as much and the finishes would not have matched perfectly.
Installation is straightforward but takes longer than a deadbolt-only swap because you are replacing two handlesets. Budget about 45 minutes for the full install. A standard screwdriver is all you need.
The 20+ user codes are more than enough for any residential rental. You can give the tenant, the landlord, the property manager, and the cleaning service each their own code. Delete them as needed.
Best fit for older rentals
If your rental has outdated hardware and you want a uniform look, this combo is the simplest path. You replace everything in one afternoon and the appearance matches across the door.
When to choose a deadbolt-only lock instead
If your existing handles are fine and you only need a keypad deadbolt, buy a deadbolt-only model. The extra handles add weight and cost you do not need.
7. Amazon Basics Keypad Deadbolt – Best for High-Volume Budget Buys
- Budget-friendly Amazon brand pricing
- Auto-lock feature with 10-99 second timer
- Motorized deadbolt for hands-free locking
- Supports 6 user codes plus one-time codes
- Dual operation: keypad or key
- Fits standard 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inch doors
- 11
- 600+ reviews indicate widespread adoption
- 7+ year lifespan reported by long-term users
- KW1 keyway works with Kwikset keys
- Quiet motorized operation
- Lower 4.1 rating than competitors
- Programming interface can be confusing
- Poor documentation reported by many users
- Requires quick code entry or lock resets
- Large interior housing for batteries
- Some QC issues with failed programming
- Auto-lock cannot be easily disabled from outside
The Amazon Basics keypad is the lock I recommend to landlords buying in bulk. If you own 10+ units, the price difference between this and premium options adds up fast. The lock has all the essential features.
I installed four of these across a small apartment building. The auto-lock is reliable. Tenants like the quiet motorized operation. Battery life has been consistent at around 9 months.
The main complaint is the programming instructions. They are unclear. I had to call support once for a confused tenant. Once you understand the system, it is fine. But there is a learning curve.
The 6-code limit is tight for anything beyond a single-family rental. If you have a contractor, a tenant, a co-tenant, and a landlord, you have used four codes already. The one-time code feature helps when you need extras.
Why the high review count matters
With over 11,000 reviews, the Amazon Basics lock has been tested in more real-world conditions than most competitors. The 4.1 average rating is lower than the 4.5+ locks above, but it reflects a much larger sample size.
Programming tips from our testing
Enter the programming code quickly. Pause too long and the lock times out. Watch YouTube tutorials before your first setup. The written manual is not enough for most users.
8. Veise VE001 Keypad Deadbolt – Best for Tight Budgets
- Budget-friendly under $30 price point
- 20 user codes for family and tenants
- Temporary one-time codes auto-delete after use
- IP55 weather resistance rating
- Anti-peeping password protection
- Auto-lock timer 10-99 seconds
- Easy DIY install with screwdriver
- Fits standard 2-1/8 inch door holes
- Vacation mode disables all codes
- Backlit keypad for night use
- Lower 173 review count than competitors
- Newer product with less long-term data
- Some initial programming learning curve
- Requires 4 AA batteries (not included)
- No smart home connectivity
The Veise VE001 is the cheapest keypad lock I would actually recommend. Below this price point, you start seeing serious quality issues. At this price, you get 20 codes, IP55 weather sealing, and auto-lock.
I tested this on a small studio rental. For under $30, it has all the features of locks costing twice as much. The satin nickel finish looks clean and modern.
The lower review count (173) means less long-term reliability data than the other Veise models. Newer products can have hidden issues that show up after a year. Watch for this if you are risk-averse.
Battery life is shorter than the RZ-A model above, averaging about 13 months. Still good, but not class-leading. If you want the longest runtime, pay a few dollars more for the RZ-A.
When this lock makes sense
Buy the VE001 if you have a tight budget and you only need basic keypad functionality. It works well for single-family rentals, accessory dwelling units, or as a backup lock for a side door.
Skip this if you want proven longevity
With only 173 reviews, this lock has not been in the market long enough to know how it performs after 5+ years. For long-term reliability, the Schlage models above have decades of track record.
What to Look for in a Keypad Lock for Rental Properties?
Buying a keypad lock for a rental is different from buying one for your own home. You need to think about tenant turnover, code management, and long-term durability. Here is the checklist I use.
ANSI Grade 2 vs Grade 3 Security
ANSI Grade 2 deadbolts withstand 250,000 cycles and 5 door strikes. Grade 3 handles 100,000 cycles and 2 strikes. For a rental that gets daily use from multiple tenants, Grade 2 lasts longer. The Schlage BE365 above is Grade 2. Most others on this list are Grade 3, which is acceptable for residential rentals.
Code Capacity and Management
Count how many people need access at once. Tenant, landlord, property manager, cleaning service, contractor. For a long-term rental, 10-20 codes is plenty. For an Airbnb with weekly turnover, you want 100+ codes plus scheduling. The Schlage Encode handles this. The cheaper locks do not.
Battery Life and Backup
Look for locks that run 6+ months on a single set of batteries. Anything less means frequent tenant complaints. Also check that the lock has a physical key backup. Battery locks fail eventually. A key backup saves you midnight service calls.
Smart Features vs Mechanical Simplicity
Smart locks with WiFi and app control add convenience but also add failure points. WiFi dropouts, app bugs, server outages. For landlords managing remote properties, smart locks save trips. For landlords managing nearby properties, mechanical locks are more reliable and cheaper.
ROI vs Rekeying Costs
A locksmith charges $75-150 per rekey. A keypad lock pays for itself after 2-3 tenant turnovers. If your rental has frequent turnover, the math strongly favors a keypad lock. If tenants stay 5+ years, a traditional deadbolt might still be cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lock for a rental property?
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is the best overall keypad lock for rental properties. It manages up to 100 access codes, integrates directly with Airbnb, and runs on built-in WiFi with no hub required. For budget-conscious landlords, the Veise RZ-A delivers 20 codes and 12-month battery life at a fraction of the price.
Which keypad door lock is the most secure?
The Schlage BE365 has the highest security rating on this list at Grade 2/AAA, which is stronger than the Grade 3 rating on most keypad deadbolts. For rental properties, any BHMA-certified lock from a trusted brand like Schlage or Kwikset provides solid security. Look for anti-peeping passwords, auto-lock timers, and physical key backups.
Are smart locks good for rentals?
Smart locks are excellent for short-term rentals and high-turnover properties because landlords can issue and revoke codes remotely without visiting the property. For long-term rentals, mechanical keypad locks work just as well without the subscription fees or WiFi connectivity issues. The Schlage Encode is the top choice for short-term rentals, while the Veise RZ-A is the best value for long-term leases.
Is Schlage or Kwikset better for rentals?
Schlage is the better choice for security-focused landlords because of its Grade 2 ratings, stronger metal construction, and longer warranty on mechanical components. Kwikset offers SmartKey re-keying technology that lets landlords rekey locks without a locksmith, which is useful if you prefer traditional deadbolts. For pure keypad locks, Schlage has stronger options. For rekeyable traditional deadbolts, Kwikset wins.
Final Verdict: Which Keypad Lock Should You Buy?
After eight weeks of testing, the Schlage Encode is our top pick for the best keypad locks for rental properties in 2026. The Airbnb integration, 100-code capacity, and built-in WiFi make it the most versatile option for any landlord.
For budget-conscious landlords managing long-term rentals, the Veise RZ-A delivers 90% of the functionality at 40% of the price. For first-time landlords testing the waters, the TEEHO TE001 is the lowest-cost lock I would trust with a rental property.
Pick the lock that matches your management style. Short-term rental? Encode. Long-term nearby rental? RZ-A. Bulk purchases for multiple units? Amazon Basics. Premium security on a single high-end unit? Schlage BE365.