If you’re self-managing an Airbnb, your smart lock becomes part of your operating system — not just a door lock.
The biggest things that matter for Airbnb hosts are remote access management, guest code reliability, automation, ease of use, and long-term durability.
I currently use Lockly across all 3 of my rentals, but I’ve also looked closely at Schlage Encode and the newer Alfred ML2 system because they’re becoming popular with self-managing hosts.
The 3 Smart Locks Compared
- Lockly: Best for hosts who want flexibility, security features, and multiple access options.
- Schlage Encode: Best for hosts who want a proven, simple, reliable smart lock.
- Alfred ML2: Best for hosts who want a newer, modern-looking smart lock with a sleek design.
Why Smart Locks Matter for Airbnb Hosts
Smart locks solve several major problems for short-term rental owners:
- No physical key handoffs
- Unique guest codes for each stay
- Remote access management
- Reduced lockouts and guest confusion
- Improved security compared to traditional lockboxes
For self-managing hosts, this is one of the biggest operational upgrades you can make.
What I Looked for in a Smart Lock
When choosing a smart lock for my rentals, I wanted:
- Easy guest code management
- Reliable remote access
- Simple setup for guests
- Strong security
- A clean, modern look
- Something that worked well across multiple properties
Option 1: Lockly
I currently use Lockly smart locks across all my properties.
What I like most is the flexibility and ease of guest access. Guests can use unique codes, keypad entry, and in some models fingerprint access depending on the setup.
It completely eliminated the need for key exchanges and made check-in significantly easier.
Lockly Pros
- Unique guest codes
- Remote management
- Fingerprint access options on some models
- Clean, modern appearance
- Strong security features
- Great for self-managing hosts
Lockly Cons
- Slightly more setup than basic locks
- You need to monitor battery life occasionally
- Some features may depend on the specific model and setup
My take: This is the smart lock system I trust across all 3 of my rentals.
Option 2: Schlage Encode
Schlage Encode is another popular option for Airbnb hosts because of its simplicity and strong reputation.
It is widely used, easy to understand, and has a reputation for reliability. For many hosts, Schlage is the “safe pick” because it is familiar and proven.
Schlage Encode Pros
- Reliable brand
- Easy setup
- Good app functionality
- Popular among Airbnb hosts
- Simple guest experience
Schlage Encode Cons
- More basic feature set
- No fingerprint access
- Less flexible than some newer smart lock options
My take: If you want the most established, straightforward option, Schlage Encode is a strong choice.
Option 3: Alfred ML2
Alfred ML2 is a newer option that is getting attention because of its modern design and smart-home feel.
It may appeal to hosts who want something that looks sleeker than a traditional keypad lock while still offering smart access features.
Alfred ML2 Pros
- Modern design
- Multiple access methods
- Smart-home focused feel
- Good option for hosts who care about appearance
Alfred ML2 Cons
- Less proven in short-term rentals than Schlage
- Smaller install base among Airbnb hosts
- Fewer long-term STR-specific reviews compared to Lockly or Schlage
My take: Alfred ML2 is worth watching, especially if design is important, but I would want more real-world Airbnb usage before making it my default recommendation.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Lockly | Schlage Encode | Alfred ML2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Flexibility and advanced features | Reliability and simplicity | Modern design |
| Remote Access | Yes, depending on model/setup | Yes | Yes, depending on setup |
| Guest Codes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fingerprint Option | Available on some models | No | Depends on model/configuration |
| Airbnb Host Popularity | Growing | Very established | Newer entrant |
| Design | Modern | Traditional smart lock look | Sleek and modern |
| My Pick | Best overall balance | Safest proven option | Interesting newer option |
Which Smart Lock Is Best for Airbnb?
All three are solid options, but they serve slightly different types of hosts.
- Choose Lockly if you want flexibility, modern features, and multiple access options.
- Choose Schlage Encode if you want a proven, reliable, simple smart lock.
- Choose Alfred ML2 if you want a newer, more design-forward smart lock option.
For my own properties, I chose Lockly because it gave me the best balance between automation, flexibility, security, and guest experience.
What Actually Matters Most for Airbnb Hosts
After using smart locks across multiple rentals, I would prioritize smart locks in this order:
- Reliability
- Remote access management
- Guest simplicity
- Backup entry methods
- Smart integrations
Fancy features matter less than one simple question:
Will this work every single check-in?
That is the real Airbnb test.
| Smart Lock | Best For | Remote Access | Guest Codes | Fingerprint Access | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lockly | Flexibility & features | Yes | Yes | Yes (some models) | Best overall balance |
| Schlage Encode | Simplicity & reliability | Yes | Yes | No | Safest proven option |
| Alfred ML2 | Modern design | Yes | Yes | Depends on model | Interesting newer option |
My Recommendation
If you are self-managing a short-term rental, I strongly recommend implementing a smart lock early.
It removes one of the most manual and frustrating parts of running a property and creates a much smoother guest experience.
For me, Lockly is the smart lock system I use across my rentals. Schlage Encode is still a very safe alternative, and Alfred ML2 is an interesting newer option for hosts who want a more modern look.
Final Thoughts
Smart locks are one of the first upgrades I recommend for self-managing Airbnb hosts.
They eliminate key handoffs, reduce check-in friction, and make your rental feel more professional.
Once you manage multiple properties, that operational simplicity becomes incredibly valuable.
Start here: See my full Airbnb automation setup