5 Best Smart Locks for Renters Without Drilling in 2026

As a renter, choosing a smart lock in 2026 involves prioritizing damage-free, easy-to-install options like adhesive or magnetic mounting systems, which require no drilling or permanent modifications. These devices typically support multiple access methods—including Bluetooth, RFID, fingerprint, and voice controls—and feature durable materials like zinc alloy, with battery life exceeding six months, and pull strength ratings of over 300 pounds, ensuring robust security despite temporary installation. The latest models balance convenience with security, but understanding their limitations is essential before making a choice that fits your specific needs.

eLinkSmart Magnetic RFID Cabinet Lock, No Drill, White

The eLinkSmart Magnetic RFID Cabinet Lock, No Drill, White, is a great pick for renters. It helps you add security without causing any damage to your furniture. You don’t need tools to install it. Instead, you use the invisible adhesive tape included. There’s also an option to add screws if you want extra hold. The lock can be put on kitchen cabinets, drawers, or even liquor cabinets. It stays in place well because it’s made from tough zinc alloy and ABS.

This lock has many ways to open it. You can use a mobile app, Apple Watch, RFID card, NFC, or even give a voice command with Alexa. This makes getting into your cabinets quick and easy. The lock is sturdy and can resist pulling with over 440 pounds of force. It is also child-safe and has anti-prying features to make it harder for kids or pets to open.

The lock runs on two AA batteries. It can unlock around 6,000 times a year. When the batteries get low, it sends a warning so you can change them. Batteries are not included so you’ll need to buy some. The lock comes with a 12-month warranty and lifetime support, which makes it a reliable choice for renters who want extra security without damaging furniture.

Best For: Renters who want a simple, no-damage way to keep their cabinets safe. It is easy to install and use.

Pros:

• No drilling needed. You can stick it on or use screws for more strength.
• Multiple ways to unlock, like an app, Apple Watch, RFID card, NFC, or Alexa.
• Strong build with anti-prying features. Supports over 440 pounds of pull force.
• Safe for kids and certified to prevent accidental opening.

Cons:

• Batteries are not included and need to be replaced about once a year.
• Might need to reapply the adhesive over time for the best hold.
• No physical key backup. You rely on electronic methods to unlock it.

This lock is a good choice if you want to keep your cabinets safe without drilling holes or damaging your furniture. It’s easy to set up and use, and it has many options for unlocking. If you want a hidden, quick, and child-proof lock for your cabinets, this could be a perfect fit.

eLinkSmart RFID Bluetooth Cabinet Lock (No Drill, Black)

Looking for a lock that’s easy to put on and keeps your stuff safe? The eLinkSmart RFID Bluetooth Cabinet Lock (No Drill, Black) is a great choice for renters in 2026. It doesn’t need screws or drills. Instead, it sticks on with a strong magnetic adhesive. This keeps your furniture looking nice and saves you from making holes.

This lock offers five ways to open it. You can use a phone app, Apple Watch, RFID card, NFC, or even ask Alexa voice commands. That means you have many options to unlock your cabinet quickly and easily. It’s perfect if you want modern technology that works with what you already have.

The lock is made from tough zinc alloy and ABS plastic. It can handle pulling with over 440 pounds of force without breaking. It’s built to last. The battery can run up to a year, giving you more than 6,000 openings before it needs changing. Plus, it’s childproof, so little hands can’t open it easily.

This lock is good for people who rent homes or want an easy way to secure furniture without damage. It’s simple, safe, and versatile. Just stick it on, connect your devices, and you’re ready to go. Keep in mind, it needs Bluetooth and compatible devices to work well. The sticky mount might not work well on heavy or textured furniture, but you can use screws if needed.

YiToo Magnetic Digital RFID Locker for Cabinets

If you rent or own furniture you want to keep safe, the YiToo Magnetic Digital RFID Locker is a good choice. It’s easy to install and doesn’t need any drilling. You just use screws to put it in—no wires or tools needed. It’s made from tough zinc alloy and high-quality plastic, so it feels solid and safe.

The lock is small—just 3.55 by 2.08 by 0.55 inches—and lightweight, weighing only 6.4 ounces. That means it fits well on different furniture and is easy to handle. It works with furniture that is about 18 to 36 mm thick. It works best indoors, for temperatures from -20°C to 60°C, and up to 85% humidity.

You can unlock it in many ways. Use your fingerprint, RFID card, password, or even a smartphone app. This makes it flexible for different needs and users. The batteries are not included, so you will need to buy them separately and change them when needed.

This lock is perfect if you want a quick, no-drill way to secure cabinets or drawers. It is simple to install and easy to use. Just keep in mind that some people have reported issues with durability or how well it works over time. Also, it’s meant for indoor use only.

In short, the YiToo Magnetic Digital RFID Locker is a handy choice for renters and homeowners who want a lock they can put on furniture fast and without hassle.

Veise VE012W Smart WiFi Fingerprint Lock

The Veise VE012W Smart WiFi Fingerprint Lock is a great choice for people renting or living in an apartment. It’s easy to install without damaging your door, and it offers many ways to unlock your door. You can use your phone app, fingerprint, voice commands, or physical keys. The fingerprint scanner works in just 0.2 seconds and has 99.99% accuracy.

You can add up to 20 fingerprints, set unlimited one-time codes, and create up to 100 PINs. It also has extra security features to prevent peeping. The lock connects to WiFi, so you can control it from anywhere using the app. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can give voice commands as well.

This lock is made for DIY installation on standard U.S. doors. You don’t need special tools or damage your door. It is built with strong materials and meets Grade 3 standards. Plus, it’s waterproof with an IP55 rating, so it can handle rain or splashes.

Best For: Renters and homeowners who want a secure, easy-to-install smart lock. It gives many options for keyless access and remote control.

Pros:

• Six ways to unlock: phone app, fingerprint, voice, fingerprint and keys.
• Easy to install by yourself, no damage to your door.
• Connects to WiFi and works with Alexa and Google Assistant for remote control.

Cons:

• Batteries are not included, so you need to buy them separately.
• Some features may need updates to stay secure and work well.
• The lock is a bit large, so it might not fit very narrow doors.

This smart lock is simple to use and flexible. It keeps your home safe while making entry quick and easy.

DESLOC Smart Door Lock B200 with App Control

The DESLOC Smart Door Lock B200 with App Control is a great choice for renters and homeowners who want an easy and secure way to lock their door. It’s a BHMA Grade 3 rated lock, which means it’s good for most uses, but not the most secure option available. The lock is made for front doors and has a sleek matte black finish. It measures about 7.28 by 6.3 by 3.27 inches and weighs a little over 2 pounds.

This smart lock has many ways to open it. You can use fingerprint recognition with AI learning for quick access—usually in less than 0.3 seconds. You can also enter a PIN code, use a physical key, control it with an app via Bluetooth, open it remotely, or give voice commands with Alexa or Google Voice.

It’s easy to install. You won’t need to drill or damage your door. It’s built to last outdoors, with IP54 weather resistance. It works well in cold weather (-22℉) and hot weather (up to 158℉). The batteries last about 12 months before needing a change.

Who is it for?

This lock is good for renters and people who want a simple, secure smart lock that doesn’t damage their door. It offers many ways to unlock and control the door, making it very convenient.

Pros:

• Several ways to unlock, including fingerprint, PIN, key, app, and voice
• Easy to install, no door damage needed
• Durable against weather, lasts a year on a set of batteries

Cons:

• It is rated Grade 3, so it’s less secure than higher-class locks. Not ideal for high-security needs
• You need a smartphone and compatible voice assistants to get all features
• Your door must fully close and be set correctly for the lock to work smoothly

This smart lock offers a simple way to keep your door secure while giving you multiple options for access. It’s perfect if you want a lock that’s easy to use and doesn’t damage your door.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Smart Locks for Renters With No Drill Setup

When selecting a smart lock that requires no drilling, you need to prioritize models that offer seamless no-penetration installation, such as adhesive or clamp-based mounting systems, which vary in strength and stability based on the lock’s design and material recommendations; additionally, ensuring compatibility with your existing furniture or door frame, including dimensions like thickness—typically between 1.37 inches and 2 inches—and material type, helps prevent installation issues or damage. You also must evaluate the lock’s power source, with most batteries lasting anywhere from six months to two years under typical usage, and consider whether it includes features like low-battery alerts; variety in unlocking methods, such as keypad, fingerprint, or app-based controls, should match your convenience preferences while maintaining security standards. Finally, scrutinize security features like AES-128 encryption, anti-tamper alarms, and automatic lock functions, which, although industry-standard, can differ markedly in how effectively they safeguard against hacking or forced entry, making careful comparison essential.

No-Drill Installation Ease

No-drill smart locks are easy to set up. They are perfect for renters who don’t want to damage their doors or furniture. Installing them usually takes less than 10 minutes. You just need to clean the surface of the door well. Then, you can stick on adhesive pads, magnetic strips, or mounting plates that don’t need screws.

Most no-drill locks can be adjusted to fit different door thicknesses. Size options usually range from about 1.4 to 2.17 inches thick. It’s important to clean the surface first. Dirt or grease can make the lock stick badly.

Some locks use strong glue that can hold up to 15 pounds. This makes them as stable as traditional mounts. Others use magnets. Magnetic locks are easy to move and reposition. Just make sure the surface is compatible with the magnetic system.

These locks are simple and fast to install. You don’t need tools or special skills. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll have your lock ready in no time.

Compatibility With Furniture

To make sure your smart lock fits well on your furniture, you need to check a few things. First, see if the lock works with the thickness of your furniture. Some locks are made for surfaces that are 0.8 inches to 2 inches thick. Next, look at what material your furniture is made of. If it’s a smooth, non-porous surface like metal or plastic, adhesive or magnetic mounts usually work best. If your furniture is delicate or wood, screw-free mounts can help avoid damage.

Also, measure the space inside your furniture where you want to install the lock. Round locks are often around 3 inches in diameter. Rectangular locks might be about 4 inches by 2 inches. Make sure these sizes fit well without sticking out or being too tight.

Lastly, think about how you want to unlock the lock. Some locks use RFID, like badges or cards. Others connect to your phone app. Pick a lock that matches your preferred way of unlocking. This way, your smart lock will fit well and work smoothly with your furniture.

Power and Battery Life

Power and battery life are important when choosing a smart lock. They affect how reliable and easy to use the lock will be over time. Many smart locks run for about six months to over a year using standard AA batteries. So, it’s good to pick a lock that has long-lasting batteries.

Most locks have a low-battery warning. This lets you know when the batteries are running low, so you don’t get locked out unexpectedly. Some models also come with emergency power options, like USB Type-C ports. You can connect a power bank or charger to turn the lock back on if batteries die.

High-security locks focus on saving energy. Many can unlock over 6,000 times on a single charge. This makes sure your lock keeps working well, even with frequent use. The smart design helps the lock stay dependable with less maintenance.

In short, good battery life and features that show when power is low help keep your smart lock working smoothly. This makes it easier to trust the lock and avoid surprises.

Unlocking Methods Variety

When you pick a smart lock that doesn’t need drilling or changes to your door, it’s important to look at how you can open it. Different locks give you several ways to unlock them. Some use apps on your phone, so you can control the lock from anywhere. Others accept RFID cards or use NFC technology, which means just tapping a card or phone on the lock to open it. You might also use voice commands with devices like Alexa or Google Assistant. Some smart locks have fingerprint sensors, so you can unlock with your fingerprint.

These options make it easy to give access to family or friends. You can decide if they get temporary or long-term keys. Many locks let you lock and unlock from a distance, so you don’t need to carry keys anymore. Eliminating keys also means there’s less chance of losing them or breaking a key in the lock.

Since these locks don’t need drilling, they’re simple to install and won’t damage your door. When choosing a lock, think about what way of unlocking feels best for you. Do you want to use your voice, an app, or your fingerprint? Picking the right option makes your lock easy to use and fits your life.

Security Features Strength

Good security features are very important when choosing a smart lock. If you rent your place, you want a lock that protects well but doesn’t harm your door. Look for locks that stop prying, tampering, or vandalism. These locks are made tough with strong materials like zinc alloy or reinforced plastic. They can resist force of at least 440 pounds, so they are very durable.

Some smart locks let you unlock them in different ways. You can use RFID cards, fingerprint scans, or control them through an app. These methods are safer than just using keys or numbers you can guess. Locks with official certifications, like BHMA/ANSI Grade 3, have tested and proven to be tough and secure.

Features like auto-lock, temporary access codes, and alerts for low battery make your lock easier and safer to use. These features help you keep your rental safe without needing complicated installation.

Material and Build Quality

Material and build quality are really important when choosing a smart lock. These locks need to handle daily use, weather, and even someone trying to break in. Good locks are made with strong materials like zinc alloy, ABS plastic, or stainless steel. These materials resist damage from bumps, scratches, or tampering.

A sturdy lock can prevent prying or vandalism and stay secure for a long time. Some locks have certificates like BHMA Grade 3. That shows they meet certain safety and strength standards. Weather-resistant parts make these locks good for outdoor or indoor use. They will last through rain, sun, or cold without breaking.

In short, a well-made lock with strong materials keeps your home safe and works well over time.

Smart Home Integration

Smart home locks are a great choice for renters. They make life easier and keep your home safe. These locks can connect to your voice helpers like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. That means you can open your door just by talking. This is handy when your hands are full.

Many smart locks also work with your other smart devices. This lets you set up routines. For example, your door can unlock when you arrive home or lock itself at a certain time. Some locks can be controlled through a phone app. You can lock or unlock your door from anywhere. This keeps your home secure and gives you peace of mind.

Also, smart locks can work with your home security system. They can send you alerts if something unusual happens or let you watch your home remotely. Before you buy, check that the lock works with your favorite smart home platform and your phone. This will make sure everything works smoothly and easily.

Cost and Warranty Coverage

When choosing a no-drill smart lock for your rental home, it’s important to think about the cost and warranty. These locks can do many useful things, like letting you control them from your phone or locking automatically. Prices usually run from $100 to over $300. The cost depends on how many features the lock has and the brand.

Look at the warranty before you buy. Make sure it covers things like hardware problems, software issues, and battery replacements for at least one year. A good warranty can save you money if something breaks. Check if the warranty offers free help or replacement parts. Also, see if there are any rules about what the warranty does not cover, like certain installation methods or special features like no-drill setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are These Smart Locks Compatible With All Smartphone Models?

Most smart locks are compatible with a wide range of smartphone models, but you should check each lock’s specifications to verify your device’s operating system and Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities match the lock’s requirements for seamless use.

How Secure Are Non-Drilling Smart Locks Against Tampering?

Non-drilling smart locks generally offer good security against tampering because they use advanced encryption and sturdy materials. However, no lock is completely tamper-proof; make sure you choose reputable brands and regularly update your lock’s firmware for maximum safety.

Can Renters Easily Transfer the Lock to New Tenants?

Yes, you can easily transfer non-drilling smart locks to new tenants. You simply remove or reset the lock, then provide the new tenants with access codes or credentials, streamlining handovers without damaging the property.

Do These Locks Require an Internet Connection for Remote Access?

No, these locks typically don’t need an internet connection for remote access. They often use Bluetooth or Zigbee, allowing you to control and monitor your lock through a smartphone app without relying on Wi-Fi, ensuring easy access.

What Is the Typical Battery Life of These Non-Drill Smart Locks?

You’ll typically find these non-drill smart locks last about six to twelve months on standard batteries, depending on usage. You should check specific models for exact battery life and consider smart locks with notifications for battery status to avoid lockouts.

Last update on 2026-02-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API