Which Smart Lock Unlocking Method Is Most Convenient? App, Fingerprint, or Keypad?

Smart locks are transforming home and rental property security across Europe. But with so many unlocking options available—smartphone apps, fingerprint recognition, and keypad codes—it can be difficult to determine which is the most convenient for your needs.

In this article, we’ll compare the pros and cons of each method and help you decide which unlocking solution suits your lifestyle, household, or rental situation.

1. Unlocking with a Smartphone App

Advantages:

Remote Access: Unlock your door from anywhere using your smartphone. This is perfect for managing guests, deliveries, or rental access.
Access Logs: View detailed records of who entered and when.
Custom Permissions: Easily share temporary or permanent digital keys with others.

Disadvantages:

Requires Connectivity: Internet or Bluetooth is needed. A dead phone battery or no signal can be inconvenient.
Privacy Concerns: Some users are cautious about data and location permissions.

Best For:

Tech-savvy homeowners
Airbnb and rental property hosts
Families who want real-time notifications

WELOCK smart locks support app-based unlocking via the WELOCK app.
With a compatible Wi-Fi Bridge (like WIFIBOX3), you can control and monitor your lock remotely from anywhere in Europe.

2. Fingerprint Recognition

Advantages:

Quick Access: Open your door in less than a second—no need for keys or phones.
Secure by Design: Every fingerprint is unique, making this one of the safest unlocking methods available.
No More Forgotten Codes: Great for children, elderly users, or anyone who struggles with remembering passcodes.

Disadvantages:

Sensitive to conditions: The sensor may not always work with wet, dirty, or very cold fingers.
Initial setup needed: All users must register their fingerprints before using the lock.

Best For:

Families with kids or elderly relatives
Homes focused on security and ease of access
Users who prefer not to carry keys or smartphones

Looking for a reliable fingerprint door lock? The WELOCK Touch41 is a great option for European homes.
It features a fast, sensitive fingerprint sensor that unlocks the door in under 0.5 seconds. You can register up to 100 fingerprints (3 administrators + 97 users), making it a practical choice for households with multiple users. If you're seeking a biometric smart lock that combines security with convenience, WELOCK Touch41 is worth considering.

3. Keypad/Password Entry

Advantages:

No Phone or Key Needed: Just enter the code—simple and reliable.
Temporary Access Codes: Easily share time-limited codes with guests, cleaners, or maintenance staff.
Works Without Internet: Great for offline environments.

Disadvantages:

Code Sharing Risks: Shared passcodes can be passed along without permission.
Memory Dependence: Users may forget or confuse multiple codes.

Best For:

Short-term rental properties
Homes with guests or staff access needs
Users who prefer low-tech access

WELOCK PCB41 Plus supports password unlocking
This model allows up to 200 users (passwords and smart cards), making it ideal for larger households or short-term rental scenarios where flexible code management is essential.

Summary Table: Unlocking Method Comparison

Conclusion: Choose Based on Your Needs

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which unlocking method is best. App unlocking offers unmatched flexibility for remote management, fingerprint access provides fast and secure entry, while keypad unlocking delivers simplicity and reliability.

Luckily, the WELOCK ToucA51 smart lock combines all major unlocking methods—app control, fingerprint recognition, and keypad entry—along with the added convenience of smart card access. This all-in-one design ensures maximum flexibility for different users and situations. Whether you're upgrading home security or managing a rental property, choosing a smart lock that supports multiple unlocking methods is a smart move.