Kwikset SmartCode 270 Keyless Entry Deadbolt - Matte Black

Our review of the Kwikset SmartCode 270 finds it best suited for homeowners and renters who want reliable, fuss-free keyless access and proven mechanical security. The single biggest reason to buy is its blend of practical features: a light-up touchpad with up to 50 user codes and auto-lock options paired with a Grade 2 BHMA-certified mechanism that feels sturdily built. Installation is straightforward and the lock balances everyday convenience with security features useful for families, landlords, and anyone who values quick re-keying and long battery life.

Key Features

• Keyless touchpad: A bright, lit touchpad lets users enter codes quickly without fumbling for keys, and the lights activate with a simple tap for low-light entry.
• Advanced security certification: Grade 2 BHMA certification provides stronger durability and resistance to the elements and forced entry than basic locks.
• Auto-lock options: Customizable auto-lock intervals from 30 seconds to 10 minutes give peace of mind by automatically relocking the door after entry.
• Extensive code management: Support for up to 50 permanent user codes, 10 one-time codes and an editable programming code makes sharing access with guests and service providers simple.
• SmartKey re-keying: Built-in SmartKey security allows homeowners to re-key the lock to match existing KW1 keys quickly without a locksmith.
• Long battery life: Uses 4 AA alkaline batteries with an expected minimum 12-month life, reducing maintenance and surprise power loss.

Who It's For

The SmartCode 270 is ideal for owners who want a modern, matte black deadbolt that combines keyless convenience with strong mechanical security; it suits family homes, rental properties and small businesses where multiple user codes and auto-locking are useful. It also fits buyers who prefer to handle minor lock maintenance themselves thanks to SmartKey re-keying and simple battery swaps.

Those who need remote access from a phone, integration with a smart home hub, or a keypad with touchscreen app pairing should look elsewhere, since this model focuses on local code entry and physical security features rather than cloud connectivity.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy installation with just a screwdriver and clear interactive instructions from the BILT app.
• Reliable auto-lock and intrusion alert features that improve everyday security without extra services.
• Well-reviewed build quality and battery life that customers report lasting around a year on 4 AA cells.
• Flexible user code management for households and short-term visitors.

Cons

• Does not provide native remote or app-based locking without additional hardware, so it is not a complete smart-home hub solution.
• Requires occasional battery replacement and batteries are not included.

Specifications

Lock type	Electronic touchpad deadbolt
Finish	Matte black
Certification	Grade 2 BHMA certified
Power	4x AA alkaline batteries (not included), ~12-month life
User codes	Up to 50 user codes, 10 one-time codes, 1 programming code
Auto-lock	Selectable 30 sec, 1, 3, 5 or 10 min
Special features	SmartKey re-keying, intrusion alert, vacation mode, light-up keypad

Our Verdict

The Kwikset SmartCode 270 is a practical, well-built keyless deadbolt that delivers the essentials: easy installation, strong Grade 2 mechanical security and flexible code control that families and landlords will appreciate. It is good value for buyers who want dependable local keyless access and auto-locking without needing remote app control or third-party hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the lock be re-keyed to match my existing house key?
The lock features SmartKey security that lets you re-key it to any KW1 key quickly without a locksmith.

How many user codes can be stored?
The lock supports up to 50 permanent user codes plus 10 one-time codes and one programming code for management.

Will the keypad lock out after wrong entries?
Yes; after three consecutive incorrect codes the keypad sounds an alarm and disables input for one minute to deter tampering.