I always thought automated door locks were a killer app, and now we have two to choose from: the Z-Wave-enabled Schlage Link from Schlage and the ZigBee-enabled Kwikset SmartCode from Black & Decker.

Kwikset, winner of the CE Pro BEST Awards, offers more integration options than Schlage, and does not require a $12.99 monthly fee for integration and remote access.

So, I’ll take the Kwikset, please. At the very least I’ll get a keyfob for opening the lock. At most, I could tie it into an automation system. Today, that means Control4, so I guess I’ll have to pick up one of those too. Shown above is the Kwikset lock with an AudioShare intercom system, integrated via Control4.

I’m not sure if Kwikset utilizes the ZigBee Pro home automation profile. If so, it could also be used with Crestron and AMX systems – both of which are migrating to the Pro platform for their automation systems.

The two companies, however, would first have to test the products within their ZigBee environments.

I’m checking out the new Z-Wave-enabled HousePort control system from Wayne-Dalton. Eventually the Wayne-Dalton line will be compatible with the Schlage locks at some point, and you won’t have to pay $12.99/month for the privilege.