When shopping for a compact smart door lock, you're presented with options which is difficult to make a final decision. Both the Smart Door Lock Slim and the Swing Door Smart Lock are designed for tight clearances and minimalist spaces but they cater to very different door setups and buyer preferences. That’s what makes the decision more complex than it seems at first glance.
Some buyers are focused on aesthetics and need a lock that blends into modern architecture. Others are working with physical door constraints like narrow stiles or tight side clearance and need a lock that simply fits. And for many, it’s both. That’s why understanding the difference between these two models is so important before hitting “add to cart.”
In this article, we’ll break down the Smart Door Lock Slim and the Swing Door Smart Lock in a side-by-side format, covering their features, design profiles, usage scenarios, and ideal door types. Whether you’re securing a slim aluminum entry or a standard swing-style door, this guide will help you align your smart lock choice with your door and your priorities.
Feature Comparison
At first glance, both the smart locks check the same boxes in terms of smart access. They both support fingerprint recognition, passcodes, app-based control, keycards, and backup keys. Both are compatible with the Tuya app, support remote management, and come with built-in auto-lock features.
But there’s one subtle detail that creates a real split in buyer preference where the fingerprint scanner is located.
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On the Smart Door Lock Slim, the fingerprint scanner is integrated into the handle lever itself. This makes unlocking the door incredibly seamless. You grip the handle naturally and unlock it in a single motion. For buyers who prioritize speed, convenience, and modern aesthetics, this design feels intuitive especially on high-use entry doors like front doors or offices.
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On the Swing Door Smart Lock, the fingerprint sensor is placed directly on the lock body, above the turning knob. This makes the design feel more like a traditional deadbolt setup, where users scan and then turn the knob manually. It’s a comfortable choice for those who want a familiar sequence or for setups where the lock body is positioned at a more accessible height (such as interior swing doors or garage entries).
For some buyers, this difference is purely functional. For others, it’s about habit and comfort. If you want a one-motion unlock, the Slim model delivers that. If you prefer a more defined scan-and-turn step, the Swing Door Smart Lock offers that tactile experience.
So while both smart locks offer excellent smart functionality, that single design decision fingerprint on the lever vs. fingerprint on the body can shape the entire user experience. If that part matters to you or your end user, it’s worth factoring into your final choice.
Design and Aesthetic
When it comes to compact smart locks, design isn’t just about how the lock looks, it’s also about how it feels and functions on your specific door type. That’s where the Swing Door Smart Lock offers something unique: two handle options.
Watch the Swing Door Smart Lock in action on a narrow entry door with mesh overlay. This install highlights the compact knob-style handle, perfect for doors where space is tight but smart access is still essential. 👉 Watch the video
Unlike the Smart Door Lock Slim, which comes only in a lever handle style, the Swing Door Smart Lock gives you a choice between:
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A lever-style handle for users who prefer a traditional push-down entry, or
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An ergonomic knob-style handle for doors where clearance is limited or where users prefer a turning grip.
This makes the Swing model particularly flexible. Whether you’re working with a narrow entry, an interior swing door, or even a sliding door that has an additional net door, the knob option provides just enough space to operate the lock without interfering with nearby panels. In homes where a mesh or net security door sits in front of the main door, this compact knob style avoids the bulk that could block motion.
Watch how the Smart Door Lock Slim delivers a clean, modern upgrade to any front door. With its sleek look and all-in-one access features, this model works seamlessly across a wide range of door styles, making it a go-to for homeowners who want both security and style. 👉 Watch the video
Meanwhile, the Smart Door Lock Slim is all about clean, minimal design. It features a sleek vertical panel with an integrated lever handle ideal for narrow stiles, aluminum doors, or modern glass-framed entries. Its ultra-thin side profile is a go-to for high-end residential or office spaces where every millimeter of clearance matters.
And while both smart locks offer left-hand/right-hand orientation and in-swing/sliding door compatibility, the Swing Door Smart Lock's handle variety gives it a slight edge for buyers who need to customize the lock to suit very specific spatial or ergonomic needs.
So, if you're trying to match your door’s visual style or solve a clearance challenge, this detail might tip the scale. One model is ultra-modern and minimal. The other is more adaptable by design.
Coverage and Property Type Recommendations
In terms of overall popularity and market traction these two smart locks present a difference. There’s no question that the Smart Door Lock Slim leads the pack. It’s one of the primary models offered at The Connected Shop, with multiple locksmith installations across residential, rental, and office spaces. It’s also a favorite among DIY buyers who need something sleek, functional, and easy to retrofit especially on narrow stile doors, aluminum frames, and modern front entries.
Because of its clean design and universal features, the Slim model has become a go-to solution for short-term rental owners, property managers, and even design-forward homeowners looking to upgrade without compromising on aesthetics.
That said, the Swing Door Smart Lock is quickly earning its place in the field. It’s gaining attention through commercial storefront installs, office entry doors, and multifamily units where swing doors are more common and the knob-style operation offers a practical advantage. Its growing appeal comes from its handle flexibility and compact design especially for side entrances, interior access doors, or apartments where space is tight but ease of use still matters.
Here’s how both models tend to be chosen based on real-world use:
In short: the Slim model has become a trusted staple across a wide range of applications, but the Swing Door Smart Lock is making its mark, especially in projects where flexibility and compact operation matter more than flush integration. Both smart locks have their place and both are supported by real-world usage.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Fit Starts With the Right Lock
Choosing the right smart door lock isn’t just about the specs, it’s about understanding how a lock will fit your door, your space, and your routine. Both the Smart Door Lock Slim and the Swing Door Smart Lock are thoughtfully designed for compact installations, offering keyless convenience, remote control, and a clean look without bulky hardware.
But they each solve different problems and offer different choices for the buyers.
If you're unsure which direction to take, start with your door: Is it narrow or standard? Inward swing or sliding? What kind of grip feels natural for daily use? These questions often reveal the best fit.
In the end, smart security should make life easier, not more complicated. And whether you choose Slim or Swing, both locks are built to offer long-term value, flexibility, and control that traditional hardware simply can’t match.
Need guidance before you buy? Our team is here to help you choose with confidence.