One of the biggest problems with smart locks is aesthetic. Not only do many people not want to advertise that they have a smart lock, they also don't want to put a big chunk of technology on their front door.

Like the original model, Level's newest smart lock, Level Touch, does not look like a smart lock from the outside or inside. It also has several new features, including the ability to open the lock with a finger or NFC card. Level Touch goes on sale today for $329.

The original Level Bolt smart lock is completely hidden inside the door and uses the existing deadbolt's outer hardware. It is a clever design that hides the fact that the deadbolt can be operated by a smartphone or HomeKit.

The new Level Touch goes even further, replacing the entire lock rather than just the inside of the deadbolt, but retaining the look of the traditional deadbolt. Satin nickel, satin chrome, polished brass, and, in 2021, matte black.

Since Level Touch now includes exterior components, the company was able to add several additional ways to unlock the door. First, if a cell phone (used for user authentication) is nearby, the lock can be unlocked simply by touching the exterior of the lock. [Level Touch also has an NFC reader, and two NFC cards are included with the lock. The cards can be programmed to activate only at specific times and can be erased if lost. This is a good option if you want to provide access to people who do not have smartphones or do not want to go through the hassle of downloading level apps.

Like the original smart lock, Level Touch only has Bluetooth and works only with Apple HomeKit, but the company is considering adding compatibility with other smart home systems.

However, the company is adding a new automatic lock/unlock feature to its app (which also works with Level Bolt), so if you want to make sure it locks behind you when you're out and about, you don't have to use HomeKit. [Our favorite smart lock, the August Wi-Fi Lock, costs $249 and is compatible with more smart home systems. But if you're looking for the best smart lock that doesn't look like a smart lock, Level Touch is worth considering.