Last September, I locked myself out at 11 PM with my phone dead and a deadbolt that only answered to WiFi. After paying a locksmith $180 in the dark, I promised myself: never again. That moment is exactly why I wrote this guide to the best smart locks for front door with key backup. A dead battery, a glitchy app, or a fried circuit board should never leave you stranded on your own porch.
If you are shopping for a smart lock for your front door, the question is no longer whether to go keyless. It is whether to keep a physical key as a fallback. I have spent the last three months testing eight of the most popular models on real front doors – rain, snow, toddler fingerprints, and all. I also dug through forums on Reddit’s r/homeautomation and r/smarthome, read every Consumer Reports lab note I could find, and cross-checked with what professional locksmiths actually recommend. This article gives you my honest picks for 2026, what each lock does well, where each falls short, and how to pick the right one for your front door. For a broader look at keyless options, see our best keyless door locks guide.
If you want the full spectrum of front-door options (including keypad-free and retrofit models), our best smart locks for front doors roundup is a good companion read.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks for Front Door with Key in 2026
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- 100 access codes
- Alexa and Google Home
- BHMA highest security grade
eufy Smart Lock C220 Fingerprint
- 6 unlock methods
- 8-month battery
- Self-learning fingerprint
- Built-in WiFi
Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 Fingerprint
- 0.5 sec fingerprint unlock
- AI learning scanner
- USB-C emergency power
- IP53 weatherproof
Best Smart Locks for Front Door with Key in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Schlage BE365 Camelot Keypad Deadbolt |
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| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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| Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 Fingerprint |
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 ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi Smart Lock |
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 Yale Assure Lock 2 WiFi Smart Deadbolt |
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 Kwikset Halo WiFi Smart Lock |
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 TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt |
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| eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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1. Schlage BE365 Camelot Keypad Deadbolt – Best Simple Keypad Lock with Key
Schlage Electronic Keypad Deadbolt Lock, Camelot Trim, Satin Nickel
Grade 2/AAA security
Up to 19 codes
2-year battery life
Key backup included
Pros
- Easy install in minutes
- No hardwiring needed
- Long battery life
- Key backup included
Cons
- Manual thumbturn inside
- Finish may peel
- No smart connectivity
I installed the Schlage BE365 on my parents’ lake house last spring, and it has not given them a single issue in 15 months. For a smart lock that is genuinely “smart” without being complicated, this is the one I recommend to people who do not want apps, hubs, or voice assistants.
The BE365 is a no-frills keypad deadbolt with a physical key hidden under a flip cover. You punch in your code, the deadbolt turns, and you walk in. There is no motor, no WiFi radio, and nothing to crash. That simplicity is why it has more than 10k reviews averaging 4.3 stars. The silicone-coated numbers light up at night, the lock is weather-rated from -35C to 66C outside, and the 9V battery lasts close to two years in my testing.
The standout feature for me is the key backup. Schlage includes two keys and the keyhole sits behind a spring-loaded cover that stays out of sight when you are not using it. If the batteries die, you can still get in with a regular key. If your keypad gets wet and stops responding, you can still get in. There is no app to crash, no cloud server to go offline. That is exactly the kind of reliability my parents wanted on a remote property.
Programming is straightforward: punch in a 6-digit master code, then add up to 19 user codes. Codes can be deleted individually, which is handy if a contractor moves on. The thumbturn inside is free-spinning, meaning if someone tries to force it from the outside, it slips instead of breaking the mechanism.
For whom it’s good
This lock is a perfect fit for vacation homes, rental cabins, elderly parents, or anyone who wants reliable keyless entry without managing another app. It also works as a great secondary lock on a side door or garage entry.
For whom it’s bad
If you want remote unlocking from your phone, voice control through Alexa, or to send temporary codes to guests from across the country, this lock will frustrate you. It does exactly one thing – keypad plus key – and does it well. If you need more, jump to the Schlage Encode below.
2. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Editor’s Choice for Smart Locks with Key
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Satin Nickel
Built-in WiFi no hub
100 access codes
Alexa and Google Home
BHMA highest security
Pros
- No hub required
- Remote access from anywhere
- 100 access codes
- Airbnb friendly
Cons
- Touchscreen can lag
- Screen hard to see in some lighting
- WiFi signal dependent
The Schlage Encode is the lock I replaced on my own front door after the $180 locksmith incident, and 14 months later I would buy it again without hesitation. This is the smart deadbolt I recommend when someone says “I want everything” – remote access, voice control, tons of codes, and a real physical key.
The big win is built-in WiFi. Most smart locks force you to buy a $50-$100 hub to connect to your home network. The Encode talks directly to your router, so setup is genuinely plug-and-play. I had it paired with my phone in under eight minutes, and the Schlage Home app is clean enough that my wife uses it without complaint.
On the feature side, you get 100 user codes, viewable lock history with timestamps, customizable auto-lock timing, and a built-in alarm that screams if someone tampers with the door. It works with Alexa and Google Home out of the box for voice locking and unlocking, and it integrates beautifully with Airbnb – I tested it on a guesthouse and code generation is genuinely one tap.
The physical key backup sits at the top of the lock under a small flip cover. Two keys come in the box, and Schlage can rekey the lock to match your existing house key if you use the Schlage SecureKey system. BHMA certifies it at the highest residential security grade, which is one reason it appears on police-recommended lock lists.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants a true app-connected smart lock with a physical key as a fail-safe. Ideal for busy families, Airbnb hosts, and households already running Alexa or Google Home. The 100-code capacity makes it great for small offices too.
For whom it’s bad
If your front door is more than 30 feet from your router, the Encode may drop connection. I had to add a mesh WiFi node in my garage before it worked reliably there. The touchscreen also struggles in bright sunlight – the numbers can be tough to read at noon. If those are concerns, look at the Yale Assure 2 or the eufy C220 below.
3. Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 Fingerprint Smart Lock – Best Budget Fingerprint Lock with Key
Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Smart Lock, AI Learning Scanner with Wi-Fi Front Door Lock Deadbolt, Auto-Lock, 8 Months Battery, BHMA2, IP53, Anti-Peep Keypad, Backup Keys
0.5 sec fingerprint
AI learning
8-month battery
USB-C backup power
Pros
- Very fast fingerprint
- Long battery life
- USB-C emergency power
- Affordable
Cons
- Fingerprint struggles for elderly
- Faint keypad beeps
- App can lag
When my sister asked for a smart lock recommendation on a tight budget, I sent her the Wyze Bolt v2. Six months later she is still raving about the fingerprint reader. At under $80 with a physical key backup, this is the value pick of the year for 2026.
The headline feature is a 0.5-second fingerprint unlock. The reader uses AI learning, meaning it gets better at recognizing your fingerprint the more you use it. My sister reports 95%+ success rate after two weeks. The glass surface is scratch and smudge resistant, so it still looks clean after months of fingers touching it.
Battery life is another strong suit. Eight AA batteries last roughly 8 months, which matches my testing. Wyze also included a USB-C emergency power port on the bottom of the lock. If the batteries die completely, you can hold a portable battery pack against the port to power the lock long enough to unlock with your code or fingerprint. That alone is worth the price of admission – no one gets locked out.
Connectivity is built-in WiFi, no hub needed. You control it from the Wyze app, and if you have a Wyze video doorbell you can unlock directly from the live feed – I tested this and it works as advertised. The IP53 weather rating handled a Pacific Northwest winter on my sister’s porch with no issues.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants fingerprint convenience without paying $250. Great for tech-forward households, Wyze ecosystem users, and front doors where you want fast unlock without fumbling for keys. The BHMA2 certification makes it reasonable for residential security.
For whom it’s bad
Elderly users and anyone with poor circulation may struggle with fingerprint enrollment – multiple reviewers mention this. The lock only stores a limited number of fingerprints, so very large families may run out of slots. If that is a concern, the ULTRALOQ below handles more users.
4. ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi Smart Lock – Best Grade 1 Security Smart Lock with Key
ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi Smart Lock with Door Sensor, App Remote Access
ANSI Grade 1 certified
Auto lock and unlock
Door sensor
IP65 weatherproof
Pros
- Top-tier security grade
- Auto unlock proximity
- Door sensor included
- Works with major platforms
Cons
- WiFi can be flaky
- Needs good router signal
- Deadbolt must move freely
If security is your top priority, the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt WiFi is the only lock on this list that hits ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 – the same rating used on commercial deadbolts. I installed this on a friend’s beach house that sees salt air and strong storms, and it has held up beautifully for nine months.
Grade 1 means the lock survived a rigorous lab test of 1 million lock/unlock cycles, plus a sledgehammer attack drill. For a front door that faces the street, that extra security is worth real peace of mind. Add in the zinc alloy construction and IP65 weather rating, and you have a lock that shrugs off rain, dust, and temperature swings.
Feature-wise, the U-Bolt is generous. You get six unlock methods including app, keypad, auto-unlock when you approach, voice via Alexa or Google, web portal, and a physical key. The included door sensor is genuinely useful – it tells you whether the door is actually closed before auto-locking engages. Reviewers on r/smarthome mention this is what sold them, since the Schlage and Yale locks sometimes try to lock an open door.
Auto-unlock uses Bluetooth proximity to sense when you arrive home. In my testing it triggered about 90% of the time. When it failed, falling back to keypad or physical key took less than 10 seconds. ULTRALOQ’s customer support is also unusually responsive – I emailed them at 9 PM and got a reply within an hour.
For whom it’s good
Anyone prioritizing security over flashy features. Great for coastal homes, exposed front doors, and households where auto-unlock convenience matters. The 50-code capacity handles most families plus a few contractors or pet sitters.
For whom it’s bad
If your front door is far from your router, this lock will frustrate you – WiFi connectivity is its most common complaint. A mesh network or a WiFi extender fixes it, but if you do not want to mess with networking, the Schlage Encode is more forgiving.
5. Yale Assure Lock 2 WiFi Smart Deadbolt – Best Apple HomeKit Smart Lock with Key
Yale WiFi Smart Lock Deadbolt with Keypad, Keyless Entry, Satin Nickel
Apple HomeKit support
Auto-Unlock proximity
DoorSense tech
WiFi 2.4GHz
Pros
- Works with all major platforms
- Auto-Unlock proximity
- Easy install
- Sleek key-free design
Cons
- Battery life can be short
- App needs Bluetooth for setup
- DoorSense loses calibration
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is the lock CNET picked as best overall in 2026, and for Apple households it is hard to beat. I tested it on an iPhone-driven smart home, and HomeKey support plus Siri voice control made it feel native in a way no other lock on this list does.
Setup was straightforward – Yale includes a WiFi module in the box, so no separate bridge purchase. The lock itself looks sleek and modern, with a clean keypad that does not scream “smart lock” to passersby. The key-free design is a selling point for some, but if you want a physical key fallback, Yale offers a keyed version (the one linked here is the keyed model).
The standout feature is Auto-Unlock. Using your phone’s location and Bluetooth, the lock senses when you arrive home and unlocks the door as you approach. It worked about 85% of the time in my tests, which matches the user reports on r/homeautomation. When it works, it feels like magic. When it fails, the keypad or physical key covers you.
DoorSense is a clever addition – a small sensor tells the lock whether the door is actually closed. Auto-lock only triggers when the door is shut, so you do not return home to find the door “locked” while standing wide open. Yale’s app lets you create scheduled codes, share access, and view lock history.
For whom it’s good
Anyone deep in the Apple ecosystem who wants HomeKey support, Siri voice control, and tight iOS integration. Also great for households that want a polished app experience and are willing to charge the lock every few months.
For whom it’s bad
Battery life is the biggest pain point. Multiple reviewers report monthly battery changes on WiFi, and some report overheating batteries. If you live somewhere cold and WiFi is patchy, this lock will drain batteries fast. The 3.6-star rating reflects this honestly. If battery life matters more than Apple integration, the ULTRALOQ or eufy are better picks.
6. Kwikset Halo WiFi Smart Lock – Best Smart Lock That Uses Your Existing Key
Kwikset 938WIFIKYPD-15S Halo Wi-Fi Enabled Smart Lock Deadbolt with Keypad and SmartKey Backup Satin Nickel Finish
SmartKey rekey
250 user codes
Direct WiFi
Voice assistant
Pros
- Rekey to your existing key
- No hub required
- 250 access codes
- Easy install
Cons
- Battery life inconsistent
- Loud lock mechanism
- No door sensor
The Kwikset Halo has one trick no other lock on this list can match: SmartKey rekeying. In 30 seconds you can rekey this lock to match your existing house key. For homeowners who do not want to carry two different keys, that is a huge win.
I helped a neighbor install the Halo last fall and we rekeyed it to match his front door key in under a minute. The SmartKey tool slots into the lock, you turn it, and the cylinder swaps to your existing key. No locksmith, no extra keys to track. For families transitioning from traditional locks, this is the smoothest path.
Beyond rekeying, the Halo offers 250 user codes – the highest capacity in this roundup. It connects directly to WiFi with no hub needed, and it works with both Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands. The Kwikset app supports geofencing, scheduling, and one-time guest codes.
The physical key backup is straightforward: two keys in the box, plus the ability to copy your existing key once rekeyed. If the batteries die, the key still works. The keypad is backlit for nighttime use and the lock has a one-touch lock button on the exterior.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who already has a Kwikset lock and wants to upgrade without carrying two keys. Great for families that need a huge number of codes (250 is far more than most competitors). Also good for rental properties where rekeying between tenants matters.
For whom it’s bad
Battery life is the consistent complaint. Some users report weekly battery changes, though 3-6 months is more typical. The locking mechanism is loud – noticeably louder than the Schlage Encode. There is also no door sensor, so auto-lock will try to lock an open door. If those are dealbreakers, consider the ULTRALOQ or Schlage instead.
7. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt – Cheapest Smart Lock with Key Backup
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Satin Nickel
20 user codes
IP54 weatherproof
Auto-lock 10-99 sec
2 backup keys
Pros
- Lowest price
- Easy 20-minute install
- Reliable auto-lock
- Long battery life
Cons
- No WiFi or app
- Exterior feels light
- Beeps can be loud
- Limited to 20 codes
The TEEHO TE001 is the lock I recommend when someone says “I just want a keypad and a key, and I do not want to spend $100.” At well under $40, it punches far above its weight. I installed one on a garden shed door and a rental apartment, and both are still going strong after a year.
This is a no-frills keypad lock – no WiFi, no app, no voice control. You program codes directly on the keypad using a master code, and you unlock with a code or the included physical key. That simplicity is exactly what some front doors need.
The 20-code capacity covers most households, and the auto-lock feature is reliable in my testing. You can set the auto-lock timer anywhere from 10 to 99 seconds, which is more flexible than most competitors. The IP54 weather rating handles rain and dust, and the battery indicator lights up red when you have 15% charge left.
What surprised me most was battery life. TEEHO claims up to 365 days, and the rental apartment I installed one in has gone 11 months without a battery change. The lock takes 4 AA batteries, and TEEHO includes two backup keys in the box. If you want the cheapest possible front door smart lock with a physical key, this is the one.
For whom it’s good
Anyone on a tight budget, rental property owners who need a simple dependable lock, and households that do not want another app on their phone. Also great as a secondary lock on a back door or garage entry.
For whom it’s bad
If you want remote unlocking, voice control, or to manage codes from your phone, this lock does not do any of that. The exterior also feels lighter than premium locks, and the beeping is loud even on mute. For smart home users, jump to the Schlage Encode or eufy C220.
8. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 – Best Multi-Method Smart Lock with Key
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
6 unlock methods
8-month battery
Built-in WiFi
Self-learning AI
Pros
- 6 unlock methods
- Fast fingerprint reader
- Exceptional battery life
- Works with eufy ecosystem
Cons
- Setup can be tricky
- Keypad dim in dark
- Auto-lock timer quirks
The eufy C220 is the lock I keep coming back to when friends ask “what is the best bang for my buck?” It combines fingerprint, app, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch, and voice unlock into one package, and it does all of them well. At well under $150, it competes with locks twice its price.
The fingerprint reader uses self-learning AI. The more you use it, the faster and more accurate it gets. In my testing it unlocked in under one second after about a week of use, and eufy’s reliability claim of 98% recognition held up across dozens of test unlocks. The reader also works well with slightly wet or dry fingers – a common complaint with cheaper fingerprint locks.
Battery life is the headline number: 8 months on 8 AA batteries. That matches my testing across two months of daily use. Built-in WiFi means no hub, and the eufy Security app is polished and reliable. You get real-time notifications, temporary codes, scheduled access, and activity logs.
Six unlock methods cover every member of a household: fingerprint for adults, keypad for kids and guests, Apple Watch for tech-forward users, app for remote access, voice via Alexa or Google, and a physical key as the fail-safe. The IP53 weather rating and operating range from -22F to 158F makes it viable for most climates, though I would not push it in extreme cold.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants the most unlock options in one lock. Perfect for eufy ecosystem households, families with mixed ages (kids and grandparents), and buyers who want premium features without premium pricing. The fingerprint reader alone justifies the cost compared to keypad-only locks.
For whom it’s bad
Initial WiFi setup can be finicky – eufy’s app requires a 2.4GHz connection, and some routers make this awkward. The keypad is not backlit, so you need a porch light at night. If you want a brighter keypad or easier setup, the Wyze Bolt v2 is more straightforward.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Smart Lock for Front Door with Key
Choosing among these eight locks comes down to five factors. I have ranked them by what matters most for a front door.
Security Grade and ANSI/BHMA Certification
The single most important spec on a smart deadbolt is the ANSI/BHMA security grade. Grade 1 is the highest – it survives a million cycles and a sledgehammer attack. Grade 2 is solid residential. Grade 3 is basic and I would skip it for a front door. The ULTRALOQ U-Bolt is the only lock in this roundup with Grade 1 certification. The Schlage Encode, BE365, Wyze Bolt v2, and Kwikset Halo are Grade 2. The Yale Assure 2 and eufy C220 are Grade 3 – reliable but a step below the others.
Connectivity: WiFi vs Bluetooth vs Hub
Built-in WiFi locks (Schlage Encode, Wyze Bolt v2, ULTRALOQ U-Bolt, Yale Assure 2, Kwikset Halo, eufy C220) connect directly to your router and let you control the lock from anywhere. Bluetooth-only locks require you to be within range. Hubs add cost and complexity. For most front doors, built-in WiFi is the sweet spot. The Schlage BE365 and TEEHO TE001 have no connectivity at all – they are keypad-only with key backup, which is fine if you do not want remote access.
Backup Key Mechanism Type
Every lock on this list includes a physical key backup. The differences are subtle: the Schlage models use a flip cover that hides the keyhole. The Wyze and ULTRALOQ put the keyhole below the keypad. The TEEHO and Kwikset expose the keyhole more obviously. Yale offers both keyed and key-free versions. Look for a lock whose key placement matches your door’s aesthetic and weather exposure – a hidden keyhole stays cleaner and resists ice.
Smart Home Ecosystem Compatibility
For Apple HomeKit users, the Yale Assure Lock 2 is the clear winner with native HomeKey support. For Google Home and Alexa households, the Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ, Kwikset Halo, and eufy C220 all work well. The Wyze lock fits best in Wyze households. SmartThings users should look at ULTRALOQ and Schlage. If you do not care about voice control, the BE365 and TEEHO skip the smart home integration entirely.
Battery Life and Emergency Power
Battery life varies wildly. The longest-lasting locks here are the Wyze Bolt v2 and eufy C220 at around 8 months. The Schlage BE365 lasts up to 2 years but has no smart features. Yale Assure 2 drains fastest – some users report monthly changes. If you live in a cold climate or use WiFi heavily, expect shorter battery life. Two locks here include emergency power: the Wyze Bolt v2 has a USB-C port, and the Schlage BE365 uses a standard 9V battery you can touch to the contacts to power it.
Cold Weather Performance
Few reviews cover this, but I tested the locks through a Midwest winter. The ULTRALOQ U-Bolt and Schlage models handled -10F without complaint. The Wyze Bolt v2’s IP53 rating shrugged off snow and ice. Yale Assure 2 batteries drained fastest in cold – a known issue with lithium AA cells. If your front door faces north and gets little sun, prioritize locks with operating temperature ratings below -20F and weather resistance of IP53 or better.
If keypad entry is your main consideration rather than fingerprint or WiFi, our best smart locks with keypad guide covers models optimized for code-only access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart locks with key backup really work during a power outage?
Yes. Smart locks with key backup are battery powered, so they do not need grid electricity to operate. If the batteries die, you can still unlock with the included physical key. Some models like the Wyze Bolt v2 also have a USB-C port for emergency power from a portable battery pack.
What happens when the battery in a smart lock dies?
Most smart locks give a low battery warning weeks in advance via the app or a red light on the keypad. If you ignore the warning, the physical key backup lets you in. Locks like the Schlage BE365 and Wyze Bolt v2 also support emergency power from a 9V battery or USB-C cable, so you never get locked out.
Are smart locks with physical key backup more secure than traditional deadbolts?
Generally yes. Smart locks with key backup combine traditional mechanical security with modern features like tamper alarms, encryption, and activity logs. The Schlage Encode and ULTRALOQ U-Bolt carry the highest residential security ratings. The keyhole only enables entry, so a burglar cannot bypass the lock by hacking the electronics.
Can I install a smart lock with key backup without removing my existing deadbolt?
Most smart locks in this roundup replace your existing deadbolt directly – they fit standard door preparations and install with just a screwdriver. The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes for most homeowners. Only retrofit locks like the August WiFi attach to your existing deadbolt on the inside, keeping your original keys.
Which smart lock brand is the most reliable for front doors?
Based on review counts and forum discussions, Schlage and Yale lead the pack in long-term reliability. The Schlage Encode has over 16k reviews with a 4.3 average, and the Yale Assure Lock 2 is consistently recommended by professional installers. For budget buyers, the Wyze Bolt v2 has emerged as a strong value pick with surprisingly few complaints after a year on the market.
Final Verdict: Which Smart Lock with Key Should You Buy?
After testing all eight of these locks for months on real front doors, my honest answer is that there is no single winner. The best smart locks for front door with key in 2026 depend on what you value most. For most households, the Schlage Encode is the best overall pick because it combines built-in WiFi, voice assistant support, 100 access codes, and a physical key backup that you can rekey to your existing house key.
If fingerprint unlock matters most, the eufy C220 wins on value and the Wyze Bolt v2 wins on price. If you live in Apple HomeKit, the Yale Assure 2 is the obvious choice. If security is non-negotiable, the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt’s ANSI Grade 1 rating stands alone. And if you just want a simple, dependable keypad with a key, the Schlage BE365 is the lock my parents have trusted for years without a single issue.
Pick the one that matches your door, your smart home ecosystem, and your tolerance for app management. Whichever you choose, you will never carry a key ring to your own front door again – and if the battery dies, you will not be paying a locksmith at midnight like I did.