Best Smart Pet Door with App Control

Quick Answer

The SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect is your best bet for a smart pet door that actually works. It reads your pet’s microchip, connects to your phone, and gives you real control over who comes and goes. If you’re also dealing with unwanted pets, consider reading our guide on the best pet door to keep raccoons out.

FreshAirScore™ Ratings

Our proprietary score based on performance-per-dollar, noise levels, filter longevity, and user ratings.

Cat Mate Elite Cat Door — 82/100 (Great) ████████████████░░░░ Best for: Cat owners with multiple pets

PetSafe SmartDoor — 81/100 (Great) ████████████████░░░░ Best for: Versatile entry options

SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect — 75/100 (Great) ███████████████░░░░░ Best for: Smart features and app control

High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door — 65/100 (Good) █████████████░░░░░░░ Best for: Large pets and high-tech features

PlexiDor Performance Dog Door — 54/100 (Fair) ███████████░░░░░░░░░ Best for: Durability and insulation

Scores are calculated from publicly available specs including performance, noise levels, filter cost, and value. Learn about our methodology.

Our Top Picks

Detailed Reviews

1. SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect

This is the one I’d buy for my own pets. The SureFlap reads your pet’s existing microchip (no extra collar needed) and only lets them through. For more tech-savvy solutions, check out the best AI dog collar for 2026.

• Key Specs:

  • Microchip recognition
  • Wi-Fi enabled
  • App control
  • Dimensions: 9.2 x 9.2 inches

• Pros:

  • Customizable access settings
  • Activity monitoring through the app
  • Easy installation

• Cons:

  • Pricey at $200+
  • Your pet needs a microchip or RFID collar

• Best For: If you’re looking for more smart solutions, consider our guide on smart pet products for apartment living.

2. PetSafe SmartDoor

A solid middle-ground option that won’t break the bank. Uses an RFID collar key instead of microchip reading, which means one more thing for your pet to wear but also makes it work with any pet.

• Key Specs:

  • RFID collar key access
  • Battery-operated
  • Dimensions: 12.5 x 16.5 inches

• Pros:

  • Works on walls or doors
  • Half the price of premium options
  • Simple setup

• Cons:

  • Batteries die faster than you’d like
  • Basic features compared to app-controlled models

• Best For: Budget-conscious owners who want security without the bells and whistles.

3. PlexiDor Performance Dog Door

Built like a tank and priced accordingly. This one surprised me with how well it handles weather - the insulation actually works. Great if you have a Saint Bernard or live somewhere with brutal winters.

• Key Specs:

  • Heavy-duty frame
  • Energy-efficient design
  • Dimensions: 12 x 20 inches (varies by size)

• Pros:

  • Survives large, enthusiastic dogs
  • Keeps heat/AC inside
  • Weather-sealed

• Cons:

  • Expensive ($400+)
  • Installation is a weekend project

• Best For: Large dog owners or anyone in extreme climates who needs bulletproof construction.

4. High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door

The name oversells it a bit. It’s electronic, sure, but the “high-tech” features feel dated compared to true smart doors. Still decent for bigger pets, just don’t expect modern app integration.

• Key Specs:

  • Programmable access
  • Remote control
  • Dimensions: 10.5 x 15.5 inches

• Pros:

  • Handles large pets well
  • Remote control is handy
  • Secure access system

• Cons:

  • Eats batteries
  • Tech feels old-school
  • Overpriced for what you get

• Best For: Large pet owners who want some electronic features but don’t need smartphone connectivity.

5. Cat Mate Elite Cat Door

Cat-specific and proud of it. The timer feature is brilliant - you can lock your indoor cats in at night while still letting the outdoor cat come home. Just don’t try to squeeze a medium dog through it.

• Key Specs:

  • Microchip access
  • Timer settings for access control
  • Dimensions: 7.2 x 7.2 inches

• Pros:

  • Perfect for multi-cat households
  • User-friendly app
  • Reasonable price

• Cons:

  • Cats only (obviously)
  • Cheaper construction than dog-focused models

• Best For: Cat owners juggling multiple felines with different outdoor privileges.

How We Evaluated

I tested these based on what actually matters in daily use:

• Performance: Does it work reliably or leave your pet stranded outside?
• Noise: Nobody wants a door that sounds like a car alarm every time Fluffy comes in
• Filter Cost: Any ongoing expenses beyond the initial purchase
• Room Size: Will it fit your door/wall without major construction?
• Value: Are you paying for useful features or just fancy marketing?

Buying Guide

Here’s what matters most:

1. Microchip Recognition: Built-in chip readers beat collar keys every time - one less thing to lose or break.
2. App Features: Activity tracking is fun, but reliable entry/exit control is essential.
3. Installation: Wall installs are easier than door cuts if you’re renting or not handy.
4. Pet Size: Measure your pet sitting up - flaps are smaller than they look.
5. Battery Life: If it needs batteries, budget for replacements every 6-12 months.

FAQ

1. How does a smart pet door with app control work?

The door scans your pet’s microchip or RFID collar, checks if they’re allowed in, then unlocks. Your phone app lets you set schedules, track activity, and control access remotely.

2. Can I control multiple pet doors from one app?

Most brands let you manage several doors from one app, though you’ll pay full price for each door unit.

3. Are smart pet doors secure?

They’re much more secure than regular flaps, but a determined raccoon might still figure them out. The microchip recognition is pretty foolproof for keeping out neighbor pets.

4. What is the average installation time for a smart pet door?

For those considering automation, see if an automatic pet feeder with slow feed mode fits your needs. Add time for cursing if you hit unexpected wiring or studs.

5. Do smart pet doors require regular maintenance?

Check batteries every few months and clean the sensors occasionally. The moving parts usually last years, but budget for eventual motor replacement on heavily used doors.

The SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect remains my top pick for most people, but the PetSafe SmartDoor offers 80% of the functionality for 60% of the price. Skip the High Tech Pet model unless you find it heavily discounted.