Steam provides a unified API that lets developers control smart locks, access control systems, thermostats, and sensors from dozens of manufacturers through a single integration. Rather than building separate connections for each device brand, Steam abstracts hardware differences behind a standardized interface — making it possible to manage August, Yale, Schlage, Salto, and many more with the same codebase.
But Steam is not the only option in this space. Platforms like RemoteLock, Brivo, Kisi, and Jervis Systems each approach smart access control from different angles — some focused on hardware ecosystems, others on enterprise management, and some on developer-first APIs. This comparison examines how they stack up across the dimensions that matter most to developers and property managers.
A hardware-agnostic API that connects to 1000+ device models across dozens of brands. Offers SDKs for JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP and more, plus pre-built UI components. Free tier includes 3 devices; enterprise pricing scales with usage.
Cloud-based access management supporting smart locks, keypads, and card readers. Focuses on property management with PMS integrations. Hardware-agnostic approach similar to Steam but oriented toward operators rather than developers.
Enterprise-grade cloud access control with video surveillance integration. Strong in commercial real estate and multifamily. Requires proprietary hardware (Wavelynx panels) but integrates with Allegion, ASSA ABLOY, and Salto locks.
Cloud-based access control with open API, mobile credentials, and SSO integration. Aimed at offices and coworking spaces. Offers its own hardware (readers and controllers) but also supports third-party integrations.
A newer entrant focusing on smart lock API connectivity for hospitality and property management. Some users have reported switching from Steam to Jervis for specific use cases. Smaller device catalog but growing integration list.
SALTO's own cloud platform for managing their lock ecosystem. Excellent if you are already committed to SALTO hardware. Provides mobile keys, PINs, and card management through their API — but limited to SALTO-branded devices only.
| Capability | Steam | RemoteLock | Brivo | Kisi | Jervis | SALTO KS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unified Multi-Brand API | ✓ | Partial | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | ✕ |
| Hardware Agnostic | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | Partial | ✓ | ✕ |
| Supported Device Models | 1000+ | 200+ | 150+ | Own HW | 50+ | SALTO only |
| Multi-Language SDKs | JS, Py, Ruby, PHP+ | REST only | REST only | REST + JS | REST only | REST only |
| Sandbox / Test Mode | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | Limited | ✕ |
| Pre-Built UI Components | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Access Code Management | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile Credentials | ✓ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✓ |
| Thermostat Control | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Video Surveillance | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Free Tier | 3 devices | ✕ | 10 users | ✕ | Contact | ✕ |
Automated guest check-ins with time-bound PINs, PMS integration, and multi-brand lock support across properties.
Enterprise-scale access control with video surveillance, card readers, and compliance reporting across multiple buildings.
Building a software product that needs to control locks from many brands through a clean, well-documented API with sandbox testing.
Already committed to one hardware vendor (e.g. SALTO) and need deep native integration with that ecosystem only.