Your phone isn’t just a phone anymore—it’s your personal diary, office desk, photo album, wallet, and social life, all packed into one screen. And let’s be honest, we don’t always want everyone who touches our phone to see everything inside it. Whether it’s a curious friend, a nosy colleague, or a child tapping randomly, one wrong click can expose things meant only for you.
That’s where app lock software for Android becomes a lifesaver. With the right app lock, you stay in control—deciding who can open your apps, view your photos, or read your messages. In this article, we’ve carefully picked the top 14 best app lock apps for Android that are easy to use, reliable, and actually do what they promise. Whether you want simple protection or advanced privacy features, this list will help you choose the perfect app lock without confusion or technical jargon.
Why Do You Need an App Lock on Your Android Phone?
- Protect personal apps from prying eyes: Messaging apps, social media, and galleries often contain private conversations and photos. An app lock ensures only you can open them, even if someone else uses your phone.
- Stay safe when sharing your phone: Many people hand over their phone to friends, kids, or colleagues for calls or videos. App locking prevents accidental or intentional access to sensitive apps during such moments.
- Add an extra layer beyond screen lock: A phone screen lock protects the device, but once unlocked, everything is open. App locks give you a second security layer for important apps and data.
- Avoid misuse or accidental changes: App locks help prevent others from changing settings, deleting apps, or making in-app purchases by mistake, especially useful for parents and professionals.
- Peace of mind in daily life: Knowing your private apps are secure reduces stress and lets you use your phone freely without constantly worrying about privacy breaches.
Key Features to Look for in a Good App Lock App
- Multiple lock options for flexibility: The best app locks support PIN, pattern, fingerprint, or face unlock, allowing you to choose what feels most secure and convenient.
- Intruder detection and alerts: Many advanced app locks take a photo or send alerts when someone enters the wrong password, helping you know if someone tried to access your apps.
- App hiding and disguise modes: Some app locks can hide apps or disguise themselves as calculators, making it harder for others to even know protected apps exist.
- Lightweight and battery-friendly performance: A good app lock should run smoothly in the background without draining battery or slowing down your phone.
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface: Simple navigation and quick setup are important so anyone can use the app effectively without technical knowledge.
Comparison of App Lock Software for Android
| Software Name | Best For | Lock Methods Supported (PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint) | App Hiding Available (Yes / No) | Photo & Video Vault (Yes / No) |
| AppLock by DoMobile | Overall app security | PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint | Yes | Yes |
| Norton App Lock | Ad-free basic protection | PIN / Pattern | No | No |
| Smart AppLock | Advanced control users | PIN / Pattern | No | No |
| AppLock Pro | Notification privacy | PIN / Fingerprint | No | Yes |
| Keepsafe App Lock | Media privacy | PIN / Fingerprint | No | Yes |
| AppLock by IvyMobile | Lightweight daily use | PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint | No | Yes |
| LOCKit | Maximum privacy | PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint | Yes | Yes |
| Perfect AppLock | Parental control | PIN / Pattern | No | No |
| SpSoft AppLock | Fast & simple locking | PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint | No | No |
| Kaspersky App Lock | Brand-backed security | PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint | No | No |
| Avast App Lock | Trusted antivirus users | PIN / Pattern / Fingerprint | No | No |
| AppLock – Fingerprint | Biometric lovers | Fingerprint / PIN | No | Yes |
| Vaulty | Photo & video protection | PIN | No | Yes |
| App Hider | Hidden apps & cloning | Password | Yes | Yes |
List of 14 Best App Lock Software for Android
1. AppLock by DoMobile
Website: Available on Google Play Store
AppLock by DoMobile is one of the most widely used app lock solutions for Android users who want quick and reliable protection. It allows you to lock individual apps like Snapchat, WhatsApp, Instagram, Gallery, Messages, and even system settings using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint. The interface is simple, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
What makes this app stand out is its balance between security and convenience. Along with app locking, it offers privacy features like hiding photos and videos, preventing unauthorized uninstallation, and alerting you when someone tries to break into your locked apps. It runs smoothly in the background without slowing down your phone.
Top Features
- Lock apps using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint
- Photo vault for hiding images and videos
- Intruder selfie capture after wrong attempts
- App lock profiles for different situations
- Low battery and performance usage
Pricing:
- Free
2. Norton App Lock
Website: https://us.norton.com/mobile-security
Norton App Lock is a lightweight and trustworthy app lock software for Android from a globally recognized security brand. It focuses on providing clean, ad-free app locking without unnecessary features. Users can lock apps using a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint to prevent unauthorized access.
The app is especially useful for users who want strong privacy without distractions. It does not collect personal data, does not show ads, and integrates well with Android’s native security system. Norton App Lock is ideal for users who prefer simplicity and reliability over extra customization.
Top Features
- Ad-free and privacy-focused design
- PIN, pattern, and fingerprint lock support
- Locks apps, photos, and system settings
- Prevents app uninstall attempts
- Trusted brand-level security
Pricing:
- $7.63/mo
Suggested Read:- VPN for Android
3. Smart AppLock
Website: Available on Google Play Store
Smart AppLock is designed for users who want advanced control over app access. Apart from traditional app locking, it allows users to lock Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data, and app installations. This makes it useful not only for privacy but also for controlling phone usage.
The app also supports fake covers, meaning it can show a fake error message when someone tries to open a locked app. This extra layer of protection makes it harder for others to even realize that an app is protected.
Top Features
- App lock with PIN or pattern
- Fake crash screen protection
- Lock Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and settings
- Prevent app uninstall attempts
- Lightweight and fast performance
Pricing:
- Free
4. AppLock Pro
Website: Available on Google Play Store
AppLock Pro focuses on delivering strong privacy protection with a clean and customizable interface. As a reliable app lock software for android, it allows users to lock apps, photos, videos, and notifications to keep sensitive information hidden. The app also supports fingerprint unlocking for quick access.
One of its key strengths is notification locking, which prevents message previews from appearing on the lock screen. This makes it ideal for professionals and users who receive confidential messages and want complete control over their privacy.
Top Features
- App, photo, and video locking
- Notification preview protection
- Fingerprint and PIN unlock options
- Intruder alert with photo capture
- Custom lock screen themes
Pricing:
| Free | Pro |
| $0 | $4.49/mo |
5. Keepsafe App Lock
Website: https://www.getkeepsafe.com/
Keepsafe App Lock is built with privacy-first users in mind. It allows users to lock specific apps using a secure PIN or fingerprint, while also offering encryption-based protection. The app integrates smoothly with the Keepsafe ecosystem for enhanced privacy.
This app is best suited for users who already use Keepsafe products or want a minimal but secure app lock experience. It works silently in the background and does not interfere with daily phone usage.
Top Features
- Strong encryption-based app locking
- Fingerprint and PIN security
- Smooth background performance
- Minimal and clean user interface
- Trusted privacy brand support
Pricing:
- Free
6. LOCKit by Vault Keppers
Website: https://lockitapp.com/
LOCKit is a powerful app lock software for Android, designed for users who want both security and privacy in one place. It allows you to lock apps using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, ensuring that sensitive apps like messaging, gallery, and social media remain protected from unauthorized access.
Beyond basic app locking, LOCKit offers advanced privacy tools such as app hiding, notification locking, and private vaults for photos and videos. Its clean interface and smooth performance make it suitable for everyday users who want strong privacy without complicated settings.
Top Features
- App lock with PIN, pattern, and fingerprint
- Hide apps completely from the app drawer
- Secure photo and video vault
- Lock notifications to protect message previews
- Lightweight and easy-to-use interface
Pricing:
- Free
7. AppLock by IvyMobile
Website: https://www.ivymobile.com/
AppLock by IvyMobile is a popular Android app lock solution known for its smooth performance and clean design. It allows users to lock apps such as social media, gallery, messages, and system settings using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint. The app is easy to set up and works well across different Android versions.
In addition to basic app locking, it offers privacy-focused features like intruder selfies and app lock customization. The app runs efficiently in the background and does not interfere with normal phone usage, making it a reliable option for daily privacy protection.
Top Features
- App locking with PIN, pattern, and fingerprint
- Intruder selfie capture on wrong password attempts
- Lock photos, videos, and system settings
- Customizable lock screen themes
- Lightweight and battery-friendly
Pricing:
- Free
8. Perfect AppLock
Website: Available on Google Play Store
Perfect AppLock is built for users who want detailed control over phone security. In addition to locking apps, it allows users to block screen rotation, control Wi-Fi access, and prevent unwanted app installations. This makes it suitable for both personal and family use.
The app also supports invisible locking, meaning no one can tell an app is protected until they try to open it. This discreet approach adds an extra layer of security to your Android device.
Top Features
- Lock apps, Wi-Fi, and settings
- Invisible app locking mode
- Prevent app installation and uninstall
- Pattern and PIN protection
- Useful for parental control
Pricing:
- Free
9. SpSoft AppLock
Website: https://www.spsoftmobile.com/
SpSoft AppLock is a reliable app lock software for Android, offering strong app protection with a focus on speed and stability. It allows users to lock apps using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint while keeping battery consumption low. The app works well on both older and newer Android devices.
It also includes features like fake cover screens and intruder alerts to discourage unauthorized access. These additional protections make it a solid choice for users looking for both security and performance.
Top Features
- App lock with fingerprint support
- Fake error screen protection
- Intruder alert on wrong attempts
- Fast and lightweight operation
- Stable background performance
Pricing:
- Free
10. Kaspersky App Lock
Website: https://www.kaspersky.com/android-security
Kaspersky App Lock is a reliable app locking solution from a globally trusted cybersecurity software. It allows users to protect apps like messages, gallery, email, and social media using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint authentication. The app is designed to deliver strong security while remaining simple to use.
What makes Kaspersky App Lock stand out is its focus on privacy without clutter. It works smoothly in the background, integrates well with Android devices, and is ideal for users who want brand-backed security for their personal data.
Top Features
- App lock with PIN, pattern, and fingerprint
- Protection for apps and private data
- Clean and ad-free user interface
- Smooth background performance
- Trusted cybersecurity brand support
Pricing:
| Standard | Premium |
| $4.68/yr | $7.52/yr |
11. Avast App Lock
Website: https://www.avast.com/
Avast App Lock is a trusted app lock software for Android from a well-known cybersecurity brand. It allows users to secure apps using PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, ensuring that personal data stays protected even if the phone is shared or lost. The app integrates smoothly with Android’s security framework.
In addition to locking apps, Avast App Lock offers intrusion alerts that notify users when someone tries to access locked apps. Its clean interface and reliable performance make it suitable for users who want security without technical complexity.
Top Features
- App lock with PIN, pattern, and fingerprint
- Intrusion alerts for unauthorized access
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Low battery consumption
- Trusted antivirus brand backing
Pricing:
- Free
12. AppLock – Fingerprint
Website: Available on Google Play Store
AppLock – Fingerprint is designed for users who prefer biometric security over traditional locks. It enables fingerprint-based locking for apps, photos, and videos, offering fast and convenient access while maintaining privacy.
The app also includes backup unlocking options like PIN and pattern in case fingerprint access fails. Its lightweight design ensures smooth performance without slowing down the device.
Top Features
- Fingerprint-based app locking
- Backup PIN and pattern unlock
- Photo and video vault support
- Fast and lightweight operation
- Easy setup and configuration
Pricing:
- Free
13. Vaulty
Website: https://www.vaultyapp.com/
Vaulty focuses on protecting personal media along with app locking features, making it a reliable app lock software for android users. It allows users to hide and lock photos and videos securely while also offering app-level protection. The app is popular among users who value privacy for personal content.
Vaulty also includes smart alerts that notify users when someone tries to access hidden files. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to manage private content without technical knowledge.
Top Features
- Secure photo and video vault
- App-level privacy protection
- Alerts for unauthorized access
- Simple and intuitive UI
- Cloud backup option available
Pricing:
- Free
14. App Hider
Website: Available on Google Play Store
App Hider is designed for users who want to hide and lock apps completely. It allows you to clone apps and run them inside a hidden space protected by a password. This is useful for securing social media and messaging apps.
The app also disguises itself as a calculator, adding an extra layer of privacy. App Hider is widely used by users who want both app hiding and locking in one solution.
Top Features
- Hide and clone apps securely
- Password-protected private space
- Disguised calculator mode
- Supports social media app protection
- Smooth and stable performance
Pricing:
- Free
Conclusion
In conclusion, in today’s digital world, our smartphones hold much more than just apps—they store our personal moments, private conversations, and important information. It is no longer sufficient to rely solely on a screen lock, particularly when we frequently share our phones with other people. A good app lock gives you complete control over your privacy and provides an additional layer of security.
Selecting the best app lock solution can be difficult because there are so many options available. Because of this, apps that are user-friendly, dependable, and trusted by consumers are highlighted in this list of the top 14 best app lock software for Android. There is an app lock available to suit your needs and protect your data, whether you’re looking for basic security or more sophisticated privacy features.
FAQs
Do App Lock Apps Affect Phone Performance?
No, good app lock apps are lightweight and designed to run in the background without slowing down your phone or draining the battery.
Can App Lock Apps be Unlocked Using Fingerprint?
Yes, many modern app lock apps support fingerprint and biometric unlocking, making them both secure and convenient to use.
Can Someone Uninstall An App Lock Without My Permission?
Most app lock apps offer uninstall protection, which prevents others from removing the app without entering the correct password.
Is An App Lock Necessary if My Phone Already Has a Screen Lock?
Yes, a screen lock protects your phone, but once unlocked, all apps are accessible. App locks add extra security for specific apps and private data.
Which App Lock is Best For Beginners?
For beginners, apps with a simple interface, easy setup, and basic features are best. Look for app locks that focus on ease of use rather than too many advanced options.
