House Goods Reviews

Things To Consider Before Installing A Smart Lock

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Smart Lock: A smart lock is a door lock  which can be operated from your phone via an app. You can lock and unlock the door with a single button press, whether you’re at home, at work, or on vacation. You’ll never have to worry about leaving the door open again, and you’ll be able to allow in a family member and roommate who has forgotten their key no matter where you are, thanks to these devices.

Smart Lock: Speech assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant can usually control these locks with voice requests. The Wyze Lock ($108), Yale Assure Lock ($230), and Schlage Connect ($169) are three popular, high-quality smart locks.

What Are Smart Locks And How Do They Work?

Smart Lock: Smart locks can be used to replace or supplement your existing deadbolt lock. They’re simple to set up. The August WIFI Intelligent Lock ($250), which attaches to your present deadbolt, is ideal for anyone who isn’t proficient with tools. The add-on smart lock takes around 10 minutes to install, while the smart locks which replace your deadbolt take about 20 to 30 minutes.

Smart Lock: To make the process easier, every smart lock usually comes with step-by-step installation instructions and instructive videos in its app. A screwdriver is usually all that is required for installation. If your door does not have a deadbolt lock, you may have to pay someone to drill hole in it to fit your new lock.

Smart Lock: You link the smart locks to the app utilizing Bluetooth and your home’s WIFI once it’s been installed.  After that, you may use your phone to lock and unlock the door, as well as operate any other smart lock functions using the app. Smart locks can make leaving & entering your home much more convenient, but there are some things to consider before installing one on your own door.

Smart Lock

Use High-Quality Batteries.

Smart Lock: Smart locks are powered by batteries. Those batteries power a variety of devices, including wireless processors, LED lights, and, most crucially, the door-locking and unlocking motor. The motors in your smart locks use a large amount of electricity from the batteries to extend and retract the deadbolt when you activate it. As a result, the condition of the battery you use can influence how often you need to replace them. One smart lock user claims that Energizer Industrial batteries last longer than other manufacturers, and that he gets more electricity out of them. It’s possible that you’ll have to experiment with different batteries to determine which one works best for your smart locks. Of course, if you don’t lock and unlock your door frequently, battery quality isn’t as critical, and many customers have claimed success with even the cheapest batteries.

Check To See If Your Door Closes Properly

Smart Lock: Many doors, particularly in older homes, are slightly misaligned and hence do not close correctly. To put it another way, if you have to push on your door to lock it, you’ll need to fix that before putting in a smart lock. If you want to lock and unlock your door remotely, the deadbolt needs to be able to stretch and retract easily without getting snagged on anything. Otherwise, the smart locks will become stuck and stop working. A misaligned door can be caused by a variety of issues, so either pay a professional to fix it or call that handy buddy of yours to help you figure it out.

Thumbturn Plates On Smart Locks Are Enormous.

Smart Lock: The thumbturn on a standard lock doesn’t take up much more room than it wants to, making it unobtrusive & low-key overall. The inside thumbturn mechanism of a smart lock, on the other hand, is enormous in comparison to a standard lock, thanks to all of the electronics packed into it. Most of the time, this isn’t a problem, but if your door has any form of trim or decoration that comes closer to the lock, a smart lock might not fit properly, & at all. As a result, make sure there’s enough space surrounding your door locks, particularly above them, for a smart lock to fit without difficulty.

Purchase The Same Lock That Your Home Now Has.

Smart Lock: Kwikset & Schlage two of the most popular lock brands) employ different styles of pins within the lock cylinder, that means that if you want to utilise the same key on all of your locks, they must all be created by the same company: Kwikset or Schlage. If you want to utilise the same keys for all of your locks, make sure the smart lock you buy is the same brand as other locks in your house. You’ll be carrying two keys if you don’t. (Alternatively, if you’re changing all of your locks, you may choose any brand you want; you’ll simply need a new key.)

You Can Keep Your Traditional Deadbolt If You Want To.

Smart Lock: If you desire the comfort of a smart lock but want to preserve your current deadbolt, you can purchase a smart lock “conversion kit” that converts your old deadbolt into a smart lock. Interior mechanisms that are fitted over your current thumbturn, such as the August smart lock and Kwikset’s Convert smart lock, give it magical smart features without entirely changing the lock.

Smart Lock: There could be a variety of reasons for this, including the desire to maintain your current home keys or the desire to keep the outside of your door clean & devoid of fancy keypads & LED lights. Because of these factors, conversion kits are quite common.

Smart Lock

First, Check With Your Landlord

Smart Lock: Changing your lock is against your rental contract, & perhaps the law, if you’re renting your space. As a result, it’s a good idea to inquire with your landlord about whether or not you can put a smart lock. If you’re renting from a personal, individual landlord, they’re usually a little more lenient, but they may still want to learn your keycode and have a duplicate of the new key to the locks itself, as most landlords need to maintain their right of entrance.

Smartlocks Reviews 2021 : Yale Nesting Lock

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Yale is one of the most famous lock manufacturers in the world, with a rich history stretching all the way back to the early 1800s. The pin tumbler lock, now known as the Yale Smart Lock, is credited to its creator. While it continues to sell standard locks, the company also offers smart locks that are packed with capabilities to help you beef up your home’s security.

Yale smart locks are among the best on the market today, allowing you to answer the door remotely, grant visitors entry without using a key, and automatically unlock the door as you approach. Its lock alternatives are simple to install and operate, and August offers an app that notifies users when the door is correctly closed.

Yale smart locks are suitable for consumers looking to boost front door security by removing the need to provide additional keys to family, friends, or employees. Additionally, you’ll need to be comfortable utilizing a smartphone app to take full benefit of what these locks have to offer.

 

What to consider when buying a Yale Smart Lock?

The advantages of Yale smart locks are what consumers should consider before making a purchase decision. After all, having a lock with a keypad, a remote, or simply one that connects to a cell phone is not the same thing. Let’s have a look at them in greater detail below via these reviews.

 

Unusual & Sturdy Design

In terms of design, the firm has made an effort to create models that are accessible to anyone like the Yale smart lock with key, yale wifi lock etc. Certain gadgets, such as Yale smart door locks, have a more classic appearance and operate by buttons rather than touchscreens.

However, those seeking more contemporary things will find illuminated keypads and strong designs in a variety of finishes.

 

ANSI Grade 2: Security Expertise

ANSI is a security criterion that indicates how secure a gadget is in terms of home security. Thus, the Yale smart lock is rated as a grade 2. Because the maximum is level 1, Yale smart lock with key or yale smart deadbolt does quite well in this department.

 

Automatic Lock: Simply Configure It

A timer can also be used to lock and open the door. For instance, the Yale Assure lock SL enables owners to specify a time period after which the door will automatically lock.

Additionally, one minute and five minutes are viable alternatives. This is an excellent advantage for individuals who frequently forget to do so while out.

 

Best Yale Smart Lock

Yale Nesting Lock

One of the most popular and feature-rich alternatives is the Nest x Yale lock, which not only functions as a smart lock but also integrates with Nest’s home automation network.

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Features:

The Nest Yale Lock features the following:

Yale smart door lock: With the Nest Yale lock, you may grant anyone access to your front door without providing them with a key, regardless of their location. Whether it’s your nanny or one of your children who forgot their after-school key, you can always allow entry via a smartphone.

Automatic lock and unlock: If desired, the Yale smart deadbolt may automatically unlock the door as you approach and automatically lock it as you exit. It makes use of the Bluetooth technology in your smartphone to determine when you’re on your way and when you’re departing.

Integration with Nest goods: This lock is compatible with all Nest devices, including the video doorbell, which complements your home automation system beautifully.

The Nest lock integrates with Google Assistant, allowing you to lock and unlock the door with your voice. Additionally, you may check to see if the door is locked by inquiring with the Google Assistant.You may configure the app to notify you whenever someone locks or unlocks the door, providing you with an ongoing record of who enters and exits the residence.

Tamper-proof: If someone attempts to remove the lock from your door or damages it in order to gain entry, you will be automatically notified.

You can issue a virtual key to a delivery person or anybody else who requires immediate entry to your home for a specified period of time.

If you leave your keys in the car, you won’t have to worry about entering the house. The Yale smart door lock does not require a key.

DIY installation: The Yale smart deadbolt replaces your existing deadbolt, and if you’re comfortable with DIY projects, installing this lock on your front door should be straightforward.

 

Pricing for Nest Yale Locks

Due to the fact that this particular lock is sold by a variety of different vendors, the price may vary. However, you can purchase it with or without Nest Connect. If you currently own a Nest system, there is no need to spend more money on redundant equipment. If you’re new to Nest, you must purchase the entire package.

 

Pros

The Nest Yale Lock is an excellent choice for households that already use or plan to use Nest. This Yale smart lock is compatible with any Nest device, which means it can be used in conjunction with a video doorbell and managed via the same app as a thermostat.

Simple installation: For smart lock installations, consumers rave about how simple the Nest Yale Lock is to install. If you run into any difficulties, Google provides a comprehensive walkthrough complete with images and videos, as well as an installation manual.

 

Cons

Not only is this product significantly more expensive than a standard lock, it is also more expensive than comparable locks such as August. Furthermore, this Yale smart lock is compatible only with Nest products.

 

SL Yale Assure smart lock

If you’re not a Nest user and are seeking for a Yale Smart Lock with more integration options, you’ve come to the right place. This lock enables you to use Alexa in conjunction with other smart home features already installed in your home. You’ll still receive fantastic features like remote door answering and auto lock, but because it works with the August app, you’ll also get DoorSense technology, which notifies you if your door wasn’t completely closed.

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Pros

This smart key option is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, Z-Wave, and Zigbee.

24/7 activity log: You’ll be able to observe who entered your home and when within the app. Take a look at the complete day’s activity on your smartphone.

 

Cons

Price: Yale Assure smart lock is not inexpensive, and their high cost may deter budget-conscious clients.

 

The pricing of this Yale WiFi door lock is determined by the features you select. The touchscreen model costs between $149 and $279, while the keypad model costs roughly $20 less. While the Yale Assure Lock SL does not come with a backup key, other Assure smart locks do. If having a backup plan is critical to you, keep that in mind. Additionally, customers can select from a variety of finishes and door handles to suit their personal aesthetic choices. Similar to the Nest x Yale lock, installation is straightforward.

 

Concluding

Whichever Yale WiFi door lock you choose, it will give additional security to your property. Knowing when and where individuals come and go, as well as the ability to allow access from anywhere in the world, adds convenience.

If you already have Nest installed and are a fan, the Nest x Yale lock is the ideal solution. If you’re already a fan of third-party devices such as Alexa or HomeKit, you’ll want to stick with the Assure line to get the most out of your smart lock. Both are wonderful options, and depending on your personal tastes, they may be worth the extra money to provide you with additional piece of mind.

 

FAQs

How to install Yale smart lock?

Here is a Yale smart lock manual to guide you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_klxbeZ2SLc

 

How to rekey Yale smart lock?

When you move into a new house it is very important to rekey. Here is a step-by-step guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmdws3pc6e8

August Smart Locks: Ultimate guide

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Leaving your home for an extended period of time can be stressful. Whether it’s a day trip or a week-long vacation, an empty home can appear to most robbers and burglars to be a prime target. Thus, how can you ensure yourself at the very least some measure of tranquility?

August smart lock is the ideal way to ensure that your home is secure regardless of your location. We’ve outlined three advantages of this innovative technology below, along with how they’ll alleviate stress and worry as you prepare for your next trip.

 

Benefits of August smart Locks

There Will Be No More Arguing Over Keys

Smart locks eliminate one of the most inconvenient aspects of home security. They not only offer superior security but also eliminate the need to fumble and search for your house keys. You won’t need to find or lend a physical key to friends to check on your house while you’re away.

Using a passcode ensures that no stray key falls into the wrong hands. Additionally, there will be no more frantic searching in the dark for a key, making returning home at night a safer and more efficient process.

 

Accurately Time the Opening and Closing of Your Doors

When friends visit to check on your pets or water your plants, you can provide them with their own unique passcodes. You’ll always know who is entering your home, and you can receive notifications via phone or email whenever doors are opened or closed.

Even if you’re not at work or out and about, this is an excellent way to monitor when your children return home from school or if anyone attempts to break in. If you are at home, your smart locks can also notify you when guests arrive for a party or dinner that you are hosting.

 

An All-Inclusive Lock for Any and Every Door

Interior smart door locks are also available if you have a wine cabinet or a gun room that you want to secure to ensure that only authorized individuals have access. You can rest assured that only those with the passcode will be able to unlock them.

You can now relax knowing that your outdoor and indoor areas are secure. There are numerous sizes and styles available, as well as various types of doorknobs and handles, to complement or blend seamlessly with your existing décor.

 

Best August smart locks

Here we have compiled for you the best August door lock, August WiFi smart lock, etc for you to choose from.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Most recent August WiFi smart lock

Even if you’re not particularly handy, installation takes less than ten minutes. August locks are designed to fit perfectly over the majority of single-cylinder deadbolts and are only slightly larger than the original thumbturn.

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Features of this August smart lock:

Compatible with your smart home: With built-in Wi-Fi, your lock can communicate with your preferred voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, or Samsung SmartThings.

Maintain your home’s curb appeal: Add smart lock functionality without altering the appearance of your front door’s exterior. August smart locks are installed on the inside of the door, which means that your front door’s design does not need to change.

For added security, use a face or fingerprint ID: Utilize the biometric recognition capabilities of your phone for two-factor authentication (optional).

 

August Statin Nickle August smart lock

Popular August WiFi smart lock

This August smart lock Connect includes a Wi-Fi bridge, enabling voice integration and remote access out of the box.

Maintain your current lock and keys. Attach it directly to the existing deadbolt on the inside of the door. It can be installed in less than ten minutes using only a screwdriver.

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Features of this August smart lock

Only August locks includes Door Sense, a sensor that indicates whether your door is securely closed or if it has been left open.

The door automatically unlocks upon your arrival. Never again will you have to fumble for keys, shopping, bags, or children when unlocking the door agaInches auto-lock can be programmed to automatically lock as the door closes.

Verification of Biometric Information Opts in to use your smartphone’s fingerprint or facial recognition to verify your identity before remotely operating your lock.

 

August smart lock pro

Top Rated August WiFi smart lock

August’s simple-to-use app indeed is a game changer. The software allows you to connect the devices so that when you receive a warning that someone is at the door, you may push a button to automatically unlock it for them. Unlocking takes a few seconds, but appeared quick enough to me, and took less time than getting off the couch and unlocking the door would.

While the lock screen is exceedingly simple — a massive round button that glows red when the door is closed and green when it is open — the Guest List and Settings screens are where the magic happens.

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Features of this August smart lock:

Apart from minor adjustments such as altering the lock’s name, disabling the lock’s locking and unlocking noises, and resetting the lock to factory defaults, here’s everything you’ll find in the settings.

Smart alerts: Would you like to be notified when a certain individual locks or unlocks a door, or when it is left ajar? This can be accomplished through the use of smart alerts.

Auto-Unlock: This feature, which is rather well constructed, automatically unlocks the door for you. When you leave your house (with your phone, of course) and travel a few hundred yards, your lock enters Away mode, which simply means it is waiting for you to return. Once you return to your lock’s Bluetooth range, it unlocks for you and returns to Home mode until you leave again. This feature works fine, however I had to increase the time that Auto-Lock waits before re-locking the door from one to three minutes, because the door would occasionally auto-unlock as I came into the driveway, but then re-lock as I approached the door.

HomeKit Settings: This section allows you to link the lock to Apple HomeKit and assign it to a certain HomeKit house or room.

Z-Wave Settings: This section enables the lock to communicate with a Z-Wave hub through the Z-Wave Pro S2 protocol.

Calibrate Lock: If your lock is not completely rotating the deadbolt, you can calibrate it here, but you probably won’t need to. From the initial calibration process on, my lock operated wonderfully.

 

FAQs

How to install August smart lock?

Here is a tutorial for: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTww-8d96L4

How to connect August smart lock to Alexa?

Follow this step-by-step guide: https://support.august.com/integrating-with-amazon-alexa-r1l0L8yCOM

BEST SCHLAGE SMART LOCK REVIEWS 2021

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Let us be honest. Life is hectic on a daily basis. Juggling children’s schoolwork, parents’ jobs, and multiple appointments leaves little time to search for lost keys. If you’ve ever needed to call your spouse at work to bring a spare key home, you’ve probably considered installing a Schlage smart lock on your home.

Schlage smart lock offers numerous advantages to homeowners and business owners. Continue reading to learn the top ten benefits of upgrading your home security system.

 

BENEFITS OF SCHLAGE SMART LOCK

 

SCHLAGE SMART LOCK BENEFITS #1

ENHANCE ACCESSIBILITY WITHOUT MAKING COMPROMISES SECURITY

House keys frequently become misplaced. Consider smart locks with keypads to avoid tracking down keys or changing locks when tenants vacate. With models such as the TL 115, you can unlock the door using Bluetooth technology and your smartphone. Additionally, you can assign individual passcodes to your children to monitor their entry and exit.

 

SCHLAGE SMART LOCK BENEFITS #2

SMART LOCKS CAN BE ACTIVATED USING SMARTPHONES

Virtual keys make it simple for vacation rental guests, visiting relatives, and senior family members to gain access. Smart locks are an excellent complement to other remote-control devices. Smart devices, ranging from smart lights and appliances to your home entry system, are the way of the future — stay ahead of the curve.

 

SCHLAGE SMART LOCK BENEFITS #3

SIMPLIFY RESIDENTIAL SECURITY

Smart keys enable you to grant access to multiple individuals and monitor who enters and exits your home at any time of day or night. By downloading the Turbolock app, you can monitor and control your smart locks from anywhere in the world, as well as assign new passcodes as needed.

 

SCHLAGE SMART LOCK BENEFITS #4

STRENGTHEN YOUR CONNECTIONS

By downloading the app to your in-home or mobile device, you can integrate your smart locks into your home security system. If family members or house guests forget to lock the door after they leave, smart locks can automatically lock the door! That’s reassuring when you’re halfway to Starbucks and wondering whether you forgot to lock the front door — yet again! Additionally, Schlage smart lock may assist you in avoiding conflict with your spouse.

 

Best Schlage Smart Lock

 

SCHLAGE ENCODE INTELLIGENT

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PROS

Built in Wi-Fi.

One touch locking.

 

CONS

Better options available at this price

 

With the innovative Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt, you can enjoy peace of mind from anywhere. Built-in WiFi enables direct connection to your home network, eliminating the need for additional hubs or accessories. Remotely lock or unlock your door and manage access for trusted visitors using the Schlage Home or Key by Amazon apps. When you purchase the Amazon Cloud Cam along with Key, you can receive video of people entering/exiting your home and opt-in for in-home delivery (Prime members, where available) (Key Edition). It’s never been easier to connect with Schlage’s security, simplicity, and style.

FEATURES

The Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt with Camelot Trim in Aged Bronze is included in this bundle, as is the Echo Dot (3rd Gen) Charcoal.

Built-in Wi-Fi in this Schlage smart door lock enables remote locking/unlocking without the need for additional accessories with this Schlage smart lock. Combine with the Schlage Home or Key app to create and manage up to 100 access codes for recurring, temporary, or permanent access from trusted friends and family.

Capacitive touchscreen with easy one-touch locking that resists fingerprints. When using voice-enabled products, optional voice control provides hands-free convenience.

 

BE375 CAM 619 TOUCH KEYLESS SCHLAGE

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PROS

Battery lasts long

Premium Touchscreen

 

CONS

Cost

 

With Schlage Touch, there is no key to lose, no fiddling, and—for intruders—nothing to pick. All of this in a slim profile that is as svelte as it is strong. When you remove the key, you’ll be amazed at how much you can add.

FEATURES:

KEYLESS ENTRY & CONVENIENCE: Use the included two pre-programmed codes in this Schlage smart door lock to get started quickly, and assign up to 19 additional codes to trusted friends and family to enjoy convenient keyless security.

PREMIUM SECURITY: The cylinder-free design eliminates the possibility of bumping or picking the keyway, while the Grade 2/AAA rating ensures trusted security and durability in residential and light commercial applications.

BATTERY: Includes a 9V battery and a jump-start feature for emergency access in the event of a dead battery.

ACCESS BY TOUCHSCREEN: Downlighting illuminates numbers, making it easier to enter your code in the dark, while the fingerprint-resistant touchscreen helps maintain the privacy of access codes.

UNIQUE DESIGN: Its slim profile allows it to fit easily between the front door and screen door, while the premium metal construction ensures long-lasting security.

 

Z-WAVE SCHLAGE

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PRO

Home automation integrated.

Universal latches

 

CONS

Hard to Use

You want advanced technology that simplifies your life, from your smartphone to your car. This technology is capable of coping with anything life throws at it. We’ve brought that level of thinking to your door locks with Schlage Connect.

Schlage Connect combines all of our most advanced security features into a single lock, redefining the term “secure.” With a sleek, modern touchscreen, you can enjoy the convenience of going keyless and never having to worry about losing, hiding, carrying, or forgetting your keys. The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen ensures that after repeated use, intruders will be unable to detect the numbers, further securing your home. Additionally, Schlage Connect’s Z-Wave Technology enables advanced remote management capabilities and compatibility with home monitoring systems, allowing you to control your home from anywhere.

FEATURES:

  • Z wave technology integrates with your home automation system and enables remote locking and unlocking of your door via the web or a smartphone.
  • Three different alert modes (activity, tamper, and forced entry) notify you when someone enters or exits and communicate potential security threats.
  • At the primary points of entry, Ansi Grade 1 provided the highest level of durability and security.
  • Protects against fingerprints and smudges and ensures that wear patterns remain undetectable.
  • Adjustable through bolt-on handsets adjust 1 1/2 inches up and down to accommodate a variety of pre-existing holes.
  • Universal latches and deadbolts are available in backsets of 2 /8 inches (60 millimeters) or 2 3/4 inches (70 millimeters).
  • Control who has access to your home easily. With memory for up to 30 unique access codes, everyone, from children to pet sitters and housekeepers, can have their own Number.

FAQs

How to install Schlage smart lock?

To install Schlage smart locks follow this tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSG2yPSAB40

 

How to change code on Schlage smart lock or a Tutorial on Schlage smart lock change code?

Here Is a video detailing a step-by-step guide on Schlage smart lock manual change of codes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0t9aPVjvVE

 

How to connect Schlage smart lock to Wifi?

In the app, navigate to the menu and select Wi-Fi Adapters. In the top right corner of the page, click the “+” sign. Enter the programming code that can be found on the back of your Wi-Fi Adapter. Then, within 40 feet of your Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt, connect your Wi-Fi Adapter.

 

What to do when Schlage smart lock not working?

Go through this guide to find fixes for Schlage smart lock not working and attempt Schlage smart lock change code: https://www.diysmarthomehub.com/schlage-keypad-not-working/

 

What is the Schlage smart lock reset code?

For Schlage smart lock reset code, you must manually remove the device’s batteries and operate Schlage smart lock manual. Now, for approximately 10-15 seconds, press and hold the Schlage button. Ensure that you also reconnect the batteries during this time period. Once you see a green light and hear a beep from the device, it will reset.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reviews – Kwikset Smart Locks with Pictures

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Kwikset’s smart locks, such as the Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi lock, compete well against Schlage and Yale, but it stands out for being more affordable overall. Naturally, this means that Kwikset smart locks lack a number of features (like geofencing).

However, Kwikset Smart Locks compensate with innovative features such as SmartKey rekeying and SecureScreen touchscreen keypads on select models. Additionally, we appreciate the aesthetics of these smart locks, which are more striking than the competition. 

See our complete breakdown of Kwikset’s best smart locks to learn why we like them and what we’d like to see improved.

The advantages and disadvantages of Kwikset smart locks

Pros

  • It’s simple to assign user codes.
  • Elegant designs.
  • With SmartKey, rekeying is a breeze

Cons 

  • Halo and Aura have short battery life.
  • Certain locks require intelligent hubs.

Comparability of Kwikset smart locks 

The following are the standard features found on the majority of Kwikset smart locks:

  • All smart locks require batteries; Kwikset’s preferred tool is four AA batteries. These are enclosed (hence the bulky appearance) on the inside of your door. However, the Wi-Fi (Halo) and Bluetooth (Aura) locks’ batteries do not last as long as the HomeKit, Z-Wave, or Zigbee models.
  • Controls via mobile app: All of Kwikset smart lock manuals are controlled via a mobile app, though the app varies depending on the smart home platform being used and the presence of a smart hub.
  • Automatic locking: When you unlock the lock, it automatically relocks after 30 seconds. This setting is disabled by default but is easily enabled by following the instructions in the user manual. 
  • Kwikset smart locks feature a robust construction that protects against lockpicking and physical attacks. This puts the product on par with Yale smart locks but typically falls short of Schlage’s strength.
  •  Keypads and backup keys: In addition to opening the door via a smartphone app, Kwikset smart locks can be unlocked using a PIN code or backup key. While the majority of models include both a keypad and a keyhole, some, such as the Obsidian and the Halo Touch, only have one.
  • Installation: A Kwikset smart locks can be installed in about 20 minutes or less with a simple screwdriver—no drilling or complicated wiring is required.

Except for the Obsidian, which lacks a keyhole, you can rekey your locks using a special tool. This is the most convenient option for homeowners who wish to retain their existing house keys while upgrading to smart locks. You will not be required to purchase new copies of your keys or to place a custom order for “keyed-alike” locks.

 

Kwikset Halo

Overall the best

The Kwikset Halo smart lock is a Wi-Fi smart lock that can be controlled via your smartphone without the need for an additional smart hub. As a result, Halo is the only Kwikset lock series that includes remote access as standard. We adore the fact that you can create up to 250 codes and schedule them for specific users.

The Halo is the pinnacle of Kwikset’s feature set and the company’s only lock that works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Without reaching for your phone, these voice assistants enable you to lock and unlock (using a spoken PIN code). Additionally, we appreciate its sleek design and backup key.

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However, even the most advanced smart locks have drawbacks. According to user feedback, Halo consumes four AA batteries every 3–4 months. This is unsurprising given the low battery life of the majority of Wi-Fi locks. By comparison, a typical Z-Wave smart lock has a lifespan of six to twelve months. While the Kwikset Halo smart lock is the best option from this manufacturer overall, we believe the Schlage Encode and August Smart Lock are superior Wi-Fi locks. 

 

Kwikset Aura 

The best value for money

For roughly half the price of the Halo, the Kwikset Aura communicates with your smartphone via Bluetooth. The best part is that it offers nearly identical functionality. It replaces the touchscreen with a keypad with rubber buttons but still looks great on any door.

Regrettably, Bluetooth has a shorter range (approximately 100 feet) and does not communicate with the internet. This means that Aura does not support remote access or smart home integration. Despite its lack of features, it’s a surprisingly useful lock for the majority of people, as you can still create and schedule visitor codes. Kwikset smart lock reset code facility adds value to it.

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One feature in common with Halo that we dislike is the device’s short battery life, which lasts only a few months before requiring replacement batteries. We like the Kwikset Aura as a solid budget smart lock in general, but it faces stiff competition. While the Wyze Smart Lock is less expensive and includes remote access, the Kwikset Aura has a more attractive keypad and overall design.

 

Smart Code 916 Kwikset

The optimal solution for smart hubs

If everyone had smart hubs, the Kwikset SmartCode 916 would almost certainly beat out the Halo as our top pick. This Z-Wave (or Zigbee) smart lock consumes significantly less battery power than Halo’s energy-guzzling Wi-Fi. It’s also a bit more svelte, with a uniformly flat touchscreen keypad rather than the Halo’s beveled sides. Kwikset smart lock reset code option is also outstanding.

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However, you must purchase a third-party smart hub to fully utilize this lock’s capabilities, which brings the price close to or above the Halo. And, while the majority of smart hubs allow for the customization of PIN codes, it’s difficult to predict whether those hubs also allow for user scheduling. We’re not sure whether the additional effort is worthwhile for those who do not already use a smart home system such as Samsung SmartThings.

While we appreciate the Kwikset SmartCode 916’s smart home potential, it falls short of offering much to those with a casual interest in smart home technology.

 

Halo Touch by Kwikset

The most effective fingerprint  Kwikset smart locks

The Kwikset Halo Touch smart lock is the company’s newest design and the first to include a fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking. The fingerprint sensor was lightning fast and simple to use during our testing of this lock—plus, it’s a bit more secure than a keypad. We like that the system supports up to 50 users and stores up to 100 fingerprints.

As with the original Kwikset Halo smart lock, it communicates with your phone via Wi-Fi. This has the same advantages (remote access and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant) and disadvantages as the previous method (poor battery life and a higher price).

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While we appreciate the fingerprint sensor, it is inconvenient for guests who do not already have a fingerprint in the system, which is why it is not higher on our list. The app refused to cooperate during setup, and we were forced to perform a factory reset (never a good sign). The setup took approximately 45 minutes in total, more than twice as long as it would have taken with another door lock.

There were no issues following the setup. While gardening in the backyard, it was convenient to lock the door and leave our keys inside the house. In general, the Halo Touch is an excellent option for a fingerprint smart lock, albeit a little pricey.

 

How we conducted our review of Kwikset smart locks?

We’ve tested a variety of Kwikset smart lock manuals over the years, including the Kevo, Obsidian, Premis, and SmartCode 916, and have a firm grasp on how these deadbolts perform. However, we are not satisfied with past experiences, and thus conducted a test of the new Halo Touch for this review.

For our Halo Touch review, we considered the lock’s value for money, which features we found most useful, the length and complexity of the installation, and our overall impression of the lock after a few days of use.

We ranked these locks based on our experiences with them and a healthy dose of research into online customer reviews.

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