Aqara Smart Lock U100
VERDICT
In the world of smart home devices, locks are usually expensive or ugly. The Aqara U100 is neither. It supports Apple Home Key (a rare feature at this price point), has a fast fingerprint reader, and looks sleek on any door. It connects via Zigbee or Bluetooth, ensuring long battery life and reliable connection.
The Big Picture
Why fumble for keys when your smart home can recognize you? The U100 features a fingerprint reader built directly into the handle position (on the keypad). Just reach for the door, and it unlocks in 0.5 seconds. For Apple users, the "Home Key" feature lets you tap your Apple Watch to enter, just like paying with Apple Pay.
🍏 Apple Home Key
The Convenience: Tap to enter.
Integration: This is a game-changer for iPhone users. Even if your phone battery is dead, the NFC chip usually works for a few hours (Power Reserve), ensuring you are never locked out of your smart home.
🔢 Scramble Passcode
Anti-peeping security.
Function: If someone is watching you, you can type random numbers before or after your real code (e.g., 8832 + 1234 + 009). As long as your real code (1234) is in the sequence, the door will open, keeping your password safe.
✅ The Pros
- Versatility: Fingerprint, Code, NFC, Key, App - 5 ways to unlock.
- Battery: Lasts up to 8 months on 4 AA batteries.
- Emergency: Has a USB-C port on the outside to power it up if batteries die.
- Price: Incredible value (~$180).
❌ The Cons
- Hub: Needs an Aqara Hub (M2 or E1) for remote access away from home.
- Design: The keypad is a bit utilitarian compared to the sleeker Schlage Encode.