Gotta love all the lock haters in the comments. It’s a first defense, to hopefully deter someone, not meant to stop someone who is determined to break in. The beauty of these style of locks is the convenience for the homeowner and ability to give a code to family, friends, etc. No one buying this is expecting to keep a three letter agency occupied for days while they rally the troops. 😂
exactly lol. i mean, if a determined person wants to he can just smash the window and jump right in...plus im sure that if they are stupid enough to commit crimes or breaking and entering here in texas...then i would think it would be safe to assume they are not smart enough to take the time to learn about these.
I dont hate it but I'd rather have lock picking lawyer open it with a chicken bone than buy a $200 paperweight that even your 5 year old niece open without a code.. it makes the lock pointless if you can open it with a chicken bone or a paperclip. having good security isn't something to stick your nose up for convieance
@@8Arachne8 They don’t; they live on an island that can only be accessed during certain months. They live 1000 feet underground, and they have a bunker built out of 10 different kinds of metals and then encased in concrete.
Making you press the lock button after putting in the code is actually a good security feature, and shouldn't be criticized as a shortcoming. If someone trying to brute force your lock isn't aware of your code length they cannot know exactly when they should press the lock button. If they get a failure upon pressing it they have no idea whether it failed because they got the sequence wrong or if they even had the right number of digits.
Say your code was 6 digits long and you type in any other combination of 6 digits it should just do nothing and allow you to enter more digits unless it's the correct 6 digits. This way it's convenient for the user and it doesn't give away how many digits is in the code to an attacker.
This is a super slick smart lock. I love that it has a fingerprint reader. I really do wish it connected over Thread as opposed to Bluetooth, but as long as you have an Apple Home hub nearby, you should be good. HomeKey is BOSS too!
Yeah Thread would be nice but going to be honest, it doesn't really matter once its setup and running. Fingerprints and passcodes are stored locally and Home Key uses NFC so I prefer it being cheaper and missing out on Thread.
@@StrifePulse Good point. Thread would have definitely increased the price, but if your using HomeKey or the fingerprint sensor, it shouldn't make much of a difference, if any.
TIL "Tail Finger" is a thing! Me" "Man, Jeff's battery is pretty low for this demo..." Jeff: "Home Key in express mode means you can unlock even if your phone's battery is dead which I will show you later..." Genius... This looks rad. Thanks, Jeff!
Tip I’ve always been taught is to use longer screws for your side plates. If anyone was ever to try it would make it way harder. I use about two inches on the door and super long dry wall screws on the frame
its not just about the price, its about Aqara seems to be much more stable than the other brands. I have a lot of Aqara sensors with homekit supported.
I really like this smart lock!! HOWEVER … I think I would feel weird/scared not locking the door knob lock! Lol. I’ve been so conditioned into locking the door knob AND the deadbolt..to leave the door knob unlocked and only the deadbolt would take some major getting used to! Am I alone in this thinking? Lol
This is what I was thinking too loll. It’s muscle memory for me to lock the doorknob as I’m walking out. I think about what I’m doing at all so I’d have to severely adjust (as well as my family)
Great to see more content from Jeff, though it has been a long time since his last video. I'd love to see more from Jeff on the software/OS side of things!
12:12 Yup, your trim has the exact same little deadbolt-level ding in it that mine has from previous “smart” locks auto locking at a specified time while the door just happens to be open. Then you walk by and see an open door that needs closing and… BOOM! The door bounces back and now there’s a nice little ding in the door trim…
i would love to see a bolt/latch along with the lock bar, so you can make the old lock obsolette. that way it can detect too when to lock from the other sensor. maybe a Aqara U200 has it and then i am gonna think about it…. :D imagine installing this to your main door, and a friend leaves and don't press the "lock button"….(asumming you want to throw away old lock)
I always lol when I see deadbolts where the inside turn knob is literally right next to a small glass window that can easily be reached after breaking the glass Fancy box that is easily circumvented
Just tried to add an additional fingerprint code and screwed up EVERYTHING. Nothing works now, AND the labels in the app don't make sense and are NOT intuitive what I did six months ago means nothing and I cannot logically follow my way back. So I'm ripping it out and getting a simpler way less expensive 'fingerprint' door lock. UGH!!!!
Good review. A couple of quick questions: Can you confirm that the physical key will unlock even when there is no power? Would love to know how this works with a hub? It’s Bluetooth so does the hub need to be very close to it? (Such was the case with August which was a deal breaker for me.)
Considering that it uses HomeKit, I wonder if you truly need their hub to make use of the remote features. HomeKit should have you covered if you have a home hub like a HomePod or an Apple TV.
You say you can rekey but every other reviewer says although it can be done it’s difficult. Have you actually tried rekeying? Also you never mentioned it’s build. Is it all plastic? Metal?
The average person isn’t going to be able to rekey it, like they could with a Kwikset smarkey, but a locksmith will be able to rekey it easily. The brass ring, at the base of the tailpiece, just unscrews and the lock cylinder slides out, which provides access to the pins… It’s obviously more involved than that, but that’s the simplified process
@@RandomBogey I know what re-keying entails. What I meant to say was that it can’t be re-keyed AT ALL. Another CZcamsr took it to a locksmith and they couldn’t do it.
@@watch_your_six I don’t have one, and I haven’t looked into it, so I can’t say 100%. But based on the looks of it, I’d say it is rekey-able, if it is the schlage cylinder it looks to be.
When you have typed the password in wrong, have you tried just continuing with the correct code as this is a brilliant security feature on one of my devices incase someone is watching you type it in.
I know it’s just the rig holding the iPhone stable, but my mind keeps seeing it as a drill with a black bit extension and a silver screw behind the phone…
Very insightful review thank you. Any updates after months of using this lock. I’m about to buy a smart lock and this is in my short list. Btw, does it come with a doorknob? Or it’s something you buy separately? I’m new to the SL game. Thanks again
This is a good looking lock, but Bluetooth is a no for me with bad experience with Level Lock battery life. This lock does not look as secure physically compared to the Schlage Encode Plus.
I am surprised the smart lock does not have a flashing indicator when the battery is low or at least a battery meter on the app or lock itself. Great job on the review, please bless us with more smart lock reviews💯
Does it have anti-peeping password mode? so for example you can enter a fake password before the real password to avoid someone peeping at your entering
Presumably, one could use a USB-C phone or tablet to charge the lock in an emergency as well. Has anyone tried this? Think I may hide a short USB-C cable in a faux sprinkler head. :^)
My only complaint that I can see is there is the physical key backup. I personally believe an all digital lock is safer than one that has a physical key. I ordered one anyway through and plan to super glue the key hole door shut.
I have it and everytime I share the passcode it never works. It looks so simple on this video but in real life.. all I can ever use is the app or my finger. Which is not so nice when you’re an Airbnb host 🤦🏾♀️
@@scottwass the question is would this work via Matter on both Ring and Homekit. I prefer not to tinker to much I drew the line at Homebridge I rather not over complicate my setup I already get lost in what scene or shortcut does what lol
What will happen if someone steals my phone and express mode is enabled? That means the thief can unlock the door right? How can I disable the home key feature without my phone?
Hmm the problem is actually like losting the key, but the goodthing is that you can log in to the Home app on another device and then delete the lock (requires a homepod/apple tv and make sure you bring the key).
@@kinseycreategoods replacing a traditional lock is much cheaper than buying a new smart lock. I’m just wondering if this is a security glitch. But if you can login from another device, I guess you are good.
The key is very insecure. Easy to pick. The wide range of access options also adds to the vulnerabilities. Impressive lock with all the features but insecure as a lock.
What is the privacy of the app? Is it a Chinese company spying on you? This is crucial information for smart devices. I use my own server and avoid cloud service as much as possible.
1:53 Are you sure it can be rekeyed? Shane Whatley did a review of this lock and says it cannot be rekeyed He even shows video of a locksmith trying but saying it cannot be done.
I have the Schlage Encode Plus and an iPhone 15 with ios 17. After a month I still can’t connect the lock with home. Its driving me crazy. I will buy this over the level
Gotta love all the lock haters in the comments. It’s a first defense, to hopefully deter someone, not meant to stop someone who is determined to break in. The beauty of these style of locks is the convenience for the homeowner and ability to give a code to family, friends, etc. No one buying this is expecting to keep a three letter agency occupied for days while they rally the troops. 😂
Lol, good comment. It’s ridiculous how much hate these locks get. You’d think some of these people live in Fort Knox. C’mon son. Be serious. 🧐
exactly lol. i mean, if a determined person wants to he can just smash the window and jump right in...plus im sure that if they are stupid enough to commit crimes or breaking and entering here in texas...then i would think it would be safe to assume they are not smart enough to take the time to learn about these.
I dont hate it but I'd rather have lock picking lawyer open it with a chicken bone than buy a $200 paperweight that even your 5 year old niece open without a code.. it makes the lock pointless if you can open it with a chicken bone or a paperclip. having good security isn't something to stick your nose up for convieance
@@Ellarian_Liara So, what brand lock do you have?
@@8Arachne8 They don’t; they live on an island that can only be accessed during certain months. They live 1000 feet underground, and they have a bunker built out of 10 different kinds of metals and then encased in concrete.
Making you press the lock button after putting in the code is actually a good security feature, and shouldn't be criticized as a shortcoming. If someone trying to brute force your lock isn't aware of your code length they cannot know exactly when they should press the lock button. If they get a failure upon pressing it they have no idea whether it failed because they got the sequence wrong or if they even had the right number of digits.
Say your code was 6 digits long and you type in any other combination of 6 digits it should just do nothing and allow you to enter more digits unless it's the correct 6 digits. This way it's convenient for the user and it doesn't give away how many digits is in the code to an attacker.
This is a super slick smart lock. I love that it has a fingerprint reader. I really do wish it connected over Thread as opposed to Bluetooth, but as long as you have an Apple Home hub nearby, you should be good. HomeKey is BOSS too!
Yeah Thread would be nice but going to be honest, it doesn't really matter once its setup and running. Fingerprints and passcodes are stored locally and Home Key uses NFC so I prefer it being cheaper and missing out on Thread.
@@StrifePulse Good point. Thread would have definitely increased the price, but if your using HomeKey or the fingerprint sensor, it shouldn't make much of a difference, if any.
For 18:58, you can now lock the U100 via Home Key after updating to the latest firmware on the lock
If interested, you can get the Aqara U100 here amzn.to/3J0iCMH.
Promo code not working :(
@@lalohuicochea1 no working
Man Aqara is killing it this year
TIL "Tail Finger" is a thing!
Me" "Man, Jeff's battery is pretty low for this demo..."
Jeff: "Home Key in express mode means you can unlock even if your phone's battery is dead which I will show you later..."
Genius...
This looks rad. Thanks, Jeff!
Tip I’ve always been taught is to use longer screws for your side plates. If anyone was ever to try it would make it way harder. I use about two inches on the door and super long dry wall screws on the frame
The long screws is one factor that actually differentiates the ANSI grade 1 (360 lb weight test) vs a grade 2 or 3.
Drywall screws shear easily, do not recommend.
I am always surprised how simple locks in America are built.
ya, because most come with an ar15 or shotgun of choice...
Does this lock allow HomeKit to know if the door is open/closed in addition to being locked/unlocked or is that only accessible within the Aquara app?
Yes
its not just about the price, its about Aqara seems to be much more stable than the other brands. I have a lot of Aqara sensors with homekit supported.
@lockpickinglawyer should try picking this.
Any Lock with a keyhole can be picked in seconds. No go for professionals! Nice lock though - clean modern look!
I really like this smart lock!! HOWEVER … I think I would feel weird/scared not locking the door knob lock! Lol. I’ve been so conditioned into locking the door knob AND the deadbolt..to leave the door knob unlocked and only the deadbolt would take some major getting used to! Am I alone in this thinking? Lol
This is what I was thinking too loll. It’s muscle memory for me to lock the doorknob as I’m walking out. I think about what I’m doing at all so I’d have to severely adjust (as well as my family)
Awesome review, I really appreciate the HDR too!
Great to see more content from Jeff, though it has been a long time since his last video. I'd love to see more from Jeff on the software/OS side of things!
This is the best smart lock that I never seen
Just purchased this today! Hopefully it works better than the smart lock that I have now! Thank you for the coupon code!!
which coupon code?
@@abimaelmartell it expired already. The person that posted this video had a coupon code for the product. I bought it but returning it.
@@lissa2679why are you returning it?
If the batteries die, i'll use the key lol... it's nice that the product designers gave another option as well tho.
A great option for theives to pick it real quick.
12:12 Yup, your trim has the exact same little deadbolt-level ding in it that mine has from previous “smart” locks auto locking at a specified time while the door just happens to be open. Then you walk by and see an open door that needs closing and… BOOM! The door bounces back and now there’s a nice little ding in the door trim…
i would love to see a bolt/latch along with the lock bar, so you can make the old lock obsolette. that way it can detect too when to lock from the other sensor. maybe a Aqara U200 has it and then i am gonna think about it…. :D
imagine installing this to your main door, and a friend leaves and don't press the "lock button"….(asumming you want to throw away old lock)
Then turn then auto lock on
I always lol when I see deadbolts where the inside turn knob is literally right next to a small glass window that can easily be reached after breaking the glass
Fancy box that is easily circumvented
Weird comment, but I was sitting here thinking, those are the nicest hands I've ever seen 😂
Just tried to add an additional fingerprint code and screwed up EVERYTHING. Nothing works now, AND the labels in the app don't make sense and are NOT intuitive what I did six months ago means nothing and I cannot logically follow my way back. So I'm ripping it out and getting a simpler way less expensive 'fingerprint' door lock. UGH!!!!
Downside of keypads, if you can see finger prints you can guess the pin.
Even if you can, if you use 6 digits, there is still plenty of combinations to be used.
You actually don't need to use the keypad at all. You can rely entirely on fingerprint, Home Key and Apple Home for example.
The auto lock seems unstable and sometimes the bolt will soemtimes go into the extended lock state automatically even though the door is open
Good review.
A couple of quick questions:
Can you confirm that the physical key will unlock even when there is no power?
Would love to know how this works with a hub? It’s Bluetooth so does the hub need to be very close to it?
(Such was the case with August which was a deal breaker for me.)
Yes the physical key will work with no power. Its a physical turn.
Considering that it uses HomeKit, I wonder if you truly need their hub to make use of the remote features. HomeKit should have you covered if you have a home hub like a HomePod or an Apple TV.
You say you can rekey but every other reviewer says although it can be done it’s difficult. Have you actually tried rekeying? Also you never mentioned it’s build. Is it all plastic? Metal?
You can lock the door with Home Key as long as you have remote lock feature turned on.
Do you still need the Aqara hub for that or does it work through thread? -Looking to upgrade my Level Bolt Lock
you said this lock can be re-keyed. what type of key is it? KwikSet or Schlage format? thanks.
I thought this lock couldn’t be re-keyed? I’ve seen other views where they state it cannot be re-keyed.
Same. Clarification would be appreciated!
The average person isn’t going to be able to rekey it, like they could with a Kwikset smarkey, but a locksmith will be able to rekey it easily. The brass ring, at the base of the tailpiece, just unscrews and the lock cylinder slides out, which provides access to the pins… It’s obviously more involved than that, but that’s the simplified process
@@RandomBogey I know what re-keying entails. What I meant to say was that it can’t be re-keyed AT ALL. Another CZcamsr took it to a locksmith and they couldn’t do it.
@@watch_your_six I don’t have one, and I haven’t looked into it, so I can’t say 100%. But based on the looks of it, I’d say it is rekey-able, if it is the schlage cylinder it looks to be.
That is better than my keywe. And it’s the same price too. Thank for this. I ordered it
When you have typed the password in wrong, have you tried just continuing with the correct code as this is a brilliant security feature on one of my devices incase someone is watching you type it in.
The phone being low battery the whole time has been stressing me out, I know I saw it down to 2% at one point.
John, that was on purpose. I had to test Express Mode with dead iPhone 😅
Agreed on the design. I like the Encode Plus but presser aqara’s
I know it’s just the rig holding the iPhone stable, but my mind keeps seeing it as a drill with a black bit extension and a silver screw behind the phone…
I’d love to know battery life. We’re a household of 4 I wonder how often the batteries would need to be changed.
Should be 6-8months but it will be affected by the weather
Looks great, but you just can't get them in the UK. You don't see Apple launching a phone without having them in stock.
Bummer missed the Promo Code.
Of all the locks which one do you use for your home?
Nice review.
Does this work on closet doors, if you just take the regular handle out and replace it with this device ?
Aaaah man, this is freaking Awesome! I need this in my life!
Very insightful review thank you. Any updates after months of using this lock. I’m about to buy a smart lock and this is in my short list. Btw, does it come with a doorknob? Or it’s something you buy separately? I’m new to the SL game. Thanks again
This is a good looking lock, but Bluetooth is a no for me with bad experience with Level Lock battery life. This lock does not look as secure physically compared to the Schlage Encode Plus.
If you think 8 months is poor battery life, then sure.
I am surprised the smart lock does not have a flashing indicator when the battery is low or at least a battery meter on the app or lock itself. Great job on the review, please bless us with more smart lock reviews💯
There are voice notifications and give you a messager when the lock is low battery
@@kinseycreategoods Appreciate the response, thank you for the information.
@@kinseycreategoods as in when someone outside your house is walking can hear that the battery is low?
Hi ! It will give you voice notifications after you open the door. You will be able to use the lock 1-2week after the first notification @@tygs
Super simple, super easy but super lucky it fits your door ;)
Do you need a hub for the Aqara?
Hello ! Are you able to use Apple Watch in 2 different devices.. for example me and my wife ?
The level lock looks way better and natural
And discharges after a couple of weeks lol
And doesn't have a fingerprint reader
I’ve had mine on for months and not changed the battery yet
Love your voice and sharing
Better than the Yale lock? Such a good vid 👌🏼
100% better than the Yale
The dream HomeKit lock for me with Home Key and fingerprint. But its from Xiaomi, so I will not buy it
Why not?
@@Il_correttore_grammaticale. if you want xiaomi to capture your data or even control it, you can give it a try
Does it have anti-peeping password mode? so for example you can enter a fake password before the real password to avoid someone peeping at your entering
Yup, but I think you won't use the passcode most of the time.
Now i need similar thing in my car soi can ditch my keys s well. Already ditched wallet long time ago
It it possible to lock and unlock if you are away from home?
Only if you have an Aqara hub or use it with HomeKit and have a HomeKit hub (like an Apple TV).
Wait what 20:37 it can not lock the door only unlock what do you mean?
Works with Samsung ?
Do you also have a weekly User for your cleaner ?
Do you know anything on the availability for german locks? This deadbolt design is not used here.
Loved this, I need it
Does it support Mater? Not going to purchase any IOT device until it supports the Mater protocol.
It’s supposed to with an Aqara hub
I can confirm it does support Matter, but you must install a firmware update first.
Is this device or any other able to be connected to house electric and not batteries?
Thanks for a great video! Is there ANY way I can install it on a 2.75-inch thick door? My door seems too thick for smart locks :(
I guess you could inset the lock in? You would lose the USB port but it could work as a solution?
Will this work with Apple Watch series 8!
Why do you want to lock with HomeKey ? Just press the lock button, so you don't even have to take your iPhone out of your pocket when you leave
9:15 can you add users and the Passcodes overseas or do you need a direct connection to the lock in order to do so ?
can we use this outside US...like in India?
Can I install without the outer panel?
isn't the Internet connection more for notifications when away from home?
no, this brand is founded by a chinese company, so they need the internet connection in order to capture your data, even control it.
Can I have some former thieves to tell me is this smtg easy to break? Like u would laugh when u see this and say what an easy night kind of lock.
so question do u actually need to have the aqara app installed or set up to use the lock or can u just use homekey?
Presumably, one could use a USB-C phone or tablet to charge the lock in an emergency as well. Has anyone tried this? Think I may hide a short USB-C cable in a faux sprinkler head. :^)
Can IPHONE 15 unlock/lock door without using "HomeKit"??
What did you do with your level lock
No threads ?
If the batteries have died, can you use the key to open the door or does that also need battery for some weird reason?
You can use the keys without power in the lock.
My only complaint that I can see is there is the physical key backup. I personally believe an all digital lock is safer than one that has a physical key. I ordered one anyway through and plan to super glue the key hole door shut.
How many codes can you have saved on it?
Wish it supported thread. Bluetooth is too unreliable over time.
If you use Home Key, its local and doesn't go through Bluetooth and most of the time you would probably use either Home Key or fingerprint to unlock.
@@StrifePulse I’m talking about remote control.
Does this also read RFID card?
I have it and everytime I share the passcode it never works. It looks so simple on this video but in real life.. all I can ever use is the app or my finger. Which is not so nice when you’re an Airbnb host 🤦🏾♀️
Does it pair with Ring Alarm as well so I can use Apple Key and the lock and unlocking Arm and disarm my ring?
Ring doesn't support HomeKit natively, so no. However, you could set up Ring with HomeBridge and configure an automation to make that work.
@@scottwass the question is would this work via Matter on both Ring and Homekit. I prefer not to tinker to much I drew the line at Homebridge I rather not over complicate my setup I already get lost in what scene or shortcut does what lol
@@BMar1andonly as far as I know, there aren’t any surveillance cameras compatible with Matter yet.
@@ggogins not looking for camera looking alarm sensors to trigger with the lock is locked.
How is the visual match with your brushed nickel knob? I don't think the Aqara U100 would match well with a matte black knob either....
Why? It's keypad is black matte finish
It should have door sensor built in
Does it work with Google Home
Psst. Schlage is pronounced SHlegg. like you're hushing someone and then adding "leg" to the end.
I need it but says currently unavailable 😓
Home kit not working
What will happen if someone steals my phone and express mode is enabled? That means the thief can unlock the door right? How can I disable the home key feature without my phone?
Hmm the problem is actually like losting the key, but the goodthing is that you can log in to the Home app on another device and then delete the lock (requires a homepod/apple tv and make sure you bring the key).
@@kinseycreategoods replacing a traditional lock is much cheaper than buying a new smart lock. I’m just wondering if this is a security glitch. But if you can login from another device, I guess you are good.
The key is very insecure. Easy to pick. The wide range of access options also adds to the vulnerabilities. Impressive lock with all the features but insecure as a lock.
*unsecure
updated the firmware but HomeKit not responding, can't add it and when I did the home key doesn't work, any ideas?
Try resetting it and setting up from scratch.
How is it taking to homekit though? Over wifi?
Bluetooth with HomePod/Apple TV
What is the privacy of the app? Is it a Chinese company spying on you? This is crucial information for smart devices. I use my own server and avoid cloud service as much as possible.
is this LPL proof ?
1:53 Are you sure it can be rekeyed? Shane Whatley did a review of this lock and says it cannot be rekeyed He even shows video of a locksmith trying but saying it cannot be done.
That's what Aqara tells me directly.
Can you disable the beeps?
Yup u can
Yes
I have the Schlage Encode Plus and an iPhone 15 with ios 17. After a month I still can’t connect the lock with home. Its driving me crazy.
I will buy this over the level
Awesome 👏🏻
Next I'll use an app to control my toaster