Best Smart Locks for Home Assistant in 2022!

[@makeitworktech]

I hope you guys enjoy! The written version is here: www.makeitwork-tech.com/best-smart-locks-for-home-assistant/

[@pontiacwolf]

I appreciate your video. I do want to tell you and the people who read comments. That I have personal experience with the august lock. Not only is their product inferior. But the customer service for August is 100 times worse than the product. I’ve owned a multitude of August locks. I have had nothing but troubles with them. Their batteries last all but a couple of days. I am very fluent in technology. So please don’t comment on any of the obvious. Like is my Wi-Fi close to the lock. I’ve done every single thing to ensure that their products worked as advertised. If you want to waste your money, your time, and your sanity. This is the lock for you

[@mwolfod]

Thanks for your input. That is helpful to all of us, and is similar to what I am going through now with U-tec (Ultraloq). Currently, I am having a lot of trouble with both their technical support (unresponsive) and "customer service" (not particularly customer friendly AFTER the sale), regarding a brand new defective Ultraloq Z-Wave Pro. So like you with August, I would advise others to beware of U-Tec, or perhaps avoid them altogether.

[@miguelteran-raful2718]

What do you recommend?

[@pontiacwolf]

@@miguelteran-raful2718 not sure. So far I haven’t seen any smart locks that are consistently been reliable enough for me to trust. Thought about trying the Level Lock + with HomeKey

[@miguelteran-raful2718]

@@pontiacwolf ok let me know if you like it please

[@youknowit158]

Dude!!! I watched this video when it came out, bc I was thinking about upgrading at some point. WELL today the backdoor lock broke, so wife won't be mad when I upgrade now!!! You are the man!!!

[@makeitworktech]

Yes!!! That's a bulletproof excuse to pick one up! Thanks!

[@IvanStarling-kg1ei]

Bought this one because the older version kzbin.infoUgkx0jZ_lGlDVJhDnmagEU8gn47cmfPNlLQ had was really choppy and would disconnect from the wifi ALOT, was not catching everything and every week j had to charge it. So far the picture quality on this one is exceptional. I also bought a solar panel with it so I will see how this all turns out.

[@makeitworktech]

Glad to hear it!

[@johannsebbach]

For the Eufy lock during cloud down or power outage, will I still be able to unlock using keypad or fingerprint? Or the only way to unlock is to use a physical key?

[@jessed8711]

One thing I noticed as a Canadian is that the Yale lock is only rated to -25C (-13F) where some of the others such as the Schlage are rated for as low as -35C (-31F).

[@makeitworktech]

Ah, that's not something I thought to look at! "As a Canadian" 🤣 🇨🇦🥌🥞

[@jbossnack]

Great point! Temperature can be a big challenge for some locations...such as Canada :)

[@OneWithWolf1]

Here in Northern Colorado, we do reach -13F several several times a winter and sometimes for a couple of days in a row.

[@BrandonDoyleMN]

Schlage, Kwikset & Yale are the 3 I typically recommend the most after testing 17 different smart locks

[@makeitworktech]

Yeah they are pretty nice

[@ghostshell438]

POV Your crazy Ex says “Alexa, unlock the front door.” 😂

[@makeitworktech]

Haha that would be bad 😁

[@taylorlightfoot]

Yale Assure lock 2!! with Wifi Module. Offers Cloud/Bluetooth/Homekit connectivity all in one. For the August and Yale locks (with August Module or Yale Home Module), add the locks to your Home Assistant instance first using the August or Yale integrations, once you do that, you'll have the Bluetooth encryption keys loaded into Home assistant and your Bluetooth integration will discover the locks and allow you to add them via that method for local control. You could also add them locally using the Homekit pairing code and the Homekit Controller integration. For the modules in the Yale locks, I find that the module doesn't seat fully and the connection comes loose with time. Remove the module from it's plastic housing and just plug the chip in directly.

[@makeitworktech]

Ahh, I know it came out like the day I released this video! Yes, someone else mentioned the bluetooth control works for the august lock locally... I'm going to give it a shot! Very interesting about the module in the Yale lock - I'll keep an eye on it!

[@Lonestar101]

Thanks for the reviews! I have several Kwikset Z-Wave locks and they work flawlessly. The noise doesn't bother me. Home Assistant does not have a Kwikset integration, per se. They will pair with HA via Z-Wave, but managing the locks (setting multiple PIN Codes, users, hours, and notifications) requires an add-on program called KeyMaster. It's available in the HA HACS repository. KeyMaster is not intuitive and will flood your HA system with dozens of useless entities. Lock integration has been my biggest disappointment with Home Assistant. Even my old VeraPlus could natively manage Kwikset locks.

[@makeitworktech]

Great comment! Yes I tried Keymaster, and it's not bad, but native handling of locks would be great! Maybe time to request it in the what the heck month

[@jimdavis3749]

Well done ! Prices exploded due to supply chain problems, I purchased the Schlage connect for $200.00 only early last yr. in the states. I have two, and they have been very reliable. As far as the noise level, it doesn't bother me. I have an automation to lock the doors at sunset and I look forward to hearing them actuate to ensure they are working properly. As always, robust and well done review. 😀

[@makeitworktech]

That's crazy how the prices have changed! Now that you mention it, I do listen for the noise from my locks to make sure they're closed... I guess it's a feature rather than an issue! haha. Thanks!!

[@dronenb]

Hey man, so as of HA 2022.9 there is the Yale Access integration that lets you control the August lock locally over Bluetooth. It seems reliable, albeit quite slow. You have to configure the cloud integration initially, because it automatically pulls down a key that's required for the bluetooth connection, but after you do that you can actually disable the cloud integration and run it 100% locally over bluetooth if you choose.

[@makeitworktech]

Awesome! I'll give that a try! If it works for me I'll put it in a pinned comment. Thanks man!

[@lahiru97]

Love these round up videos! Really makes picking out the perfect components much easier 😊 I’ve had my Schlage lock since it was released 7 years ago and still works flawlessly as day one. Though I’ve never linked to any z-wave hub as it was easily programmed from just the keypad. Something definitely is up with pricing since looking at my order from 2015 I paid $250 and now shows over $500 😂

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks for the feedback! Yeah, a few years ago I was looking at it when the price was lower. Must be a shortage of some parts for it! Good to hear that it is still working after 7 years!

[@gpzj94]

Hello, thanks for the great video! I had a question on the Yale. I'm reading a lot of mixed things with Yale Locks. I'm looking at the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen with key - I think it has the same zwave module as what you tested (the zw2?). Anyway, I'm reading mixed things on the open/close sensor. I see yours reports open, but I'm reading it doesn't always update. I wonder what your experience was with this. I'm okay with a delay on the status change, but ultimately wondering if it is reliable. If I'm away from home and it says closed, I want to feel confident it's closed :)

[@makeitworktech]

This lock doesn't have an open/close sensor that I know of! Do you mean locked/unlocked?

[@gpzj94]

@@makeitworktech haha, I really meant open/close. They call it doorsense. I ended up buying the lock and am able to confirm that using the zwave module, I can see open/close status of doorsense in home assisstant just fine. There are a few entities with the status, the default one doesn't update status but there are secondary entities that do update and have been working for me for a few weeks now. It's a bit delayed, but it's delayed in the Yale app too. I think this is OK since I really am more worried when the door is left open for too long, and otherwise don't care if it's opened/closed quickly.

[@N0FPV]

Could you pair the locks before installing them into the door? Thank you for the research and making the content.

[@makeitworktech]

Yup, that works! I actually did that when I removed the Schlage another one

[@petersteffey2073]

Super useful video, exactly the kind of content I was looking for as I transition from HomeKit to Home Assistant

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks, glad it's helpful!

[@Christ_TheGreat]

Thanks for the review, well detailed, I think I'll go with the schlage! Just to make sure, the Schlage, from HA, I see the unlock / lock, so this is working? To me it's a cool thing that with HA, I can remote lock the door.

[@makeitworktech]

Yeah, it works great! Working solid all this time later!

[@Christ_TheGreat]

@@makeitworktech thanks for replying!

[@juliusodian]

I have the August Smartlock Pro 3rd Gen. I haven't tried the local home assistant integration, but what I love about the App is the ability for the App to open the door when I come home. It auto unlocks so when I have grocery bags, I just push the door open. I did have to replace the lock after 3 years and I believe its because the internal gears wore out.

[@makeitworktech]

Wow, hardware wore out after 3 years! That seems kind of early!

[@trabajoCARA]

Great review! A heads-up, the Eufy lock is rated ANSI grade 2 (middle ground) instead of 1 (best) as shown.

[@pfurrie]

Nice round-up video. Good info, though dissapointed it didn't cover one particular aspect: auto-unlock by phone proximity. Am looking for a lock that will auto-unlock when I get to the door, similar to the way my Tesla unlocks automatically. Pressing codes? No thanks.

[@z911empire]

Excellent work this is so helpful! Thank you for all the time you out into this!

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! Testing the Ubolt Pro right now to see if it's better.

[@adamvanbuskirk9482]

Kwikset has a newer model zwave lock, the Home Connect 620; the 91x series of locks is from 2018, has 500 series Z-Wave Plus chips, the newer Home Connect 620 from 2021 has Z-Wave Plus V2 chips, which have better range and battery life, and made some optional stuff like "network-wide inclusion" mandatory ( so you shouldn't need to have the hub up close to "whisper" to the device for inclusion if you're using 700 series hub and device, as long as you have a repeater in range ) and beaming-wake up ( faster responses to commands from sleeping status ). I ended up getting one of these 620s, then three more because I liked the first one so much. They are exactly as loud as the 91x series, so quite loud still. Everything mechanically seems the same. I have a 700 series stick plugged into home assistant, and I didn't need to move it close to add the locks, and they are quite responsive, individual locks respond in about a second to the unlock command, and I have an automation to lock them all at once. There is an integration in the current version of home assistant that shows you lock status, lets you lock it or unlock it, and that works well by itself, but for having multiple locks I like the keymaster custom integration - it was a bit of a pain to set up, but it allows you to set one lock as the parent and the others as children, then setting your codes in the parent lock will also set them in the other locks. One thing I don't like about my Kwikset locks is the support - I asked support about my locks having two firmware versions ( for 700 series devices, being able to do OTA firmware updates is mandatory now ) and if they could provide the blob to update the older model firmware. They pretended that the firmware version couldn't be updated and closed the ticket. Haven't had any problems yet with the older firmware models, but I can't help but wonder why it was certified with v .13, and my locks came with .19 and .20, or if .20 is even the latest. I don't mind if my whole house sounds like a lurching AT-AT when I lock or unlock, but for a "security" company to not acknowledge even the possibility of security bugfixes/feature updates for their software, it makes me want to find a different brand. All the speed and inclusion benefits of this lock over the 914 locks should apply to other new smart locks also using 700 series Z-Wave Plus V2 locks as well ( again provided you have a 700 hub/stick/whatever ).

[@makeitworktech]

Great info, thanks!

[@sperryfreak01]

We have supported Network wide inclusion on all of our ZW500 locks and newer starting with the 888 in 2017. They all support OTA updates of both firmware targets (zw radio and lock). Today OTA images are only available to "partners", I'm working on getting that opened up to more people though.

[@MrHeartless50]

Great video! came in at the right time for me. Curious if the newer version (Yale Assure Lock2) is any different or better?

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! Awesome timing! I'm not sure since I haven't looked into it much since it came out after I made the video, but I love Yale! Hopefully it is a solid performer like the version I reviewed

[@ronnyessomba373]

great video, but quick question, do i need zwave to set up any of the smart locks? i am also thinking about adding motion light sensor, smart switch, smart plug and smart thermostat but I thought i could manage it with my wifi, hows is zwave benefitial and how do i set it up so that i can manage all my smart device. thanks

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! Yes, most of these require Z-Wave. Are you running Home Assistant? If so, you need a Z-Wave coordinator (USB stick)

[@josephzajdler]

Yes, Hidden Smart Home. Awesome idea.

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks, I'll add it to my list!

[@rebeccasimon6634]

Excellent presentation. Loved your video. Thank you

[@davidhill8151]

Hi there. Thanks for another informative video. Do you know if the Yale Assure 2 wifi version will work with Home Assistant? Also, Yale's website says they have a Matter version of the Assure 2 "launching soon". I'm so confused by Matter and Home Assistant. I'm wondering if I should wait for the Assure 2 Matter version, and if so, how will it integrate with Home Assistant? Will it require some sort of dongle, like with Zigbee? Thanks again!

[@makeitworktech]

I'm not sure if the WiFi one will work - I think so, but I haven't tried myself. RE: Matter version - If it isn't WiFi based, you'll need a dongle for the Matter version (I haven't looked into it, but if you need the lock now, I wouldn't bother waiting for the matter version). From everything I've seen with Matter, it's still a way out from being stable, and stability is not something I'm willing to risk when it comes to locks.

[@yamandur]

Great video, do you know if the pro wifi version of ultraloq shows who opened? And this version will require cloud service?

[@makeitworktech]

I don't know, sorry. I didn't want to spend a lot, so I chose cheaply haha

[@mrjurgenweber]

I found your comments interesting about the Level lock, for me I do not want a keypad. I find them ugly and yes, it gives away that it is a smart lock on your front door. I don't want to advertise that! :) The level is the only option in my mind, but your comments about the bluetooth and the delays concern me. What was the BT extender you showed? My HA machine and the door is about 10 meters.

[@makeitworktech]

That is called an M5 Stack Atom Lite. The new BT proxy *should* allow more range for BT devices, so the level lock should be a better choice than previously. I say "should" because I haven't played around with BT proxy a ton, so I'm not sure if it helps with locks specifically

[@mrjurgenweber]

@@makeitworktech Thank you for the response, I appreciate it. I do not have any BT devices at all as of yet so it is not something I have invested in. Something else to play with. :)

[@macmovieman1]

We have the Yale Assure 2 that replaced the one you had and it sooo much better than the Kwikset we had that you reviewed. The old Kwiklock ate batteries, and was way too loud just like you mentioned. The new Yale is far superior and I can use my watch to gain access into the house. This is next level but I really miss how easy it was to rekey but that is about it! No one rekeys anymore anyway and everything is digital. Did I mention that Apple Home allows me to just get my watch close to come in but on Google home I need to use the Yale app on my watch to open and close.

[@makeitworktech]

Great info! I know that a major cause of battery drain is bolt alignment, but we will see how long these batteries last. Yale seemed like the most premium, so I think I may pick up the 2 if it works well with Home Assistant! No need for keys anymore.

[@macmovieman1]

@@makeitworktech I played with the striker plate, so the door locks securely and the bolt could easily get in and out. I identified the battery issue shortly after the software update from about six months ago. I kept waiting for a software update to fix the battery issue and it never happened. I’m going to give the quickset 916 to a friend and never look back.

[@mandeeprathee1142]

Very informative video. Thanks for putting it together. I need some expert guidance in selecting a lock for my home. My setup of home assistant is a little far from the main door (on different floor) and I expect issues of direct zwave or zigbee connectivity due to range. Is there any wifi door lock that will do the job for me? I prefer august or yale. Another question is regarding Ultraloq. Will their Ultraloq UL3 BT (2nd Gen) lock work with home assistant?

[@makeitworktech]

I'm not sure about the wifi locks or the Ultraloq. I'm planning to test the Ubolt Z-Wave Pro soon, but I have no plans for WiFi

[@drawzeywazig9096]

I was looking exactly for this ! Thanks!

[@makeitworktech]

Awesome, glad it helped!

[@adobo1976]

I'll have to disagree with you on the ultraloq. I'm looking to replace it now. Batteries only last about 1 month and you can get locked out if you don't have your key. No notification when your battery is low either.

[@makeitworktech]

Hmmm, Do you have the WiFi version? I specifically reviewed the Z-Wave version, and it's still going strong way over a month

[@adobo1976]

@@makeitworktech Yes, i have the WiFi version. I'm turning off auto lock and wifi connectivity to see if it helps but it sucks not having features you paid for just to conserve battery.

[@philippines4.0buildinganew64]

As always, love your review. Looking at smart locks for our new home but a few things concern me. First is fail safe vs fail secure, second is weatherproofing, and finally just reliability - other smart devices can potentially have glitches and it may not be a huge issue, but door locks just have to work 100% of the time. Do you have any thoughts on the first two. I guess providing the battery level sensors are accurate, the first issue SHOULD not be a problem ….

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! They are both super reliable through their cloud services - but of course the cloud is an extra point of failure. I think the battery level sensor issue is not a big deal. I like the Eufy much better than the August, and it has an IP-64 rating. August doesn't, but doesn't need to because it's only attached internally.

[@shaylegault9139]

One thing I noticed with using the Eufy lock. It sends false notifications about the door being jammed and unable to lock/unlock. It will properly lock but say door failed to lock. There is no way to tell from the outside if the door is locked or unlocked this is a personal preference when living with multiple people, sometimes you go lock the door when Its unlocked and it's a tad teduos.

[@makeitworktech]

Hmmm, I wonder if that's because there's some misalignment with the door frame, so there's a lot of friction on the bolt and it thinks it's jamming? Worth checking the alignment by rotating the thumb-turn back and for to make sure is smooth

[@mschuetz00]

I have the August 3rd gen lock almost 2 years now and I have not encountered the unresponsiveness issue you described. I run it over Zwave and my FW version is 1.59.0-2.0.4. Originally I had issues with battery life (the lock would become unresponsive after 6 weeks or so) until I found out that it was sufficient to just remove and reseat the batteries. Lately that problem went away (I think last time I had to do this was 10 months ago). Battery level over ZWave however is useless and always shows 100%

[@makeitworktech]

Hmmm, weird! I'm not sure what firmware mine is, but it was constantly becoming unresponsive. I understand that you can actually use Bluetooth in HA to communicate directly to the lock, which is pretty cool!

[@pashadavidson6808]

Hey Man, would you mind describing your setup; how you're running Z-Wave, which version of HA, which controller? Everything I've read on the forums, and discord about the August Integration comports with what's in the video. This is from official docs for Z-WSave_JS, "This lock randomly stops reacting to Z-Wave commands, becoming unusable. No fixes are available at this time."

[@mschuetz00]

@@pashadavidson6808 HA 2022.12.8, Zigbee2MQTT 1.28.4 (both latest versions), Aeotec Z-Stick Gen5 controller. Not using the August integration. I see that warning, but as I said before, it used to happen to me as well, but removing and reinserting the batteries helped making the lock respond again. Now I haven't had any issues for year or so.

[@pashadavidson6808]

@@mschuetz00 Awesome! I'm gonna order your coordinator right now. If I may ask, if you're not using the August Integration, how is it all wired up to Home Assistant? Also, I'm a big fan of Zigbee2MQTT, but that doesn't specifically come in to play with the August, correct?

[@mschuetz00]

@@pashadavidson6808 You are of course right. Instead of ZIgbee2MQTT I should have written Zwave JS UI 1.4.2 . The Zwave stick plugs directly into my HA Blue, which is ~ 25 feet from my front door. Nothing more to it. Once you have your stick set up, I commanded the lock into inclusion mode using my phone's August app. Zwave inclusion could be more user-friendly, but for me it works. I would like to note though, that for the last 2-3 months the lock also shows up as a Bluetooth device for me, though I don't use it that way and can't really say how well that works.

[@larryb2182]

The Eufy lock doesn't havre cloud integration and I am not able to add it to HomeAssistant. Can you provide instructions on how you did it?

[@makeitworktech]

It is a cloud integration

[@larryb2182]

@@makeitworktech Can you show how I can connect it through cloud integration?

[@csilv]

Very nice review! Despite not currently qualifying for this list, we chose the Schlage Encode Plus. While not currently HA compatible, it has one incredible feature, HomeKey. As an iOS household, my family loves this feature and I will never consider a lock without it. It also supports Thread, so I anticipate that we'll be able to get it into HA via Matter in the future, although admittedly this is a bit of a bet. (Also, I 100% agree with you on the poor keypad font, but HomeKey makes it all worth it.)

[@makeitworktech]

Thank you for the feedback! Good to know about the Encode Plus - and Home Key is a great feature, although we are not an iOS household so it's not a necessity for us! Matter will solve a lot of problems with smart locks and many other smart home devices I hope!

[@Sandriell]

I have the Schlage Encode as well and there is now a Home Assistant integration available for it that works through their cloud API.

[@csilv]

@@Sandriell thank you, I will check that out!

[@johnclark8631]

@@makeitworktech I have schlage z wave connected to my honeywell lyric system. We have 2 locks, one we use everyday and the other one rarely ever gets used. I like the functionality overall but they are absolutely brutal on batteries. No big deal for cost but they last maybe a month and we have housekeepers come and have had issues when the batteries die if we are out of town. Do you have any suggestions why this is and is that normal for z wave in general. They are a bit far from the lyric panel which is in the secondary house entrance from the garage.

[@artemZinn]

Very detailed, thank you! Have you looked into HomeKit locks with Apple Home Key support while being integrated into Home Assistant? I'm trying to get best of both worlds - keyless entry with encrypted key on iPhone and 0 Cloud integration with HA via HomeKit protocol. With Schlage Encode Plus I've read that people either can't add it to HA or lose Apple Home Key functionality..

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! I don't use apple home too often, so I've never tried, but I've heard the same thing 😔

[@mariamartinez-realtor3162]

Great video have been looking for a video like this .

[@makeitworktech]

👍

[@classicalmusic2425]

Does a z-wave device know the distance it has from z-wave usb stick controller? is it that smart? and WHY is this technically needed specially if it works with the stick not being close by at operation time?

[@RaffBuilding]

Thanks for the vid. Having trouble finding the Yale alarm type doc on your site.

[@makeitworktech]

Sorry, I thought I had published! Here it is: www.makeitwork-tech.com/best-smart-locks-for-home-assistant/

[@74357175]

Is it possible to pair the lock next to the Zwave dongle, and THEN install it?

[@makeitworktech]

Yup, that works! I actually did that when revived the Schlage to test others!

[@mwolfod]

Thanks for the very well done video. You really did a thorough job here. Coincidentally, I am currently attempting to get my new Ultraloq Z-Wave Pro to function properly. I am able to pair it with my hub but the lock does not respond to Z-Wave commands. and although showing up as a device, it does not show any activity under the Developer's Tools-States in Home Assistant. Therefore I found your observation about the need to bring the Z-Wave hub very close to the lock to be interesting. I don't know if that will help resolve my issue, because the lock DOES pair with HA, it just won't respond to commands from HA. I would like to hear your thoughts on this. Thanks again for a very helpful presentation.

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! I'm actually reviewing the Pro right now for a short addendum video, so I'll be able to report in on this pretty soon! You should try pairing it in legacy mode (Not S2 security mode).

[@mwolfod]

@@makeitworktech Hey, thanks for the quick reply! Interesting, because like some of my other z-wave devices, it failed the security pairing. The Pro seems like a nice enough lock, but I hope you don't have any problems with it. I have not been happy with U-tec's support or customer service. Thanks!

[@edr5367]

Hi. I have 2 schlage connect and Im having a hard time finding a hub that works with them, any recommendations pls? Thank you.

[@makeitworktech]

Are they Z-Wave locks?

[@edr5367]

@@makeitworktech yea

[@makeitworktech]

You could use SmartThings, Hubitat, or Home Assistant hubs.

[@cellman1829]

If you have a home pod or apple tv you can use it anywhere as those are hubs and they recently came out with a touch pad.

[@makeitworktech]

Use what anywhere?

[@uletitlinger]

Level bolt can be accessed remotely via Amazon sidewalk. Not sure about apple homekit.

[@makeitworktech]

Ah, good to know!

[@dodgeplow]

Nice review. Consider the Lockly locks for your next review

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks, will do

[@mandeeprathee1142]

I think I am zeroing down on Yale Assure lock 2, keyed, wifi. Will I need a zwave or zigbee stick to connect it to home assistant or it will connect over wifi itself? Do you think it will take a lot of battery being a wifi version? Do you think its better to go with non-wifi version with a bridge to connect with HA?

[@makeitworktech]

I've never tried the Wi-Fi version, but that should talk directly to the Home Assistant. The only thing you want to make sure is that the integration doesn't require cloud connectivity, which I'm not sure about since I never tried any Yale Wi-Fi locks. I prefer Z-Wave or Zigbee just because of the battery, but I'm not sure in this particular case which would be best. If you want ZigBee or Z-Wave, you obviously need a coordinator

[@cesartrujillo4190]

I just want a keypad lock that’s easy to program or restrict codes for. I don’t need it to actually remote lock and unlock. I can give someone a code for them to use once or on an ongoing basis then restrict the code as needed. I probably don’t need to remotely lock someone’s access while I’m away.

[@hasthaks]

What SMART lock (wifi & zwave) would you recommend for a double door?

[@makeitworktech]

I'm not sure, but I'd guess Schlage, Yale, and Kwikset would all work fine

[@Joseph-ko2kl]

Curious why you chose Z-Wave vs ZIGBEE- Any clue if you would have to "whisper" pair them if using ZIGBEE? Not even sure how I would do that since I don't have a 100ft extension cable on my Rpi. LOL

[@makeitworktech]

I chose Z-Wave mostly because of price or because ZigBee was out of stock. I don't think whisper pairing is necessary with ZigBee, but you can always try to pair it before installing

[@tonycollins1278]

Good job on the door locks!

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks!!

[@lindaveraldi7187]

Very informative!!

[@makeitworktech]

Glad you think so!

[@matthewwildrick9643]

So would you recommend the levl lock? I've been eyeing it for years but not sure how well it works using bluetooth.

[@makeitworktech]

At this time, I would say it's a little pricey. It's worth trying out, but it really depends on your Bluetooth setup and range. If using HA, I'd wait until Bluetooth Proxy is a little more mature and you can add a proxy device somewhere close to your door.

[@JavontaThomas]

@@makeitworktech hmm, i wonder if now is a good time for it given the improvements with bluetooth. we live in a rented apartment, so trying to make the smart stuff as non-destructive as possible since we don't own the place. our leasing company wouldn't even know our door is smart with the level, and i could put a proxy right next to the door but idk if that would improve the response times.

[@groto27]

Wow this is awesome! Tons of work! I have a Schlage Connect and I didn't realize how much prices went up. I got it for $260 in September 2020 and it works great! I was thinking about getting the Yale for my other door and I think this video seals the deal. Have you tried Keymaster yet? It gives you a nice interface within HA to program codes and create schedules, set up auto-lock time and sync codes between locks. So I believe I can sync my Schlage and Yale codes. I think you mentioned it takes like 5-10 seconds for your z-wave locks to activate. That seems odd. When I click "lock" within HA mine locks within 1-2 seconds. I wonder why that is happening for you.

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! Yeah I've chosen the Schlage, Yale, and Kwikset to be my daily drivers! I did try Keymaster with my Kwikset and Schlage, but I didn't with Yale yet. I just scratched the surface with that integration - very cool! I think it was something with my network... Now they all respond within 2-3 seconds 🤷

[@annekedebruyn7797]

I wish that there are smartlocks for the European market. We often have our doorhandle and locks integrated so we have no separate boltlock to switch out.

[@makeitworktech]

Yes, I wish that was the case too! There are some xiaomi locks that work over Bluetooth you can get on AliExpress

[@kar313]

which is best for coastal homes?

[@makeitworktech]

Do you mean a rental property or just a lock near salt water?

[@gregco3763]

Hey make can you do a video how to install Eufy in home assistant just purchase a door lock having trouble with Home Assistant

[@makeitworktech]

Sorry I returned mine already 😬

[@CrankyCoder]

any recommendations on handle locks. not just dead bolts?

[@makeitworktech]

Sorry, I really haven't seen any that I'd consider reviewing!

[@CrankyCoder]

@@makeitworktech That's what i was afraid of. Seems like zwave has a couple but that part of the market seems slim

[@DiegoAndresDazaDavalos]

Could you make a video on how to setup the T8520 with HA, I'll try but with not success!!

[@makeitworktech]

Where are you getting stuck?

[@dudenell]

FYI the August Zwave version loses inclusion to the zwave hub every month and eats batteries every 2 weeks. Avoid buying it if possible.

[@makeitworktech]

Yeah, bad choice!

[@crisdeguzman8786]

Hope you could share how you integrate Eufy Security in Home Assistant. Just started with HA and having trouble integration with my eufy devices (smart door lock and cams). Thank you!

[@makeitworktech]

If you have questions, hop on my Discord and I can try to help

[@kotgc7987]

29:37 is there an option for non keypad, as keypad use leaves the worn buttons showing the code? Maybe a phone Bluetooth entry? Also, what's the best solution to not using batteries on locks? Some type of PoE connection somehow?

[@josephpierce3330]

how did u do the blue tooth extender? my lock is right outside of range and could use it

[@makeitworktech]

M5 Stack Atom Lite - follow this guide to set one up: esphome.github.io/bluetooth-proxies/

[@lazylloyd]

Does it make sense for you to have a smart lock? I could just smash the glass on your door and reach behind it to unlock no?

[@makeitworktech]

You sure could, but I don't want to have to smash the glass any time I forget my keys! Does it even make sense for me to have a dumb lock? Smashing glass will trigger an alarm at least, and a locked door might stop a large percentage of potential thieves. Doors like mine (with a window right next to them) aren't a smart way to build a house haha, but like I mentioned in the intro (I think I did), it's more about convenience than safety.

[@curtisbme]

@25:07 The Ultraloq doesn't require a key either. They have an option with a fingerprint reader where the lock is on the one you got. (I haven't used it though as I have two of the exact same Yale locks you tested).

[@makeitworktech]

Yeah, that's the pro version which costs more. Should have mentioned that, my bad. You like the Yales?

[@curtisbme]

​@@makeitworktech Yeah, had them for a little over a year and they've been good, never had an issue. Though I'm not using them with HA yet. I have them paired with my Ring Base station which doesn't expose most of the functionality that you showed, though we haven't had need of the functionality like managing codes. One other negative of Ring security pairing is that you are limited to 4 digit code instead of 5. Only minor negatives are that I would prefer to have a fingerprint reader option and it would be nice to have it be able to understand when the door is closed for auto-relock but I accomplish the same thing with the Ring alarm door sensor and an Alexa routine. I'm sure this could be easily done in HA as well.

[@alexandrosnaoum1318]

I think there was some issue with the sound. It was bit low and from the cave. Still good work on the reviews (really help me selecting in the past)

[@makeitworktech]

I need a sound engineer!! Haha, thank you for the feedback - I'm glad the videos help!

[@AviationDirection]

Sound was fine!

[@90abyss]

Great research. Thanks for this video!

[@makeitworktech]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jospa6880]

What was the Bluetooth range extender you held up?

[@makeitworktech]

That's an M5-Stack Atom Lite. Super cheap on AliExpress

[@LAYG0]

Why not bring the lock to your zwave stick? I'm not lugging my T620 server downstairs too pair, lol.

[@makeitworktech]

You could do that! I did that with one of them, forgot to mention in the video haha

[@fredericomachado4116]

I bought a zigbee lock to work in HA and its not supported. Very few zigbee locks are.

[@makeitworktech]

Which one did you buy?

[@cra2yjoker]

Hmm.. what about aqara and xiaomi smart locks? Are they incompatible with home assistant?

[@makeitworktech]

I don't know much about them, but I didn't see any Aqara/Xiaomi deadbolt locks that work in the US, so I had nothing to compare. There are a few Xiaomi UK locks that work via Bluetooth!

[@Kiloptero]

A lot of issue with the kwikset 916 zwave.. any good WT for use with H.A?

[@makeitworktech]

What is WT?

[@Kiloptero]

@@makeitworktech sorry Smart lock.. change the msg.. anyway.. the support for advance features in the smart lock area in h.a is limited.. but still prefer ha versus smartthings or something like that

[@vaatkins60]

Do any of the non-Bluetooth locks come in a double deadbolt version? Most of my external doors have windows or glass panels along the sides, which could be broken to allow access to the inside of the door lock. So I use double deadbolts for security. (And keep a spare key on a hook about 8 feet from the door and not visible from outside.) Being able to open the lock if you can get your hand on the inside bolt is a non-starter for me.

[@makeitworktech]

I don't know of any that come with a double-deadbolt, sorry

[@danielbub]

Hi great video! Wonder if you can make smart cylinder lock video as well.. Thanks!

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! What's the difference between a cylinder lock and the ones shown?

[@danielbub]

@@makeitworktech we don't have deadbolts. We got a handle and a cylinder. The cylinder is for locking with the key, and the handle is for the latch. Search for lockapp rav barich for reference. Thanks!

[@74357175]

Is there any information or studies on whether keyless keypads are safer than mechanical (pickable) keyed locks? The keyless Yale looks really appealing...

[@makeitworktech]

Based on what I've seen with the Lockpicking Lawyer videos, no key would be safer. I've not seen any studies, but the more of that guy's videos I watch, the more I want to go keyless haha

[@74357175]

@@makeitworktech 😂

[@curtisbme]

"safer" is relative term. You are not going to find any information on number of doors that were picked vs homes broken into other ways. There are no smarthome locks that have been compromised though. Reality it is more about convenience. We haven't carried a key for over 10 years and it is nice not to worry about it ever. But if you have only one entrance, there is a higher chance of a smart lock failing than a mechanical lock so you may want a key for backup. If you have to though, the odds of them both failing at the same time are negligible. This section of The Hookup addresses the reality of the concern of having a keyway on a smart lock: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJupiWB6q9eVh7c

[@ronniemagatti3342]

You should have more subscribers!

[@makeitworktech]

Haha thanks! Getting there!

[@angelflys97]

Great vid very helpful!

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks!!

[@flfl3969]

You need to do your homework. I own two Eufy Smart locks and they work with Bluetooth if your wifi is down. You can also use a key. The fingerprint reader also works if your wifi is down. Further, ALL smart locks use cloud connections for remote unlocking. Eufy has the best smart locks on the planet.

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks for your input!

[@artemZinn]

Not all smart locks use cloud and it is very important point.

[@DreadedEntityMain]

This is a great video but I couldn't find what I was looking for. I have two of the higher end Hornbill devices and while there are some things that I like about it, there is also plenty to be desired. It has a fingerprint scanner, an app that sends notifications right to my phone, and with an extra device they called a "gateway" it becomes wifi-enabled so I could lock/unlock when I'm out of bluetooth range like upstairs working for example. But, the bolt doesn't unlock until after the tone finishes so my wife pushes in the door too early and constantly nudges it just far enough out of line that the bolt no longer meets the hole in the doorframe. She also hates that you have to hold down the lock button on the touch screen for 2 seconds to make it lock, a 1-touch physical button like the one on our much cheaper and much dumber previous lock would be 10x better. Another huge thumbs down is I don't get a notification when the door is locked/unlocked manually via the knob and the app can't even tell the lock status after using it manually (ie the app says it's still locked after you unlock it manually and vice versa). My son messes with the doors frequently and despite working from home, I consistently go downstairs and find all our doors unlocked for who knows how long. For me a perfect lock would look like: Instant unlocking, 1-press physical button to lock, notification and awareness of manual use via the knob, fingerprint scanner, and wifi-enabled for remote un/locking. Lastly, I agree the Level Bolt you showed looked really really cool but I don't think it would work for me

[@makeitworktech]

There's one more lock that I'm reviewing that meets your criteria, but it is Z-Wave so you need to have a Z-Wave radio (like a SmartThings hub or Home Assistant with Z-Wave)... The Ultraloq U-bolt Pro Z-Wave. With HA or SmartThings you can create notificaitons that let you know when the door is locked or unlocked.

[@sankarr7748]

The best one will be switcbox lock , price wise , if someone able to do integration with Home assistant that would be great

[@makeitworktech]

I agree! Hopefully they will soon!

[@lannadelarosa]

I've had 4 Ultraloq Pro locks with Wifi+Bluetooth. It would be great if they worked as advertised. 1 died after the original warranty (I think 6 months into use?) so I got a replacement. They all bleed through the AAA batteries super quickly when using wifi/cloud services. The wifi connection to Ultraloq also frequently cuts out when trying to connect to the lock via the app and you have to use the fallback Bluetooth connection within proximity of the lock to get it working. The fingerprint sensor never, ever, NEVER works, so don't bother getting an Ultraloq with that feature. The fingerprint sensor might work for the first 10 minutes of setup but that's it. Ultraloq's Help basically blames the user for their faulty fingerprint sensor. Maybe someday they will fix it so it works just as well as a smartphone fingerprint sensor. Until then, it's useless.

[@makeitworktech]

The Wi-Fi version is garbage. I still have the original batteries in the z-wave and it's going strong! Fingerprint had to be reset once

[@jaredhelder]

How about Alfred?

[@makeitworktech]

When I looked at Alfred they were significantly higher in price than all of the other locks (Schlage is the exception). I couldn't afford one haha

[@TwMarcos]

I can't find Level door lock when adding HomeKit controller in HA. I have no idea at all how to get the lock shown up...

[@makeitworktech]

Do you have a Bluetooth radio?

[@TwMarcos]

@@makeitworktech No, you mean Bluetooth receiver? Or Bluetooth radio speaker?

[@makeitworktech]

Receiver

[@TwMarcos]

​@@makeitworktech No, I don't have it. Should I get one to plug into my raspberry pi board? Or could you share some detail references of setting?

[@makeitworktech]

Does your pi have Bluetooth? If so you need to set up the Bluetooth

[@islandbum9814]

What about Lockly Pro?

[@makeitworktech]

I don't think they work with HA

[@se62hy]

love it.

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks!

[@OrlandoPaco]

LOCAL. Yaaaaay!!

[@OrlandoPaco]

CLOWD. Naaaaay!!

[@miles8194]

Anyone considering Level. Please, no. One of mine will lock when the door is being opened normally because it registers a touch some how? Causing me to shut the door only to slam the lock against the molding. My automation and settings through the app and homekit are correct, I checked with Level support AND the home builders "tech" guys... The home builder guys literally told me to get a yale or just go back to a dumb lock because the Level has to many issues and that they took them off their own houses in the development. ALSO The locks will just lose connection to my phone and lock the doors when im sitting on the couch or if i go in the front yard. The other day I left my phone INSIDE maybe 15ft from the lock and I went to check mail, came back and I was LOCKED OUT OF MY HOUSE. Like what? The other level I have burns through batteries about once a week and requires me to re-pair the lock every time. So I turn off auto lock and auto everything right, because that will fix the issue. Nope. Still locks randomly, and the other drains batteries every week. Im convinced the community home builder bought the buggy trash locks level couldnt sell elsewhere.

[@makeitworktech]

Wow, that doesn't sound like a great experience! Do you have the bolt, or the other one? I never had any accidental locking, just the Bluetooth range issue, which I solved using Home Assistant Bluetooth Proxy.

[@jackhandyy]

Pretty boxing means is a quality product?!? Yeah...

[@makeitworktech]

Not always!

[@MarekBury]

Are you guys seriously use that kind of locks in US? (I mean type of locking mechanism, not "smart" aspect) In Europe we use mortise locks and it is actually well.. standard.. with 3 to 5 strong bolts at the handle level and another single or triple bolts at the bottom and on top of the door... I can't actually believe that this is serious... This kind of bolts looks lik "kick lightly and your'e in". Also it seems that if you break lock plate mounted on the front of the door you can just use a screwdriver to open it.. how it could be enough?

[@makeitworktech]

Yes we do haha! They are surprisingly strong actually, but aren't really going to keep a burglar out of your house. A strong lock doesn't matter when you have windows anyway. If someone wants to break in, they will go the path of least resistance

[@001looker]

All of those locks are garbage according to what i seen on lockpickinglawyer channel

[@makeitworktech]

All locks are garbage on his channel haha

[@cor7797]

Lol...

[@captain7492]

Save the time…Schlage all the way. WIESER is garbage…done

[@makeitworktech]

haha YALEEEEEE

[@ahmadalghunaim2467]

ur video is long for no reason tbh just give the best and leave

[@makeitworktech]

Best are Yale, Schlage, and Kwikset. Okay, you can leave! 😁

[@OnTheOnlyShipButHalfWannaSink]

Good vid, enlightened me. I know now these are not useful to a disabled person who requires 100% functional assurance, won’t carry around extra batteries for this jic, distrusts anything requiring IoT access, and who requires support for the secure combined and 6”+ extended deadbolt/door-handle strike plate with deeper deadbolts. No multiple users or locking schedules, just irl reliability and security.

[@makeitworktech]

Thanks! yes, these locks don't fit those requirements!