Being physically present for some settings is most probably security feature for the lock. It is simple and efficient way to ensure some sensitive settings cannot be hacked remotely. If these settings are typically set once, it does makes sense to me.
Yeah I totally get it for things like user management. But some of them I feel shouldn't need the Keypad active. They should probably also allow you to be able activate or deactivate the extra security for situations where people want to use the lock on an AirBnB for example, where they may wish to add new access codes for each stay.
I just got this to replace my Switchbot Lock Pro even though I just bought the Lock Pro a few months ago. I came to the conclusion that I was never going to be as satisfied with the Lock Pro like I would with the U200 because of the speed difference. I've never seen a detached keypad or smart lock motor work as fast as the U200 and its keypad. Unless I'm mistaken, this is probably the first smart lock where you can turn your doorknob or lever without it jamming immediately after inputting a unlock method because it's that fast. My only minor gripe is that it's not always instant. Sometimes after pressing lock or using my fingerprint, it takes 2-3 seconds. This is more common when I've tested the controls from within Home Assistant. Which is no big deal, but is kind of annoying when it's lightning fast most of the time lol. Anyways I'll probably feel the itch to get a new smart lock in a few years when facial recognition becomes the new hot thing. But until then I think I'll be pretty satisfied with the U200.
great video! one piece of unsolicited advice is to mute the VO audio when showcasing the noise of the device. i was happy to see that this review covers lock noise/speed, but a bit bummed when i had to closely listen through your commentary to hear it. other than that, excellent review!
Hi I'm new to home assistant. I assume, to have it working with home assistant, my purchase would need to be the M3 hub and the U200 and not just the U200 alone?
Hi, sorry for the late reply! Yes you will want to have the M3 Hub to integrate it into Home Assistant. Another option is to use something like a Sonoff Dongle running Thread, but this is still a bit complex at the moment. Also, it's worth noting that since doing this video I have actually had a few times where the lock state loses synchronization between the lock and Home Assistant, which is really not great. And sometimes I have needed to recalibrate the lock. I was hoping that Aqara would have released an updated firmware by now with some bug fixes, but they have not, it's still firmware version 65. My SwitchBot Pro lock on the other hand is definitely not as nice locking, but this has been much, much more reliable in terms of sending state changes and never needs recalibration. (This is also the case for their original SwitchBot lock)
I think it is great that this is an addition to the existing lock. No need to replace the lock this is basically a remote control to turn your key. I only need to replace my cilinder for a safety one where 2 keys can work together.
Yes, I quite like it. Less bulky than the SwitchBot Pro. I wish lock cylinders which support the "safety" piece were a bit more common, can sometimes be hard to find. I'm actually not too bothered about the safety feature requirement as I never plan to use a key and figure that there are other doors I can get into the house with if something goes wrong.
@@lets-automate if you have multiple doors I agree but I’m living in an apartment on the 9th floor. So if my lock is failing on me I have to breakdown my door. My balcony door is locked from the inside and climbing 9 floors isn’t an option 😆
Nice review Marc. Did you try the fingerprint reader with a wet finger - like after a run or being out in the rain - it stll rains in the UK!! This is usually the weakness of most fingerprint readers. Nice announcement and display of the "semi-sponsorship". Really boosts the integrity. Thanks
Thanks! If I compare it to the fingerprint reader on my phone then the phone one is definitely better when wet. You still need to wipe your finger a bit if it's actually properly wet. Dirt however doesn't seem to be a problem though, I had a bit of dried mud on my thumb from gardening and it still worked.
I hear Aqara are going to do a rekeyable version of the U100 - like they did on the U50. Would like to replace the Class 3 lock with a Class 1 Schlage. I hope.
I'm not sure on the U100 to be honest, as it's not designed for the UK. However, as you say you can with the U50. Shane Whately did a good review on that: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-59lyRekf5-s.html
Unfortunately I don't have an Apple HomePod. I'm hoping to be able to buy one in the future so that I can cover Apple Home aspects better. There is some chatter online about it, but I can't decipher where people have it working with both or not.
Correct, you don't need an Aqara M3 Hub. Haha, yes the HomePod is cheaper although it serves a slightly different purpose. The Aqara Hub connects to Aqara zigbee and Bluetooth devices as well though. If you're going with mainly new Thread devices then HomePod Mini is a good option! I need to get one myself so that I can properly test out Apple HomeKit devices.
