SwitchBot Lock Pro Review vs Aqara Smart Lock U200

Following on from my evaluation of the excellent Aqara Sensible Lock U200, I’ve been testing the SwitchBot Lock Professional. This good lock shares most of the options of the Aqara whereas being significantly extra inexpensive, however how does it carry out compared?

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Specification

• Communication: Bluetooth Low Vitality (BLE) with a spread of as much as 120 metres with out obstacles. The lock could be managed by way of the SwitchBot app or Keypad inside 20 metres when the door is closed.
• Energy Provide: The usual configuration makes use of 4 AA dry batteries (1.5V, 2900mAh). There’s additionally an non-obligatory Lithium Battery Pack accessible.
• Compatibility: Designed for Euro Profile locks with supplied Mounting Brackets A and B.
• Working Setting: Meant for indoor use with an working temperature vary of 10°C to 45°C and humidity between 10% and 90% RH.
• Development: The shell is constructed from aluminium-magnesium alloys and PC + ABS plastic.
• Dimensions: 120 x 59 x 83.9 mm (4.7 x 2.3 x 3.3 inches)
• Weight: 435 g (15.3 oz) together with batteries
• Extra Options: Fast Lock Button for one-touch operation, indicator lights (purple, blue, inexperienced), buzzer, temperature sensor for low-temperature alerts, and auto-lock performance.

Options

• A number of Unlock Strategies: Customers can entry their doorways utilizing the SwitchBot app, bodily keys, the Fast Key characteristic, or non-obligatory equipment just like the Keypad Contact. This versatility ensures that you simply’re by no means locked out, even when your cellphone battery dies otherwise you misplace your keys.
• Auto-Lock: The lock could be set to have interaction routinely after a specified time, including an additional layer of safety. It’s price noting that this characteristic doesn’t work with multi-point locks, which require lifting the deal with to totally interact.
• Distant Entry: When paired with the SwitchBot Hub Mini, customers can management the lock remotely and obtain real-time notifications about its standing. This characteristic is especially helpful for granting entry to friends or service suppliers whenever you’re not at dwelling.
• Voice Management: The Lock Professional is appropriate with main voice assistants together with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri when used with the Hub Mini. This permits for hands-free operation, which could be handy when your fingers are full otherwise you’re multitasking.
• Matter Help: The Lock Professional helps the Matter customary by way of the Hub Mini, enabling broader good dwelling integration. This future-proofs the gadget to some extent, as Matter is ready to develop into a broadly adopted customary within the good dwelling business.
• Battery Life: SwitchBot claims the 4 AA batteries can last as long as 9 months. The low battery alert characteristic is a considerate addition, making certain customers aren’t caught off guard by a lifeless lock.
• Guide Operation: The twistable dial permits for handbook locking and unlocking, offering a backup methodology if the batteries die or in case of digital failure. It is a essential characteristic that ensures you’re by no means locked out of your property as a consequence of a technical glitch.

Comparability with Aqara Sensible Lock U200

When evaluating the SwitchBot Lock Professional to the Aqara Sensible Lock U200, a number of variations develop into obvious:

• Design: The Lock Professional has a really deep design and I it appears to be like a bit clunky compared to the Aqara lock. The general construct high quality feels extra plasticy too, however it’s nonetheless good.
• Set up: The bodily set up is usually the identical, however the Switchbot has a number of further equipment to accommodate several types of locks. Each locks work through the use of your present cylinder and key, with the good lock turning the important thing for you.
• Calibration: I discovered the calibration and the thumb flip to be higher on the Switchbot, you’ll be able to really feel when the lock engages and solely want to show the knob a small quantity.
• Unlock Strategies: Each locks assist a keypad, and each keypads assist pin codes, fingerprint and NFC. I’ve discovered each locks have carried out reliably for all unlock strategies. The Aqara lock scans your finger a number of occasions so I think that shall be extra correct for fingerprints however I’ve skilled no failed scans on both lock. The Switchbot lock got here with a NFC card whereas the Aqara didn’t.
• Sensible House Integration: Each locks supply good good dwelling integration as they each assist Matter. The Aqara is superior because it makes use of Matter Over Thread and the Aqara ecosystem is considerably bigger than Switchbot. On the flip aspect, the Switchot bundle comes with a hub and the hubs are considerably cheaper than the Aqara M3 hub.
• Energy Supply: The Lock Professional makes use of AA batteries, whereas the U200 makes use of a chargeable lithium battery. The U200’s USB-C charging port ought to be extra handy for many customers. The Switchbot claims to have an extended battery lifetime of 270n days vs 6 months (182.5 days). The Switchbot additionally has an non-obligatory rechargeable battery (£20)
• Value: The Lock Professional is mostly inexpensive than the U200

Unboxing / Design

The SwitchBot Lock Professional arrives in a compact, well-designed field that accommodates all the mandatory elements for set up. Upon opening, you’ll discover:

• The Lock Professional unit itself
• Mounting plates and screws
• 4 AA batteries
• Set up information and person handbook

The steel physique replaces the plastic design of the unique SwitchBot Lock, leading to a extra sturdy and aesthetically pleasing product. Nevertheless, the Lock Professional has a really deep design, measuring 120 x 59 x 83.9 mm, which could seem considerably cumbersome in comparison with some rivals just like the Aqara Sensible Lock U200.

The gadget’s dimensions permit it to suit most traditional doorways with out being overly obtrusive, however its depth could be noticeable in sure settings. One challenge with this type of lock is you probably have outwards opening double doorways, the lock might not match as it’s too huge. That is the type of door I’ve on my storage/health club and I’ve been unable to suit any related lock to it, together with the Aqara and Yale Linus.

The general construct high quality, whereas improved, nonetheless has a barely plasticky really feel in comparison with some high-end options.

One notable design change is the alternative of the deadbolt change with a twistable dial. This dial doubles as a button for the Fast Key characteristic, permitting customers to lock and unlock the gadget immediately by pushing it in. The dial’s placement on the backside of the unit creates house for the battery compartment above it, enhancing the general structure.

A considerate addition is the magnetic battery cowl, which makes battery modifications extra simple in comparison with the screw-fastened cowl of the unique mannequin. This design selection enhances person comfort and reduces the time wanted for upkeep.

SwitchBot Lock Professional Compatibility

The SwitchBot Lock Professional boasts broad compatibility with numerous door sorts and lock configurations:

1. Keyway Orientation: Suitable with each horizontally and vertically oriented keyways.
2. Inside Use: Designed for set up on the within of doorways, not supposed for out of doors use.
3. Multipoint Locks: Sturdy sufficient to function multipoint locks, though the autolock operate received’t work as it could possibly’t carry the deal with to interact the multipoint.
4. Limitless Rotations: Works whatever the variety of lock rotations required.
5. Evening-Latches: Helps European-style night-latches, permitting momentary locking of the inner latch for free entry and exit.

The bodily set up course of is comparable to that of rivals just like the Aqara Sensible Lock U200. Each locks work through the use of your present cylinder and key, with the good lock turning the important thing for you. The SwitchBot Lock Professional comes with further equipment to accommodate differing kinds of locks, which could be useful for some customers however might additionally make the set up course of barely extra complicated.

Bodily Set up of the Lock

Putting in the SwitchBot Lock Professional is a comparatively simple course of that doesn’t require any everlasting modifications to your door or present lock and is basically the identical as all the opposite good locks that use based mostly on the important thing turning design.

Right here’s a step-by-step overview of the set up course of:

1. Test Compatibility: Earlier than starting, use SwitchBot’s on-line compatibility checker to make sure your lock is appropriate for the Lock Professional.
2. Clear the Door: Totally clear the realm round your present lock to make sure good adhesion of the mounting plate.
3. Select the Right Mounting Plate: The Lock Professional comes with two mounting choices. Choose the one that most closely fits your lock kind.
4. Connect the Mounting Plate: Use the supplied 3M adhesive to safe the mounting plate to your door. For added stability, you can even use screws in case your door permits for it.
5. Connect the Lock Professional: Slide the primary unit onto the mounting plate till it clicks into place.
6. Modify the Thumb Flip: Align the Lock Professional’s thumb flip together with your present lock’s thumb flip.
7. Check Guide Operation: Earlier than continuing with the digital setup, make sure the lock can manually lock and unlock your door easily.

No particular instruments are required past a screwdriver for those who select to make use of screws for mounting.

One potential challenge to concentrate on is the adhesive mounting. Whereas the 3M adhesive supplied is powerful, some customers could also be involved about its long-term sturdiness, particularly on doorways that see frequent use. The choice to make use of screws offers further peace of thoughts, however this might not be potential or fascinating for all door sorts.

Establishing the lock

As soon as the bodily set up is full, you’ll must arrange the Lock Professional utilizing the SwitchBot app. Right here’s an summary of the method:

1. Obtain the App: Get the SwitchBot app out of your gadget’s app retailer and create an account for those who don’t have already got one.
2. Add the Lock Professional: Within the app, choose “Add System” and select the Lock Professional from the record of accessible units.
3. Connect with the Lock: Observe the app’s directions to attach your smartphone to the Lock Professional by way of Bluetooth.
4. Calibrate the Lock: The app will information you thru a calibration course of to make sure the Lock Professional precisely detects the locked and unlocked positions. Whereas it doesn’t have the identical automated calibration because the Aqara, I discovered this calibration to be superior,.
5. Set Up Entry Strategies: Configure your most well-liked entry strategies, together with app management, auto-lock settings, and any further equipment just like the Keypad Contact.
6. Configure Notifications: Arrange notifications for lock/unlock occasions, low battery alerts, and another desired standing updates.

The setup course of is mostly user-friendly, with clear directions supplied by means of the app. Nevertheless, some customers have reported occasional connectivity points in the course of the preliminary setup, which can require restarting the method or updating the app.

Set up and Setup of the Keypad

For many who go for the extra Keypad Contact accent, right here’s the right way to set it up:

1. Mount the Keypad: Select a location close to your door and use the supplied adhesive or screws to mount the keypad.
2. Add the Keypad within the App: Within the SwitchBot app, choose “Add System” and select the Keypad Contact.
3. Join the Keypad: Observe the app directions to attach the keypad to your Lock Professional.
4. Set Up Entry: Create and handle entry codes for members of the family, friends, or service suppliers.
   • You may also arrange fingerprints and NFC playing cards.
5. Throughout the settings, you’ll be able to bind the keypad to a Switchbot Hub and customise a number of the settings, such because the lock button settings.

Switchbot App Options

The SwitchBot app is the central hub for controlling and managing your Lock Professional. Listed below are a number of the key options:

1. Distant Management: Lock and unlock your door from anyplace when paired with the Hub Mini.
2. Entry Administration: Create and handle entry codes for the Keypad Contact, and arrange momentary entry for friends.
3. Exercise Log: View an in depth historical past of lock and unlock occasions, together with who accessed the door and when.
4. Battery Standing: Monitor the lock’s battery stage and obtain low battery notifications.
5. Auto-Lock Settings: Configure the auto-lock characteristic, together with delay time and activation situations. Please be aware that auto-lock doesn’t work on multi-point locks.
6. Notifications: Arrange alerts for numerous occasions, resembling unauthorised entry makes an attempt or when the door is left unlocked.
7. Integration Settings: Configure connections with different good dwelling platforms and voice assistants.

The app is mostly intuitive and simple to navigate however there could be some lag whenever you load up the UI for a tool (such because the Lock Professional).

Integration with House Assistant Sensible House Ecosystem Utilizing Matter

Identical to the SwitchBot Common Distant, the Lock Professional could be built-in with different good dwelling ecosystems by way of Matter.

Switchbot has a little bit of an odd method of doing issues. You’ll want to bind the lock (or another Switchbot gadget you wish to management with Matter) to a Matter enabled hub such because the Switchbot Hub 2.

You then want so as to add secondary units to show them to Matter. For the Hub 2, you’ll be able to solely add 6 units and the brand new Mini Hub can solely add 4 units.

With the Lock Professional added as a secondary gadget, you’ll be able to then lock and unlock the door by way of House Assistant and likewise create automations based mostly on numerous triggers.

Efficiency

To date, I’ve discovered that the lock has carried out flawlessly.

The lock constantly responds to instructions from the app, keypad, or voice assistants. The mechanical operation is easy, with the motor offering sufficient torque to function most lock sorts with out challenge.

The locking and unlocking course of in all fairness fast, sometimes taking a pair seconds to finish. That is on par with different good locks in its class.

The direct Bluetooth connection works reliably inside the said 20-metre vary when the door is closed. Nevertheless, partitions and different obstacles can scale back this vary.

When used with the Hub 2 (or Hub Mini), distant entry is mostly dependable, although there could be occasional delays relying on community situations.

As I’ve a multi-point UPVC door, I didn’t take a look at the autolocking characteristic totally however it seems to work effectively.

Keypad Unlock

The non-obligatory Keypad Contact accent enhances the Lock Professional’s performance:

• Responsiveness: The keypad is responsive, with clear tactile suggestions for every button press.
• Code Administration: The app makes it straightforward to create, modify, and delete entry codes. You’ll be able to arrange everlasting codes for members of the family and momentary codes for friends or service suppliers.
• Safety: The keypad has built-in safeguards in opposition to brute-force makes an attempt, quickly locking out after a number of incorrect entries.

Fingerprint Unlock

The fingerprint unlock on the Aqara Sensible Lock U200 was one in all its major promoting factors. The unlocking operate was extraordinarily dependable and quick.

The identical is true for the SwitchBot Lock Professional, I don’t assume I’ve had any unhealthy readings which have prevented me from unlocking the door and the unlocking course of is responsive and fast.

NFC Card Unlock

Each the Aqara and Switchbot keypads are appropriate with NFC. The Aqara lock doesn’t work with all NFC tags so you might want to watch out which you purchase.

The Switchbot Lock appears to have the identical challenge because the generic tags I purchased didn’t work. The lock comes with a  free NFC card and the Switchbot web site states that the NFC tag they use is  NTAG 216, and there are many choices to purchase on Amazon.

As for the included NFC card, similar to fingerprint unlock, that is extraordinarily dependable as a result of it’s fast to reply and unlock. I usually favor fingerprint unlocking however it’s useful to maintain the NFC card in my pockets simply in case.

Battery Life

SwitchBot claims that the Lock Professional can last as long as 9 months on a set of 4 AA batteries. In apply, battery life can differ considerably based mostly on utilization patterns:

• Frequent use will naturally drain the batteries sooner.
• Excessive temperatures can have an effect on battery efficiency.
• Utilizing the lock with a multi-point mechanism might scale back battery

I’ve solely used the lock for a number of weeks, so I can’t touch upon its long-term battery life, however it appears to be superb to date.

The battery life is longer than the Aqara, however it makes use of disposable batteries until you purchase the non-obligatory rechargeable battery pack.

Value and Various Choices

The SwitchBot Sensible Lock Professional by itself is a little bit of a discount at £140, and on the time of writing, Amazon had a £20 off voucher.

The value rises considerably if you would like a keypad and Mini Hub. Amazon lists this at £240 with £40 off accessible.

That’s nonetheless moderately priced, contemplating the competitors:

• Aqara Sensible Lock U200
  • £270
  • Will be paired to the M3 hub for Matter performance.
• Nuki Sensible Lock Professional (4th era)
  • £245
  • Makes use of WiFi and works with Matter. Lacks a keypad however you should purchase one for £145.
• Nuki Sensible Lock (4th era)
  • £170
  • The identical because the Professional however lacks WiFi or the Nuki Energy Pack
• WELOCK Sensible Fingerprint Door Lock
  • £179
  • Lacks the choice to make use of your key. No keypad on this mannequin, WiFI bridge bought individually.
• Yale Linus Sensible Lock Bundle
  • £260
  • The bundle features a WiFi bridge and keypad. I’ve personally used this the previous couple of years, and it has labored effectively, my accomplice hates the app (on iPhone).

Total

The SwitchBot Lock Professional is an outstanding good lock that I believe is simply nearly as good because the Aqara Sensible Lock U200. Each locks are my present favorite good locks, which I’ve reviewed (I haven’t used the newer Nuki locks).

I’d say each Aqara and SwitchBot have professionals and cons in contrast to one another.

For The SwitchBot Professional, it’s priced extra attractively, and the good hubs are extra inexpensive. I favor the thumb dial unlock mechanism, because the calibration appeared extra dependable. It was additionally significantly simpler to arrange, as I had points pairing the Aqara to the Hub m3.

I favor Aqara’s total look and construct high quality. The rechargeable battery is a bonus. It has a useful, easy-to-access USB-C port and features a carry bag that lets you cost the lock utilizing an influence financial institution hanging out of your deal with. The Aqara ecosystem can be superior, with an enormous vary of Aqara sensors and units which may work together with the lock. The Aqara was way more fiddly with pairing to its hub than the SwitchBot.

I additionally favor the general design and construct high quality of the Aqara keypad, however the Switchbot keypad consists of an NFC tag.

Total, I regard each the SwitchBot Lock Professional and Aqara Lock as equally good, and I strongly advocate them. The 2 components I’d think about when shopping for these are which ecosystem you like or presently use and, in fact, the worth.

I’m James, a UK-based tech fanatic and the Editor and Proprietor of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Keen about all issues expertise, my experience spans from computer systems and networking to cell, wearables, and good dwelling units.

As a health fanatic who loves operating and biking, I even have a eager curiosity in fitness-related expertise, and I take each alternative to cowl this area of interest on my weblog. My various pursuits permit me to carry a singular perspective to tech running a blog, merging way of life, health, and the newest tech traits.

In my educational pursuits, I earned a BSc in Info Methods Design from UCLAN, earlier than advancing my studying with a Grasp’s Diploma in Computing. This superior examine additionally included Cisco CCNA accreditation, additional demonstrating my dedication to understanding and staying forward of the expertise curve.

I’m proud to share that Vuelio has constantly ranked Mighty Gadget as one of many high expertise blogs within the UK. With my dedication to expertise and drive to share my insights, I intention to proceed offering my readers with participating and informative content material.

Final replace on 2024-08-09 / Affiliate hyperlinks / Photographs from Amazon Product Promoting API