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"You won't find a more stable Smart Lock, but the functionality is questionable."

• Durable construction

• Versatile entry

• Must replace your latch

• Bad installation experience

• Touchpad is an annoyance

The Halo from Kwikset is an intelligent lock that can be controlled with an app, codes or an old-fashioned set of keys. This versatility, paired with super hard hardware, seems to be a winning combination. But while the halo has a lot to offer, there are some shortcomings that make it less practical than it looked at first glance.

installation

The halo is more difficult to install than some locks because you have to take out your current latch and install a new one. Other door locks like the August Smart Lock or the Wyze Lock fit over your existing bolt and make the transition easier. If you're not mechanically inclined (like me), getting the old latch out and inserting the new one can be frustrating.

If you don't need to install a new latch, why should you do that?

Kwikset's instructions even say that you may need a wooden chisel during installation. I'm not sure how many households have a wooden chisel on hand, but I tend to estimate few.

However, my biggest frustration with the installation was due to the app. The quick start guide will ask you to download the app. You will then need to follow the on-screen instructions to install the lock. Paper instructions are not included.

However, I had to switch screens to answer a text. When I got back to the app, she insisted that I go through a long, lengthy account login process. When that was done, I never returned to the installation process. I had to find it again and then try to find the installation screen I was on before the interruption. That seems to me to be a usability error.

durability

Most of the characteristic of this intelligent lock is its toughness. The halo is shockproof, fireproof for up to 20 minutes, pickproof and hardened against drills or saws. Even the connecting wires inside are reinforced. This is a stable lock. You can only tell by its weight that it is made to last.

Keyboard and access

The Halo has a keyboard that lights up for easy viewing, but doesn't miss the problems with touchpads.

The big problem is sensitivity. You need to touch the pad to activate it and then enter your key code. I found that if I didn't enter my code quickly enough within seconds, the pad would fall asleep and wouldn't wake up again. I stood around, tapping the screen impatiently, trying to bring him back to life for a minute or two. If you're in a hurry to get in, this is a no-go.

In addition, the keyboard clearly shows fingerprints. This means that a potential crook can look at the pattern of fingerprints on the touchpad and find your code easily. I tried wiping the touchpad after use, but who will really clean the lock every time they use it?

One feature I like is that you can use the app to turn off the keyboard completely. You can then use your keys or the app to control the locking and unlocking of your door. It undermines the sense of an intelligent lock with a keyboard, but that shows you how much I don't like the Halo keyboard.

Too bad, because this lock can store up to 250 user codes, including time limits and expiration dates, which you can control via the app. I can see where that would be useful.

The alarm didn't work

One of the features I liked when I first heard about the Halo is that an alarm sounds when the code is entered incorrectly three times. This would let you know immediately if someone tried to find out your code and break into your home.

So I tried it in the interest of science. I entered three random codes and nothing happened to my dismay. There was no alarm. No notification appeared on my phone. Other attempts have also not triggered an alarm.

I contacted the company's support team and they were informed that the batteries may be weak or the connection may become loose. Neither seemed to be the cause. As far as I can tell, the function just doesn't work as an advertisement.

Our opinion

The Kwikset Halo is disappointing. The keyboard is tedious and installing a new latch is a big problem. At $ 229, other smart locks are cheaper and work better.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. The August Smart Lock Pro only costs $ 85 and works with your current latch. If you want a smart lock with a keyboard, choose the Nest X Yale or the Schlage Encode. They cost roughly the same, but these locks work better overall.

Will it take?

Absolutely. It is a beast. A lifetime warranty is also provided.

Should you buy it

The halo has no match when it comes to strength and toughness, but the technology isn't great. Pass this on.

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