Wyze Lock Review: The Most Fuss-free Lock on the Market
"If you're looking for an affordable smart lock that just works, this is the one for you."
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Inexpensive
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Intuitive app
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Easy to install
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Easy to use
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You cannot restrict access to digital keys
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The app is a bit slow
With Wyze Lock ($ 90), unlike other smart locks, you can keep your keys and bolts. It is essentially screwed onto what you already need to provide your bolt smart lock functions in just a few minutes. People who like the idea of an intelligent lock but don't like the idea of learning complicated apps will really enjoy this lock. It is easy to install and use.
Installation is a breeze
Setting up the Wyze Lock is a breeze. With the Wyze app you will be guided through every tiny step, so the installation itself is very easy for me and I have absolutely no knowledge of tools. Basically, you remove the back plate of your bolt, fasten the Wyze installation plate by screwing in two screws, then put on the Wyze lock and tighten two more screws, similar to the August Smart Lock (3rd generation).
It takes about 15 minutes and all you need is a screwdriver.
From there, the lock just needs to be calibrated (the app does most of the work) and you're done. It takes about 15 minutes and all you need is a screwdriver.
The app is pretty awesome too
Sure it's easy to install, but how easy is it to use? I was pleasantly surprised that using the app to lock and unlock your door is as easy as tapping an icon. The app records these commands and displays them just below the icon so you know who did what to your lock. You will also find out whether your door has been left open. This is especially helpful if you have children who don't seem to know what a doorknob is for.
However, the castle itself doesn't do all this magic for itself. The Wyze Gateway comes with a lock that you can use to connect to your WLAN. Don't worry that you need to install this device. The gateway is just a small, round sensor that plugs into a wall outlet near your door. However, if the power fails, you can use the Wyze Lock with a Bluetooth connection.
In Settings, you can unlock and unlock features for family members, friends, or roommates by sending them an email. The email describes how the person can set up access to their virtual key.
You can also set up a schedule that automatically locks the door when it has been closed for a certain number of minutes. Since I usually forget to lock my front door, I like that the Wyze Castle has my back. I usually have my hands full with groceries, dog leads or packages when I get home, so the automatic unlock function is good too. The app uses the location of your phone to inform the lock about your home. It will be unlocked when you go to the door.
I like that Wyze Lock has my back.
The only thing I don't really like about the Wyze app is that every time you change a setting, it displays a loading screen that displays for about 30 seconds. It gets on my nerves, especially when I'm in a hurry.
What the Wyze Lock doesn't do
The Wyze Lock is for people who want a simple lock. It should not be combined with extended locks. For example, it doesn't have a keyboard like the Nest X Yale (although you can add this feature by installing the Wyze Lock keyboard), it can't be unlocked with your fingerprint like the Kwikset's Halo Touch, and it's not allowed Set virtual keys. With August, for example, you can determine how long someone has access to your lock. So, for example, if you want to give a friend access to your home to water your plants while on vacation, you can limit the lock's operating time to just one week.
It is also not compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant at this time, although Wyze Labs says the feature will be available this year. This means that, unlike almost all of the main competitors, there is no way to control the lock with voice commands.
Our opinion
With a price tag of $ 90, the Wyze Castle is the affordable choice. It is also the best choice for those who want basic smart lock functions without additional functions. The app is also a breeze, even if it's a little slow.
Although I'm not sure about the simplicity of this lock, there was an important function that I needed for the Wyze lock, but it was left out. You really need to be able to restrict access to virtual keys. You can manually delete someone else's key at any time. However, if you forget, this can lead to a problem that could easily have been prevented.
Are there any better alternatives?
Yes. The August Smart Lock (3rd generation) is almost the same lock, but with a few more functions. Although the original price for the August Castle was $ 150, you can now purchase it for around $ 93. The only downside in August is that a separate Wi-Fi bridge is required for remote access and third-party integration. If you buy the bridge, the price will increase by around $ 60. The Wyze Lock comes with everything it needs, making it much cheaper.
Will it take?
I have to admit, I wonder. The main part of the lock is only attached to the mounting plate with two tiny screws. A good blow or a toddler hanging on it can pull the Wyze lock straight from the door. There is a one-year limited warranty, but only for defective parts.
Should you buy it
If you're on a budget and don't want to buy a bridge for August, you'll be happy with the Wyze Lock.
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