This doesn't affect our editorial independence. People relied on tight-knit communities to keep each-other safe. The exterior (keypad) side of the unit is weather rated for waterproofing. Here at NerdTechy, we try to make tech simple for the everyday person. Similarly, the U-Bolt can be programmed to automatically lock and unlock when your phone is nearby. If you're not sold, check out some of the other best smart locks we've tested. It has a plain white plastic housing, like many home electronics.
This will need to be placed between your door and your router, near the edge of the signals range. The keypad, which is hinged to provide keyed access, will flip open if the door is shut to hard. If you have a contractor for the next two weeks, you can set the code to expire after that time period. Find more great buys on theCNET Deals pageand check out ourCNET Coupons pagefor the latestWalmart discount codes,eBay coupons,Samsung promo codesand even more fromhundreds of other online stores. Please contact us if so. Installing the interior unit upside down is not recommended as the mounting plate is designed to be installed upright. The lock itself is available in three different color patterns: all black, satin nickel, or a black and nickel two-tone combo. Answers live on our FAQ page. In days past, most peoples homes were not as sturdy as modern homes. The locks profile is square, not rectangular like some deadbolts. With a weatherproof exterior and built out of durable zinc alloy, this deadbolt is prepared to secure your home for years to come! Learn More, Home | About Us | Disclosure | Privacy | Contact. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); They call me TechGuru. However, the Ultraloq app is lacking two-factor authentication, a feature that can help keep your smart home safe and secure by alerting you to unwanted attempts to hack your account. Inside your home, the lock is a simple black or satin nickel deadbolt. Its manufacturer, U-tec, has spent the intervening years smoothing out that installation processhacksaw no longer requiredand has launched an upgraded version, the U-Bolt Pro WiFi. Gain access to your home without having to use a key and control who enters your home remotely with the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Deadbolt Smart Lock with Bridge Wi-Fi Adapter. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock with Bridge WiFi Adapter for $139. Finally, the temporary passwords and integrated calendar are great for contractors, cleaners, and more. This particular smart lock, however, offers six different ways to open it, including fingerprint and keypad, so it might just change my mind -- especially because, for a very limited time, it's on sale for the lowest price to date: Wellbots has the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock with Bridge WiFi Adapter for $139with promo code CNETU30. Learn more. As a result, we may earn an affiliate commission via the links on our site at no additional cost to you. To connect this lock to Wi-Fi, you will need the Bridge WiFi Adapter. Welcome back! I've never been more tempted by a smart lock than I am by this one. I found it refreshingly easy to use, with straightforward sections for adding users, checking activity logs, and modifying various settings. And nowadays, you dont have to rely on a mechanical key to get you in and out of your home. If the batteries happen to die suddenly, you can connect a mobile charger for emergency unlocking (provided you have one handy, of course). Can you please post an answer to the above question? Included in the box is all the necessary installation hardware with a drill template and easy to read User Guide. If youre having that problem, youll need to use a WiFi range extender to stretch the signal. The first Ultraloq smart lock, released in 2019, was a promising product held back by an incredibly difficult installation process that literally required a hacksaw to complete. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. Automatic locking is configurable anywhere between 10 seconds and 5 minutes and can be set to work with the included (but optional) wireless door sensor to avoid locking while the door is ajar. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time. How close will my phone need to be before this will lock and unlock? When you enroll PIN codes and other credentials, they are stored locally on the lock and are also stored within your U-Tec app. My only reservation is the lack of Amazon Key support (a feature available in one of the best smart locks, the Schlage Encode), as I dont want packages sitting out for all to see. We even offer home automation and security devices compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee and more. If all else fails, you can pop open the front face of the lock and use a good old-fashioned metal key. If your hands are full and the proximity sensor isnt working, you can use voice commands. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more. The instructions are written clearly alongside helpful illustrations to guide you along. Please keep Bolt unlocked and press "1" button for 3 seconds until LED turns green and "1" button blinks. You can scan a QR code to access it on your phone or use the provided URL. Technology does not stand still, though. The lock cylinder is surrounded by a ring of rubber buttons, from 1 through 0. By connecting to the app and Bluetooth you can give your smartphone a magic shake allowing you hands-free access to your door or just leave it in your pocket so you dont spill your groceries. It would be nice if U-tec had engineered the lock with a rechargeable, removable battery pack, an option now found on some video doorbells. On the other hand, if you have a large family with many comings and goings, you may want to leave alerts off. The anti-peep numeric backlit keypad enables low light entry as well as protection from prying eyes by entering random numbers on the keypad with your correct code keyed in. As a backup, the front plate will flip down to reveal a standard keyhole for your mechanical backup key. No support for Apple HomeKit or Amazon Key. Was this helpful? The aforementioned need to cut the tailpiece to fit your door is gone, and the exterior escutcheon no longer has sharp teeth that hold it in place against the wood of the door. Cross-Bore, 1 in. If you have any other questions or if this was not clear for you, please give us a call at 937-247-9327, option 1. Here at NerdTechy, he makes tech easy to understand for the average person. Companion apps for some of the best smart locks, like the Wyze Lock, offer this user security feature. Unfortunately, this model does not feature an anti-tamper alarm. The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. It will install in most thicknesses, from 1 5/16 to 2 inches. It also works with IFTTT and SmartThings smart-home platforms. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. This wireless smart lock lets you unlock your front door in 6 different ways with fingerprint identification, your smartphone via the Utec App, coded entry, Auto Unlock, Magic Shake functionality, or with a backup mechanical key.
Its not a permanent fix, but it will get you inside so you can change the batteries. That said, the bridge itself has to be relatively close to the lock. The door lock itself doesnt have any mic to accept commands directly on its own. This wont be a problem for most people, but may become an issue if you dont have many power outlets. Operationally, the unit works really well: The mechanical buttons are easy to press accurately, and the fingerprint reader is as capable as ever. This might take longer if the lock is going into a new door and/or frame. We handpick the products and services we write about. This is an electronic lock that provides multiple ways of opening and closing. As such, this unit is not recommended for full exterior applications such as fence gates or any door where both sides are exposed to the weather. Need some help or have a suggestion? You can set a defined duration through the calendar feature to customize each code. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. If youve ever tried a rotary phone, youll understand the complaint. Since the smart lock is compatible with the Amazon Echo and Google Home ecosystems, you can also use smart assistants Alexa and Google Assistant to unlock the U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi. That said, it costs a bit more than the U-Bolt. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. People have been using biometric padlocks for several years! The door can be set to auto-lock or to automatically unlock when your connected smartphone is outside of the Bluetooth radius that you can configure through the Ultraloq application. For basic operations, it doesnt get any simpler than U-tecs centrally positioned lock/unlock button. If installed upside down, you may need to modify the borehole on your door. That means Amazon delivery drivers dont have the option of leaving packages inside your door, which many find desirable in these days of rampant porch-piracy. The lock is rated IP65-rated against dust and water and can withstand temperatures ranging from -22 to 149 degrees. For example, if you have a Ring doorbell or security camera, you can create an Alexa Routine that triggers the U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi to lock when motion is detected. One of the best features of the Ultraloq is that it can be used with the fingerprint reader, the numeric keypad, or with a traditional lock and key. Of course, its not perfect. We would have liked to see Ultraloq put a little more effort into a reliable fingerprint reader. Its also attractive to look at. It has a far more traditional appearance, and you can program up to 99 sets of fingerprints. Will an alarm be trigg Can this be used as a gate lock both sides will be exposed to the weather. The U-Bolt is IP65-rated for water and dust-resistance. The U-tec App will literally turn your smartphone into a key and let you manage who can unlock your door and when. Its also a bolt only, not a bolt and knob combo. You can also set temporary passcodes via the smartphone app. But if you can live with those limitations, youll find this an excellent asset to your front door. privacy policy. With fingerprint, code, proximity, and voice controls, youll never be locked out. No more waiting around to let in the repairman, send them a temporary code or eKey from the app so they can get in and get to work. You can give anyone temporary access to your home, without changing your keys or your main password afterwards. The U-tec app gives you complete control by allowing you to share codes and Ekeys with visitors, friends, and family members, plus, add or delete users at any time with no monthly fees. Some serious delving into the routers power settings can be used to get things connected, but for most users this is probably asking too much.
That said, if youre going to put WiFi in the name of the product; well, thats where it really needs to deliver. If you can install an ordinary deadbolt, you can get it set up in less than 20 minutes. The U-Bolt supports both Alexa and Google Assistant. U-tec has revamped its installation process and accompanying manual to streamline and simplify the process. If your family isnt safe, nothing else in your life really matters. The locks appearance is unique and unusual, and while it looks somewhat industrial and ominous, Ive certainly seen worse smart locks. With or without Wi-Fi, the unit behaves identically to the prior version of the lock. (877) 439-5377 Outside U.S. +1 (937) 247-9327 955 Mound Rd Miamisburg, OH 45342. NerdTechy.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking nerdtechy.com to (amazon.com, amzn.to) As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Unlocks with fingerprint, smartphone, code, or backup key. Credit: Reviewed / Rick Broida, Credit: Reviewed / Rachel Murphy. It also means you cant use Siri commands to lock or unlock, which is surprising given the presence of the Apple Watch app. A mechanical backup key supplies peace of mind. When the U-Bolt is connected to your router, you can use the app to set up alerts. If you already own it, hit the comments and share what you like or don't like. Alternatively, you can open the door by jiggling your phone. When paired with the included Wi-Fi Bridge, you'll be able to control and manage your lock remotely and provide guests access to your lock from anywhere in the world with codes or Ekeys, plus, be able to set up access to the lock with specific dates or periods of time. If you have to open the app to use it, why not just manually tap the unlock button? And Micro USB charging lets you gain keyless access with any power bank. Nuvo Traveler review: This air purifier fits in your cars cupholder, The best air purifiers: Keep your home safe, comfortable, and odor free. Known as the "Tech Guru", he's an expert of current and trending technology. In addition to providing keyless control, this wireless remote smart lock uses 128-bit AES data encryption and Dynamic Key as a second layer of protection to keep you and data safe. Rick Broida is the author of numerous books and thousands of reviews, features and blog posts. The front door lock offers multiple entry convenient methods like fingerprint reader technology, an important option for users who prize simplicity above all else. This means that no one but you should be able to access the lock or any of your personal data relating to the lock. Standard 2 1/8 in. Ultraloq UUL-U-BOLT-PRO U-Bolt Pro Deadbolt Smart Lock Spec Sheet (.pdf)Ultraloq UUL-U-BOLT-PRO U-Bolt Pro Deadbolt Smart Lock User Manual (.pdf)Ultraloq Bridge Wi-Fi Adapter Spec Sheet (.pdf)Ultraloq Bridge Wi-Fi Adapter User Manual (.pdf). Whether you are a professional dealer or installer or a do-it-yourself enthusiast, our online store carries the products you need to create an incredible smart home. Does this come with a deadbolt and replace my existing? Less impressive is Magic Shake: When you rock your phone back and forth, it triggers the unlock command. There wont be any damage. The 5 represents a medium-high degree of dust resistance. More importantly, its where your family lives. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock (and Bridge) is a 2-part unit consisting of a lock and a wireless bridge. Plug it in anywhere near the door, and follow the instructions to complete setup. Get the Ultraloq U-bolt Pro Wi-Fi on Amazon for $249. The compact, attractive design is another nice perk, especially if youre put off by the chunky, unappealing looks of other locks. 10 reasons to purchase a smart home security system, Your smart speakers are dirtyhere's how to clean them. One thing to be aware of, as is the case with many smart-home devices, the lock does not support dual-band Wi-Fi and requires a 2.4GHz internet connection. But the fastest (and most fun) option is the fingerprint reader, which allows for two stored fingerprints per user. Were not sure if this is a weakness of the bridge, the lock, or both. The requirement to connect this lock to Wi-Fi is an active Wi-Fi connection and the Bridge WiFi Adapter. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Bluetooth Smart Deadbolt provides multiple methods of keyless access, including smartphone, 360 live fingerprint ID, and code entry. Attractive appearance and easy installation. Do I really want to rely on a phone for something as important as my deadbolt? If someone wanted to kick in your door, nothing was going to stop them. Youd have to take a very close look to realize it isnt anything special. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. For the latest deals and updates, follow himon FacebookandTwitter. Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Thats a major benefit for, say, Airbnb owners who want to assign temporary access to tenants. Today, were going to review the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock (and Bridge). So, how well does the U-Bolt perform? And all this despite it being one of the most compact, door decor-friendly models on the market. Requires your smartphone to be connected to a 2.4G Wi-Fi connection. For most people, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock (and Bridge) is a good way to protect your home. Your code can be up to six digits long to make it harder to guess. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is outfitted with a fabulous fingerprint reader.
Its easy to set up one or two fingerprints, a PIN code, and/or app access for up to 50 users, each of which can each be limited by time and date as well as by the total number of unlock operations. Sign-in below to view your order status, repeat past orders, leave reviews for products and more. But with the industrial revolution, everyone was able to put a lock on their door. This concept isnt unique to door locks. Not only can the device not connect to 5GHz networks, your mobile device cant be connected to a 5GHz network during the setup process. If the phone is next to your ear and not in your pocket, it will often fail to read. Lets get going, and see if its worth your time and money! However, this is also finicky, and relies on the phone being very close. Its the center of your life, where you expect to be safe and secure. If you have a power bank, you can plug directly into the lock to supply power. Its where you keep all your stuff. However, theres also a Micro USB port in the bottom of the exterior lock. And with a strong weatherproof Zinc Alloy casing, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock is extremely durable. Although this is hardly a dealbreaker, I have to give the lock a small usability demerit. The U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi smart lock claims to have dual data encryption that uses 128-bit AES and Dynamic Key. Please consider sharing: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock (and Bridge), In-Depth Review of the Redkey F10 Foldable Cordless, Elechomes A3B Pro Series Air Purifier Review and, Guide to the Best Solar Powered LED Patio, 360 Robot Vacuum Cleaner S8 Review: Robot Vacuum, Autel MaxiCharger Review Home Level 2, Best USB to eSATA Adapter Cable: Helpful. Creating an account will allow you to easily place repeat orders, track them, and get first access to promotions and discounts! Remote control of the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock requires it to be paired with the included Ultraloq Bridge Wi-Fi Adapter. To find out, well have to dig a little deeper into its form and function. Instead, a smart lock can let you or others into the home with a fingerprint or password. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Bluetooth Smart Deadbolt provides multiple methods of keyless access, including smartphone, fingerprint ID, and PIN code entry. The users can be enrolled through the U-Tec app and are transferred and stored on the lock itself to verify access. Yes, this is a deadbolt model that would replace the existing deadbolt on your door. Had to wrap a wide rubber band around the housing to prevent this. The most reliable method of opening the U-Bolt is to use a passcode. There's also a walkthrough video thats mentioned right at the start. This means its designed to be installed in the top hole of a two-hole door. CNET hasn't reviewed the U-Bolt Pro, but the product earned an impressive 4.4-star average rating from over 4,000 Amazon buyers, and if you search for reviews elsewhere, you'll see that it ranks very highly. The tri-color LED indicator notifies you of access, BLE connectivity, battery and locking status. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock features an anti-peep numeric keypad and a solid resistant Zinc alloy casing that's extremely durable and weatherproof. We offer smart lighting, DIY and Pro-grade security systems, structured wiring products, thermostats and intercom systems. Requires the free U-tec App and a smartphone (iOS or Android). Lets start with the phone options: In addition to tapping a big on screen button, you can enable a GPS-powered geofence to automatically engage the lock when you leave the area and Bluetooth to automatically unlock it when you approach. This can be a useful feature if youre very concerned about security, or if you live alone. Install the U-tec App (iOS or Android) for a real keyless experience. He writes CNET's popular Cheapskate blog and co-hosts Protocol 1: A Travelers Podcast (about the TV show Travelers). Their smart devices provide simple and inexpensive solutions for everyone, and this dedication to their customers has resulted in their Ultraloq series of Smart Door Locks as the #1 Most Funded Smart Door Lock on Indiegogo, reaching 1600% funding from their devoted backers and satisfied customers. Your privacy along with your trust in our products and service is very important to us. This doesnt have the same hands-free convenience as proximity sensing, but it works more reliably. In the event that the batteries run out, youll have two options for emergency access. Physically, the U-Bolt Pro WiFi looks nearly identical to its predecessor, with just a few cosmetic changes. Its also great for parents who want to know when the kids get home from school. The main advantage is just how many options you have. If you can point us in the right direction Gordon Graham (verified owner) November 30, 2020. U-Tec designs smart security devices with customer safety and satisfaction in mind. This assumes, of course, that you have such a charger at the ready. Our free tech support, stellar customer service, competitive prices and fast shipping with no-hassle returns are reasons why Home Controls is your one-stop shop for designing and building a reliable smart home system. An auto-unlock geofencing system can be enabled if desiredI had better a better experience with this feature than I did with the 2019lock. Here its built-in, so right out of the box you can access the lock and receive notifications remotely. Hardwired Access Control & Electric Locks. Thats a pretty wide variable; if you end up at the shorter range of that estimate, you may start to wish youd chosen a lock with better battery life. Note: At no extra cost to you, we may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Connectivity is theoretically simple, but can become more complicated. All told, it seems that U-tec has really improved its hardware, and I encountered no trouble getting the lock affixed to my door and running in less than 10 minutes. But its biggest upgradeintegrated Wi-Firemains half-baked. (In some cases, it ranks highest.). When these are active, youll get a push notification every time your door is unlocked. Copyright 2022 IDG Communications, Inc. Much better, hiccup-free installation than the original model, Plenty of flexibility for any type of usage needs, Strict 2.4GHz Wi-Fi system will be a major problem for many. TechHive helps you find your tech sweet spot. 2022 CNET, a Red Ventures company. These are fairly vanilla measurements, which will apply to most exterior doors. The front of the cylinder functions as a fingerprint reader. There's a lot of smart home gear I really like, but I've always been on the fence when it comes to smart locks. U-tecs app experience has changed much less than its hardware, and I was able to quickly discover the lock and pair it to my phone via Bluetooth. Email us and we'll compare notes. These batteries are inserted in the indoor part of the housing, and will last for about three months of normal use. Rest assured GoKeyless RESPECTS your privacy. The lock runs on a pair of AA batteries, which Ultraloq says should last for up to one year or 8,000 uses. I have visions of racing to my door just a few steps ahead of a zombie horde, only to see a flashing error message because Bluetooth is being flaky. The bottom button is used for pairing with the bridge, and for reconnecting if there are any errors. Unless you need an ultra-accurate fingerprint reader, this is a great smart lock. The below response did not answer the question.