With the improvement in people's living standards, smart locks have become increasingly popular. However, many people are not very familiar with smart locks. Below, we will discuss what smart locks are, the common misconceptions about them, and provide some tips for selecting the right one.
What is a Smart Lock?
Functions of a Smart Lock
Unlike traditional locks that only provide the mechanical function of unlocking, smart locks offer many reliable and practical features to choose from.
1. Fingerprint Recognition
The most obvious benefit of fingerprint recognition is that there is no need to carry a key, which eliminates the embarrassment of forgetting or losing keys.
- Optical Recognition: Typically uses colored laser beams to detect fingerprints, which carries the risk of someone copying your fingerprint to unlock the door (like with company time clocks, which don’t have live detection).
- Live Fingerprint Recognition: No lasers are used, and the fingerprint sensor works similarly to an iPhone’s fingerprint recognition, only detecting live fingerprints.
Live fingerprint recognition uses semiconductor capacitive sensors, which are much more accurate and durable than optical recognition and consume less power, making them a reliable option.
2. Virtual Password Unlocking
As a backup to fingerprint unlocking, virtual passwords allow friends or relatives to input a password and enter without waiting for the homeowner. The biggest risk of password unlocking is that it can be seen by others or leave visible marks on the keypad if the same password is used frequently.
For enhanced security, choose a smart lock that supports "virtual passwords." What is a virtual password?
For example, if the real password is only six digits, you need to enter up to ten digits (up to 20 in some cases), but as long as the six digits of the real password are included, the door will unlock.
To avoid wear and contamination from constant keying, it’s better to choose a touchscreen panel that doesn’t leave fingerprints, rather than a keypad.
3. Network Monitoring
Once connected to the internet, you can monitor the lock's status via an app. Notifications will be sent when the door is opened.
By installing additional monitoring features, you can also track who uses the lock. If your child hasn’t come home on time or an elderly person forgets to lock the door, alerts will notify you. Many features require an internet connection.
4. Remote Control
Remote unlocking is a feature that is controversial. Some find it very convenient, while others feel it may be insecure.
The technology behind remote control is not problematic; however, accidental touches during operation can lead to security issues. It’s recommended to use the fingerprint or password unlocking directly on the lock for the highest security.
Main Components of a Smart Lock
The usability of a lock ultimately depends on its core hardware components. A high-quality smart lock integrates intelligent features with high-quality mechanical lock functions.
1. Lock Cylinder
The lock cylinder is the most crucial part of the lock's quality. Locks typically have A-level and B-level (or super B-level) cylinders.
- A-level: These keys are usually flat or cross-shaped and are easy to open with basic tools in about a minute. They are the least secure.
- B-level: These are more complex with double-row pins, taking longer (over 5 minutes) to unlock.
- Super B-level (C-level): These locks are nearly impossible to pick (the Ministry of Public Security tests show they take over 270 minutes to unlock). They also self-lock if forcibly opened, making them the most secure.
2. Lock Body
The lock body is another key component inside the lock that ensures smooth operation.
- Self- lock body: Automatically extends the latch and locks when the door is closed, providing the smoothest operation.
- Reverse-lift lock body: Requires lifting the handle to lock the latch manually.
- Electronic control lock body: Uses electronic components to extend the latch automatically. It is less stable than the above two mechanical options.
3. Touchscreen Surface
This is the most "high-tech" part of the lock. Small brands typically use acrylic, which is not very durable and can easily scratch. High-quality locks use highly durable diamond-coated glass for better hardness and scratch resistance.
4. Panel Material
Unlike traditional locks, smart locks have more panel material options.
Stainless steel, alloys, copper, and electroplated engineering plastics are the most common. Alloy materials are generally recommended for their excellent durability, wear resistance, and metallic feel.
5. Built-in Battery
Like smartphones, smart locks rely on batteries to power features like fingerprint recognition.
Smart locks typically use four AA batteries, which last about a year. If the battery runs low, the lock will notify you to replace it.
Locks with an external charging interface are convenient, as you can use a power bank to unlock the door in emergencies.
Common Misconceptions about Smart Locks
1. Smart Locks Automatically Lock During a Fire
Smart locks are not the same as fireproof doors. In a fire, the smart lock’s electronic components may fail due to high temperatures, but the mechanical part of the lock can still be opened from the inside without keys. Similarly, even if the panel is damaged, you can still escape through the door.
2. Smart Lock Connectivity Leaks Information
Connecting a smart lock to the internet allows for many features, like remote door control, monitoring suspicious activity, and tracking access logs.
Quality smart locks use Https+SSL encryption or ZigBee communication technology, offering financial-grade data security.
3. You Need to Replace the Door to Install a Fingerprint Lock
You do not need to replace your door to install a smart lock. Whether it’s a wooden, iron, copper, composite, or security door (even glass doors in offices), fingerprint locks can be installed.
Smart locks can be installed on doors with a thickness of 35mm to 100mm. Outside this range, installation may not be possible. Usually, the lock can be installed without replacing the door by modifying the existing hole.
Smart Lock Purchasing Suggestions
A smart lock not only provides a convenient way to open doors but also serves as an entry point for smart home systems. Whether to install one depends on your personal needs.
1. Choose a smart lock that allows you to easily add or remove fingerprints, which is useful when friends visit and you want to clear their fingerprints afterward.
2. Opt for a lock with a mechanical key as a backup, in case of any electronic malfunction.
3. Choose a smart lock with password input options, as fingerprint sensors may get dirty or damaged.
4. Select a smart lock with different access levels, so the homeowner has full control over fingerprint management.
5. Choose a lock that can store multiple fingerprints—this is a basic requirement.
6. It’s best to choose a lock with a record of door-opening data, so any unusual unlocking events are logged, which can be useful as evidence if necessary.
We hope this guide helps you understand smart locks and how to choose the right one for your needs. If you are looking for high-quality, cost-effective smart door locks, feel free to check our product section. Our products are certified by the US FCC and the EU CE, and we welcome your purchase.
