Customer Ratings & Reviews

I have been waiting to put a more advanced smart lock/door knob on our home until I found one that I really liked. With that I did have to get rid of our base that we had (Aqara Smart Hub M100) and get a more advanced one (Aqara Hub M3) so that I could set up the advanced features (individual fingerprints, individual codes, temporary codes, etc). So keep that in mind, and find out if your Thread Border Router is compatible with this before purchasing or you might have to upgrade your current system to support the Aqara Smart Lock U300. Unboxing & Initial Impressions Unboxing the Aqara U300 I could tell that it was going to be right at home with all of our other smart home devices, and our non-smart home items as well. The U300 has a beautiful finish to it, has a nice weight to it (without being overly bulky) & it does not look or feel like some of the cheap alternatives that are out there. It looks and feels premium. Rating: 5/5 Installation When I fired up the Aqara Home app and went about installing the Smart Lock the app walked me through everything. The door handle was on the opposite way of how I needed it, and so the app walked me through how to rotate the handle the other direction. Getting the U300 synced with my M100 hub was a bit of a chore. But I found out why, and that's because the advanced features (like individual fingerprints, individual codes, temporary codes, etc) were not supported. Once I found this out I immediately ordered the Aqara Hub M3. Once the M3 arrived & I set it up and got the U300 connected to it everything was great. So just be mindful of that. I'm going to deduct a half star because this was not in any of the literature I could find in the box or even in the app, I had to go digging to figure it out. Not a super seamless setup then for me & I want other to avoid the same frustration. I did run into an issue where if you were trying to shut the door from the outside you had to input your fingerprint or your code to get the knob to turn so you could shut the door because the striker would not push the latch in so that you could shut the door. It took 2 nights of me coming to see the front door was open to realize that others thought they had closed the door because of the loud thump you'd hear when the latch hit the striker but because it wouldn't push the latch in the door was open. So what I had to do was actually bend the striker plate just enough to where it would push on the latch and make it go in so you could easily close the door from the outside without putting in a code or your fingerprint. Super annoying, and this should have been done from the factory, another half star removed because of that. Rating: 4/5 Customization I touched on it during the Installation section but I'll expand on it here. When getting the U300 synced up with the M3 everything went super smooth. I was able to set codes for everyone in our household & set up a fingerprint for myself. This was all a breeze thanks to how intuitive the app is-once you have it set up with a full featured hub. Again, the manufacturer should explain to the user in a better way what hubs are and are not compatible with the advanced features in the app, on the box, in the listing, everywhere but they do not. So I want to keep making sure if you're reading this you know going in and have your eyes wide open to what you'll be spending to make it all work. But again, once synced to the M3 hub everything was available to me & the system worked flawlessly. Rating: 5/5 Conclusion The only major drawback are the no clear outlining of what hubs will and will not allow the advanced features to work, and then also me having to bend the striker plate. I don't know if others will have the latch-striker issue like I did, but I suspect at least some will have the not knowing why they can't use the advanced features issue. This technology isn't experiencing a bunch of adoption & I think it is due to how fragmented the segment is. I really hope Aqara can help to clear this up because their products (and we have numerous in our home) are exceptionally built, have been lasting us, and are products I recommend to friends, family & co-workers. I have steered numerous people to Aqara branded products because of how well built they are and how easy they are to set up. I think you will be extremely happy with the U300 if you give it a chance! Rating: 14/15

Over the last 5 years or so, I’ve been building and perfecting my SmartHome setup and decided Apple Home would be the primary hub for my system. With the addition of Matter, I’ve found a lot of devices that work great with my system. This device is no exception. I’ve really grown to prefer Aqara devices over other brands because of their HomeKit integration, price and features. In addition to this lock, I have Aqara’s G4 doorbell, G5 Pro POE camera, U100 door lock and several motion sensors as well. The POE camera is my favorite due to it being a dedicated Ethernet connection, so there are no interruptions and it works with HomeKit Secure Video. This lock would be my second favorite Aqara device. The installation was pretty straight forward. While I could have used the existing lock slide, I opted to replace it with the one Aqara provided. The directions could have been better, but I found several videos online that helped me complete a couple of small issues I had during installation. Once installed, setting it up in the Aqara app was simple with audible instructions from the lock and directions in the app. Getting it connected to my G5 Pro Camera wasn’t quite so simple and the reason I took off one star. I’ll admit, it could have been me, but I don’t recall having issues with the other devices. I had to pair and un-pair the device a couple of times to get it to bind to my matter device and that was when I was able to setup up the Apple Home Key. The lock timed out several times and it couldn’t find my matter device several more, but after searching for help on how to pair this lock with Matter, I found several helpful tips that finally got me up and running. That is about the only negative I have for this device. Once everything was setup in the Home and Aqara and was bound to Matter, everything else was simple. I did forget to mention that I was a little concerned when I noticed that the exterior handle didn’t open the door. The aforementioned videos that I found let me know that it wont unlock the door until either a passcode, fingerprint, key or NFC device unlocks it. I didn’t like this feature initially, but after seeing that I can delay it locking again in the app, I didn’t have a problem. My lock is installed in laundry room before going into the garage and I often forget to grab something as I’m about to leave so I set the delay lock feature to 5 minutes, which has worked out great for my family. I setup a passcode for each member of the family and had them test it out and the door unlocked surprisingly fast. I then programmed my fingerprint and tested it and I don’t think it could be any faster. I gave my wife the included NFC that I programmed and it responded very well also. I think the fingerprint reader is the fastest method for me as I just grab the handle and place my thumb on the lock at the same time. There is an audible tone that lets you know the door is unlocked. I ended up ordering two more NFC tags and will program them once they arrive. I then used the Home Key on my phone and watch and they both worked with no problem. I turned on express mode in the settings and I just have to place my watch or phone near the lock and then double click to verify and I’m in. I thought I would be able to just put my watch near the lock and it would open, but I have to double click it. This probably has more to do with Apple’s settings, than Aqara’s. I do like how the keypad only lights up when I am near it and then disappears when no motion is detected. The screen doesn’t seem to leave any fingerprints either due to the material it’s made from. The handle can also be changed to the other side quite easily by removing a couple of screws, turning the handle 180 degrees and then re-inserting the screws. Overall, this is a well thought out device, plenty of options for integrating it into your SmartHome setup and excellent customization. I think Aqara has a home run with this device.

I received this lock to try from Best Buy and was excited to add it to my smart home since I have a couple other Aqara products already. Unboxing the smart lock, I really liked the build quality. The lock and handle are a sleek matte black and the movement is smooth. Feels very much like a higher end door handle. I also looked great against my front door, the keypad in this model is nicely integrated. In addition, setting up the lock through HomeKit worked incredibly smooth and only took a couple minutes from start to finish. I was able to add it to my home, rename it and set up separate codes for me and my family quickly as well as set up my homekey with it for quick access. I also enabled some automations for auto-locking at bedtime and when I leave making it easy to have peace of mind. Overall a great option for a home door upgrade and easily fits into an Apple smart home ecosystem. Pros • Sleek, sturdy build that looks and feels high-end • HomeKit/Matter setup takes under five minutes • Supports Home Key, PINs, and fingerprints for flexible access • Local Thread connection means low latency and no separate hub • Auto-lock and passage modes are easy to toggle in the app Cons • No built-in Wi-Fi, so remote access requires a Thread border router • Lever orientation is fixed—measure your trim clearance first • Early firmware updates may prompt an occasional reboot

So I received my Aqara Smart Lock U300 kit a few days ago and have been putting it through its paces. First off this lock is very sleek and more modern looking. The finish is like a matte black and looks really nice on my door. The Smart Lock U300 comes packed very nicely with everything you need to get started. Upon opening the package, you will find the following: * Outer Panel & Inner Panel * (4) AA Batteries * Deadbolt * Strike Plate & Screw Kit * Mounting Plate & Screw Kit * (2) Mechanical Keys * (2) NFC Keyring Tags * Knob Removal Tool * Opposite Pull Screw Kit * Bolt & Strike Plate Screw Kit * Installation Diagram * User Manual It’s probably best to take inventory to make sure you have everything needed before starting. Once you’ve accounted for everything you’re ready to go. Assuming you have already removed your old deadbolt, you will need to download the Aqara Home app from the App Store on iOS or Google Play Store for Android. Create an account, and follow along with the app. One thing I love about the app is that the step-by-step instructions also include videos. After a few test runs with the door opened and testing out the app and the unlock/lock feature in the Home app from my iPhone, I stood outside (with my keys in hand) and locked the door. Now one might ask, where is the keyhole on this smart lock and it’s cleverly hidden behind the thumbprint/fingerprint sensor on the front door handle. To access it simply push in on one side and the other side pops open and reveals the keyhole. This is in the event your passcode fails or times out or in the event that your batteries die while you’re not home. I was able to quickly unlock the door from outside with the Aqara Home app as well as the Home app on my iPhone (I had my keys just in case I was to get locked out). There’s a slight noticeable lag that I hope gets worked out in a future firmware update. Speaking of which, make sure to update the lock’s firmware through the Aqara Home app. Something I noticed when I went to update the firmware, was that the update went without a hitch, but what it did was instead of updating to the most recent update, it updated to the update before the most recent one, so I had to update it twice before it said it was updated to the most recent update. Not sure why it didn’t just update to the most recent one to begin with but that was my experience. Once it was added to HomeKit, it also added a Virtual Home Key in Apple’s Wallet app on my iPhone which is nice. You can use it by placing it near the lock on the outside and it unlocks the door. Following along with the instructions I also programmed one of the NFC Keyring Tags so I could add it to my keyring as well. When using an NFC Keyring Tag, simply place the NFC Tag in the midsection of the keypad (numbers 4 thru 9) and say “Open Sesame,” no you don’t actually have to say it, it just unlocks the door for you. Another great feature about this Smart Lock is the Fingerprint sensor. I added a couple of fingerprints to the keypad as another way of unlocking my door as well as the 6-digit keypad code for entry. This is a very nice Smart Lock. I did notice a couple of quirks here and there, hopefully minor things that will get worked out in a future firmware update. It took me about 30 minutes to install this Smart Lock. Not a dealbreaker but one thing I did not like is the User Manual; that thing is tiny, not sure why companies are resorting to teeny tiny manuals with even smaller print. If you need a full sized manual it better to either find one online or follow along with the app. The app breaks the installation process up into small videos which makes it easier to install and ensures you’re using the right parts at the right time.

I like this lock, it looks and feels like something Apple would build and works seamlessly with the HomeKit without the need for a separate Wi-Fi hub. The fingerprint scanner is very quick and set up was easy. I like the seamless integration with Apple home key, you can add it to your wallet of everyone in your household and then you just tap your iPhone or watch and the lock opens immediately. Installation was pretty basic and easy, simple tools needed. I like the profile there’s no large battery pack or bulge on the interior. The only real con I have with us is it only connects via Bluetooth. But it does work with Alexa, Google home and Samsung smart things. Before engaging a smart lock, make sure you look at your door opening and ensure that it is plum and square and when you close the door, there’s not a lot of pressure. These types of openings are problematic for smart locks in general. The first door I tried to install it on was my garage door. That’s a little tweaked. I had to move the lock to a different location and the door opening will likely need a little work before a smart lot can be used. Overall, this is a great, smart, lack, looks good and quality build, I would definitely recommend these locks.

The Aqara Smart Lock U300 is one of the first of their products that offers Matter over Thread (previous products had Matter but not Thread). In case you aren’t aware, Matter = Your smart home’s language and Thread = a wireless mesh network. To utilize these things, and in the case of the U300, you must have a smart home hub to use it properly and access features. It doesn’t have to be the Aqara hub though. Hubs from the major companies (not sure about others) will work and allow you integrate the U300 with your other smart home products, even if they are not Aqara brand. With that out of the way, lets focus on the durability and functionality of the actual lock. It’s tough, heavy duty, and will appears that it will hold up well. I like the matte black, although, if you have anything other than a dark finish for your door handles/locks, it will not match. So, if that’s important to you, it’s something to think about it. I have a dark, antique bronze type finish on my door knobs and it blends decently well with that, though obviously not a match. Set up was pretty straightforward, but it did take me a little time to connect to Google. It did work, just slower than expected. If you’ve ever installed any kind of smart lock, you should be able to use the Aqara. Overall, there is room for improvement, but this is a top security lock on the market for homes right now and not out of bounds on the price point. So, with that and the features it offers in mind, keeping it at 5 stars.

Smart Lock you 300 from Aqara brings innovation to opening doors. No, but seriously, it has NFC and Apple home key compatibility, as well as a very sleek fingerprint reader. Bible home keys are cool because you can install them on your Apple devices, such as an iPhone and iPad, which gives you easy access to your home. The fingerprint reader can hold up to 50 fingerprints, so anything from an office with several employees to your home with a big family, you're good to go with this doorknob. You can unlock with the passcode you use on the keypad and the NFC tag you create, as well as with voice assistance from Google, Siri, and Alexa. You can also have remote access with the Aqara app that can be installed on your phone or device and Bluetooth from your phone. If you have company coming in, you can use a temporary passcode to set expiration dates so you won't forget. And let's not forget the good old-fashioned key. Installation was easy. You can go from right to left installation just by removing the installation screw on both handles. I'm using Alexa, but there are so many applications. It works for Google Home, SmartThings from Samsung, and Apple Home from Apple. I installed the Aqara Home app, which is pretty nice. I have a rental property that I'm using as an Airbnb. I'm going to get another for that one. I think it will be perfect with all the entry options. If you're looking for something pretty slick, I recommend this one.

Smart locks are a great addition to any home. I always make it a priority to install smart locks on my homes because I love having the ability to check my locks from just about anywhere. We recently purchased a home, and the front door had a smartlock installed already. Unfortunately, it was a home rental company lock, so it was hard to bypass some features and change the combination code to a personalized code. So, the opportunity came up to try the Aqara - Smart Lock U300 and I immediately went for it. One of my favorite features of the Aqara - Smart Lock U300 is the many options that you have to unlock the smart lock. from biometrics unlock, app, keypad, etc. you get it all. I love the ability to unlock my door with my fingerprint. No more having to look for keys to get into my home. As for the installation of the lock, it is really straight forward. You get just about everything that you need to install the lock. A template to make sure that the lock is compatible with your door, and the necessary hardware. It's pretty much like a direct replacement. As for the app, it is very responsive and easy to use. I was able to connect to my lock with no issues at all. Even the calibration of the lock was a breeze. I would highly recomment the Aqara - Smart Lock U300 to anyone.

The Aqara U300 Smart Lock is a smart lock with a ton of choices and options. What do I mean by this? Well, the fact that it uses the new Thread protocol allows it to be more universal and can be added to many different smart home setups that support the new protocol, this includes Apple, Google, Amazon, as well as more open source smart home management such as IFTTT and Home Assistant. Also included is the choices for how you want to open it; NFC cards, Apple Home Keys, pin codes(including temporary codes for guests/visitors), and even a fingerprint reader mean that you and your family have many options for how you use this smart lock to enter your house. All of these choices make the Aqara U300 smart lock a good choice regardless of how you choose to interact with your smart home. Other people have mentioned the difficulty setting up this smart lock due to the instructions only being available on the app, and while I had the same issues with setup, once it's completed you have a very capable and very easy to use smart lock that I would recommend to anyone looking.