Customer Ratings & Reviews

This product is awesome. It’s so easy to install and I was done in about 10 minutes. I love the app and being able to lock or unlock your front door from anywhere. The app also allows you to make different codes for other family members like your children. It’s nice being able to see when they access the front door after they get home from school. I would definitely recommend.

Review of Yale Assure Lock 2 The Yale Assure Lock 2, a Smart Lock Keyless Wi-FI Deadbolt with Apple Home Keys and Touchscreen Keypad Access includes features that makes easy to install and uniquely compatible to Apple HomeKit. Its size compared to other models, looks compact as its design is simplistic and compact framework. At least visually makes appealing appearance. But on hand, it is heavy (4 lbs), feels sturdy and secure as impression. To install (hardware side), 1. IF need to make new hole, the manual includes measurements and guidance on how to measure 2. IF existing door and has standard hole, it can skip the “1” above, and start immediately installing. It fits to existing door lock deadbolt as it is removed and replace. Afterward of either options, the process is straight forward. The only step where I struggled a bit was first finding the right screw that match the door thickness as the door lock includes three type of screws, and secondly connecting the cable between both parts, the exterior touchscreen keypad and the interior lock as it was bit challenging to identify which side match each other connectors. To setup (software side) First, I started by adding to the Apple Home Kit without downloading the Yale App, and without doing the Bluetooth connection to the phone. By scanning the code for HomeKit directly, it was added to HomeKit. And this process took me a bit of challenge as the code is inside the Interior Lock in vertical and the phone was not recognizing it at first attempt. However, to continue, it requires the Yale App and add the lock via Bluetooth, then all the corresponding setting has to be done from the Yale App. After this, at high-level, everything else are almost similar as adding any device to the phone, needing to change settings and personalize for security. The experience via HomeKit Using the default setting as is out of box, and having setup to integrate with HomeKit, it can control to open and lock without issues. The HomeKit add a wallet card, and with it, as approaching the phone to the door touchscreen lock, it immediate recognize and unlock/lock. It is like using Apple Pay. From the Home app, it has toggle button as move up/down lock/unlock. On the other hand, while watching Apple TV and anyone lock/unlock the door, a message pop on the tv screen about the status. Similarly, while I am away and kids at home open the lock/unlock the door, its status shows up on the phone screen, if not on iPad screen. Hence it works seamlessly across multiple apple devices. The result is same as the home key is shared to second user by adding via invite or as homeowner, and of course it is another apple device user. The experience of personalizing To personalize, for this it has to be done via Yale application. It allows to set alike Auto Lock, Auto Unlock, Door Ajar Timing, Door Sense, Smart Alert to mention some of their features. The Auto Lock/Unlock I find it most practical need to use in such case that when I come home automatically sense the device and unlock. What it does or made well At first attempt it does well: - Connect to iPhone via Bluetooth. - Adjustable deadbolt is long at least as it is for the door where has been installed. I don’t know the standard, but I think it is a good thing. - Noise while locking and unlocking is smoother sound compared to another model from different brand I have. -Interior Lock turning nob turns smoothly - The Yale Smart Module is a separate piece such can be added or removed. This allow the Wi-Fi connection and I think it is good to have the hardware option to connect or not to Wi-Fi due to the remote hacking concern. And removing it, it doesn’t allow to control remotely while being away from home. - Some of features are only available to change only by being next to the lock and cannot be modified remotely or being away. This add to the security aspect of the lock, I think. What I wish it would do better: 1 - Wire connector, it is hard to identify and match both sides. And it is hard to remove once it is connected. It takes a bit of hassle to disconnect. 2. - As Locking/Unlocking, it does the sound as if it is rotating twice. Feels like if it is locked, to unlock, lock and unlock again or internal motor turning full circle. This potentially is not efficient for battery’s duration. 3- Locking/Unlocking from the phone, it is not instant, there is latency from the moment initiate the action to actually lock/unlock, and I think it is more than reasonable time. Of course, there is several factors in between, but under same Wi-Fi Network with same phone, the process with other brand doesn’t feel that latency. This observation is from using it at front of the door lock. 4- Auto Lock/Unlock, it doesn’t recognize when the user is inside/exterior home. For instance, if I want the feature get activated when I am arriving home, from external side, and only work in this use case, I can’t. Or if there is a way of setting such way, I couldn’t find it, or it is not a simple settings process if there is such setting. 5- It requires to install Yale application. It is not included in the HomeKit once it is integrated or added to it. The become another app on the phone. The package reviewed here included: 1. Door Sense, 2. Smart Module, 3. Battery Cover, 4. Mounting Plate 5. Exterior Touchscreen Keypad 6. Interior Lock 7. 4 Batteries 8. Adjustable Deadbolt 9. Strike Plate 10. Screws, Reset Pin, and other needed accessories for installation. To finish, the Yale Assure 2 is for HomeKit is not very different to other models. Only difference and how it changes the experience is mostly the device added to Apple ecosystem and its user experience. The installation process is same as other platform, in the same setting the software side. But it is good and possibly save deadlock if need specific for Apple experience and doesn't want or convert or integrate through separate application.

TL:DR - Easy to install, the design of the lock itself is nice. I don't like the app, seems poorly designed, but the app is easy to use and navigate. I love Apple Home Key, but I love auto-unlock more using my phones GPS. Guest access is nice, but kind of a bummer each guest has to have a different code which caused me to group people in a 'contact' within the app. For example "My Parents" as one contact, and "Wife's Family" as another group. I wish the app had the ability to group people. Aside from the app though, I enjoyed it. Highly recommended. ---------- First and foremost, the installation was super easy. It was essentially a brainless procedure. I'm not super, but even for me this was simple. The manual covers a lot of different types of doors, but if you have a standard house, I imagine it'll be fairly plug and play like it was for me. The hardest part of the install for me was the door sensor which I opted to install within the door frame rather than outside it. I did have to run to the store to buy a drill bit, but it was worth the trip. Despite getting the right size, the hole I made in my door frame was a tad too big and the sensor just fit right in, but wouldn't stay in. The manual recommends adding a little tape to the outside to help it stay in. I did just that and it's in there. I don't think it's gonna be a problem for me. The Smart Lock can pair to your phone using bluetooth, but this particular unit comes with a WiFi adapter. And from what I can tell, this adapter can be purchased separately which I think is awesome. Future upgradability for those that want to go without for now and upgrade later. Setting up the app was also very easy. In hindsight, I wish I downloaded the app first before I attempted the install because it goes through the installation step by step which would have been nice as a visual guide rather than reading the manual. Once I got the app setup and the lock configured, testing the lock was super simple. The app though is a downside to this product. I love the lock, it's a good looking device, a bit noisy when unlocking and locking, but overall the hardware is fantastic. The app on the otherhand is very poorly done. Visual glitches on iPhone, cumbersome design, and looks like something from the early 2000s. It's not a nicely done app, but it could be argued it has function over form. Setting up guest access was super easy, and I love the fact it can be set up as reoccuring for a house cleaner for example. Or temporary for a guest visiting, and always access for your kiddos to have a way in. It's kind of inconvenient for me since each user has to have a different code. So I ended up naming a group of people rather than naming the individual itself. For example "Wifes Family" as a first and last name and they had a code they could share, and my parents, got another code. Speaking of getting in, the keypad is one of four main ways to get into your house (and locking it too). First is the keypad itself. Second is the app, third is basically every voice assistant out there, and lastly Apple Home Key which I enjoy a lot more than I thought I would. Apple Home Key was super easy to set up. My wife which also has an iPhone and is also a family member in iCloud got the key. It just showed up in her wallet. She didn't have to do anything which I loved. I mentioned there's 4 major ways to unlock your door, but there's a couple other ways which I loved more which is Auto Unlock. It uses your phones GPS to handle this. After you exit a range it can be set to lock (or on a timer), and when you return, it'll auto unlock the door. FANTASTIC!!! At first I was super nervous about not having a key for the front door, but all things considered, I don't think it'll be missed. Plus it has a spot for a 9V battery to power on the lock in that situation. Granted if it has an electronic failure you're stuck, but fingers crossed that doesn't happen. I feel like I can go on about it's feature set, but long story short, I highly recommend it, it has made the door a lot more convenient. I really like this lock.

Good lock, works with HomeKit and Apple iPhone and Apple Watch.

I was looking for a keypad entry lock for my home, and I'm glad I selected the Yale Assure Lock 2. On the surface, one might think this is a straightforward deadbolt with a keypad. It can be, but this lock offers so much more in terms of controlling who and how they can unlock your door. This lock offers so many ways to lock and unlock the door and grant guest access. You can unlock the door with a permanent or temporary PIN, the native app, or an Apple Home Key, the slickest method. For someone who isn’t handy, first looking at the package and its contents may be daunting – don’t let it be. The lock is built to be compatible with most standard deadbolt cutouts in North America, and the installation is straightforward when using the provided instructions via the Yale app. The app guides you through each step of the installation with both a written description of the installation step and a video to show you how it’s done. The instructions are top-tier and set this product apart in its class. In the box is everything you need to install this, including the keypad, the interior turn handle/logic board, striker, strike plate, screws, batteries, door close sensor, and a Wi-Fi module. I only needed basic hand tools such as a Phillips screwdriver, tape measure, level, and a pencil. I did choose to mount the door close sensor flush in the door jamb, so I also needed a drill and a 5/8” spade bit. Following the steps in the app, it took me about 30 minutes from start to finish, to get this physically installed and paired with the Yale app. Installation starts with downloading the Yale app, scanning the product code, providing guided instructions for the hardware installation, pairing the device with the app, setting up the Wi-Fi setup, and setting up the Home Key. One nice security feature of this lock on the physical side was the inclusion of long door jamb screws for the strike plate. The old deadbolt I replaced this with had screws that were maybe 1 ½” long; these screws were at least three inches, maybe longer – definitely long enough to sink into the lumber behind the doorjamb to provide extra strength for the strike plate. I also chose to countersink the door close sensor. This required me to drill a 5/8” hole in the doorjamb and sink the magnetic sensor into it. As long as you have the right drill bit, this step only takes about 5 minutes to complete and makes the installation look a lot more professional. The other option leaves a door close sensor mounted to the trim around the door inside. Once you complete the physical installation, the app guides you through setting up the keypad code, inviting other users to the app, and setting up an Apple Home Key. Setting up the PIN code for entry is very straightforward—you enter a minimum 4-digit PIN code to operate the deadbolt. After that, the app guides you through the Wi-Fi configuration, allowing you to invite others to the app. Once the device is connected to Wi-Fi, you can lock and unlock the door using the app. You can invite app users as owners or guests, with guests getting either “always” access, access setup on a recurring schedule (great if you have a housekeeper that comes on a set schedule), or you can set up temporary access through a certain date/time - great if you have houseguests staying for a week, or if you use this lock for an AirBNB type rental. Guest users can use the app or a personally assigned PIN code to identify those coming and going. The killer feature here is the Apple Home Key. Apple Home Key is part of Apple Home and it allows you to use your iPhone or Apple Watch as a key for the door. Setting up the Home Key was easy as the app guides you through the process, and the key goes right into your Apple Wallet. It was also immediately available on my Apple Watch, and both the phone and the watch went into Express Mode, which activates the key without user interaction. All you need to do to unlock the deadbolt is bring your phone or watch near the lock; the phone or watch presents the Apple Home Key, and the lock opens. On the phone, you can set Home Key up to require the phone to be unlocked (i.e. FaceID or passcode) before the key works. The Apple Watch Home Key works as long as your watch is unlocked. Apple Home Key is not without its drawbacks, though—and the big one is guest access. To provide a guest with an Apple Home Key, you must have an Apple Home Hub configured, which is either an iPad, AppleTV, or Apple HomePod, to act as the “gateway” of sorts to interface with the lock and Apple. The device designated as the hub must always remain at home, so an iPad may not be the best choice. This is all a limitation of Apple’s Home system and is in no way a limitation of the lock. There are plenty of options to provide guest access outside the Apple Home Key if you don’t have an Apple Home Hub. One comment on the app access: I gave my Wife access to the door prior to her having the Yale app installed, and the August lock app that we use for another lock notified her that she was now a user on another lock. Comparing the Yale and August apps, they are very similar, so this points to a shared back end. The app also pointed to integrations with other platforms like Alexa and ITTT – so the possibilities with this are virtually unlimited. The lock itself looks great on the door, and the PIN pad remains invisible until you touch it. At that point, the lights on the keypad turn on, and then you can see each number on the PIN pad. Overall, this is probably the most flexible smart deadbolt on the market today. It’s a great piece of kit for controlling access without managing physical keys. If I needed to, I’d buy one for each property I needed to control access to.

I had no trouble installing the Yale smart lock. This is my third Apple Home lock in my house but first from Yale. All I needed was a screwdriver to remove my old manual deadbolt and install the new one. No more than 15 minutes. Setup does require you to download the Yale app and register for an account. There is a “smart module” which comes in a little box that you must install otherwise you will not be able to connect to your Wi-Fi. Everything fit perfectly without any adjustments. The keypad looks nice and lights up when you touch it. The best feature is that I can use my iPhone or Apple Watch and unlock the door simply by placing it next to it. To do this without unlocking your phone, you are going to want to make sure to enable “Express Mode” in your Home Key settings. Another nice feature that you get with Apple Home is that the Home Key will be automatically set up with everyone that you’ve invited to your Apple Home meaning my wife can use her phone and my kids can use their watches just like I can. Placing my iPhone or Watch near the lock will unlock it instantly without delay. You can even unlock if your phone is dead as a small charge is maintained and NFC is still functioning. There is also an “Auto Unlock” feature that can unlock your door when you arrive at home using the location settings on your phone. I am not using this feature as it’s on my backdoor and I do not need that door to unlock when I arrive home. Prefer it to stay locked at all times unless I am in the backyard. With the Wi-Fi support you can check that your door is locked from anywhere or lock/unlock it through the Yale app or Apple Home. However, I noticed you can not change a lot of the lock settings without being connected via Bluetooth. This might be intentional just to prevent any bad actors from accessing the lock’s settings over the internet, but it seems weird to me. I would like to be able to adjust settings from anywhere through the security of the app alone. You also need to set up a “master code” before you set up your entry codes. Apparently, this code is so you can program the lock through the keypad but I’m not sure why anyone would do this as everything can be programmed through the app and I never needed this code. I also received errors if I tried to set an entry code to be the same as the master code. While quirky these do not really affect the daily usage of the lock. Note that to use Siri or the Home app away from home need a Home Hub in your house such as an Apple TV or Homepod. The lock also supports other smart home integrations such as Alexa, Google and Amazon but I didn’t test those out as I primarily use Apple’s system. I’ve only had the lock for about a week so I can’t comment on how long the batteries will last but they are standard AA batteries and are easy to replace. My other Apple Home locks last several months so I’m expecting this one to do the same. The lock does not have a key or a key cylinder which some may not be comfortable with, but I consider it to be a good thing because I have no interest in dealing with physical keys. Pros: - Apple Home and Home Key Support - Easy Install - Bluetooth and Wifi Connectivity - Should fit most doors - 9-volt “jumper” for dead battery - Share codes with family - Auto-lock Feature (up to 30 min) - Auto Unlock Geofencing Feature - No Keys; Can’t be lock-picked Cons: - None really Overall – an easy to install lock with the standout feature being Home Key support so you can just use your Apple iPhone or Watch to easily unlock your door.

I have had another version of this latest generation of the Yale smart deadbolts for a few months before getting this one for another door in my house, and knew as a result what to expect in a few aspects going in. For one, they are super reliable locks and operate very smoothly. They are very easy to install with full step by step instructions including video walkthrough in the Yale app, and only require a screwdriver at a minimum if you don’t want to make any permanent changes to your door frame. You can go a bit further during the install with an entry sensor that goes into the frame that requires a drill bit, but you can also install that sensor with just double-sided tape to the trim instead or bypass it entirely. The sensor allows the lock to detect if the door is closed or not to disable the auto-lock feature which is very nice to have. Back to the install, it goes together easily and looks nice when all is done. The touchpad is completely blacked out until you interact with it which causes the number pad to light up, and there is a pair of contacts underneath the touch pad that you can press a 9V battery against in the event the 4 AA batteries die while you are away allowing you access. This is important because the only way to operate this deadbolt is electronically as it does not have a physical key. That 9V backup feature is important since the biggest downfall of this lock by far is that the battery life is absolutely abysmal. This is one of the things I knew would happen when I got it based on the other lock I have which has the same problem, but what I failed to realize is that first lock is on a door that isn’t our primary entry point and therefore is used much less frequently than where I placed this particular one. So, I was anticipating the same 3-week lifespan on the batteries which is already quite poor but because of how much more use it gets on the garage where we enter our house regularly, I am literally 5 days into ownership since installing it with brand new batteries and am already being warned that they are nearly depleted which is totally unacceptable. There are some real positives with this lock, the Apple Home Key support is so much more convenient and reliable than I imagined, and I love being able to just hold my watch up to it to unlock. It has not failed me once yet but if it did the keypad is always there. You can quickly lock it again by touching the Yale logo at the top. It really is simple to live with. Remote access with HomeKit is also very good as it reports its status very quickly and notifies my phone every time I want it to. Setting that up was also very easy and frustration free. I like the way it looks, feels and functions. I hate how poor the battery life is. Replacing batteries what seems like will be once a week is a real issue and brings it down a lot. I hoped when I saw a firmware update for both of my locks that maybe that issue would improve but it has not. I believe the wifi module is the primary culprit in the battery performance, and it can be removed but that would also sacrifice the ability to use the lock remotely or check in on its status. As it stands, I am willing to overlook the battery issue for now since I am excited about Home Keys but in a few weeks or months when I have swapped batteries a dozen plus times, I may not have a lot of patience left for it. I must keep a 9V close by in my garage in case it dies otherwise I would be unable to get into my house. If it weren’t for that I would happily recommend this deadbolt to everyone in the Apple ecosystem, but it is difficult to do so.

Great Easy to unlock/lock Solid Feel Includes Wi-Fi module Ability to detect if door is ajar/open/closed Multiple install options Allows temporary and scheduled access Reliable once set up Wi-Fi module is swappable with other modules Doesn’t require battery draining Wi-Fi for Homekit Not So Great Multiple install options are more complicated No manual unlock method App setup slow Homekit is via Bluetooth restricting speed and distance Short battery life with Wi-Fi module (worse with poor Wi-Fi) The Yale Assure Lock 2 has a clean and simple appearance. The back only has the lever to lock the deadbolt and the front only has the keypad with the Yale logo. The numbers aren’t visible until you tap the pin pad or logo area. The kit includes a Wi-Fi module for remote access which can be changed with other modules. Included in the box is an optional DoorSense Magnet which allows the lock to know if the door is closed, ajar, or open. Installation 8/10 The physical installation includes a very detailed booklet with measurements for different sized doors and offsets so you can ensure the lock is compatible with your door and how to install it for your specific door. While it does add complication it ensures a proper install if you follow it completely removing any guesswork. Hardware is included for several installation scenarios. The app also has videos to walk you through the install step by step although strangely they are displayed in widescreen format while in portrait mode. You can’t view them full screen to make them easier to view. If you have a computer or tablet handy it might be easier to just look up the videos on YouTube as Yale has posted them to their channel. The basic setup through the app was straightforward and easy requiring only patience as the pairing, update, and setup process is slow. It also walks you through setting up the Wi-Fi module which adds extra functionality like the ability to change settings remotely, set up guest codes, Autolock, Autounlock, and remote alerts for events. Homekit pairing was similarly easy but even slower. First, you need to have either a Homepod or Apple TV nearby. While it doesn’t say, the connection to Homekit is via Bluetooth. This was also verified by removing the Wi-Fi module and it was still accessible via Homekit. In my case this meant with my Apple TV a fair distance apart the setup was slow and laggy. Status and controls are also slow until I put a device closer. The good thing is once setup is complete Apple Home immediately noticed the new Homekey and prompted to add it. No other setup is needed and both the phone and Apple Watch automatically installed the key. While not a Yale issue, the Homekey didn’t work for one family member. When they would tap their phone, it would just say done and nothing would happen. The only way to fix it was to remove the family member from Apple Home and reinvite them. Once connected to Homekit the lock was exposed to automations meaning it could be set to lock automatically when all family members left the house. It could also be set to unlock when a family member arrives. This is not recommended as it could unlock when you are just nearby the house and not in front of the door. There could be some creative workarounds with a more sophisticated automation but careless use could leave your house unlocked. Usage 9/10 Coming from an old Yale Smart lock it seems they have improved the internals of the Assure Lock 2. The lever feels more smooth and solid and doesn’t get hung up when locking like the old version did even using the original striker plate. Actuation is also easier but does sound a bit loose with a metallic clunk on lock and unlock which is more common on budget and mid-range locks. During daily use the lock as been very reliable. Unlocking via the keypad is treated as a secondary feature. The numbers are not visible to start. You must tap the keypad area or the Yale logo for the numbers to light up. Locking from the outside requires you to touch the Yale logo. While the keypad is touch sensitive, it requires a large area pressed to register your finger. Pressure doesn’t make a difference, but size does even requiring some family members to use their thumb to properly register a key press. It works, but isn’t quite a standout in quality. Homekey with an Apple Watch or iPhone is the star of the show with this lock. You just hold it up to the keypad for 1-2 seconds and the door unlocks automatically. Yale seems to have also improved the lock/unlock speed compared to their older models. The motor sounds more powerful and the deadbolt moves more quickly. The slowest part of the unlock process was waiting for the phone/watch to unlock the door. It has been so convenient that the family is ready to change the other locks in the house. An interesting benefit is the Apple TVs in the house show who just entered. You can be watching TV and when a family member unlocks with their Apple device the TV will show the name of the family member and which door they unlocked. While it is a small feature it is really handy to know who just came in while you are watching a movie loudly. Since this has no manual unlock method from the outside you don’t want to be caught with dead batteries. There is a backup option of using a 9-volt battery but of course most people don’t just carry those around. One thing that isn’t well documented is how to check the battery level. The Yale app doesn’t show battery life and only tells you when they are low, but the Apple Home app does show battery percentage remaining. Unless you just ignore the notifications, you should have plenty of time to put a fresh set of batteries in. The main downside is a limitation of Homekey. As of the time this review was written there is no way to share a Homekey without giving someone access to your entire Apple Home. The only current restriction is you can block there access away from the home. It would be nice if Apple does implement this so you don’t have to make a choice between creating pin codes for guests or giving them full access to your entire smart home. Final Thoughts The Yale Assure Lock 2 is a sleek and easy to use Homekey lock. After you start using it, it’s hard to imagine going back to traditional locks. The main features missing are on the Apple Home side so it is hard to fault Yale for this. If you are in the market for a Homekey lock, like the sleek looks of the Assure Lock 2, and don’t want to wait for the next generation which can detect proximity to unlock nearby then the Assure Lock 2 is a solid offering.

This is my second Yale smart deadbolt and they've definitely made some improvements. What's most important though is that it secures the door to your home while keeping it easy enough to access for those that should have or need access. A smart deadbolt has to be something you can trust and not have to worry about when you're away. I'll say this Yale meets that criteria. First though is the install. Between an actual printed guide and detailed instructions with videos online and through the Yale app, installing this deadbolt couldn't be much easier. I especially like how they give you an easy to use measurment printout to verify different dimensions before you dive in too deep. Even though I have a tall front entry door, the latch and bolt holes were all standard so I didn't even have to make any adjustments to the lock, it fit perfect right out of the box. Of course I did already have an older version of the Yale lock so I didn't expect any issues. I definitely suggest starting the install using the Yale app. You'll need it anyway to make full use of the smartlock and it's just easier to follow along with it from the start. After the physical installation it'll take you through getting the lock connected to WiFi, calibrated, and let you add users and setup entry codes and access with Apple Home, which we'll get to in a bit. The Yale app makes it easy to manage access and always know the status of the lock, and whether you locked it when you left your home. Best part is that if you see that you did forget to lock it, all you have to do is tap the control in the app and you can lock it from anywhere. To the same point, if you're away and need to unlock the door for someone who doesn't have a code, or only needs the one time access, you can unlock it from anywhere as well. Personally, I prefer to give different people their own codes, even my wife and daughter, instead of making just one shared code. With the apps history and notification system, you'll always know who's coming in and out of your house, or even who may have given it out! The app also works with multiple Yale products. As I mentioned, I have an older Yale lock, so that one I moved to a side entry door to give another access point. This kind of gives a back up too in case the other lock lost power. Which takes me to a big point I want to talk about. Having a deadbolt reliant on power with no physical key can be worrisome. What happens when the batteries die? How do you get in? Do you risk being locked out of your own home? First off, the battery life is pretty decent. I don't have the exact lifespan but it's no more or less than I would expect. You can always check the app for the status and it should notify you when the batteries are getting low. Also, you'll see a blinking light from the inside when the batteries are critical, so if you see it, don't wait to replace the batteries. If you don't see any of the warnings though, there is one last failsafe, which for some reason Yale doesn't mention anywhere, at least not anywhere I've looked, including online or in their guide. If you look under the bottom of the exterior keypad, you'll see two small posts. All you have to do is hold up a 9 volt battery so that the terminals are touching those posts and that will provide power to the lock so that you can open it. This was a negative I had about my old Yale that I saw many other people complained about also, even though that one did in fact have these posts as well. I just don't understand why Yale doesn't talk about them anywhere in the manual or on their site. The biggest upgrade for the Assure 2 Plus is the integration with Apple Home Keys. Using my iPhone, it couldn't have been much easier to add this lock into my Home app and Wallet. It recognized the lock right away and makes it so easy to open the lock. With my phone in my hand as I'm walking up to the door I just stretch my arm out to put the phone next to the lock and it opens so quick I almost don't even need to stop. For my wife it's even easier as she has an Apple Watch which works too. The only negative thing I really have to say about this lock is the fact that it is a bit bulky and not the best looking lock. The exterior pad isn't too bad and at least the face of it stays dark keeping the pad buttons hidden until you awaken it and they light up. The interior side though with the latch, smart module, and battery compartment is a bit unsightly. It doesn't help that it has to house 4 - AA batteries. Appearance aside, this is a lock that works, is reliable, and trustworthy. Add in the Yale app and Apple Home Keys integration and managing access to your home couldn't be any easier.

I was excited to get the recently released Yale Assure Lock 2 WiFi Smart Lock Keyless Deadbolt with Apple Home Keys and Touchpad as I have an earlier version of this lock and wanted to see how Yale has improved upon an already excellent deadbolt. The Yale Assure Lock 2 is super easy to install and setup and is one of the best-looking devices I saw based on my search for a smart lock. The brushed nickel finish matches most any standard “silver” door handle setup. This model supports WiFi and Bluetooth and is a keyless option that completely replaces an existing deadbolt. It is operated by using the Yale Access app, a keypad on the exterior, Apple Home Keys or a manual switch on the interior. Some locks provide integration with existing lock mechanisms, the Yale Assure Lock 2 completely replaces the existing deadbolt mechanism. For my installation, the lock replaced an existing manual deadbolt on an exterior door leading into the garage. Set Up - As mentioned earlier this is a replacement lock and was super easy to install. Once the existing deadbolt unit was removed, I used the included measuring guide to make sure the Yale lock would fit and to determine which hardware to use for my door size. The lock ships with an instruction manual and there is also instructions available on the app. By scanning a QR code. I watched the videos on the app to familiarize myself with the lock and used the hard copy manual when installing. You will need a Philips head screwdriver for the install assuming you are replacing an existing lock and not installing for the first time. However, Yale does provide measuring guides and templates for installing on a new door. Once the physical install is completed, which took about 20 minutes, it's time to calibrate the lock and customize the features with the Yale Access app. For this installation, the additional sensor for monitoring if the door is open/closed will not be installed. The app is very easy to use for calibration and setup and integration with Apple Home Kit is supported if you want to go that route. The lock also supports Apple Watch, which is a great option so you don't even need your phone to unlock. My lock calibrated on the first attempt and was ready to be customized. Yale Access app - the app allows for remote unlocking/locking, auto-locking and DoorSense functions and notifications, setting up home and user profiles, etc. The app is secured with Commercial Grade 2 security including encryption so it gives you that piece-of-mind for the security of your home. I set myself up as the home owner and created the keypad code for use from the exterior side. I also added my wife by setting up her profile and sending an invite via text. Codes can also be setup for guests which is a nice option if someone needs access when you are not in the area. Apple Home Keys – there is a scannable code on the side of the lock under the battery cover which needs to be entered into Apple Home for setup. For some reason I couldn’t get my iPhone to scan the code so it needed to be manually entered. Set up took a couple of minutes and the lock was added to my Apple Home account. The lock with operate by simply touching your iPhone or Apple Watch to the keypad. For the Apple Watch, the operation button needs to be double clicked to operate. Operation - The Yale Assure Lock 2 is super easy to operate either manually or electronically. With Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities it can be operated from near or far. From the interior there is a manual latch to lock. Externally there is a keypad only, so you'll need to setup a code if you want to open it manually (not using phone or watch). For locking simply touch the "Yale" logo and the door locks. For unlocking, touch the "Yale" logo, enter your code and hit the "check" button. For Apple Watch it's just lock and unlock, but that's all that's really needed. The app then allows for all the additional features and settings. The lock works very smoothly and after a week of use there have been no issues. Pros: - Made by Yale, one of the most trusted names in locks - The brushed nickel matches my existing handle perfectly - Ease of installation, set up and operation – multiple setup hardware supplied - Integration with Apple Home Keys - Lifetime warranty for finish and mechanical parts - Supports remote entry and guest passwords Cons: - Setting up Apple Home Keys, my iPhone wouldn’t scan their setup code, needed to be manually entered. The Yale Assure Lock 2 with WiFi and Apple Home Keys is the perfect option for replacing an existing deadbolt or adding it to a new home. It's well made, secures your home and provides the convenience of being able to operate it via BT or WiFi. All the features give me that added sense of security when away from home. I would recommend this lock to anyone who wants to make their home smarter!

I’ve been slowly converting my smart home devices to the Apple HomeKit ecosystem over the past year and my garage door lock was next on my list. I’ve been using another Yale smart lock on that door for a while, but it doesn’t support HomeKit. Enter the Assure Lock 2. It has all the functionality you’d expect from a smart lock, but the addition of HomeKit unfortunately introduces some quirks and complications that you should be aware of. === INSTALLATION === - In the box, Yale has included everything you need for an easy installation. You’ll first need to use the measurement pages to make sure your door is the proper thickness and check if your existing holes are compatible with the lock. If not, there is a hole marking template you can use to make or adjust holes. Luckily, I didn’t have to make any adjustments to my door. - Once you make any necessary adjustments, installation is easy. I would recommend first downloading the Yale Access app which has some great how-to videos to make installation a breeze. The hardest part for me was connecting the wire cable to the interior of the lock. The wire connector is hard to maneuver and even harder to disconnect if you need to make any adjustments to the lock. - This model includes the Yale Smart Module which you’ll need to remember to install at the top of the lock. This module is what gives the lock Wi-Fi capabilities. - You can also install an optional DoorSense sensor which will allow you to use the Yale Access app to tell if your door has been left open. I didn’t install this sensor since it wouldn’t be very useful for me. - Once you’ve installed the lock and inserted the batteries, the lock can be set up in the Yale app and added to your Apple Home setup by scanning the QR code under the battery cover. === LOCK PERFORMANCE AND HOMEKIT === - Assuming you’re an Apple user, you’re going to have to use two apps to get the most out of this lock: both the Apple Home app and the Yale Access app. Once you’ve added the lock to your Apple Home, you can only use the Yale Access app to lock/unlock when you are within Bluetooth range of the lock. If you are outside of Bluetooth range, you will need to use the Apple Home app to lock/unlock. Additionally, you’ll have to use the Yale app to control almost all other functions of the lock, including Auto Lock/Unlock, DoorSense, and Smart Alerts. Long story short: controlling this lock is more complicated than it needs to be, but that’s a sacrifice you’ll have to accept for HomeKit compatibility. - After you add the lock to your Apple Home app, a “key card” is added to your Apple Wallet which allows you to simply tap your iPhone or Apple Watch against the lock to unlock your door. When it works, it works wonderfully. Unfortunately, over the past week of using this lock, there have been two times where the lock has shown as “unresponsive” in the Apple Home app, forcing me to enter my code on the lock’s touchscreen to unlock the door. The only way to resolve this is to remove all the batteries from the lock, wait a few seconds, and then reinsert the batteries. I don’t know if this is a HomeKit issue or a Yale issue, but I’ve seen the same thing happen with other HomeKit-enabled devices such as smart plugs and smart light bulbs. - There are sometimes very long delays when trying to lock/unlock via HomeKit. Three times, I’ve noticed at least a 10 second delay after initiating an unlock via the Home app before the deadbolt responds. It’s hard to tell whether this is a problem with my HomeKit setup or with the lock itself. - Other than these small issues/quirks with HomeKit, all other aspects of the lock work very well. I have created entry codes for everyone in my family as well as a guest codes for my neighbor. I’ve set up Auto Lock on a recurring timer in case I forget to lock the door before I go to bed. The numbers on the keypad are large and illuminate very nicely === OVERALL === As a smart lock, the Yale Assure Lock 2 checks off all the boxes and has all the features you would expect. It’s the HomeKit integration where things get complicated, and I don’t know if this is a Yale problem, an Apple problem, or a problem with my own setup. My previous Yale smart lock did not support HomeKit, so I never had to worry about this. With the Assure Lock 2 sometimes appearing as “unresponsive” in my HomeKit setup, I have found myself frequently bypassing the lock’s HomeKit features and simply using my entry code on the keypad to unlock the door – at least I know the entry code will always work, but it seems like HomeKit might not have as much luck. Maybe things will improve with future firmware updates.

You’re starting to see these smartlocks all over now in the retail world. There’s many brands and configurations. I wanted this Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus because it works with my Apple HomeKit. Like Apple or not, their products work seamlessly together. I won’t keep going on that since this is not a review of Apple, but this awesome smartlock. Opening up the package was a little daunting, due to all the parts that come with it, and the large manual. Don’t be discouraged as it’s way less complicated than my first impression. If you follow the steps in the manual it’s easy as pie. I recommend downloading apple HomeKit if you don’t already have it on your iPhone. Also, not just recommended, but necessary, download the Yale access app and make an account before beginning. The first part of the process is to check all your measurements of your existing door, and hatdware currently installed. The first two pages of the manual are tearaway pages you can use step by step that have measured templates on them. Yale really thought of the customer with these helpful tools, nicely done! Installing the actual lock and keypad was a breeze, and again, follow the steps and you’ll have no problem. I guess I should state the obvious, but if you’re not handy with a wood chisel, drill, or measuring, you might need to hire someone to do this. Never fails, there always seems to be some adjusting necessary when dealing with door locks and door frames, no fault of Yales. This lock is battery operated (AA, x4) so time will tell how fast it drains the power. Yale is nice enough to include 4 batteries with the lock, however, I have security cameras that use AA lithium batteries so I’ve purchased rechargeable AA batteries which I will be using for this lock. There is also a DoorSense sensor (optional) that you can install 2 ways, surface mount or flush mount inside the door frame above the deadbolt strikeplate. I recommend this feature as it will keep tabs on whether or not your door is open or closed. If you don’t have hole saws for your drill, you can run to a hardware store and pick one up very cheap. You will need a 5/8” hole saw. This installation process is my only hangup with this lock. I installed the doorsense in the flush mount manner with a brand new 5/8” hole saw bit. The sensor is designed to wedge into the hole to stay put. It was VERY loose, so I tested opening the door and closing it and every singe time the sensor would pop out of the hole. Inspecting it ,there was plenty of clearance for the edge of the door to close without touching the sensor, over 1/8”. The vacuum lock, or pressure caused from opening and closing the door is what was pulling it out of the whole each time. I ended up super gluing it in and now it’s fine. My suggestion would be to drill a hole slightly smaller than 5/8” and file it bigger to make a tighter fit for the sensor. Once everything was installed , we made quick work of connecting to our wifi, and our Apple HomeKit. It’s insane how nice it is to be able to open this lock with our apple watches, siri on the phone, or even the homekit app that adds it to your wallet so all you have to do is literally hold your phone up to the lock and that’s it. (see pic) The phone and the lock do the rest. There’s 5 of us in the house, and we no longer lock the door handle during the day, only the Yale deadbolt. My only fear is that with so many people in and out every day using the lock, the batteries will not last long. Someone with only 1 or 2 people will probably not have to worry so much about that. All in all my first experience with a smartlock has been a great one. I highly recommend this product, works great!!!

I recently replaced my kinda smart lock, that i had for few good years, with this awesome deadbolt Assure Lock 2 from YALE that packs all the technology you can ask from a good smart lock in 2024! Being an Apple Home key user this Yale Lock choice was a no brainer since i'm the guy that would always miss-place his actual set of keys. My phone is always in my possession and makes the acces into my place so convenient! I think being able to just tap with my Iphone to unlock the door has been my favorite future of this lock so far! The installation of the lock was a breeze! It is literally super easy, the only tool i had to use was a Phillips screw driver and 30 minutes of my time and i'm no expert, everything was so intuitive and the instructions very easy to follow! The lock has a sleek design while it's off it really blends in compared to my old lock and gets very bright and specially useful at night when you touch the pad! The size it's surprisingly rather in the small side for how well this deadbolt locks the door and for how much technology it packs. Mine it's the keyless version with the WiFi (module that i recommend but that u can acquire even later on as it's an add-on) on satin nickel color! So the wifi module enables that you can control the lock even when you are away which in my case it offers me a great peace of mine to check on my door situation! The Yale app it's also great it gives a history of how and who operated the lock, let's you create temporary passkeys and remotely allow acces to someone! So for 2024 i really believe this is the best deadbolt wifi lock money can buy! It work great with a bunch of futures (tap to open with my Apple phone being my favorite one) and offers the security i need!

My husband works from home. Since moving into our house about a year and a half ago, part of his daily lunch routine is checking/retrieving the mail. While I greatly appreciate that he does this, he is a bit forgetful. I would come home many days to the front door being unlocked or even slightly ajar. We live in an area where this isn’t generally a big concern, but we have unknowingly left home with an unlocked or slightly ajar front door. This made me quite anxious. Did we leave the door that way or did someone find there way in when we were gone? We’ve been making our home smart over time, so I went hunting for a smart lock. The Yale Assure Lock 2 has been an excellent choice. Esthetically, it matches our satin nickel latch handle really well. It was super easy to install with step by step app instructions. Once connected to WiFi, you can customize the lock’s behavior and the notifications you receive on your phone. If my husband forgets to lock the door after checking the mail, the Yale Assure Lock will lock itself after 30 seconds. By attaching the included magnet to our door frame, we are alerted via push notification if the door is left ajar and/or unlocked for greater than 60 seconds. The lock is keyless, but it’s super easy to invite friends and family to have access to the lock via the app. It’s honestly quite nice that they can just let themselves in when they arrive. That access can be given once, on a recurring schedule, or indefinitely. Since upgrading our front door lock, I have felt so much better knowing that we never leave the house anymore with an unlocked or open front door. I’ll never go back a regular deadbolt again.

I have had 2 other keyless locks in the past but the Yale Assure Lock 2-Smart Lock is the best one yet. Installation was easy, it integrated into my existing deadbolt with no additional drilling needed except for the Door Sense which is optional to monitor if the door is ajar or closed. Set up was very simply. Once you install the Yale App, it guides you through setting up users and codes which can all be done on the app. It is really cool that you can define when a user can have access to your home. So you can make it work on certain times or certain days of the week. While most will grant access 24/7, the feature is there if you need it. This lock connects to WIFI giving you the ability to control it remotely. I love the Apple key function where you can tap your pone on it and it will unlock. You can set it up so that it will unlock when you are near it and lock when you leave. For those who want to use a code to enter, it is set up in the app and the screen illuminates number when you press the Yale button. Otherwise, it is a blank screen. This is a really cool feature. I get an alert on my phone when the door is unlocked or locked. The alerts also show up on my TV because my Apple TV has the same Apple ID. The only issue I had was figuring out how to share the apple key with users who have a different apple ID. That is an easy setting that you define in the apple home app. Simply this is the best lock I have used. Many great features you will love and wasy to set up for guests and family.

The Yale Assure Lock 2 (model YRD450-N-WF1-619) is a smart lock with several great features, including Apple Home keys compatibility, a touchscreen keypad, and Wi-Fi connectivity. In other words it has many features so let me give you a few: Many vehicles are now keyless so why not our home, and since Yale makes premium keyless entry locks for both houses as well as apartments, it was the best choice. Out of the box, it comes with the lock, hardware and instructions both written and on the application. The application for me was the easy way to install the lock, it walked me step by step with short video clips to do so, in other words, straight forward and easy. One of the nicest features is that the lock is compatible with Apple Home Keys, allowing us to control it using Siri voice commands and integrate it with other HomeKit devices. And it does not end there; the door can unlock using our Apple watches so that is fantastic. I am a runner and the last thing I want is to carry more things like a key, and I have forgotten my key on my running gear, so now there is one less thing to carry and worry about. How does it work? When I approach the door, open the app on my iPhone or watch, once home key appears then place the watch near the lock and it will authenticate and unlock the door, it is secure and easy. The lock features a touchscreen keypad for entering access codes. I can create and manage unique codes for family members or guests so it is convenient. Since the lock connects to your home Wi-Fi network, I am able to remote control and monitor through the Yale Access app, knowing who enters by their unique code given to them. As for the battery life, I am not sure how long it will last but it comes with batteries and since I usually buy the best batteries with good power, they usually last longer so keep that in mind when you buy batteries for you lock too, also I read that there was a firmware update that has improved the battery life anyway. I have left home and on my way I have wondered if I locked the door or not, not any more with this lock because this lock has the auto-lock feature, the lock automatically locks after a specified time, and the DoorSense technology alerts me if the door is left open, so no more wondering. Also the auto unlock feature is great, once its set up, my lock will unlock once I get near my home I can have the lock unlock so I do not have to do anything other than to push the door open, and I can do that to my back door since most of the time I am carrying something when I get home. Overall the Yale lock is a great addition to our home, we can open in different ways including our Apple watches, auto unlock, voice assistant, keypad and the Yale app and having a smart lock from Yale it is just the right choice. I like the different colors to match the door so I think we will get the Black Suede for the front door.

This lock is wonderful. It was wasy to install and works like a charm. I will be adding many more yale locks to my home. Absolutely love the HomeKit intefration and bedt of all the HomeKey capabilities. Just tap your iPhone or AppleWatch on the lock and it opens instantly for you.

I recently installed the Yale Assure Lock 2 Smart Lock with Apple Home Keys and have had an overall positive experience. Installation was a breeze, taking just 20-30 minutes, including connecting to Wi-Fi and setting up other users. The step-by-step instructions were clear and user-friendly, making it easy for anyone to install. However, I did encounter a minor hiccup with the QR code for setting up Apple Home Keys, which did not work. I had to manually enter the code from the sticker on the instruction booklet. Despite this small inconvenience, the lock’s functionality is impressive. The Apple Home Keys integration is seamless, allowing me to use my watch and phone to unlock the door. Even more impressive is the proximity-based unlocking feature. By setting the lock to recognize your location via the app, the door unlocks automatically as you approach, which is incredibly convenient. However, this feature is not foolproof; it only works about 50% of the time. It struggles particularly when my wife is home, and I return from work, suggesting it has difficulty recognizing when multiple owners are involved. Given this inconsistency, I rely heavily on the Apple Home Keys feature. If the auto-unlock fails, a simple tap on my watch grants me access. Another standout feature is the Auto-Lock, which automatically locks the door when you leave. As a parent of three, this provides significant peace of mind. Even if I forget to lock the door while juggling the kids, the lock takes care of it. Though you can lock the door via the app, this automatic feature is a great backup. I haven't had the chance to fully test the DoorSense feature, which requires installing a magnet on the door frame. This feature promises to notify you if the door is open or closed, which is ideal for a busy household with kids frequently running in and out. I look forward to utilizing this in the future. One important tip is to avoid turning on the "Notify When Offline" notification. Initially, I thought it would be beneficial for added security, but it turned out to be more of an annoyance. The lock, being battery-powered, disconnects from Wi-Fi periodically, leading to frequent notifications every 20-30 minutes. Despite these notifications, I have not experienced any actual communication issues with the lock, so it’s best to keep this notification turned off until Yale provides an update. As the title suggests, the Yale Assure Lock 2 with Apple Home Keys is about as good as it gets and easily the best smart Lock I've used. While it has some minor issues, such as the inconsistent auto-unlock feature and the frequent offline notifications, these are relatively minor compared to the overall functionality and convenience it provides. It delivers on its promises, significantly reduces daily stress, and enhances home security. I highly recommend this lock to anyone looking to upgrade their home security with smart technology.

This is the biggest mistake in my smarthome purchases. I left Nest as they were not fixing bugs for iOS but since it was also a Yale product I figured that a non-Nest version would be good as well. Wrong. First, it was the batteries getting maybe two weeks of life. Some firmware updates resolved it, but it's still far short of the 3 months Yale advertises. Support sent me a bluetooth module to try, but it would not connect to the lock even when within a couple feet of the deadbolt. That's when support stopped supporting. Wifi dropouts happen numerous times a day, and only with this device. The app says the signal is 'good' and no other devices in my house have this issue. The app...because of the poor (I mean good) wifi connection, the app rarely works effectively the first try. Usually have to swipe it away and reload in order to get the device to respond. I think a lot of this has to do with the August tech on the backend, as even setting this up in Homebridge to work with Homekit results in endless errors being thrown in the logs and it doesn't appear to be wifi related, but the connection to August. So barely a year later, and after the warranty has expired, I'm on the hunt for a replacement that is hopefully more reliable.

I've had a couple smart locks in the past but one of the main issues I've had with them was how the lock would actually unlock. I've had one that utilized geo-fencing which was really hit or miss. I had one where Bluetooth was the main way to unlock the lock and another where I had to open the app up everytime I wanted to lock/unlock the lock. While they all worked as intended, they weren't very intuitive or just didn't work "properly". With this new lock installed, I was hoping for more but not expecting a whole lot if you know what I mean. Just, meh, new lock...something new to play with. However, after using this for a couple weeks now, it's far better than what I had expected. The biggest pro I saw in this was the fact that it had Apple Homekit compatibility. Being a heavy iOS/Apple user, this was a big plus for me. After getting everything setup, it was quite clear that this was the perfect smart lock for me. Like with any other smart lock, you can setup guest codes within the app for others to use. You also have the ability to add an unlock to your Apple Wallet too. You can open up the Wallet up and use it just like a hotel key or something. But the biggest pro for me was the ability to use my Apple watch to unlock the lock. Now, no more fumbling with my keys or phone to open the lock on my door. I just hold my watch to the lock and, boom, it's unlocked. SOOOOOOO much easier this way and it's just such a huge improvement over my older smart locks.