Aqara

Aqara Smart Lock U100

Ranked #7 in Smart Locks

451 LP on the category ladder what's LP?

Aqara U100 is praised for price, but its build quality and firmware updates lag behind competitors.

Consolidated from 51 cited sources across 43 outlets

Where the cited sources landed, as we read them

28 positive sources
14 mixed sources
9 unconvinced sources

See the sources

Flagged as a product to avoid

2 of 7 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.

Aqara U100 is praised for price, but its build quality and firmware updates lag behind competitors.
Flagged 27 July 2026

1 earlier flag predates the point where runs began recording their reasoning, so its grounds were never written down.

Why the boards include products to avoid

Check price

Pros & cons

✓ Very affordable price
✓ Cross-platform compatibility with Apple
✓ Fingerprint, Apple Home Key, keypad, and Matter
✓ Quality build at a mid-range price
✓ The Verge's long-standing Apple Home Key recommendation

✗ Weak build quality compared to peers
✗ Firmware updates are infrequent and slow
✗ Inconsistent connectivity
✗ Limited support for non-Apple ecosystems
✗ Short warranty

The sources behind this ranking

We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.

Evidence 12 articles, 35 video reviews and 4 community sources

28 positive sources

BrainYourHome BrainYourHome · channel

Introducing the Aqara Smart Lock U100 – the ultimate solution for secure and convenient home access. This sleek and intelligent smart lock offers seamless integration with Apple Home, allowing you to unlock it with Apple home keys by simply tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch, even when they're out of power.

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Automate Your Life Automate Your Life · 204K subscribers · Jul 2025

Using the Aqara G410 Doorbell Camera Hub and the Aqara U100, as well as a few smart lights, the Apple HomeKit app and service, I've automated my lighting and even made it so our family and friends can enter our home without a key at all, creating a truly smart living experience.

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Shane Whatley ShaneCreates · owner · Jun 2023

Aqara U100 Smart Lock - https://geni.us/AqaraU100 (affiliate link) Promo code: USCAU100 (15% discount, valid from Jun 8th to 10th, applicable to Amazon US & CA) Check out the sponsor of today's video! EcoNet Bulldog Valve Robot!

Watch C Craig's Tech Talk Craig's Tech Talk · 183K subscribers · Jun 2023

The New Aqara U100 smart lock is one of the best options for any smart home. The Aqara U100 is compatible with Apple's HomeKit, Google, Alexa, IFTTT & Matter. The lock offers multiple unlocking options, including a quick-response fingerprint sensor, individual passcodes, HomeKey, and NFC tags. Apple's HomeKey, allows you to unlock your door with an iPhone or Apple Watch.

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Hddoor Article

Overall, the Aqara U100 delivers a premium, secure, and feature-rich digital lock experience. It’s an excellent choice for Singapore homeowners seeking reliable biometric access paired with top-tier smart home integration.

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ZDNET ZDNET · 74K subscribers · Jun 2023

Aqara U100 smart lock hands‑on: Extremely versatile - and Apple users will love it

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AppleInsider Sponsored Content · reviewer

Aqara's Smart Lock U100 is a deadbolt replacement that integrates with Apple Home via HomeKit. It supports multiple ways to unlock, including the keypad, fingerprint sensor, and optional NFC cards.

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This Smart House This Smart House · 34.3K subscribers · Jul 2023

With advanced fingerprint recognition, Apple Homekey support, Matter support, and multiple unlocking methods, this sleek and intelligent smart lock offers effortless access and complete peace of mind. We explore the impressive features and practical applications of the Aqara U100 Smart Lock, how to set it up with your smart home, and even connecting to Home Assistant.

Watch C Craig's Tech Talk michaeld_96 · owner · Jun 2023

Hopefully they'll bring the U100 kit to the US that has the silver version of the lock or sell the silver one by itself. This lock seems like one of the best smart locks that supports homekit.

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yoyoTech yoyoTech · 31.3K subscribers · Mar 2024

Aqara smart lock u100 is one of the Best Smart home Lock's ever!

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AN DIGITAL LOCK AN Digital Lock · reviewer

Garnering praise for its robust features in the PCMag review of the Aqara U100 , it also includes a state-of-the-art fingerprint sensor for swift entry.

Read E Eli Euley Eli Euley · 18.9K subscribers · Dec 2023

This is the Aqara U100, has apple home kit and several cool ways to easily unlock your door on the fly. Looks very modern, is silent, and has useful features that many smart doorlocks do not offer.

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LinkedIn Aqara · reviewer

We're honored that the Aqara Smart Lock U100 was named the "Best Smart Lock for Guests and Workers" by Forbes in its 2026 smart lock roundup.

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The Brad Lloyd The Brad Lloyd · 17.9K subscribers · Jun 2023

Aqara recently released a Home Key compatible U100 smart lock with Apple Homekey, making this a great pairing to their new G4 Smart Doorbell that came out a couple of months ago. Great individually and even better together.

Watch A r/Aqara u/airbnb · owner

So overall, it's really a recommendation in my opinion and a great value for the price.

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Automate Your Life Tutorials Automate Your Life Tutorials · 10.4K subscribers · Aug 2023

It works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home (coming, still a little broken) and you'll find that a lot of the features on this lock are ready for a family home in North America.

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Adam's Tech Life myHomeKithome · owner · Jun 2023

I like the U100 / G4 combo. It's a solid smart front door solution. Great review!

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AdvisorReview AdvisorReview · 4.6K subscribers · Mar 2024

In 2nd place is the Aqara Smart Lock U100, our pick for the best runner-up smart lock. In 1st place is the Schlage Encode Smart Wifi Deadbolt, our pick for the best overall smart lock.

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𝖩.𝖥𝗈𝗋𝖼𝖾 𝖦𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀 joshADV · owner · Jun 2023

Secure product for Home and offices. The product looks well built as well.

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Editors' Review Editors' Review · 1.9K subscribers · Apr 2025

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 combines sleek design with advanced security features for your home. Easily controlled via your smartphone, it offers keyless entry, remote access, and enhanced safety protocols. With its elegant finish and user-friendly interface, the U100 ensures peace of mind while seamlessly integrating into your smart home ecosystem.

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ModernDayTech BenjaminSehl · owner · May 2024

Huh, weird — my U100 did the calibration step and seems to work quite well

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Pixel Review Pixel Review · 446 subscribers · Aug 2026

This Aqara smart door lock offers convenient access without relying solely on traditional keys. With fingerprint entry and a touchscreen interface, it can be an attractive option for homeowners looking to upgrade their front door with a more modern electronic lock. Its weather-resistant design also makes it suitable for exterior door applications where durability is important.

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Smart Locks Reviews & Guides Article

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 punches far above its price tag.

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BestChoicePicks BestChoicePicks · 341 subscribers · Jun 2023

Unlock your door with just a touch! 🔑🔒 The U100 high-precision fingerprint reader boasts an impressive 98.6% accuracy, giving you unparalleled convenience and security. With the ability to store up to 50 fingerprints locally, you and your loved ones can effortlessly enjoy your personal space.

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CNET Aashna Gheewalla · reviewer

This lock is actually one of our favorite smart locks.

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Vlog Tech Brett Vlog Tech Brett · 29 subscribers · Apr 2026

I can confidently say this is the best smart lock on the market, in my opinion, especially if you're on Apple HomeKit, but this thing works with all ecosystems. Before we get to my final thoughts, here's a quick summary of the lock's features. If you want to learn more about it, you click that comment there to view my full overview video of it.

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Az Tech Ninja Az Tech Ninja · 15 subscribers · Aug 2023

The Aqara U100 is a sophisticated smart door lock designed to enhance home security and convenience. Featuring keyless entry, the lock supports biometric fingerprint recognition, allowing users to unlock their door swiftly and securely.

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Gadget Reels Gadget Reels · 3 subscribers · Feb 2026

If you’re looking for a reliable, secure, and Apple-friendly smart door lock, the Aqara U100 is a powerful choice.

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14 mixed sources

This Smart House M0PAX · owner · Jul 2023

It looks a good lock, but in the UK most doors have changed the way the lock and this door isn’t suitable. We have a euro cylinder that is the lock/key and this rotates and flicks a latch then this release the lock then push the handle down to release the latches that are up the door then you can open the door. Then in reverse to lock but if you haven’t lifted the handle you cant lock the door.

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Adam's Tech Life Adam's Tech Life · 29.8K subscribers · Jun 2023

Aqara later deemed this lock as defective and sent out a replacement unit that is working much better

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Aqara ShubhamShahh · owner · Jun 2023

Recently picked up the U100 and its been nice but theres some gripes I have with it. Other Apple Home Key locks let you lock the door via Home Key as well which the U100 cannot do (simple software update can add this). Also despite getting the black U100 model, the Home Key is silver while the Schlage Encode Plus in black issues a black Home Key.

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Rey G Rey G · 15.8K subscribers · Jun 2023

A couple of gripes

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Forbes Steven John · reviewer

The one drawback I’ve found with this smart lock is within the palm scan. Sometimes I can approach the lock and casually aim my hand at it only to have it open right away, while other times it fails to recognize my palm unless I hold it in a precise position, with the angle, distance and height all just so.

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Daniel Reviews Daniel Reviews · 2.4K subscribers · Dec 2024

All in all, it's a great smart lock with lots of features.

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Aqara isn’t a household name in door locks, but the U100 deserves attention. It’s a full deadbolt replacement with a clean, utilitarian look, including a flat matte keypad and an embedded fingerprint reader. Available in shadow gray or silver, it’s one of the more understated locks on this list.

9to5Mac YouTube review · Jun 2023

I really like this smart lock! HOWEVER … I think I would feel weird/scared not locking the door knob lock! Lol. I’ve been so conditioned into locking the door knob AND the deadbolt.to leave the door knob unlocked and only the deadbolt would take some major getting used to!

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Quickey Locksmith Services Ammar Shah · reviewer

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 offers versatile unlocking options, Apple Home Key support, and long battery life at an affordable price. However, it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, requires an additional hub for some smart features, and has a Grade 3 security rating.

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Bottom Line: Choose Aqara U100 for Apple Home Key plus a fast fingerprint reader at a fair price; Skip it if you need built-in Wi-Fi or you do not want to rely on hubs for the best remote control and integrations.

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Rey G SmartHomeTech1 · owner · Jun 2023

The only negative is there isn't a Thread radio other than that I love the look which modern and sleek. Aqara is crushing it with the Doorbell, the Presence Sensor, and now this lock.

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Smart Home Explorer Article

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 earns a composite of 6.2 on the SHE Home Key Entry Reliability Score, the unambiguous value leader.

Read F Facebook TalentedTurkey7233 · owner

The U100 can work with Alexa, but some voice commands may require confirmation or may not be supported the same w…

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Adam's Tech Life YouTube review · Dec 2023

Aqara U100 HomeKit Smart Lock - 6 Months Later.

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9 unconvinced sources

AOL.com AOL · reviewer

If you were shopping for the Aqara Smart Lock U100 on Amazon, you'd see it has a 4.1 out of 5 stars, based on over 2,500 user reviews. That alone may be enough to convince most folks that the lock is worth it, but CR brought forward some additional findings you should know about: mainly, that it doesn't take much force or ingenuity to break or pry the U100 free.

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Ty Talks Tech Ty Talks Tech · 22.4K subscribers · May 2026

The Aqara U100 relies on four double A batteries. Aqara claims up to 8 months, but in our cold Alberta winter, I'm swapping this every 3 months. Now, that means more battery swaps, more waste, and more maintenance. I also tried rechargeable double A batteries and those barely lasted a month and a half. The K120 takes a one-and-done approach. It uses a massive 15,000 mA rechargeable battery.

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ModernDayReviews emiliaborregotenor1016 · owner · May 2023

Creo que Aqara a perdido la oportunidad de hacer una cerradura inteligente casi perfecta. 1. Yo quitaría el teclado numérico 🔢, total teniendo otras opciones mejores y más rápidas como “Lector de Huella Dactilar” y “Apple Home KEY” o “llaves virtuales temporales que se pueden enviar a invitados” incluso llave 🔑 física y llaves físicas nfc (tarjetas nfc).

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Brutal Reviews Brutal Reviews · 2.5K subscribers · Dec 2025

This lock has 2,000+ reviews, and a shocking number of buyers are NOT happy. Around 12% of users gave it just 1 star, and another 5% gave it only 2 stars. For a device that controls access to your home, that’s a serious warning sign.

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The Brad Lloyd JackMihoff6969 · owner · Jun 2023

I don’t have the U100 as an option to be added in the Aqara app. My region is set to Mainland China because that is where my other Aqara devices work. When I switched to US or OTHER, the U100 shows up but my other devices disappears so I am not able to bind my Aqara G2H hub with the U100 as they work on 2 different regions.

Watch F Facebook Jason Garber · owner

After more than a year of working fine, my U100 locks (I have two) have independently started going unresponsive about once a month. Keypad lights up and beeps, fingerprint pad makes success or failure noises, but it will not lock or unlock. The reset button does nothing.

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Stephen Robles Kody-C130 · owner · Sept 2023

Lock is always a no response in HomeKit. It’s as if it communicates via Bluetooth to the Apple hub (Apple TV in my living room) and signal is hit and miss. I figured if I had it bound to the hub it would work better but that’s not the case.

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BGR Michael Bizzaco · reviewer

That alone may be enough to convince most folks that the lock is worth it, but CR brought forward some additional findings you should know about: mainly, that it doesn't take much force or ingenuity to break or pry the U100 free.

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yoyoTech AnthonyPatinoJR · owner · Mar 2024

This lock is actually pretty lousy. It chews through batteries like no other lock I've had before. If you use it natively in HomeKit you lose fingerprint functionality.

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Frequently asked questions

It ranks #7 of 17 on our smart locks tier list, in C tier. That placement draws on 51 cited sources across 43 outlets.

9 of the 51 sources with a clear view are critical of it, among them AOL.com, BGR and Brutal Reviews. Weak build quality compared to peers. Firmware updates are infrequent and slow. Inconsistent connectivity. Limited support for non-Apple ecosystems. Short warranty.

On our smart locks board, Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt ranks #3 (A tier) ahead of Aqara Smart Lock U100 at #7 (C tier). Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt: Schlage Encode Plus is praised for its robust construction and dependable firmware updates.