Full review
Longer notes from the same comments we summarized above.
What people reported
Many owners appreciate the Aqara Smart Lock U100 for its Apple HomeKey support, noting an update even enabled locking via Home Key. Users found it works well with various smart home ecosystems like Google and Alexa, though an Aqara Zigbee 3.0 Hub is required for advanced features with these, and an Apple Home Hub for HomeKit automations and remote unlocking. A standout feature is the USB-C port for emergency power, allowing the lock to be temporarily powered by a power bank if the battery dies and users are locked out. Some owners found it to be a more responsive alternative compared to other smart locks, particularly regarding geofencing. Battery life is generally reported to be good, with one user noting 80% charge remaining after two months of use.
Problems people mention
Installation can be challenging and precise. Many owners reported issues, with a strong consensus that power tools should not be used for screws and the hanging plate must be "absolutely 100% plumb" with the door edge. Misalignment can lead to the lock repeatedly trying to lock or displaying "DEADBOLT ABNORMALITIE" messages. Some users experienced fitment issues with their doors, sometimes requiring door modifications, and reported that the design might not be well-suited for the US market. Concerns about privacy and data security arose due to Aqara's reported ownership by Xiaomi and the potential for servers to be located in China. There were complaints about poor instructions and the lock being "buggy," with some experiencing slow response times and unlock issues when integrating with platforms like SmartThings via Matter. Customer support was a point of contention, with some reviews suggesting that Aqara might "ghost" users experiencing issues. One "lock picker" stated that the mechanical key cylinder can be picked in seconds. Some found the gray HomeKey design inconsistent with the black lock model.
Where owners disagree
The necessity and reliability of hubs were debated. While some dislike the requirement for a hub, others stated that products requiring hubs are often the most reliable. The U100 does not require an Aqara hub for basic HomeKit functionality, but an Apple Home Hub is needed for HomeKit automations and remote access, and an Aqara Zigbee 3.0 Hub for Alexa, Google Home, and Matter advanced features. While some expressed strong privacy concerns about Xiaomi's ownership of Aqara and potential data sharing with the Chinese government, at least one user claimed that Aqara staff do not like Xiaomi and that Xiaomi cannot access data from the Aqara system.
Who it's for
This lock is best for users deeply integrated into the Apple HomeKit ecosystem, especially those valuing HomeKey functionality and willing to manage potential installation complexities. It also suits users seeking a smart lock with emergency power options via USB-C. Buyers should be prepared for a potentially meticulous installation process to avoid common alignment-related issues. Those with significant concerns about data privacy related to Chinese-owned companies might prefer other options.
