SwitchBot Lock Pro Review vs Aqara Smart Lock U200

Following on from my review of the superb Aqara Smart Lock U200, I have been checking out the SwitchBot Lock Pro. This smart lock shares many of the features of the Aqara while being considerably more affordable, but how does it perform in comparison?

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• Aqara Hub M3 Review
• What is Matter?
• Ultion Smart Lock Review
• Yale Linus Smart Lock Review
• Welock Smart Lock Fingerprint Door Lock Review
• We.lock Smart Lock Review [SOHO-EU]

Specification

• Communication: Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) with a range of up to 120 metres without obstacles. The lock can be controlled via the SwitchBot app or Keypad within 20 metres when the door is closed.
• Power Supply: The standard configuration uses four AA dry batteries (1.5V, 2900mAh). There’s also an optional Lithium Battery Pack available.
• Compatibility: Designed for Euro Profile locks with provided Mounting Brackets A and B.
• Operating Environment: Intended for indoor use with an operating temperature range of 10°C to 45°C and humidity between 10% and 90% RH.
• Construction: The shell is made from aluminium-magnesium alloys and PC + ABS plastic.
• Dimensions: 120 x 59 x 83.9 mm (4.7 x 2.3 x 3.3 inches)
• Weight: 435 g (15.3 oz) including batteries
• Additional Features: Quick Lock Button for one-touch operation, indicator lights (red, blue, green), buzzer, temperature sensor for low-temperature alerts, and auto-lock functionality.

Features

• Multiple Unlock Methods: Users can access their doors using the SwitchBot app, physical keys, the Quick Key feature, or optional accessories like the Keypad Touch. This versatility ensures that you’re never locked out, even if your phone battery dies or you misplace your keys.
• Auto-Lock: The lock can be set to engage automatically after a specified time, adding an extra layer of security. It’s worth noting that this feature doesn’t work with multi-point locks, which require lifting the handle to fully engage.
• Remote Access: When paired with the SwitchBot Hub Mini, users can control the lock remotely and receive real-time notifications about its status. This feature is particularly useful for granting access to guests or service providers when you’re not at home.
• Voice Control: The Lock Pro is compatible with major voice assistants including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri when used with the Hub Mini. This allows for hands-free operation, which can be convenient when your hands are full or you’re multitasking.
• Matter Support: The Lock Pro supports the Matter standard via the Hub Mini, enabling broader smart home integration. This future-proofs the device to some extent, as Matter is set to become a widely adopted standard in the smart home industry.
• Battery Life: SwitchBot claims the four AA batteries can last up to 9 months. The low battery alert feature is a thoughtful addition, ensuring users aren’t caught off guard by a dead lock.
• Manual Operation: The twistable dial allows for manual locking and unlocking, providing a backup method if the batteries die or in case of electronic failure. This is a crucial feature that ensures you’re never locked out of your home due to a technical glitch.

Comparison with Aqara Smart Lock U200

When comparing the SwitchBot Lock Pro to the Aqara Smart Lock U200, several differences become apparent:

• Design: The Lock Pro has a very deep design and I it looks a bit clunky in comparison to the Aqara lock. The overall build quality feels more plasticy too, but it is still good.
• Installation: The physical installation is mostly the same, but the Switchbot has a few additional accessories to accommodate different types of locks. Both locks work by using your existing cylinder and key, with the smart lock turning the key for you.
• Calibration: I found the calibration and the thumb turn to be better on the Switchbot, you can feel when the lock engages and only need to turn the knob a small amount.
• Unlock Methods: Both locks support a keypad, and both keypads support pin codes, fingerprint and NFC. I have found both locks have performed reliably for all unlock methods. The Aqara lock scans your finger multiple times so I suspect that will be more accurate for fingerprints but I have experienced no failed scans on either lock. The Switchbot lock came with a NFC card while the Aqara did not.
• Smart Home Integration: Both locks offer good smart home integration as they both support Matter. The Aqara is superior as it uses Matter Over Thread and the Aqara ecosystem is significantly larger than Switchbot. On the flip side, the Switchot bundle comes with a hub and the hubs are significantly cheaper than the Aqara M3 hub.
• Power Source: The Lock Pro uses AA batteries, while the U200 uses a rechargeable lithium battery. The U200’s USB-C charging port should be more convenient for most users. The Switchbot claims to have a longer battery life of 270n days vs 6 months (182.5 days). The Switchbot also has an optional rechargeable battery (£20)
• Price: The Lock Pro is generally less expensive than the U200

Unboxing / Design

The SwitchBot Lock Pro arrives in a compact, well-designed box that contains all the necessary components for installation. Upon opening, you’ll find:

• The Lock Pro unit itself
• Mounting plates and screws
• Four AA batteries
• Installation guide and user manual

The metal body replaces the plastic design of the original SwitchBot Lock, resulting in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing product. However, the Lock Pro has a very deep design, measuring 120 x 59 x 83.9 mm, which might appear somewhat bulky compared to some competitors like the Aqara Smart Lock U200.

The device’s dimensions allow it to fit most standard doors without being overly obtrusive, but its depth might be noticeable in certain settings. One issue with this style of lock is if you have outwards opening double doors, the lock may not fit as it is too wide. This is the style of door I have on my garage/gym and I have been unable to fit any similar lock to it, including the Aqara and Yale Linus.

The overall build quality, while improved, still has a slightly plasticky feel compared to some high-end alternatives.

One notable design change is the replacement of the deadbolt switch with a twistable dial. This dial doubles as a button for the Quick Key feature, allowing users to lock and unlock the device instantly by pushing it in. The dial’s placement at the bottom of the unit creates space for the battery compartment above it, improving the overall layout.

A thoughtful addition is the magnetic battery cover, which makes battery changes more straightforward compared to the screw-fastened cover of the original model. This design choice enhances user convenience and reduces the time needed for maintenance.

SwitchBot Lock Pro Compatibility

The SwitchBot Lock Pro boasts broad compatibility with various door types and lock configurations:

1. Keyway Orientation: Compatible with both horizontally and vertically oriented keyways.
2. Interior Use: Designed for installation on the inside of doors, not intended for outdoor use.
3. Multipoint Locks: Strong enough to operate multipoint locks, although the autolock function won’t work as it can’t lift the handle to engage the multipoint.
4. Unlimited Rotations: Works regardless of the number of lock rotations required.
5. Night-Latches: Supports European-style night-latches, allowing temporary locking of the internal latch for free entry and exit.

The physical installation process is similar to that of competitors like the Aqara Smart Lock U200. Both locks work by using your existing cylinder and key, with the smart lock turning the key for you. The SwitchBot Lock Pro comes with additional accessories to accommodate different types of locks, which might be helpful for some users but could also make the installation process slightly more complex.

Physical Installation of the Lock

Installing the SwitchBot Lock Pro is a relatively straightforward process that doesn’t require any permanent modifications to your door or existing lock and is essentially the same as all the other smart locks that use based on the key turning design.

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the installation process:

1. Check Compatibility: Before beginning, use SwitchBot’s online compatibility checker to ensure your lock is suitable for the Lock Pro.
2. Clean the Door: Thoroughly clean the area around your existing lock to ensure good adhesion of the mounting plate.
3. Choose the Correct Mounting Plate: The Lock Pro comes with two mounting options. Select the one that best fits your lock type.
4. Attach the Mounting Plate: Use the provided 3M adhesive to secure the mounting plate to your door. For added stability, you can also use screws if your door allows for it.
5. Attach the Lock Pro: Slide the main unit onto the mounting plate until it clicks into place.
6. Adjust the Thumb Turn: Align the Lock Pro’s thumb turn with your existing lock’s thumb turn.
7. Test Manual Operation: Before proceeding with the electronic setup, ensure the lock can manually lock and unlock your door smoothly.

No special tools are required beyond a screwdriver if you choose to use screws for mounting.

One potential issue to be aware of is the adhesive mounting. While the 3M adhesive provided is strong, some users may be concerned about its long-term durability, especially on doors that see frequent use. The option to use screws provides additional peace of mind, but this may not be possible or desirable for all door types.

Setting up the lock

Once the physical installation is complete, you’ll need to set up the Lock Pro using the SwitchBot app. Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Download the App: Get the SwitchBot app from your device’s app store and create an account if you don’t already have one.
2. Add the Lock Pro: In the app, select “Add Device” and choose the Lock Pro from the list of available devices.
3. Connect to the Lock: Follow the app’s instructions to connect your smartphone to the Lock Pro via Bluetooth.
4. Calibrate the Lock: The app will guide you through a calibration process to ensure the Lock Pro accurately detects the locked and unlocked positions. While it doesn’t have the same automatic calibration as the Aqara, I found this calibration to be superior,.
5. Set Up Access Methods: Configure your preferred access methods, including app control, auto-lock settings, and any additional accessories like the Keypad Touch.
6. Configure Notifications: Set up notifications for lock/unlock events, low battery alerts, and any other desired status updates.

The setup process is generally user-friendly, with clear instructions provided through the app. However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues during the initial setup, which may require restarting the process or updating the app.

Installation and Setup of the Keypad

For those who opt for the additional Keypad Touch accessory, here’s how to set it up:

1. Mount the Keypad: Choose a location near your door and use the provided adhesive or screws to mount the keypad.
2. Add the Keypad in the App: In the SwitchBot app, select “Add Device” and choose the Keypad Touch.
3. Connect the Keypad: Follow the app instructions to connect the keypad to your Lock Pro.
4. Set Up Access: Create and manage access codes for family members, guests, or service providers.
   • You can also set up fingerprints and NFC cards.
5. Within the settings, you can bind the keypad to a Switchbot Hub and customise some of the settings, such as the lock button settings.

Switchbot App Features

The SwitchBot app is the central hub for controlling and managing your Lock Pro. Here are some of the key features:

1. Remote Control: Lock and unlock your door from anywhere when paired with the Hub Mini.
2. Access Management: Create and manage access codes for the Keypad Touch, and set up temporary access for guests.
3. Activity Log: View a detailed history of lock and unlock events, including who accessed the door and when.
4. Battery Status: Monitor the lock’s battery level and receive low battery notifications.
5. Auto-Lock Settings: Configure the auto-lock feature, including delay time and activation conditions. Please note that auto-lock does not work on multi-point locks.
6. Notifications: Set up alerts for various events, such as unauthorised access attempts or when the door is left unlocked.
7. Integration Settings: Configure connections with other smart home platforms and voice assistants.

The app is generally intuitive and easy to navigate but there can be some lag when you load up the UI for a device (such as the Lock Pro).

Integration with Home Assistant Smart Home Ecosystem Using Matter

Just like the SwitchBot Universal Remote, the Lock Pro can be integrated with other smart home ecosystems via Matter.

Switchbot has a bit of an odd way of doing things. You need to bind the lock (or any other Switchbot device you want to control with Matter) to a Matter enabled hub such as the Switchbot Hub 2.

You then need to add secondary devices to expose them to Matter. For the Hub 2, you can only add 6 devices and the new Mini Hub can only add 4 devices.

With the Lock Pro added as a secondary device, you can then lock and unlock the door via Home Assistant and also create automations based on various triggers.

Performance

So far, I have found that the lock has performed flawlessly.

The lock consistently responds to commands from the app, keypad, or voice assistants. The mechanical operation is smooth, with the motor providing enough torque to operate most lock types without issue.

The locking and unlocking process is reasonably quick, typically taking a couple seconds to complete. This is on par with other smart locks in its class.

The direct Bluetooth connection works reliably within the stated 20-metre range when the door is closed. However, walls and other obstacles can reduce this range.

When used with the Hub 2 (or Hub Mini), remote access is generally reliable, though there can be occasional delays depending on network conditions.

As I have a multi-point UPVC door, I did not test the autolocking feature thoroughly but it appears to work well.

Keypad Unlock

The optional Keypad Touch accessory enhances the Lock Pro’s functionality:

• Responsiveness: The keypad is responsive, with clear tactile feedback for each button press.
• Code Management: The app makes it easy to create, modify, and delete access codes. You can set up permanent codes for family members and temporary codes for guests or service providers.
• Security: The keypad has built-in safeguards against brute-force attempts, temporarily locking out after multiple incorrect entries.

Fingerprint Unlock

The fingerprint unlock on the Aqara Smart Lock U200 was one of its main selling points. The unlocking function was extremely reliable and fast.

The same is true for the SwitchBot Lock Pro, I don’t think I have had any bad readings that have prevented me from unlocking the door and the unlocking process is responsive and quick.

NFC Card Unlock

Both the Aqara and Switchbot keypads are compatible with NFC. The Aqara lock does not work with all NFC tags so you need to be careful which you buy.

The Switchbot Lock seems to have the same issue as the generic tags I bought didn’t work. The lock comes with a  free NFC card and the Switchbot website states that the NFC tag they use is  NTAG 216, and there are plenty of options to buy on Amazon.

As for the included NFC card, just like fingerprint unlock, this is extremely reliable because it is quick to respond and unlock. I generally prefer fingerprint unlocking but it is handy to keep the NFC card in my wallet just in case.

Battery Life

SwitchBot claims that the Lock Pro can last up to 9 months on a set of four AA batteries. In practice, battery life can vary significantly based on usage patterns:

• Frequent use will naturally drain the batteries faster.
• Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance.
• Using the lock with a multi-point mechanism may reduce battery

I have only used the lock for a few weeks, so I can’t comment on its long-term battery life, but it seems to be fine so far.

The battery life is longer than the Aqara, but it uses disposable batteries unless you buy the optional rechargeable battery pack.

Price and Alternative Options

The SwitchBot Smart Lock Pro by itself is a bit of a bargain at £140, and at the time of writing, Amazon had a £20 off voucher.

The price rises significantly if you want a keypad and Mini Hub. Amazon lists this at £240 with £40 off available.

That’s still reasonably priced, considering the competition:

• Aqara Smart Lock U200
  • £270
  • Can be paired to the M3 hub for Matter functionality.
• Nuki Smart Lock Pro (4th generation)
  • £245
  • Uses WiFi and works with Matter. Lacks a keypad but you can buy one for £145.
• Nuki Smart Lock (4th generation)
  • £170
  • The same as the Pro but lacks WiFi or the Nuki Power Pack
• WELOCK Smart Fingerprint Door Lock
  • £179
  • Lacks the option to use your key. No keypad on this model, WiFI bridge sold separately.
• Yale Linus Smart Lock Bundle
  • £260
  • The bundle includes a WiFi bridge and keypad. I have personally used this the past couple of years, and it has worked well, my partner hates the app (on iPhone).

Overall

The SwitchBot Lock Pro is a superb smart lock that I think is just as good as the Aqara Smart Lock U200. Both locks are my current favourite smart locks, which I have reviewed (I haven’t used the newer Nuki locks).

I would say both Aqara and SwitchBot have pros and cons compared to each other.

For The SwitchBot Pro, it is priced more attractively, and the smart hubs are more affordable. I prefer the thumb dial unlock mechanism, as the calibration seemed more reliable. It was also considerably easier to set up, as I had issues pairing the Aqara to the Hub m3.

I prefer Aqara’s overall appearance and build quality. The rechargeable battery is a bonus. It has a handy, easy-to-access USB-C port and includes a carry bag that allows you to charge the lock using a power bank hanging from your handle. The Aqara ecosystem is also superior, with a huge range of Aqara sensors and devices which can work in combination with the lock. The Aqara was much more fiddly with pairing to its hub than the SwitchBot.

I also prefer the overall design and build quality of the Aqara keypad, but the Switchbot keypad includes an NFC tag.

Overall, I regard both the SwitchBot Lock Pro and Aqara Lock as equally good, and I strongly recommend them. The two factors I’d consider when buying these are which ecosystem you prefer or currently use and, of course, the price.

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API