If you are looking for a smart lock that works seamlessly with your Apple devices, you may want to check out the Level Lock+. This is the latest product from Level, a company that specializes in creating smart locks that are hidden inside the deadbolt, preserving the aesthetics of your door. The Level Lock+ is similar to the previous Level Lock, but with one major difference: it supports Apple Home Keys, a feature that lets you unlock your door with your iPhone or Apple Watch.
What is Apple Home Key?
Apple Home Key is a new feature that was introduced in iOS 15 and watchOS 8. It allows you to use the NFC chip in your iPhone (XS or later) or Apple Watch (Series 4 or later) to unlock compatible smart locks, just like you would use Apple Pay or a hotel key card. You can also share access with other members of your Home app, and set automations to lock or unlock your door based on your location or time of day.
How does Level Lock+ work?
The Level Lock+ is easy to install and set up. You just need to replace your existing deadbolt with the Level Lock+, which includes the interior thumb turn, the exterior keyhole, the deadbolt, and the motor. The battery is hidden inside the deadbolt, and it lasts for over a year. You can pair the lock with your Home app using the HomeKit code, and enable Home Key for yourself and others. You can also use the Level app to customize the lock settings, such as auto-lock, auto-unlock, touch-to-unlock, and notifications.
The Level Lock+ has several ways to unlock your door:
- Home Key: You can bring your iPhone or Apple Watch close to the lock and it will unlock instantly. You don’t need to open any app or press any button. This is the fastest and most convenient way to unlock your door.
- Auto-unlock: You can enable this feature in the Level app, and it will unlock your door automatically when you arrive home. It uses Bluetooth and geofencing to detect when you are near your door.
- Touch-to-unlock: You can enable this feature in the Level app, and it will unlock your door when you touch the exterior keyhole. It uses Bluetooth to communicate with your phone in your pocket or bag.
- Key: You can use a physical key to unlock your door, just like a traditional lock. The Level Lock+ comes with two keys in the box.
- Keypad: You can buy an optional keypad that connects to the lock via Bluetooth. You can use a PIN code to unlock your door, or assign temporary codes to guests or service providers.
What are the pros and cons of Level Lock+?
The Level Lock+ has many advantages over other smart locks:
- It has a sleek and minimalist design that blends in with any door. It doesn’t have any branding or bulky hardware on the outside or inside of your door.
- It supports Apple Home Key, which is an easy and reliable way to unlock your door with your iPhone or Apple Watch. It also works well with other HomeKit devices and automations.
- It has multiple modes of access, giving you flexibility and convenience. You can choose between Home Key, auto-unlock, touch-to-unlock, key, or keypad.
- It has a long battery life of over a year, and it notifies you when it is low. You can easily replace the battery by unscrewing the cap on the end of the deadbolt.
- It has a high security rating of BHMA AAA, which means it is resistant to picking, bumping, or drilling. It also alerts you of any tampering attempts or unauthorized access.
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- It is expensive compared to other smart locks.
- It has limited color choices. It only comes in satin nickel or matte black finishes.
- It is not compatible with older doors that have smaller holes or thicker frames. You may need to drill new holes or modify your door to fit the lock.
- It only works with Apple Home and Ring for now. It doesn’t support other smart home platforms such as Google Home or Amazon Alexa. However, Level has promised to update its locks with Matter-over-Thread support in the future, which will make them more interoperable.
Is Level Lock+ worth it?
The Level Lock+ is one of the best smart locks you can buy if you are an Apple user who values design, functionality, and security. It offers a seamless integration with Apple Home Key, as well as other features that make unlocking your door a breeze. It also has a hidden design that preserves the look of your door. However, it is also one of the most expensive smart locks on the market, and it may not work well with older doors or other smart home platforms. If you are willing to pay the premium and wait for the Matter update, you will not be disappointed with the Level Lock+.
