Tech Desk 
May 19, 2026
Simple locks don't provide better security to you and your home; there's always a need for a smart lock, offering you protection from thieves. The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a smart door lock that is fully integrated into Apple Home. It can be unlocked with the Apple Home keys by simply tapping an iPhone or Apple Watch, even when the iPhone or Apple Watch is out of power.
You get multiple ways to unlock, including a high-precision fingerprint reader for up to 50 fingerprints, remotely configurable passwords via the Aqara Home app. Moreover, if you have any visitor at your house, then they will need one-time local passwords. The company provides a mechanical key for emergency use.
Know these things before you purchase Aqara Smart Lock U100
It is important to note that smart locks take significantly more work to install than many home devices. You can easily install it yourself, but remember before installing that you'll want to be ready with careful measuring tools, a drill, screwdrivers of several sizes and most likely a level. The company also provided a walkthrough on installing and turning on the door via the Aqara app.
Aqara helps where it can, providing twice the number of screws you need and a fold-out measuring chart to apply to your door, among other resources. The U100 smart lock — available for $134.98 on Amazon — comes with four AA 1.5V batteries and has a long battery life of up to eight months. "The U100 is equipped with a matte keypad that allows access with Anti-peep Password, which enables you to add random digits to your passcode and protect it from prying eyes. This provides you with even more options for secure access."
The Aqara U100 body made of zinc alloy has an IP65 rating and complies with the same safety standard as BHMA Level 3. It’s capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from -31°F to 151°F. Your sensitive data (e.g., fingerprints) is stored locally and fully AES encrypted.
Pros
- Durable and clean design
- Accurate fingerprint and Bluetooth access
- Satisfying keypad
- Built-in Apple Home support with options for Alexa and Google Assistant
- Easy-to-learn app UI
- Plenty of temporary pass options
- Do not disturb mode
- Lock sensing and auto lock-unlock capabilities
Cons
- Requires an Aqara hub to enable extra smart home support, long-distance control and more
You don't need to install any additional sensors to realise the Auto Locking and Door not Locked functionality. Despite this, considerate Do Not Disturb and Passage Modes are supported for family and office use cases.
