I purchased this for my apartment building in December. A few things: first, I don't own the building, but I am a longtime tenant. It is a 7 unit-building with three exterior entrances. The property manager lives in the building and runs the (absentee) owner's company. We live a few blocks off Haight Street in San Francisco, and package theft for items left on the front porch has been an issue. I offered to purchase locks for the exterior doors (all three) if the property manager took care of the installation (and any flak from the owner). Since I plan on staying in the building for a long time, it was an expense that I was willing to bear.
That out of the way, here are my impressions and those of my fellow tenants:
Ease of Setup: 2 stars. It isn't too difficult to set up the Utraloqs on first blush, and it looks like you can quickly copy the setup from one lock to another, but it is actually a pain if you are trying to create entries for multiple users. For our setup, the property manager and I were to be administrators. In my professional life, I have more than a passing familiarity with good security (technical and otherwise) practices, and I also set up a separate user account for both of us (which was good, because the property manager quickly forgot the administrator account that I had set up but had no problem remembering the user account). But for each unit in the building, I had to assign a number to each intended user, because you use the keypad to add all the new accounts and it is numeric only. I had to assign one for each tenant, and not each apartment, because the biometric captures only one finger per user account. Then I realized that some of us (myself included) wanted to record a finger from each hand, to make it easier to use if we were carrying a package, which meant I had to make two user accounts for each person that wanted to record two fingers. And while using the keypad is convenient in that you don't need an app to add users, it is certainly a pain from the perspective of User Interface. It should be noted that there is a place in the Ultraloq App for you to add a name to a user, but more on that below.
Installation: I didn't handle this, a trained locksmith did, but he said it was painless and asked me about the locks, as he may start recommending them to others.
Battery life: 5 out of 5. They have been in use constantly for four months with no issues. Batteries are AA, and I am using AmazonBasics rechargeables without an issue.
Usage - Keypad: 4 out of 5. The keypad stays asleep (and dark) until you need to use it, then it wakes up. You type in your code and press the enter key, which is a symbol (look at the picture of the keypad if you don't know what I mean). I have only had one person that couldn't figure out how to use the keypad, and to be fair, there's no indication that you need to press enter, but everyone else, from delivery drivers to cleaning services, figured it out on their own.
Usage - Biometrics: 4 out of 5. The reader wakes up very quickly, and when it gets it right on the first try, it is amazingly fast. However, your mileage will vary based on the placement of your finger (relative to when you originally recorded it), the weather (if it is cold or very dry, the reader may have more difficulty than during warmer weather), the cleanliness of the reader (obviously, if it is smudged with mud, it won't work so well) and the condition of your chosen finger. One trick that works when it's cold or your skin is dry - touch the surface of your finger to your forehead, then touch the reader, and the additional transferred skin oil aids the reader in picking up your whorls and ridges.
Usage - Bluetooth: NR. Honestly, none of us use this. I tested it and it works, but a sample size of one test use is insufficient for a rating.
Usage - Manual Key: NR. The keys exist for emergencies and should not be used as a regular means of opening the locks. The company says this, our locksmith said this, and they definitely feel flimsy.
Ultraloq App: 2 out of 5. The app exists. It shows you the locks. It works most of the time to open them. It has difficulty maintaining a connection when performing administrative maintenance. It lacks the ability to move most of the administration work from the lock to the app. It *does* keep a security log of who has successfully used the lock and any unsuccessful attempts, as well as administrative logins; however, it is difficult to maintain a connection long enough to download the log. It does monitor rough battery status, but I have found this to be very unreliable.
Right now, I am awaiting the release of the bridges that upgrade the usability of these locks. In theory this will allow me to set certain codes to only work during certain days / times (like delivery drivers) and more easily administer the locks for the building. I purchased three of the bridges, but they have yet to be released by Ultraloq.
In conclusion, despite the fact I didn't just give everything five stars and say the locks are amazing, these are pretty good locks for the money. They do about 75% of what we need them to do, and they work flawlessly about 90% of the time. Not a single tenant has complained about the switch; on the contrary, almost everyone in the building has thanked me for purchasing them for the building. The property manager has left me with the responsibility of maintaining the user database until it's a bit easier, but I don't mind. Most of the delivery companies have no problems using the codes we have given them, with the notable exception of Amazon Logistics (who keeps leaving packages on the porch without even trying the code, but we are working on this) and OnTrac (although we may have them onboard now). If the functionality of the smartphone interface, the ease of adding, deleting, and modifying users, or the enhanced capabilities of the forthcoming bridges were addressed, I would not hesitate to give this five stars. Until then, this is not a perfect system, but I do recommend it.
This lock is ALMOST the complete package, It's easy to use, has great features. The fingerprint identification is fast, key entry works great, and flawless bluetooth. I love the little perk where you can knock on the phone in your pocket 4 times and the lock will open. I love that it keeps a log of entries as well, and that the keys and fingerprint reader are backlit.
Seems really high quality build. Easy handle change for direction of door.
The only feature that this lock is missing, is the ability to send a 'key' to another smart phone, so that you can remotely provide access to a third party. Since the lock already works with my phone's bluetooth, it would seem to be reasonable to expect a software upgrade in the future where the company provides this ability. I should be able to send a 'key' to someone else's phone that would enable their phone's bluetooth to open the lock, similar to what August and others do. I hope to see that feature in the future, which would be the final element to make this lock perfect.
If you have a garage with a normal fireproof door that allows you to enter your home like I do, you will appreciate the unit. I have to carry a lot of keys and usually have both hands full as I approach the door. I have found it easy to stick out 1 or another of my fingers to open via the Ultraloq scanner in just a few seconds and do not need to put down my stuff first. My photos and videos uploaded here show the various finger, code, phone app or standard key method to open. The code tag and 2 keys they supply are really only needed in the event you have not noticed the low battery warnings which (they claim) come long before they are unable to power the latch. Note that it takes a few steps from the lock itself or phone app to put this lock into "passage" mode where it remains unlocked. I do wish that were easier or geo-fenced so that doing that on occasion is not necessary.
Mechanically this unit is very solidly built in my opinion. The handle normally rotates when the door is locked. But the mechanism does not move the interior bolt until the electronics operate the internal motor. This does feel different than ordinary locks and confuses our visitors if we forget to mention it.
I decided to program the finger scanner for several fingers on each hand and also for my wife. I'd say it reads and opens maybe 90% on first try. It is a bit fussy. Entering a code is easy and always works. I like that you only need 4 digits, but you can enter other digits before and after those if someone is watching and it is highly unlikely they could memorize all those. The lock sees your particular code within what you enter.
When I went to install this, it was very simple. Removing the old lock and handles allowed me to measure and see no modifications at all were needed in my case. The Ultraloq fit installed per instructions. As my door is metal skinned I did have a concern because there are two "teeth" on the door side of the lock that need to bite into the surface to aid security from force turning it. It takes a lot of tightening to make those dig in. Otherwise it does not sit flat either. I was just nervous about over tightening and breaking something. If you take off the lock later, there will be little dents from this. You may not need to install the frame strike the supply if you old one fits. I decided to do that anyways, and needed to notch the wood corners to fit as the original one at curved corners.
I do wish the lock stayed open longer which is why I had to go 4 vs 5 stars. It is only about 10 seconds which I found inconvenient. But this uses a lot of the battery power and I understand why it is kept short to prolong battery life. Those are 3 AA under the black cover on the interior side. Another reason to keep it short are commercial use applications where you want to make it difficult for a second person to re-open immediately with no code and sneak in. I hope the few photos of the app and videos of lock open methods are useful. I just hope I can get them out of my iphone. (Amazon does not allow multiple videos, so I will come back and upload a combined one.
Also, actually programming the sensor to identify your finger took several tries to get the sequence of that correct and working.
Before you order, make sure you are getting the model you want. Must decide metal finish, and with or without Bluetooth option although they may have standardized on the latter.
This is a good product and I recommend it.
When I tried the Ultraloq UL3 from U-tec I'll admit I was a little apprehensive. I didn't really like the idea of my door being at the mercy of battery life or a computer. It wasn't long after I opened the box and did a little research that my concerns were laid to rest. When I took the lock out of the box I was surprised by the weight and the quality of its construction. This thing is heavy and well built. Obviously I didn't try to smash it or anything but I can tell it is very well made and won't come apart if it's tampered with. Security being my main concern, I was eager to give it a try at this point.
In the box there were a couple of installation templates and instructional booklets along with all the tools and hardware required for installation. The manufacturer boasts that the lock can be installed in ten minutes and they're not far off. It took less than fifteen for me but I have a pretty heavy steel door. That made the drilling a little more difficult. That said, 15 minutes is still very quick to be installing a lock of this nature. It was very easy. Once the lock was mounted on the door, I had it set up for use in a couple more minutes. Again, very easy to set up. Once the lock was mounted and programmed it was time to download the Ultraloq app to my smartphone. Total setup time including the app was 17 -20 minutes tops. I was very impressed.
The Ultraloq UL3 is impressive in construction, appearance, and ease of use. However it has many features that make it a very good choice as well. It can store 95 individual fingerprints and 95 individual codes making it great for both home and business environments. The touchpad has no buttons to wear out over time. It is an OLED touchscreen that conveniently senses the users hand to ready itself for code entry. The fingerprint scanner is accurate and easy to use. There is an emergency mechanical key that allows entry even in the event of a power failure or malfunction. Besides normal operation the user can set the lock to either "lockout" or "passage" mode. This allows the lock to be disabled to any entry method other than a key or to be left unlocked until the user is ready. All of this can be managed from your smartphone via Bluetooth 4.0.
With the Ultraloq app users can unlock, lock, toggle mode, manage users, and view a entry log. User information can be backed up on the "U-cloud" and imported again so you never lose your setup. Plus there is a "knock" feature that allows you to unlock the door by knocking on your phone even if it's in your pocket. Take everything I've said into consideration and add that the battery life is 8,000 cycles or roughly a year and you have a quality product. Ultraloq offers a 30 day money back guarantee and an 18 month electronic warranty. More information can be found with the manufacturer.
When compared to other keyless locks there are areas that the UL3 are stronger and a few that are weaker. That said, you won't find a model with all these features and solid construction for the price. All in all, the Ultraloq UL3 is a quality product that is incredibly easy to use. I highly recommend it.
Before I bought this lock, i read some negative reviews about Bluetooth issue but manufacturer stated issue was solved by latest app. I decided to give it a try. Everything turned out to be working as described. Fingerprint almost works every time. I will get another one for my garage door.
Feature Product
- World's First 5-in-1 Keyless Entry Smart Lock, Fingerprint + Code + Smartphone + Knock to Open + Key
- Advanced Fingerprint Identification, Anti-peep Touch Keypad Technology, View Logs via Ultraloq App
- Reversible Handle, Weatherproof, Intuitive OLED Display, Long Battery Life, Low Battery Alarm
- 18 Months Electronic and Lifetime Mechanical Warranty, DIY Installation, Auto-relock/Passage/Lockout
- Single Latch (Optional Deadbolt Cover Plate Required for Replacing Existing Deadbolt)
Description
My friend who is running an airbnb recommended this smart lock to me, and I'm impressed by the ease of installation and the speed of fingerprint recognition of this smart lock. Different with some other fingerprint reading devices I've used, the lock can recognize me and my family members immediately and accurately. I can also use my smartphone to unlock the door remotely which enables me to run my place as an airbnb someday and I don't even need to pass keys to my guests.
Never the less, the design of the lock also surpasses its competitors. It looks totally natural and stylish on my door.
Lock is relatively easy to install in a new door. Needed the face plate (sold separately), but the two items make a handsome combination. Directions to set up the lock were straightforward. Fingerprint reader can be a little finicky, but overall, a seamless installation and set up operation. Have had the lock for about six weeks, and it almost always works perfectly. An occasional minor issue with the fingerprint reader, but nothing to fret about. I would buy this product again (I actually am buying a second lock for another exterior door on my property) and would recommend it to anyone who wants a very solid, very nice looking, well made, and dependable electronic lock. I had to contact customer support - they were great. Provided the help I needed and followed-up to make sure I was totally satisfied.
I purchased this lock as a replacement for a much less expensive biometric lock that I had for just over a year and a half that was installed on the door to my basement. To be honest the Ultraloq UL3 was my first choice but at the time when I made the purchase the price difference was huge an d the other was available for same day delivery. After 20 months that unit failed on me so I went looking for a replacement and discovered that there was an updated Ultraloq that had Bluetooth. The biggest headache that I had with the other lock was that if I wanted to let someone in I'd have to go upstairs to open the basement door which gets old when you have visitors but are still trying to keep the kids out. I figured that this lock would fix that problem and Amazon even had it available for same day pickup (which was my first time doing that, might be the last as well, but that has nothing to do with the lock). Once I got the lock home I was surprised to see how well packaged it was. Plenty of dense foam to keep it from being damaged, which was a huge plus. All of the parts seem well made, none are too lightweight or flimsy. Installation was a breeze, taking less than 20 minutes. I'd already installed the app and created an account so on to set up, which is where my only real issue comes in to play. The lock has spotty Bluetooth. Sometimes it takes a while to connect, so the knock to open on my iPhone and shake to open on my Note 8 aren't very useful since it's faster to just use the fingerprint scanner than it is to wait for it to connect. Speaking of the fingerprint scanner, it's pretty good. It rarely rejects a registered finger (less often than my phones), and so far has not accepted any non registered fingers. Having a log of when the lock was unlocked is great as well, and when Bluetooth works it works well. I don't know how often I'll actually be using that function to unlock the door, but it's nice to have, unfortunately since Bluetooth takes a while to connect and can drop connection from relatively close I'm taking half a star. I've read that there is a Bluetooth/WiFi bridge available and once it's on Amazon I will definitely buy it as well as the other locks (UL1 with deadbolt).
Why I bought this lock:
I needed a finger print latch that would go my garage connector door. I was looking for a finger print lock as I have kids who need to be able access the door independently but should not need to remember codes or carry keys. Also , needed only a latch not a dead bolt as I need the auto lock function. I had tried a dead bolt on our rear door with auto lock and it was a disaster with the door getting slammed with the bolt sticking out, with the jamb and lock getting almost destroyed. I researched and looked at the UL3 I liked that it was responsive with finger print access and could do codes, it also has the ability to use a key in an emergency. It can be stand alone and just work, OR be connected to the app, OR be connected to the bridge (this is a new feature) and be controlled using various methods. All this at a much better price point than the Kwicksets, Schlages, Yales and Samsungs (I researched these brands) of the world. Also, if you are concerned about privacy issues this lock is setup as a stand alone device would guarantee that.
The actual lock and installation experience:
Ohh!! you are going to love the un-boxing experience of this lock. It is beautifully packaged with everything you need, including a screwdriver for installing the lock. The first thing that strikes you is how heavy and well built the lock is and how smoothly it operates. It has all the templates you need if you need to drill a new bore. Mine went into my old lock's bore with no issues. Everything is metal from what I could see and feel. It is very responsive with codes, fingerprints and the app. The recent app update causes it to crash on opening on a android phone. That may be a function of my old phone though, as other apps some times will do the same. It seems to work on wife's phone. Installing it was 15 minutes end to end with all users programmed with one finger and one code.
The daily use experience:
The lock:
It's great, no keys, my wife has a number of fingers programmed and is a life saver when you have groceries or laundry and you don't have discretion on what finger to present to the lock. Kids love their new found freedom for egress and ingress with having to knock the door and wait. I am very happy as my door is now firmly shut all the time and my HVAC and power bill love it.
The programming:
Its easier than arming and disarming your home alarm system. The lock has a passage mode that disables the lock and is great when moving things or working in the garage. It has a lock out mode that prevent any operation from the outside, great when vacationing. All this can be done on the locks keypad or the app.
Build and feel:
The lock looks very nice and the 3 spare keys are solidly built and have a premium feel. The lock itself is metal and only plastic is the keypad and screen which seem rugged and heavy duty. The little screen below the finger print glass gives just the right amount of information. Also if the 3 AA batteries will last a year in my house I will be very happy, as my door is used very often.
Overall, I feel this is a good investment and the company seems to have ideas to continuously improve and build new locks. I will leave an update after a years use especially the battery use and the longevity of the lock.
This keyless lock is the best I have tried over the last two years. I had almost given up as I have tried several failing miserably and cost me a lot of money including Kevo and Itouchless.
This one sticks out. It is waterproof, has fingerprint reader that works, code and bluetooth function that actually works.
It is very sturdy build and much easier to install than the others I have tried.
I did have a problem during the installation as one of the holes for the screws were not fully drilled out and the screw could not fit.
So I contacted their online help and that is hands down the best and fastest service I have received in years. I got immediate response and they have a fix for the problem.
If you want keyless today - this is the way to go
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