Theres also an Apple Watch app, which I found handy when my phone was tucked away in a pocket. 
You can also set temporary passcodes via the smartphone app. By connecting to the app and Bluetooth you can give your smartphone a magic shake allowing you hands-free access to your door or just leave it in your pocket so you dont spill your groceries. With minor constraints on design and technology, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi smart lock is perfect for those who want to splurge a bit on security. diameter latch hole, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), 128-bit, Bluetooth BLE, Audit Trail, Auto Relocking, Auto Unlocking, Battery Backup, Bluetooth, Remote Control, Show everythingShow all reviewsShow all photosShow helpful positive reviewsShow helpful negative reviewsShow unanswered questions, Andrew Cuadrado (verified owner) January 18, 2021, Very easy to setup .. looks gorgeous and is durable.. would love to buy more products hopefully soon. Home Controls is the premier national distributor of comprehensive and unique home automation and security systems! Our free tech support, stellar customer service, competitive prices and fast shipping with no-hassle returns are reasons why Home Controls is your one-stop shop for designing and building a reliable smart home system. The lock cylinder is surrounded by a ring of rubber buttons, from 1 through 0. The 6 represents a high degree of water tolerance. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is outfitted with a fabulous fingerprint reader. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? If you have a power bank, you can plug directly into the lock to supply power. You can Alexa voice control with Amazon Echo smart speakers, like the fourth-gen Echo (pictured), to manage Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi smart lock. Today, were going to review the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock (and Bridge). We would have liked to see Ultraloq put a little more effort into a reliable fingerprint reader. And with a strong weatherproof Zinc Alloy casing, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock is extremely durable. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more. If youve ever tried a rotary phone, youll understand the complaint. The U-Bolt Pro replaces your existing deadbolt. So, how well does the U-Bolt perform? You can scan a QR code to access it on your phone or use the provided URL. Known as the "Tech Guru", he's an expert of current and trending technology. It has a plain white plastic housing, like many home electronics. With or without Wi-Fi, the unit behaves identically to the prior version of the lock. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Do I really want to rely on a phone for something as important as my deadbolt? There wont be any damage. Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Here at NerdTechy, he makes tech easy to understand for the average person. If your hands are dirty or sweaty, it will often fail to read them. To be fair, wed rather get false negatives than false positives. If someone is looking over your shoulder, they wont know which numbers were actually important. The most reliable method of opening the U-Bolt is to use a passcode. If you can install an ordinary deadbolt, you can get it set up in less than 20 minutes. The front door lock offers multiple entry convenient methods like fingerprint reader technology, an important option for users who prize simplicity above all else. On the other hand, if you have a large family with many comings and goings, you may want to leave alerts off. Were not sure if this is a weakness of the bridge, the lock, or both. More importantly, its where your family lives. Does this come with a deadbolt and replace my existing? Thats a major benefit for, say, Airbnb owners who want to assign temporary access to tenants. The instructions are written clearly alongside helpful illustrations to guide you along. This means it can be positioned far from your router, even where your phone is only getting a weak wireless signal. These users are also stored within your account on the app so that you can delete or edit the users at any time. Can you please post an answer to the above question? However, theres also a Micro USB port in the bottom of the exterior lock. CNET's Cheapskate scours the web for great deals on tech products and much more. Inside your home, the lock is a simple black or satin nickel deadbolt. This concept isnt unique to door locks. Sign-in below to view your order status, repeat past orders, leave reviews for products and more. The door can be set to auto-lock or to automatically unlock when your connected smartphone is outside of the Bluetooth radius that you can configure through the Ultraloq application. One thing to be aware of, as is the case with many smart-home devices, the lock does not support dual-band Wi-Fi and requires a 2.4GHz internet connection. The feature is easy to set up, and in my tests, it worked flawlessly. The lock is rated IP65-rated against dust and water and can withstand temperatures ranging from -22 to 149 degrees. Short of the very dustiest, driest environments, you wont have any issues with dust infiltration. Your code can be up to six digits long to make it harder to guess. This doesn't affect our editorial independence. The compact, attractive design is another nice perk, especially if youre put off by the chunky, unappealing looks of other locks. Typically the range is around 30 feet. Here at NerdTechy, we try to make tech simple for the everyday person. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock with Bridge WiFi Adapter for $139. Similarly, the U-Bolt can be programmed to automatically lock and unlock when your phone is nearby. Welcome back! We offer smart lighting, DIY and Pro-grade security systems, structured wiring products, thermostats and intercom systems. The below response did not answer the question. Assuming youre replacing an existing deadbolt on a fairly standard door, you should find the U-Bolt easy to install. If all else fails, you can pop open the front face of the lock and use a good old-fashioned metal key. Learn More, Home | About Us | Disclosure | Privacy | Contact. Youre either missing something, or you have a very unusual front door. 10 reasons to purchase a smart home security system, Your smart speakers are dirtyhere's how to clean them. This new model eliminates the need for a separate Wi-Fi bridge to connect it to your home network. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. All told, it seems that U-tec has really improved its hardware, and I encountered no trouble getting the lock affixed to my door and running in less than 10 minutes. If someone wanted to kick in your door, nothing was going to stop them. Additional features are plentiful. But if you can live with those limitations, youll find this an excellent asset to your front door. If the phone is next to your ear and not in your pocket, it will often fail to read. That presents a particular problem since neither my phone nor router allow the 5GHz band to be disabled. Youd have to take a very close look to realize it isnt anything special. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. The aforementioned need to cut the tailpiece to fit your door is gone, and the exterior escutcheon no longer has sharp teeth that hold it in place against the wood of the door. That said, if youre going to put WiFi in the name of the product; well, thats where it really needs to deliver. Because I didnt need to drill out a hole or make any adjustments to the door strike, I was able to complete the process in about 20 minutes. The U-tec app gives you complete control by allowing you to share codes and Ekeys with visitors, friends, and family members, plus, add or delete users at any time with no monthly fees. Get the best deals and the best advice dropped right in your inbox. He contributes regularly to TechHive, PCWorld, and Wired, and operates the websites Drinkhacker and Film Racket. If your cleaner comes every Tuesday, you can set her code to only work on Tuesdays. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. Learn more by checking out our about us page. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Simple installation takes minutes using only four screws with no drilling or wiring. The tri-color LED indicator notifies you of access, BLE connectivity, battery and locking status. Again, this is better than the lock opening than it shouldnt, but wed expected better. Answers live on our FAQ page. When you enroll PIN codes and other credentials, they are stored locally on the lock and are also stored within your U-Tec app. Check deadbolt status, share eKeys, and manage users all from your smartphone and U-tec app. Accepts Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands. This deadbolt relocks automatically so you can get to putting away those groceries you just brought in. And if yours is a Siri-powered household, you might prefer a smart lock that works with Apple HomeKit, like the Schlage Sense Deadbolt. If you want a smart lock that truly looks like an ordinary lock, consider the Lockly Secure Pro. If you already own it, hit the comments and share what you like or don't like. 
The users can be enrolled through the U-Tec app and are transferred and stored on the lock itself to verify access. Lets start with the phone options: In addition to tapping a big on screen button, you can enable a GPS-powered geofence to automatically engage the lock when you leave the area and Bluetooth to automatically unlock it when you approach. The U-tec App will literally turn your smartphone into a key and let you manage who can unlock your door and when. That means Amazon delivery drivers dont have the option of leaving packages inside your door, which many find desirable in these days of rampant porch-piracy. This model is not recommended for applications where the interior unit will be exposed to the elements. It will install in most thicknesses, from 1 5/16 to 2 inches. This modern and narrow keypad ensures that users take their time when it comes to code entry. Companion apps for some of the best smart locks, like the Wyze Lock, offer this user security feature. There are few things in life more important than the security of your home. Note: At no extra cost to you, we may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Unfortunately, this model does not feature an anti-tamper alarm. U-tecs upgraded smart lock is easier to install and works like a dream, but its Wi-Fi implementation is problematic at best. The first Ultraloq smart lock, released in 2019, was a promising product held back by an incredibly difficult installation process that literally required a hacksaw to complete. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Nuvo Traveler review: This air purifier fits in your cars cupholder, The best air purifiers: Keep your home safe, comfortable, and odor free. Questions about the Cheapskate blog? NerdTechy is supported by its audience. Its easy to set up one or two fingerprints, a PIN code, and/or app access for up to 50 users, each of which can each be limited by time and date as well as by the total number of unlock operations. And nowadays, you dont have to rely on a mechanical key to get you in and out of your home. He lives in Michigan, where he previously owned two escape rooms (chronicled in the ebook "I Was a Middle-Aged Zombie"). This can be a useful feature if youre very concerned about security, or if you live alone. The WiFi bridge plugs into your power outlet, and looks like a simple outlet splitter or surge protector. For more information or ordering assistance, please call our Residential Product Specialists at877-439-5377ext9005. 2022 Reviewed, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC. Thank you. The front of the cylinder functions as a fingerprint reader. Can the interior side be flipped upside down? When you make changes through the app, these changes are sent to the lock and stored locally there so that these credentials still work even if the Wi-Fi connection to the lock is broken. The previous version of the U-Bolt was a Bluetooth-only affair (unless you purchased the separate Wi-Fi bridge adapter). 
We would also have liked a little more range on the wireless network bridge. Its where you keep all your stuff. But with the industrial revolution, everyone was able to put a lock on their door. Disclosure Statement: Requires your smartphone to be connected to a 2.4G Wi-Fi connection. It's also globally compatible with any standard door. No more waiting around to let in the repairman, send them a temporary code or eKey from the app so they can get in and get to work. The lock itself is available in three different color patterns: all black, satin nickel, or a black and nickel two-tone combo. The U-Bolt supports both Alexa and Google Assistant. When paired with the included Wi-Fi Bridge, you'll be able to control and manage your lock remotely and provide guests access to your lock from anywhere in the world with codes or Ekeys, plus, be able to set up access to the lock with specific dates or periods of time. That not only lets you control the lock from afar (like if you need to let someone in when you're not home), but also allows for Alexa and Google Voice control. Email us and we'll compare notes. Well start by discussing the basic design and installation. Moreover, before mass production, a well-engineered lock could be worth its weight in gold! From there, youll be able to install the smartphone app and control your lock from anywhere. These are fairly vanilla measurements, which will apply to most exterior doors. Shop your favorite products and well find the best deal with a single click. It also works with IFTTT and SmartThings smart-home platforms. This is what most people will probably use for entry most of the time, so it makes sense that its easy to access. You cant immerse the lock, but you can soak it with your hose while washing your house. The locks appearance is unique and unusual, and while it looks somewhat industrial and ominous, Ive certainly seen worse smart locks. A micro-USB port is included for emergency use if its four AA batteries die. He writes CNET's popular Cheapskate blog and co-hosts Protocol 1: A Travelers Podcast (about the TV show Travelers). Most people are going to lock and unlock their door with the fingerprint reader. The smart lock also supports Alexa Routines. U-tec has revamped its installation process and accompanying manual to streamline and simplify the process. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time. However, the interior side is not weather rated. Thats great on paper, but the execution is flawed: Whenever the Ultraloq app retreats to the background, Magic Shake remains active for only five minutes. There are a couple of small usability issues, and the lock doesnt support Amazon Key or Apple HomeKit. Unless you need an ultra-accurate fingerprint reader, this is a great smart lock. When the U-Bolt is connected to your router, you can use the app to set up alerts. Attractive appearance and easy installation. Never forget to change the batteries with the low battery alarm, but in case it does slip your mind, you can power the lock using the micro-USB on the front or use the mechanical key emergency override for access. While this allows for a more compact design, it slows code entry.
You can also set temporary passcodes via the smartphone app. By connecting to the app and Bluetooth you can give your smartphone a magic shake allowing you hands-free access to your door or just leave it in your pocket so you dont spill your groceries. With minor constraints on design and technology, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi smart lock is perfect for those who want to splurge a bit on security. diameter latch hole, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), 128-bit, Bluetooth BLE, Audit Trail, Auto Relocking, Auto Unlocking, Battery Backup, Bluetooth, Remote Control, Show everythingShow all reviewsShow all photosShow helpful positive reviewsShow helpful negative reviewsShow unanswered questions, Andrew Cuadrado (verified owner) January 18, 2021, Very easy to setup .. looks gorgeous and is durable.. would love to buy more products hopefully soon. Home Controls is the premier national distributor of comprehensive and unique home automation and security systems! Our free tech support, stellar customer service, competitive prices and fast shipping with no-hassle returns are reasons why Home Controls is your one-stop shop for designing and building a reliable smart home system. The lock cylinder is surrounded by a ring of rubber buttons, from 1 through 0. The 6 represents a high degree of water tolerance. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is outfitted with a fabulous fingerprint reader. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? If you have a power bank, you can plug directly into the lock to supply power. You can Alexa voice control with Amazon Echo smart speakers, like the fourth-gen Echo (pictured), to manage Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Wi-Fi smart lock. Today, were going to review the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock (and Bridge). We would have liked to see Ultraloq put a little more effort into a reliable fingerprint reader. And with a strong weatherproof Zinc Alloy casing, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock is extremely durable. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more. If youve ever tried a rotary phone, youll understand the complaint. The U-Bolt Pro replaces your existing deadbolt. So, how well does the U-Bolt perform? You can scan a QR code to access it on your phone or use the provided URL. Known as the "Tech Guru", he's an expert of current and trending technology. It has a plain white plastic housing, like many home electronics. With or without Wi-Fi, the unit behaves identically to the prior version of the lock. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Do I really want to rely on a phone for something as important as my deadbolt? There wont be any damage. Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Here at NerdTechy, he makes tech easy to understand for the average person. If your hands are dirty or sweaty, it will often fail to read them. To be fair, wed rather get false negatives than false positives. If someone is looking over your shoulder, they wont know which numbers were actually important. The most reliable method of opening the U-Bolt is to use a passcode. If you can install an ordinary deadbolt, you can get it set up in less than 20 minutes. The front door lock offers multiple entry convenient methods like fingerprint reader technology, an important option for users who prize simplicity above all else. On the other hand, if you have a large family with many comings and goings, you may want to leave alerts off. Were not sure if this is a weakness of the bridge, the lock, or both. More importantly, its where your family lives. Does this come with a deadbolt and replace my existing? Thats a major benefit for, say, Airbnb owners who want to assign temporary access to tenants. The instructions are written clearly alongside helpful illustrations to guide you along. This means it can be positioned far from your router, even where your phone is only getting a weak wireless signal. These users are also stored within your account on the app so that you can delete or edit the users at any time. Can you please post an answer to the above question? However, theres also a Micro USB port in the bottom of the exterior lock. CNET's Cheapskate scours the web for great deals on tech products and much more. Inside your home, the lock is a simple black or satin nickel deadbolt. This concept isnt unique to door locks. Sign-in below to view your order status, repeat past orders, leave reviews for products and more. The door can be set to auto-lock or to automatically unlock when your connected smartphone is outside of the Bluetooth radius that you can configure through the Ultraloq application. One thing to be aware of, as is the case with many smart-home devices, the lock does not support dual-band Wi-Fi and requires a 2.4GHz internet connection. The feature is easy to set up, and in my tests, it worked flawlessly. The lock is rated IP65-rated against dust and water and can withstand temperatures ranging from -22 to 149 degrees. Short of the very dustiest, driest environments, you wont have any issues with dust infiltration. Your code can be up to six digits long to make it harder to guess. This doesn't affect our editorial independence. The compact, attractive design is another nice perk, especially if youre put off by the chunky, unappealing looks of other locks. Typically the range is around 30 feet. Here at NerdTechy, we try to make tech simple for the everyday person. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock with Bridge WiFi Adapter for $139. Similarly, the U-Bolt can be programmed to automatically lock and unlock when your phone is nearby. Welcome back! We offer smart lighting, DIY and Pro-grade security systems, structured wiring products, thermostats and intercom systems. The below response did not answer the question. Assuming youre replacing an existing deadbolt on a fairly standard door, you should find the U-Bolt easy to install. If all else fails, you can pop open the front face of the lock and use a good old-fashioned metal key. Learn More, Home | About Us | Disclosure | Privacy | Contact. Youre either missing something, or you have a very unusual front door. 10 reasons to purchase a smart home security system, Your smart speakers are dirtyhere's how to clean them. This new model eliminates the need for a separate Wi-Fi bridge to connect it to your home network. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. All told, it seems that U-tec has really improved its hardware, and I encountered no trouble getting the lock affixed to my door and running in less than 10 minutes. If someone wanted to kick in your door, nothing was going to stop them. Additional features are plentiful. But if you can live with those limitations, youll find this an excellent asset to your front door. If the phone is next to your ear and not in your pocket, it will often fail to read. That presents a particular problem since neither my phone nor router allow the 5GHz band to be disabled. Youd have to take a very close look to realize it isnt anything special. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. The aforementioned need to cut the tailpiece to fit your door is gone, and the exterior escutcheon no longer has sharp teeth that hold it in place against the wood of the door. That said, if youre going to put WiFi in the name of the product; well, thats where it really needs to deliver. Because I didnt need to drill out a hole or make any adjustments to the door strike, I was able to complete the process in about 20 minutes. The U-tec app gives you complete control by allowing you to share codes and Ekeys with visitors, friends, and family members, plus, add or delete users at any time with no monthly fees. Get the best deals and the best advice dropped right in your inbox. He contributes regularly to TechHive, PCWorld, and Wired, and operates the websites Drinkhacker and Film Racket. If your cleaner comes every Tuesday, you can set her code to only work on Tuesdays. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. Learn more by checking out our about us page. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Simple installation takes minutes using only four screws with no drilling or wiring. The tri-color LED indicator notifies you of access, BLE connectivity, battery and locking status. Again, this is better than the lock opening than it shouldnt, but wed expected better. Answers live on our FAQ page. When you enroll PIN codes and other credentials, they are stored locally on the lock and are also stored within your U-Tec app. Check deadbolt status, share eKeys, and manage users all from your smartphone and U-tec app. Accepts Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands. This deadbolt relocks automatically so you can get to putting away those groceries you just brought in. And if yours is a Siri-powered household, you might prefer a smart lock that works with Apple HomeKit, like the Schlage Sense Deadbolt. If you want a smart lock that truly looks like an ordinary lock, consider the Lockly Secure Pro. If you already own it, hit the comments and share what you like or don't like. The users can be enrolled through the U-Tec app and are transferred and stored on the lock itself to verify access. Lets start with the phone options: In addition to tapping a big on screen button, you can enable a GPS-powered geofence to automatically engage the lock when you leave the area and Bluetooth to automatically unlock it when you approach. The U-tec App will literally turn your smartphone into a key and let you manage who can unlock your door and when. That means Amazon delivery drivers dont have the option of leaving packages inside your door, which many find desirable in these days of rampant porch-piracy. This model is not recommended for applications where the interior unit will be exposed to the elements. It will install in most thicknesses, from 1 5/16 to 2 inches. This modern and narrow keypad ensures that users take their time when it comes to code entry. Companion apps for some of the best smart locks, like the Wyze Lock, offer this user security feature. There are few things in life more important than the security of your home. Note: At no extra cost to you, we may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Unfortunately, this model does not feature an anti-tamper alarm. U-tecs upgraded smart lock is easier to install and works like a dream, but its Wi-Fi implementation is problematic at best. The first Ultraloq smart lock, released in 2019, was a promising product held back by an incredibly difficult installation process that literally required a hacksaw to complete. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Nuvo Traveler review: This air purifier fits in your cars cupholder, The best air purifiers: Keep your home safe, comfortable, and odor free. Questions about the Cheapskate blog? NerdTechy is supported by its audience. Its easy to set up one or two fingerprints, a PIN code, and/or app access for up to 50 users, each of which can each be limited by time and date as well as by the total number of unlock operations. And nowadays, you dont have to rely on a mechanical key to get you in and out of your home. He lives in Michigan, where he previously owned two escape rooms (chronicled in the ebook "I Was a Middle-Aged Zombie"). This can be a useful feature if youre very concerned about security, or if you live alone. The WiFi bridge plugs into your power outlet, and looks like a simple outlet splitter or surge protector. For more information or ordering assistance, please call our Residential Product Specialists at877-439-5377ext9005. 2022 Reviewed, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC. Thank you. The front of the cylinder functions as a fingerprint reader. Can the interior side be flipped upside down? When you make changes through the app, these changes are sent to the lock and stored locally there so that these credentials still work even if the Wi-Fi connection to the lock is broken. The previous version of the U-Bolt was a Bluetooth-only affair (unless you purchased the separate Wi-Fi bridge adapter). We would also have liked a little more range on the wireless network bridge. Its where you keep all your stuff. But with the industrial revolution, everyone was able to put a lock on their door. Disclosure Statement: Requires your smartphone to be connected to a 2.4G Wi-Fi connection. It's also globally compatible with any standard door. No more waiting around to let in the repairman, send them a temporary code or eKey from the app so they can get in and get to work. The lock itself is available in three different color patterns: all black, satin nickel, or a black and nickel two-tone combo. The U-Bolt supports both Alexa and Google Assistant. When paired with the included Wi-Fi Bridge, you'll be able to control and manage your lock remotely and provide guests access to your lock from anywhere in the world with codes or Ekeys, plus, be able to set up access to the lock with specific dates or periods of time. That not only lets you control the lock from afar (like if you need to let someone in when you're not home), but also allows for Alexa and Google Voice control. Email us and we'll compare notes. Well start by discussing the basic design and installation. Moreover, before mass production, a well-engineered lock could be worth its weight in gold! From there, youll be able to install the smartphone app and control your lock from anywhere. These are fairly vanilla measurements, which will apply to most exterior doors. Shop your favorite products and well find the best deal with a single click. It also works with IFTTT and SmartThings smart-home platforms. This is what most people will probably use for entry most of the time, so it makes sense that its easy to access. You cant immerse the lock, but you can soak it with your hose while washing your house. The locks appearance is unique and unusual, and while it looks somewhat industrial and ominous, Ive certainly seen worse smart locks. A micro-USB port is included for emergency use if its four AA batteries die. He writes CNET's popular Cheapskate blog and co-hosts Protocol 1: A Travelers Podcast (about the TV show Travelers). Most people are going to lock and unlock their door with the fingerprint reader. The smart lock also supports Alexa Routines. U-tec has revamped its installation process and accompanying manual to streamline and simplify the process. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time. However, the interior side is not weather rated. Thats great on paper, but the execution is flawed: Whenever the Ultraloq app retreats to the background, Magic Shake remains active for only five minutes. There are a couple of small usability issues, and the lock doesnt support Amazon Key or Apple HomeKit. Unless you need an ultra-accurate fingerprint reader, this is a great smart lock. When the U-Bolt is connected to your router, you can use the app to set up alerts. Attractive appearance and easy installation. Never forget to change the batteries with the low battery alarm, but in case it does slip your mind, you can power the lock using the micro-USB on the front or use the mechanical key emergency override for access. While this allows for a more compact design, it slows code entry.