Home security is a high priority for a lot of homeowners nowadays and with the growing smart home industry, there are now more options than ever before. There are smart security cameras, smart doorbells, and even smart locks. What many saw as a futuristic gadget in their youth is now a reality as an adult.
With these advancements in technology come devices that our fingerprints to grant us access. One such device that falls into this category is the Ultraloq UL3 smart keyless lock. This smart lock makes use of smart lock technology but decides to go a different route. Instead of relying on a smartphone application, Ultraloq builds its capabilities right into the locking mechanism itself.
However, the lock does have a Bluetooth option if you want to go that route. Although it might seem like a con to owning the device, the Ultraloq does allow for 95 different fingerprints, which is impressive Although I don’t know that I would give that many people access to my home. Either way, the Ultraloq UL3 is a solid option if you’re in the market for a fingerprint scanning smart door lock.
Let’s dig a little deeper into what this device has to offer.
Contents (Jump to)
Design
The Ultraloq UL3 boasts an ultramodern design that really stands out amongst its competitors. This sleek keyless smart lock is high-tech and gives off a very modern vibe. There’s no mistaking this sophisticated lock for a traditional dead-bolt as it looks as though it should be protecting a bank vault or security office.
Of course, something that looks so advanced could appear out of place on your front door. It might send a message to would-be thieves or burglars that you have something valuable stored inside. However, it might also serve as a deterrent. Someone looking to break into your home might see the Ultraloq UL3 and wonder what other types of high-tech security you have inside.
Ultraloq also offers a feature that it refers to as Sense On as part of the design of the UL3. Basically, the keypad on the device automatically lights up when your hand gets near it. This allows you to see the keypad in the dark, or have an easier time seeing the pad so you can place your thumb on it. It doesn’t light up until it senses your hand, so it’s not lit up all the time if you’re worried about battery consumption.
Lastly, the Ultraloq UL3 offers users three different methods with which they can enter their home. You can use the keypad code on the front of the device, unlock the door by using your thumbprint, or you can use the backup. If you prefer simplicity, the easiest way is probably going to be using your thumbprint, which you’ll probably use the vast majority of the time. Having said that, it’s always nice to have backup options in the event that you’re unable to use the thumbprint scanner to gain access to your home.
Features
The Ultraloq UL3 is a fantastic smart home lock that provides versatility and security for your home. You can place it on your front door or other rooms in your home that you need to protect. Here’s a rundown of some of the features you’ll get with this smart lock.
Weatherproof
The UL3 is rated IP65, so you don’t have to worry about it getting wet. This ensures that it always works accurately, even if you install it on an exterior door.
Four-second re-lock
You don’t have to worry about whether or not you locked your door with the UL3. It automatically relocks after four seconds, so you have the peace of mind that your home is protected even if you don’t remember.
Thumbprint Access
Thumbprint access means you can easily get into your home, even if your hands are full. You no longer have to worry about losing your keys. With the UL3, all you have to do is whip out your thumb. Which should already be attached.
Keypad Entry
If for some reason your thumbprint scanner doesn’t work, you always have the option to use your keypad to gain entry to your home. You’re still eliminating the need for using your keys. It makes for a fast and convenient way to unlock your door.
Sense On recognition
With this technology, the UL3 automatically lights up when your hand gets near the lock. That means, if it’s dark out, you don’t have to pull out your phone just to see the keypad. This is a convenient added feature, especially in low-lit areas.
95 different users
The Ultraloq UL3 can handle up to 95 different users. That’s 95 different thumbprints or keycodes, which is pretty impressive. It’s nice to know that you can call on a neighbor or friend if you forget something and they have access to your home.
Uses AA batteries
Some smart devices have proprietary batteries. That means, if it dies, you have to wait for a new one to arrive. Fortunately, the Ultraloq UL3 is not one fo those devices It uses standard AA batteries, which, more than likely, you already have in your home.
Sturdy metal construction
With the Ultraloq UL3, you don’t have to worry about whether or not it will hold up over time. It’s sturdy construction also means that would-be trespassers will have a hard time breaking it if that’s what they decide to do.
Performance
We’ve already mentioned that the UL3 is waterproof, which means it won’t stop working if it happens to get rained on. It’s designed to put up with the abuse that typically comes with harsh weather, so you don’t have to worry about it working the day after a thunderstorm.
The Ultraloq UL3 also has a very long battery life. A big reason that many smart locks have such short battery lives is the amount of energy required to turn the deadbolt. These types of deadbolt locks have to work hard. The UL3, on the other hand, is a simple but secure lock for your handle. It doesn’t require near the energy that a deadbolt lock requires, which means it uses much less battery. Ultraloq boasts that its smart door lock will work for 365 days before you need to replace the batteries.
From a performance perspective, the Ultralog provides a user-friendly display that provides a great experience for those that install the device in their homes. The keypad is where you enter the program codes which allow friends and family access to your home.
The owner’s manual does a great job of guiding you through this experience so you don’t have to try to fumble your way through it on your own. This is a really nice feature as many smart lock manufacturers tend to make this type of functionality a little to complex for users.
Usability
The Ultraloq UL3 offers a seamless experience to its users. This means you’ll experience no lag time between the moment you place your thumb on the scanner (or enter your code into the keypad) and when the door opens.
It takes the keypad-less than one second for it to determine whether or not your thumb or entry has access. While the lack of smartphone access is viewed by a con by many, the reason the Ultraloq UL3 can unlock your door so quickly is that it doesn’t have to take time to talk to your device. Everything is self-contained, so it already knows whether or not you should be allowed entry.
We talked about this briefly in the features section, but the Ultraloq UL3 is basically dummy proof. Even if you wanted to leave it unlocked, you couldn’t. The lock re-engages automatically after four seconds of being unlocked. There’s simply no way to leave it unlocked, which removes a lot of the guesswork. With the Ultraloq UL3, you no longer have to wonder whether or not you locked your door behind you.
Another topic we touched on briefly is the ability for the device to program up to 95 different users. This probably makes the most sense in an office setting, although if you wanted to put it on your front door and program 95 different friends or family members, you could definitely do so.
If you’re in a place where sensitive information is stored, you no longer have to worry about who has a key or who doesn’t. With the UL3, you have the ability to secure the room and only give access to those who absolutely need it.
Pros and Cons
Of course, no smart device is without its flaws. The Ultraloq UL3 is a solid smart door lock, but it does have a few drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at some of the pros and cons for the UL3.
Pros
- Thumbprint scanning technology.
- Multiple opening methods.
- Rated IP-65 for weatherproof.
- You can use your already existing deadbolt.
Cons
- Smartphone does not work as an e-lock.
- Not compatible with other smart home systems like Z-wave or Zigbee.
- No anti-tamper alarm.
Conclusion
While the Ultraloq UL3 may not be the best smart lock for your home, it will definitely get the job done. It’s a beast that will protect and secure your home, and you can rest easy knowing only those who are supposed to have access will be able to gain entry.
The UL3 is ideal for an office environment where inventory or other materials needs to be secured, and only certain people need to have access. However, if you’re looking for a smart device that will protect your valuables – whether that’s in your home or your office – the Ultraloq UL3 will get the job done.
Further read,
Patrick Sinclair is a geek; make no mistake about that. He runs All Home Robotics in his spare time so he doesn’t have to think about his depressing cubicle and it gives him an excuse to buy expensive gadgets to review!
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