1 min readAqara released a cheaper version of its coveted U100 deadbolt smart lock, which will be nearly indistiguishable for HomeKit loyalists.
The new Smart Lock U50 has mostly the same features as the $150 dearer U100, but doesn't come with an Aqara Hub included in the box. This hub acts as a Matter bridge between other smart home hubs like Google Home and Amazon Alexa, allowing the lock to participate in home automations with other compatible smart devices.
Since the U50 can connect to Apple Home devices like the HomePod and Apple TV, the extra hub isn't neccessary for full functionality. Without an Apple Home device, you'll need to purchase an Aqara 3.0 Zigbee Hub for around $50-$100, or stick with basic and siloed smart lock functionality. For some people the convinence of the basics will be enough, but for smart home enthusiasts looking to get more out of their ecosystem the temptation to play with Aqara's automations may be too great.
With full functionality the U50 can particpate in Aqara's "IF, THEN" automation system. The simple automations use the "IF" as a trigger for the "THEN". For example, if the U50 is unlocked from the outside, then the lights can turn to 30% and start playing music through a Sonos speaker. Automations can include any Matter enabled devices connected to the same local hub.
For Apple Home and Apple HomeKit users, the Smart Lock U50 can save you $150 for much the same functionality as the $500 U100. Both smart locks come with NFC that allows you to use your iPhone or Apple Watch to open your door, a keypad for offline and periodic access passcodes, and battery life rated between six and eight months.
Apart from the in-box Zigbee hub, the U50 has a matte black finish across the whole device, an IPX5 rating as opposed to an IP65 on the U100, and sits on the lower end of the battery rating at just six months. Additionally, the mechanical key chamber can be reconfigured by a locksmith to match existing keys so your old house keys aren't deemed entirely useless.
The Smart Lock u50 is available from Bing Lee, Officeworks, and direct from Aqara for $349.
