This smart lock doesn't have the key to your heart
The Halo by Kwikset may be a smart lock that be controlled using an app, codes, or an old fashion set of keys. This versatility, paired with super tough hardware, looks like winning combination. But while the Halo features a lot going for it, there are a couple of shortcomings that make it less practical than it checked out first glance.
Installation
The Halo is harder to put in than some locks, because you've got to require out your current deadbolt and install a replacement one. Other door locks, just like the August Smart Lock or the Wyze Lock, fit over your existing deadbolt, making the transition easier. If you’re not mechanically inclined (like myself), you'll find getting the old deadbolt out, and putting the new one in, frustrating.In fact, Kwikset’s instructions say you'll need a chisel during installation. I’m unsure what percentage households have a chisel available , but I’m guessing rather few.
My biggest installation frustration, though, was thanks to the app. the fast start guide tells you to download the app. You then got to follow the on-screen instructions to put in the lock. A paper guide isn’t included within the box.
However, I had to modify screens to answer a text. once I came back to the app, it insisted i'm going through an extended , drawn out account check in process. When that was done, it didn’t take me back to the installation process. I had to seek out it again, then attempt to find the installation screen i used to be at before the interruption. That looks like a usability fail to me.
Durability
The most trait of this smart lock is its toughness. The Halo is kick-proof, fire resistant for up to twenty minutes, pick resistant, and hardened against drills or saws. Even the connecting wires inside are reinforced. this is often one sturdy lock. you'll tell just by its heft that it’s made to last.Keypad and access
The big issue is sensitivity. you would like to the touch the pad to activate it, then type in your key code. I found that if I didn’t type in my code fast enough, within seconds, the pad would attend sleep and wouldn’t wake copy . I’d stand around, tapping the screen impatiently, trying to urge it to return back to life for a moment or two. If you’re during a hurry to urge inside, this is often a no-go.
Also, the keypad shows fingerprints clearly. meaning a would-be crook could take a glance at the pattern of fingerprints on the touchpad and are available up together with your code easily. i attempted wiping the touchpad after using it, but who is basically getting to clean off their lock whenever they use it?
One feature i prefer is that you simply can use the app to show off the keypad altogether. Then, you'll use your keys or the app to regulate the locking and unlocking of your door. It undermines the entire point of a sensible lock with a keypad, but that tells you ways much I don’t just like the Halo’s keypad.
It’s a shame, because this lock can store up to 250 user codes, complete with deadlines and expiration dates that you simply can control through the app. I can see where that might are available handy.
The alarm didn’t work
One of the features I liked once I first learned of the Halo is that an alarm sounds if the code is entered incorrectly 3 times . this is able to instantly allow you to know if someone was trying to work out your code and forced an entry your home.
So, within the interest of science, i attempted it out. I entered three random codes, and to my dismay, nothing happened. No alarm sounded. No notification popped abreast of my phone. Other attempts haven’t yielded an alarm, either.
I contacted the company’s support team, and that they said it's going to flow from to low batteries or the connection coming loose. Neither appeared to be the cause. thus far as I can tell, the feature simply doesn’t work as advertise.
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