The summary of ‘Review: Level Lock Plus Home Key Smart Lock + Installation!’

00:00:00

In this part of the video, the presenter discusses their six-month experience with the Level Lock Plus Smart Lock, highlighting their enjoyment of the product. The unboxing reveals key components including a bolt extender, a CR2 Duracell battery, several strike plates, hardware keys, the motor, and the paddle housing. The key housing is NFC enabled for Apple home key support. The deadbolt, which houses the battery, connects directly to the motor. The presenter emphasizes the simple and easy installation process: removing old hardware, installing the new deadbolt and strike plate with the included screws, and securing the motor with a jigsaw-like connection. The installation ends with threading the key housing through the motor and aligning the contacts properly.

00:03:00

In this part of the video, the key housing is installed, followed by assembling the paddle housing with the main structure using two bolts and a Phillips screwdriver. The thumb turn snaps on magnetically. The presenter discusses concerns about the lock’s pickability but notes that it can be re-keyed with a more robust cylinder, as mentioned in the FAQ on the manufacturer’s website. The CR2 battery is then inserted into the bolt, praised for its easy access. Finally, the setup process for a second Level Lock Plus is demonstrated, including naming the lock, setting the location, and connecting it to Apple HomeKit for enhanced features like remote connectivity with a HomeKit Hub.

00:06:00

In this part, the video explains the calibration process for optimizing the performance and battery life of the Level Lock, which involves a sequence of closing, unlocking, and locking the door. After the calibration, users will see a confirmation message and can exit by tapping ‘done’. The video then demonstrates using the Level Home app to lock and unlock doors, including switching between locks and using haptic feedback. The app requires Bluetooth, but with HomeKit integration, it can function without Bluetooth by utilizing HomeKit, allowing remote control of the lock. The video also explores various settings in the Level Home app, highlighting that certain features are inaccessible without Bluetooth. It mentions removing the lock requires a manual factory reset if Bluetooth is off, but not when Bluetooth is on. There are some limitations like imprecise battery status readings and other features including the ability to switch between HomeKit, Amazon Sidewalk, or Bluetooth, and a ‘boost range’ option that enhances Bluetooth signal at the cost of battery life. The video briefly touches on sound settings, noting the lock’s chirping sounds when used.

00:09:00

In this part of the video, the speaker explains the auto lock and unlock features of a smart lock system. The auto lock feature automatically locks the door after a set period, though it doesn’t detect if the door is actually closed. Auto unlock activates when you leave and return to your home boundary (about 200 meters), using Bluetooth and location services. The speaker discusses testing these features, with auto unlock working well in their experience. Additionally, the touch to lock and unlock features allow for manual interaction by touching the lock, and you can set time intervals for these features. However, you can only use one auto entry feature at a time—either touch to unlock or auto unlock. The video also covers sharing access through the Level Home app, where you can invite others by email, specify their access permissions, and schedule access times.

00:12:00

In this part of the video, the presenter discusses setting up user accounts and managing access permissions using an app connected to smart locks. When a user logs out or uninstalls the app, they lose access, so setting up a persistent account might be advisable. The presenter demonstrates how to give timed access to a house, showing how to unlock the door and view the activity history, which logs actions like unlocking the door. They also explain how to create event-specific passes for limited-time access and how users can accept these passes through a link.

The segment covers the configuration of NFC cards for access, including entering the access details, assigning the cards to individuals, and managing permissions or revoking access as needed. The presenter demonstrates adding two NFC cards, assigning one to ‘Granny’ and the other to ‘Mom,’ and explains how these cards can be used to unlock the door. The activity history feature is highlighted as a useful tool for tracking who accessed the door and when.

00:15:00

In this part of the video, the presenter discusses the functionality and setup process for a smart lock with HomeKit integration. The lock can be controlled using mini and full-size key cards, which is reflected in the activity history. The HomeKit setup is essential to fully utilize the lock’s features, allowing control through the Home app, automation with door sensors, and access via Siri on various Apple devices, including iPhone and Apple Watch. Notably, with Home Key support, users can unlock or lock the door by tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch without needing to authenticate with Face ID or a passcode when Express Mode is enabled.

00:18:00

In this segment of the video, the presenter demonstrates how their smart lock system works with a single home key to unlock multiple locks, including the garage and back door. They highlight the minimalistic design of the smart lock, which supports the home key feature—a rare trait in current smart locks. However, the presenter notes the lack of a built-in keypad, which some competitors offer, and mentions that while an external keypad is available for purchase, it costs an additional $80. Despite some drawbacks, the presenter suggests that this smart lock might be ideal depending on individual needs and aesthetic preferences.