Nuki's Smart Lock Pro – upgrading your home's entryway

As a long-time user of Mul-T-Lock's ENTR smart lock, I enjoyed the convenience of fingerprint, code, remote, and smartphone entry. However, over time, the ENTR showed its age – the exterior keypad required frequent battery replacements, the Bluetooth app was slow, and a locksmith advised me that the internal system might not last much longer. Recently, I moved to a new home, and it seemed like the perfect opportunity to try Nuki's Smart Lock Pro (4th generation).

Installation: Easy Setup with Helpful Video Guides

One major advantage of Nuki locks is that you don’t need a locksmith for installation; it’s something you can handle yourself. While the process is relatively simple, I used YouTube tutorial videos for assistance, as Nuki's own guide wasn’t entirely clear to me. The biggest challenge in my installation was the spring-loaded recess, which didn’t fit well on the embedded key/thumb turn in the cylinder. Fortunately, the kit includes an adapter to solve this, and after applying it, the setup was complete.

Using the Nuki Smart Lock Pro: App Control, Wearable Widgets, and Location Sensing

Before installation, you’ll need to charge the lock’s batteries. The Pro version comes with rechargeable batteries that can be charged via a USB-C cable after removing them from the lock’s interior unit. These batteries are expected to last about six months between charges.

Inside, the unit features a single large button illuminated in white. A full circle of light indicates the lock is secure, while an incomplete circle signals the door is unlocked. A quick press on the button unlocks the door.

The smart lock offers various access methods upon returning home. The basic way is through the smartphone app, where a simple tap unlocks the door. Additionally, you can add a widget on Android or iOS for quick access, eliminating the need to open the app. I use a Samsung Galaxy Watch running Android Wear, which lets me set up a widget for quick unlocks directly from my watch. Nuki also supports Apple and Garmin smartwatches.

Another feature, Smart Notifications, alerts you on your phone when you approach your home, allowing for a quick unlock. However, this feature can be a bit bothersome; while taking my daughter to the garden, I received repeated alerts about being near the house.

Auto-Unlock: Hands-Free Entry as You Approach

My favorite feature is Auto Unlock, which detects when you leave home and travel more than 100 meters away. Upon your return, the app prepares the lock to open, and the door unlocks as you come within Bluetooth range. For me, it triggers as soon as I approach my floor in the elevator.

If the app isn’t your preference, or if some household members prefer a different method, you can install an external keypad that connects wirelessly to the interior unit. I used the Nuki Keypad 2, a slim black device with numbered buttons, white indicator lights, and a fingerprint scanner. My wife and daughter favored using the fingerprint scanner for everyday access, as it didn’t require the app. The keypad is also useful for granting timed access with specific codes for cleaning staff or caregivers, so they can enter only during designated hours.

Another optional accessory is the Nuki Door Sensor (priced at NIS 280), which notifies you remotely if the door is left open – handy for those who tend to forget.

Integration with Your Smart Home

The Smart Lock Pro includes WiFi connectivity, enabling remote control through the app. This allows you to check the lock status and unlock it for guests even when you’re away. It’s compatible with Google, Apple, and Samsung smart home platforms, including Google and Amazon voice assistants. I linked the lock to Google Home, as I already have various devices at home that respond to voice commands for lighting, climate control, and music. With Nuki, I can unlock the door using a voice command followed by a 4-digit code, which is convenient when my phone isn’t nearby.

However, connecting with Apple and Samsung’s platforms requires compatibility with the Matter smart home standard, which in turn requires a Hub to enable this connection.

Price: NIS 1,300; bundle with keypad costs NIS 1,600 

Bottom line: If you haven’t switched to a smart lock yet, Nuki’s Smart Lock Pro is a solid entry point into this realm. Beyond no longer needing a key for quick errands or jogs, you can avoid giving a physical key to cleaners or caregivers, and your kids won’t risk losing a key since they won’t need one.

The Nuki lock offers a straightforward app (in English), and if some household members aren’t tech-savvy, you can set up auto-unlock or add a keypad/fingerprint scanner for easy access.

Nuki makes a concerted effort to offer multiple control options, whether via smartwatch app, voice assistant, or integration with smart home platforms from Apple, Google, and Samsung.

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