Smart Locks for Matter-Compatible Hubs

Matter-compatible smart locks simplify home security by integrating seamlessly with major smart home platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. These locks use Matter-over-Thread technology for faster, more reliable connections and improved battery efficiency compared to Wi-Fi-based models. Here’s a quick rundown of the top options:

• Aqara U300: $199.99 bundle, supports Apple Home Key, fingerprint, PIN, NFC, and more. Battery lasts 10 months.
• Yale Smart Lock with Matter: $170–$189.99, offers keypad, app, and key access. Battery lasts 12 months.
• Kwikset Halo Select: $279, combines Wi-Fi and Thread, supports PIN codes, NFC, and physical keys.
• Level Lock+ and Bolt: $249/$199, sleek design, supports Apple Home Key, app, and physical keys. Battery life up to 12 months.
• ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint: $199.99, advanced fingerprint scanner with 99.8% accuracy, supports PINs and app control.
• Nuki Smart Lock Pro: $289, rechargeable battery, supports app, geofencing, and voice commands.
• Eufy E31: $449.95, long battery life, supports fingerprint, passcodes, and app control.

Quick Comparison

These locks offer a range of features, from advanced biometrics to budget-friendly options, making it easier to find one that fits your needs. Ensure your smart hub supports Matter-over-Thread for full functionality.

Level Lock Pro – The INVISIBLE Smart Lock with Apple HomeKey & Matter over Thread!

1. Aqara Smart Lock U300

The Aqara Smart Lock U300 is a smart lever lock designed with Matter-over-Thread technology, offering quicker response times, a stable connection, and lower energy usage compared to Wi-Fi-based options. It integrates effortlessly into Matter-based ecosystems and works with all the major smart home platforms, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant. To access remote features and advanced automations, you’ll need a Thread Border Router, such as an Apple HomePod Mini, Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen), or an Aqara hub like the M3 or M100.

If you’re considering the U300, you can purchase the U300 + M100 Hub bundle for $199.99 (down from $249.99) or buy the lock on its own for $229.99.

This lock runs on four AA batteries, lasting up to 10 months. When the battery level drops below 20%, a warning is displayed. For backup, it includes a USB-C charging port and a hidden mechanical key, ensuring you’re never locked out – even if the batteries die.

The U300 offers multiple ways to unlock: fingerprint, PIN, Apple Home Key, NFC, app control, voice commands, and a mechanical key. Its built-in fingerprint scanner is impressively fast, unlocking in just 0.3 seconds, with an extremely low false acceptance rate of less than 0.0001%. Notably, it’s among the first lever locks to support Apple Home Key, letting you unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch – even if your device has no battery power.

The lock can store up to 50 fingerprints, 75 PIN codes, and 10 NFC records locally. Its outer panel is IPX4 water-resistant and built to function in extreme temperatures ranging from –22°F to 131°F. With a 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 42 reviews, users frequently highlight its ease of installation and dependability.

The Aqara U300 stands out as a great example of Matter integration, meeting the demands of today’s smart home environments.

2. Yale Smart Lock with Matter

Yale has stepped up its game with a Matter-integrated smart lock that simplifies connectivity and enhances compatibility. The Yale Smart Lock with Matter features built-in Matter-over-Thread technology, eliminating the need for extra bridges or replaceable modules. It works seamlessly with all major Matter-certified platforms, including Google Home, Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. To unlock its full remote capabilities, you’ll need a Matter-compatible controller.

This lock runs on four AA alkaline batteries, offering up to 12 months of use thanks to Thread’s energy-efficient design. It boasts an ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 security rating and an IPX5 weatherproof rating, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use. Official certification was granted on April 1, 2025. These features highlight its durability and practicality.

When it comes to access, the Yale Smart Lock offers multiple options: a backlit keypad, mobile app control, or even a traditional key. You can create various types of access codes – permanent, temporary, or time-sensitive – for guests. Plus, its Vacation Mode disables the keypad entirely when you’re away, adding an extra layer of security.

"The Yale Smart Lock with Matter builds on our successful relationship with Google – combining Yale’s legacy of trusted security with Google’s commitment to smart home excellence."
– Garrett Lovejoy, Vice President of Category Management, Fortune Brands Innovations

Priced between $170 and $189.99, this lock replaces the now-discontinued Nest x Yale Lock. Setting it up is straightforward: just scan the QR code under the battery cover or in the Quick Start Guide using the Yale Access or Google Home apps. With an indoor wireless range of about 50 feet, it communicates directly with your hub for faster response times while keeping your data secure within your home network.

3. Kwikset Halo Select and Halo Select Plus

Kwikset’s Halo Select and Halo Select Plus are two Matter-compatible smart locks that combine built-in Wi‑Fi with Matter‑over‑Thread technology. This dual connectivity offers both app-based access and extended battery life through local control.

With Wi‑Fi enabled, the locks run on four AA alkaline batteries, lasting about six months. Switching to Matter‑over‑Thread extends battery life to over 12 months but temporarily disables features like geofencing auto-unlock, door-ajar notifications, and intrusion detection. To use Matter‑over‑Thread, you’ll need a Thread Border Router, such as an Apple TV 4K or SmartThings Station. These connectivity options give users flexibility in how they manage their locks.

Both models include an LED-backlit touchscreen keypad that supports 4- to 8-digit PIN codes, along with a physical key secured by SmartKey Security technology. The Halo Select Plus adds NFC tap-to-unlock functionality compatible with Apple Home Key, making it even easier to access your home. The keypad can store up to 250 unique user codes, while SmartKey Security allows you to re-key the lock yourself and protects against picking and bumping.

"Halo Select represents the next step towards Kwikset’s mission to provide homeowners with unmatched security and seamless control over their home security."
– Jeff Sandoval, Director of Marketing for Electronics, Kwikset

Both locks integrate with popular smart home platforms, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. Priced at around $279, they meet BHMA Grade AAA standards and have a UL 20-minute fire rating. Users frequently praise their straightforward installation process and quiet motor operation.

4. Level Lock+ (Matter) and Level Bolt (Matter)

Level has stepped up its game in Matter-compatible smart locks with the Level Lock+ and Level Bolt. These locks are designed with a sleek, invisible look that conceals the internal tech. The Lock+ is 62% smaller than typical smart locks, while the Bolt fits seamlessly into your existing deadbolt, leaving no external signs of modification. Both are among the first locks to support Bluetooth and Matter-over-Thread technology.

The Matter-over-Thread protocol ensures a low-power mesh network, boosting range and reliability without needing extra bridges. To use this setup, you’ll need a compatible Thread Border Router, such as an Apple TV 4K (2nd or 3rd generation), HomePod mini, Nest Hub (2nd generation), or Echo (4th generation). Each lock runs on a single CR2 lithium battery. The Lock+ lasts about 9 to 12 months, while the Bolt can go up to a year under normal use. Thanks to a dual-core microprocessor and an energy-efficient design, these locks manage power effectively and respond quickly, setting them apart in the Matter-enabled security market.

"With Level Lock+ (Matter), customers can simply connect with whatever matter-based smart home ecosystem they want – and have peace of mind that their lock will adapt as technology evolves in the future."
– John Martin, President and Head of Level Home

The Lock+ offers versatile unlocking options, including the Level app, Apple Home Keys (via iPhone or Apple Watch), Level Key Fobs, an optional Level Keypad, and traditional keys. Meanwhile, the Bolt supports unlocking through the Level app, your existing house keys, and an optional keypad. Both locks are BHMA Grade AAA certified, having passed rigorous testing for 250,000 cycles – equivalent to around 135 years of average use. Pricing is set at $249 for the Lock+ and $199 for the Bolt. Additionally, earlier models received a free, irreversible Matter-over-Thread firmware update.

Here’s a quick comparison of the key features:

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5. ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint Smart Deadbolt

The ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint Matter combines advanced fingerprint technology with Matter-over-Thread connectivity for secure and reliable smart home integration. By utilizing Thread’s low-power mesh networking, it delivers a more stable and responsive connection while consuming less energy compared to Wi-Fi. Matter compatibility ensures the lock can seamlessly and securely communicate with major smart home ecosystems – no proprietary bridges needed. This solid connectivity underpins its standout biometric capabilities.

The fingerprint scanner achieves an impressive 99.8% accuracy rate, recognizing fingerprints in under 0.5 seconds, regardless of the angle. It can store up to 100 fingerprints (2 per user) and accommodate 50 PIN codes across 50 users. Unlocking options are plentiful, including fingerprint, anti-peep PIN, smartphone app, voice commands, geofencing auto-unlock, and a physical key. For remote access and smart automations, a compatible Thread border router is required – examples include Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini, Nest Hub (2nd Gen), or Echo (4th Gen).

"A fingerprint reader is the fastest and easiest way to unlock a smart lock, and Matter-over-Thread connectivity should solve two of the biggest issues of smart locks: poor battery life and poor connectivity."
– Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, Senior Reviewer, The Verge

The lock is powered by 8 AA batteries, offering up to 1 year of use with alkaline batteries or up to 1.5 years with lithium batteries when operating in Matter-over-Thread mode. Priced at $199.99, it’s built to ANSI Grade 1 standards and features IP65 weather resistance, making it durable and versatile. It also earned PCMag’s "Editors’ Choice" award for its broad functionality and support for multiple platforms. However, some drawbacks were highlighted by PCWorld’s Christopher Null, who noted the motor’s "grinding, wheezing" sound, which might be a concern for noise-sensitive users.

6. Nuki Smart Lock Pro

The Nuki Smart Lock Pro (Gen 4 and 5) utilizes Matter over Thread technology, which helps conserve power and ensures stable, local connections. This setup allows the lock to communicate directly with your smart home hub without relying on cloud servers, resulting in faster responses and enhanced privacy. It also supports Matter 1.2 features, enabling it to differentiate between "Unlock" and "Open door" commands, which is particularly useful for European-style doors.

To take advantage of its Matter functionality, you’ll need a compatible hub that acts as a Thread Border Router. The lock integrates seamlessly with platforms like Apple Home (HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K), Google Home (Nest Hub 2nd gen), Samsung SmartThings (Hub v3, Station), and Amazon Alexa (Echo 4th Gen, Echo Show 8/10 3rd gen). If your Thread Border Router supports NAT64, you can even access the lock remotely via Thread without needing a separate bridge or relying on its built-in Wi-Fi. However, make sure your hub supports "Matter via Thread" since older models that only support Matter via Wi-Fi won’t be compatible.

Features That Set It Apart

The 5th Generation model introduces a built-in rechargeable battery that can last up to six months on a single charge. Recharging is quick and convenient, taking about 2 hours via USB-C, whether you charge it in place or detach it for external charging. The lock offers multiple unlocking options, including its app (with geofencing Auto Unlock), voice commands, the $59 Nuki Fob, and connectivity through built-in Wi-Fi or Thread. It also supports up to 200 access permissions and provides an activity log for added control and security.

Design and Installation

Priced at $289, the 5th Generation model features a sleek stainless-steel design, measuring approximately 2.2 x 2.8 inches. It’s equipped with a brushless motor offering three locking speeds. Installation is hassle-free and doesn’t require any drilling, making it a quick retrofit solution for existing door cylinders – typically taking less than five minutes. Activating Matter is straightforward: use the Nuki App to generate a Matter QR code or scan the one on the device packaging during setup.

With its modern design, efficient installation process, and advanced features, the Nuki Smart Lock Pro stands out as a versatile and user-friendly smart lock solution.

7. Eufy Smart Lock E31 and Recent Models

Let’s dive into some of the standout Matter-compatible smart locks, focusing on the Eufy E31 and E30. Both models utilize Matter over Thread technology, allowing for quick, local communication with major smart home platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings.

Now, let’s take a closer look at their battery performance and unlocking features.

Battery Performance and Unlocking Options

The Eufy E31 is equipped with a 10,000mAh rechargeable battery that can last up to 14 months, assuming 10 daily unlocks. It also alerts users when the battery drops to 20% and includes a power-saving mode that can extend its life by an additional month. On the other hand, the E30 relies on 8 AA batteries, which provide about 8 months of use. Both models come with a USB-C port on the exterior, ensuring emergency power access if the battery runs out.

When it comes to unlocking options, the E31 supports multiple methods: fingerprint recognition (storing up to 50 prints), passcodes (up to 100 unique codes), the Eufy Security app, voice commands, and even a physical key. Importantly, all data is stored locally on the device, offering an added layer of security against digital threats. Additionally, these locks integrate with Matter to enable automation routines – for instance, unlocking the door could trigger lights or entertainment systems to turn on, enhancing your smart home experience.

Installation and Real-World Performance

The E31 boasts a quick installation time of around 15 minutes, while the E30 takes approximately 20 minutes, including firmware updates. Pricing varies, with the E31 costing $449.95, the E30 priced at $169.99, and the budget-friendly C34 available for $139.99 (frequently discounted to $79.99).

However, not all feedback has been glowing. Christopher Null of PCWorld remarked:

"The Eufy Smart Lock E30 is one of the first products in its class to support Matter over Thread, but that feature didn’t work properly in our testing,"

and noted that the fingerprint reader could be "finicky". Other users have also reported occasional issues, such as "device not responding" errors during remote operations and synchronization glitches between the Eufy app and Apple Home.

These details set the foundation for a balanced look at the Pros and Cons in the next section.

Pros and Cons

When it comes to Matter-compatible smart locks, there are a lot of factors to consider – battery life, unlocking methods, and hub compatibility being some of the most important. Locks designed with Matter-over-Thread, like the Yale Smart Lock with Matter and Kwikset Aura Reach, tend to have better battery performance, lasting longer compared to Wi-Fi-based models that may require new batteries every few months. On the other hand, some high-tech options, like the Lockin V7 Max, feature optical wireless charging from up to 13 feet away but come with a hefty price tag of around $1,300, compared to approximately $190 for most Thread-based locks.

Unlocking methods also vary widely across different models, offering everything from advanced biometrics to simpler, budget-friendly solutions. Take the Ultraloq Bolt Sense, for example – it uses 3D facial recognition and palm vein scanning for multi-point biometric security. Meanwhile, the Aqara U50 and Kwikset Halo Select Plus support Apple Home Key, letting you unlock your door with just a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. For those looking to save, options like the Eufy C34 stick to basics such as app control, passcodes, and physical keys, trading advanced features for affordability and simplicity.

Another key factor to weigh is hub compatibility. Matter-over-Thread locks don’t require a dedicated manufacturer hub for basic functions but do need a third-party Thread Border Router – like an Apple TV 4K or Google Nest Hub – for remote access. In contrast, some models depend on proprietary hubs for full functionality, which can limit flexibility.

As Jennifer Pattison Tuohy from The Verge notes:

"The Aura Reach is a lower-cost smart lock from Kwikset that uses Matter-over-Thread instead of Wi‑Fi for connectivity."

While Matter compatibility ensures broad connectivity, native apps often unlock extra features. For example, Aqara recommends using its M3 hub for settings like manual calibration and pull-spring adjustments. Similarly, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter has been praised for its sleek, minimal design, though some users find it too basic if they’re looking for more advanced sensors or features.

Customer feedback also highlights some standout models. The Aqara U200, for instance, has earned a 4.93/5 rating from 45 reviews, with users appreciating its straightforward installation and seamless Apple Home Key integration – all for a reasonable price of $169.99. On the other hand, the Kwikset Halo Select has been described as reliable but pricey at $360, especially when compared to the newer Aura Reach, which offers similar functionality for about half the cost.

Conclusion

Selecting the right Matter-compatible smart lock depends on your specific security needs and style preferences. If top-notch biometric security is your priority, the ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint Smart Deadbolt is a standout choice. It boasts a fingerprint scanner with 99.8% accuracy, capable of recognizing prints in under 0.5 seconds. Plus, it supports up to 100 fingerprints and 50 PIN codes, making it ideal for households or small offices. On the other hand, if long battery life tops your list, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter offers up to 12 months of use on just four AA batteries. For those seeking a cost-effective option, the Kwikset Halo Select delivers solid features without breaking the bank.

Design is another key consideration. If maintaining your door’s original look is important, the Level Bolt is a great pick – it installs inside your existing deadbolt, keeping the smart tech completely out of sight. Alternatively, full-replacement models like those from Yale or Aqara provide sleek, modern finishes and built-in Matter compatibility, eliminating the need for additional adapters.

Before making your purchase, ensure your door meets standard specifications and verify that your smart hub – such as an Apple TV 4K or Google Nest Hub – can function as both a Matter controller and a Thread border router. For a hassle-free setup, professional installation by Sherlock’s Locksmith in Pittsburgh, PA can help ensure your new lock integrates seamlessly with your smart hub and is perfectly aligned with your door and network system. This way, you’ll enjoy both enhanced security and the convenience of a smart home.

FAQs

What advantages does Matter-over-Thread technology offer for smart locks?

Matter-over-Thread technology ensures that smart locks can connect effortlessly with any hub that supports Matter. This means you get fast, reliable, and secure local control without the usual headaches. Plus, its cross-brand compatibility makes it simple to integrate devices from different platforms, giving you more flexibility in building your smart home.

With this technology, you can expect reduced lag, improved security, and an easier setup process – all of which contribute to a more seamless and efficient smart home experience.

How can I tell if my smart hub works with Matter-enabled smart locks?

To determine if your smart hub works with Matter-enabled locks, check for a Matter certification that mentions support for Thread. Specifically, your hub should either include a built-in Thread border router or clearly indicate compatibility with "Matter-over-Thread." You can usually find these details in the hub’s specifications or within its mobile app settings. Hubs that allow QR-code setup for Thread devices are also a good sign of compatibility.

What are the main differences between the Aqara U300 and the Yale Smart Lock with Matter compatibility?

The Aqara U300 and Yale Smart Lock with Matter both support the Matter standard but are tailored to different ecosystems and offer unique features.

The Aqara U300 is a great fit for Apple enthusiasts. It supports Apple Home Key, NFC cards, an advanced fingerprint reader, and keypad access, while also including a mechanical key backup. It operates on Matter over Thread and is compatible with any Matter-enabled hub. This lever-style lock emphasizes biometric and NFC-based convenience and is priced at approximately $99 USD.

In contrast, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter is geared toward homes built around Google products. It integrates seamlessly with Google Home and devices like the Nest Doorbell. It offers customizable numeric passcodes, real-time alerts, and a physical key fallback. However, it does not include fingerprint or NFC unlocking. To enable remote access, you’ll need a Matter-compatible Thread border router. Its design follows a traditional deadbolt style, though pricing details haven’t been disclosed yet.

If you’re an Apple user looking for advanced unlocking features at a budget-friendly price, the Aqara U300 is a solid pick. For Google Home users who value passcode access and smart home integration, the Yale Smart Lock is a better match.

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