The new lever-based Smart Lock U300 brings Apple Home Key functionality to a wider range of doors you might want to unlock with your iPhone or Apple Watch, including those without traditional deadbolts, Aqara said Thursday. It previewed the lock back at CES in January. Now it’s finally on sale — with a nice launch discount (see below).
Aqara Smart Lock U300
Introduced at CES along with other products, the U300 is specifically crafted for single-bore doors fitted with levers or knobs. That addresses a gap in the smart lock market. The new lock is ideal for side entries, garage doors, home offices, basements and storage rooms — areas often overlooked by conventional smart lock solutions.
Another things that sets U300 apart is its impressive list of supported technologies. It’s compatible with Home Key, HomeKit and the Thread and Matter standards, ensuring seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. And at the same time, it remains future-proof edfor other smart home platforms. This versatility allows users to unlock their doors using their iPhone or Apple Watch, even when the devices are out of power.
Home Key plus many access options
Photo: Aqara
The lock offers multiple access options beyond Home Key. Users can use the built-in fingerprint reader, set up personalized PIN codes (including one-time and recurring codes for guests) or use the Aqara mobile app. Voice assistant support, NFC cards and traditional mechanical keys for emergencies round out the access methods. That provides flexibility for various situations.
Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, the U300 boasts an IPX4 water-resistance rating and can operate in temperatures ranging from -22°F to 131°F. Its auto-lock function adds an extra layer of security. And a Passage Mode allows for unrestricted access during special occasions without compromising overall safety.
Thread network reliability
The U300’s Thread compatibility ensures quick, reliable connections and impressive power efficiency, with battery life lasting up to 10 months on a set of 4 AA batteries. A USB-C Emergency Port is also included for added peace of mind. And while no hub is required, Aqara recommends using its M3 Hub to enable advanced automations and remote access features.
You can now buy Aqara Smart Lock U300 on Amazon for $229.99. Mac users can take advantage of a limited-time 20% discount using the code PRNAU300 at checkout, bringing the price down to $183.99 until October 7.
Buy from: Amazon
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
