The TP-Link Tapo DL110 provides homeowners with a dependable and refined everyday operation. Although setup demands careful positioning compared to some competing devices, it offers strong functionality in general.
The budget-friendly Tapo DL100 Wi-Fi smart lock, evaluated back in July, has gained popularity among cost-aware users. Lacking in extravagance, it excels in reliability, featuring stable Wi-Fi links, effective app compatibility, and a straightforward aesthetic that's user-friendly.
The enhanced Tapo DL110 elevates that aesthetic with added elegance, including a swift biometric scanner, a more robust rechargeable power source, improved construction, and better resistance to weather conditions. It serves as an advancement from the earlier model, though suitability hinges on your specific requirements.
TP-Link retains the sleek dark finish and numeric interface from the cheaper Tapo DL00, while introducing several smart enhancements. The front panel now features a discreet chime activator that lifts to expose the manual entry slot, concealing the emergency option without disrupting the overall look.
Rapid biometric verification allows users to bypass memorizing passcodes or accessing mobile applications.
The construction conveys solidity and longevity, boasting a fully metallic enclosure, responsive keys, and a seamless biometric surface. TP-Link certifies the outer assembly as IP65-rated, indicating full dust resistance and tolerance for water streams from various angles, excluding high-pressure cleaning.
Among the Tapo DL110's standout elements is its detachable 10,000mAh power unit.
The device holds ANSI Grade 2 certification, the industry standard akin to BHMA levels, which adequately serves residential needs. In routine operation, this TP-Link product instills confidence.
For those experienced with deadbolt replacements, fitting the Tapo DL110 proves manageable. It employs a conventional mounting pattern suitable for doors 1⅜ to 2 inches in depth. TP-Link supplies standard adapters, fasteners, and guides. The manual is straightforward, and the accompanying app assists with alignment and network pairing post-hardware mounting.
Begin by powering the 10,000mAh unit via USB-C the night prior to setup. The process was simple once the prior smart lock was detached. Using the TP-Link mobile application on iOS or Android, I linked the DL110 to the household network and configured biometric access as directed. The full procedure lasted around 15 minutes, encompassing a minor difficulty in detaching the inner section from the outgoing TCL D2 Pro model.
Every essential part of this smart lock is made from metal.
However, accurate placement is crucial for the Tapo DL110's installation, more so than with previously evaluated options. Misaligned strike plates can cause inconsistent biometric and automatic securing behaviors. Upon initial use, I encountered glitches and discovered online reports from others facing similar problems.
The drive mechanism may repeat cycles if the latch isn't optimally positioned, but I resolved this by fine-tuning the strike plate. Though this adjustment isn't unusual, it's the initial smart lock I've encountered that's so sensitive; others integrated seamlessly with the existing setup.
The primary innovation in the Tapo DL110 is its biometric access. TP-Link reports unlock times of roughly 0.42 seconds, and it delivers on that speed. The scanner maintained reliability with various fingers and handled moist skin effectively. Its tolerance exceeded that of a standard iPad's home sensor.
The outer section includes the standard wiring that routes through the door to link with the inner component.
Such prompt verification eliminates concerns over passphrases or app interactions. Approach, place a finger on the surface, and the latch retracts smoothly. The drive produces a subdued sound compared to the DL100, contributing to a more polished feel. While not matching the contactless vein detection of the pricier TCL D2 Pro, it stands out among touch-based systems I've tried.
Beyond biometrics, options include the illuminated numeric panel, which activates on contact and permits false inputs to mask your actual sequence from observers. Remote management occurs through the app using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth as a backup during network outages. Voice commands work with Alexa, Google Assistant, or SmartThings, supplemented by a physical key for power failures outdoors or a USB-C link to an external charger.
The Tapo DL110 integrates a chime function with adjustable sound levels managed via the app. It pairs with Tapo extenders and central units, or Amazon Echo and Google Assistant audio-visual devices.
In regular scenarios, phone-based control wasn't necessary for securing or releasing the door. Testing revealed app settings for automatic Bluetooth unlocking upon phone detection nearby, useful for hands-free entry like carrying packages, though users should weigh privacy risks.
From left to right: The Tapo DL110’s battery, interior escutcheon, and battery cover.
Effective energy handling defines smart locks. The DL110's 10,000mAh rechargeable unit surpasses the DL100's compact built-in one. TP-Link estimates up to 12 months of operation, varying by network reliability and usage frequency.
Following a month with 10 to 15 daily activations, the charge held at full capacity. This bodes well, albeit sustained performance varies by environment.
Replenishing is uncomplicated: The unit ejects quickly and uses any USB-C connector. From a standard outlet or computer, TP-Link indicates 3 to 4 hours for complete restoration, based on power delivery. A 30-minute boost suffices for weeks of normal activity.
A potential drawback for certain users involves the device going offline while recharging without an interim power supply. For primary entrances, schedule sessions with someone inside or maintain a reserve unit. Generally, this is a small concession for reusable power over periodic disposables.
The Tapo app is well laid out and easy to use.
TP-Link's Tapo software shines with its intuitive layout and simple onboarding. It enables biometric registration, passcode creation or removal, timed permissions, and activity tracking with minimal navigation.
The permission framework supports temporary or repeating access keys, personalized user accounts, and entry records showing who and when. Alerts transmit promptly and dependably via Wi-Fi.
The Tapo DL110 supports TP-Link's Tapo Smart Actions for basic routines, such as activating linked outdoor lighting on unlock or programmed evening secures.
It falls short for business property owners, missing sophisticated tools for short-term visitor codes in rentals or connections to external management platforms.
For residential users, the DL110 fulfills core expectations with consistent Wi-Fi performance, easy timetabling, and immediate alerts for lapses like unlocked doors by family members.
Over weeks of evaluation, the Tapo DL110 demonstrated consistency. The biometric scanner seldom erred, with retries succeeding nearly always. The numeric interface reacted swiftly, including under direct sun. Bluetooth took over seamlessly during Wi-Fi interruptions.
The sole issue stemmed from the earlier-noted auto-secure adjustment. Resistance can prompt repeated drive attempts instead of a smooth halt. Future software tweaks from TP-Link could refine this, marking the main imperfection.
The Tapo DL110 suits homeowners seeking affordable biometric access without high-end costs. It's approachable for smart home novices yet adaptable for those in the TP-Link Tapo network.
Delivering rapid operation, a viable rechargeable source, and a sophisticated interface, it excels despite setup exactness and limited routine depth.
For upgrading from a traditional latch to an intelligent alternative short of elite models, the Tapo DL110 merits consideration.
This review is part of TechHive’s in-depth coverage of the best smart locks.