Affordable yet capable, this intelligent door lock delivers a range of functionalities without major compromises, though concerns regarding its build quality prevent a full endorsement.
Entering the intelligent lock sector toward the end of 2024, TCL introduced several high-end models that varied in performance, possibly due to insufficient preparation before release. The company has since refined its approach, expanding the portfolio more carefully with the introduction of this economical model, known as the TCL D2 Plus Fingerprint Smart Lock Plus.
Resembling its premium counterpart, the TCL D2 Pro, the D2 Plus differs primarily in its authentication technology: while the Pro employs palm vein recognition, the Plus uses a conventional fingerprint reader as the main method. This shift significantly lowers the cost, with a suggested retail price of $110 versus $170 for the Pro, offering substantial savings of $60 and strong value for money.
TCL has developed its dedicated application, TCL Home, marking a notable advancement from the earlier reliance on the standard Tuya platform.
The outer portion of the aluminum-covered device, which achieves IP55 weather resistance but lacks ANSI/BHMA standards approval, includes expected elements such as the fingerprint reader, a capacitive numerical keypad, and compatibility with NFC tags (the tested version excludes tags, though bundles with multiple key fobs are available on Amazon for a minimal extra cost). A visible key slot accompanied by two keys offers an additional entry option.
Integrated into the keypad, the doorbell function lacks illumination, rendering it challenging to locate in low-light conditions after dark.
The subtle doorbell control within the keypad activates a sound alert and mobile alert upon activation by guests. Lacking any camera capabilities, this unit functions solely as an audio notifier without support for in-home secondary chimes from TCL. A USB-C connection at the base of the outer panel allows battery-failure overrides for external access.
Regarding power, users must supply eight AA batteries, expected to last approximately six months according to TCL. The device links straight to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, bypassing the requirement for bridges or hubs. Integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Home enables broader smart home connectivity alongside the core TCL Home application.
Standard accessories accompany the TCL D2 Plus, featuring two traditional keys among them.
Setup mirrors that of basic models, using two screws to secure the outer panel to an interior mounting plate, followed by two more for the inner panel, linked by a lone wiring harness—a process faster than many competitors. Inserting the eight batteries proves the more time-consuming step.
Positively, TCL has shifted away from the problematic Tuya interface used in the prior D1 lineup toward its proprietary TCL Home app, which simplifies configuration. The application detected the powered device automatically, and activating a switch beneath the battery compartment finalized initial setup. Responding to basic prompts connected it to Wi-Fi, with three subsequent software updates preparing it for operation.
Overall, the TCL D2 Plus operates straightforwardly, though initial adjustments in the configuration area are necessary for peak performance. Disabling the 'Device Security' feature promptly is advisable, as it demands app PIN entry for every session, leading to frustration over time.
Basic configurations include customizable auto-lock delays from 10 to 120 seconds (without a door status sensor, it secures regardless of position) and failed attempt safeguards, allowing 5 to 10 tries before a 2- to 5-minute temporary disablement. Alerts can be tailored for lock operations, doorbell use, and security triggers like attempt lockouts.
The app's Events section records all such occurrences, providing daily and weekly overviews in the Home Assistant area. A unique tool here, Homecoming Reminder, sends alerts to admins if designated users fail to access the door within a specified timeframe, ideal for monitoring family members and performing reliably in tests.
Eight AA batteries power the TCL D2 Plus Fingerprint Smart Lock, which users must obtain separately.
The system handles user profiles effectively, permitting individual assignments of multiple fingerprints, 4- to 8-digit codes, and NFC tags per person. It accommodates up to 100 credentials of each variety overall. Fingerprint and NFC entries grant constant access; codes can be ongoing or scheduled, though without options for repeating patterns like weekday office hours. Duress codes trigger silent admin notifications for potential emergencies, enabling authority contact. Temporary codes, valid for 10 minutes and limited to one active at a time, generate via the app as needed.
During extended testing, interactions with the TCL Home app and entry mechanisms proceeded smoothly without major glitches. Hardware elements drew the primary criticism: the interior thumb latch demands excessive force for complete bolt retraction, and the internal motor falls short, halting mere millimeters from full engagement.
The extended deadbolt exhibits noticeable play when locked, suggesting instability. Absent standardized evaluations, physical reliability remains uncertain, yet it conveys a sense of vulnerability. Notably, it holds no ANSI/BHMA rating.
The front-mounted doorbell appears minimally implemented. Its small symbol illuminates only with the keypad, unlikely to be spotted by visitors, though prone to unintended activation during unlocking attempts. Recommendation: Silence it and disregard the function.
Online deals have seen the TCL D2 Plus Fingerprint Smart Lock priced as low as $80, presenting excellent value. Even at the $120 list price, it remains a fair investment for its capabilities.
Fundamentally, it surpasses the lingering TCL D1 models, strengthening TCL's standing in the intelligent lock category.
This evaluation contributes to TechHive's comprehensive analysis of top intelligent locks.
Christopher Null, an acclaimed tech writer with over 25 years covering consumer and enterprise gadgets, previously led PC Computing as Executive Editor and launched Mobile magazine as founder and Editor in Chief, the pioneering print outlet for mobile innovations. For TechHive, he examines diverse smart home devices and contributes regularly to Wired, This Old House, and AAA’s Via Magazine.