Wyze has refreshed its smart deadbolt by incorporating wireless connectivity and a modernized design, while maintaining a budget-friendly cost similar to before.
Back in 2021, Wyze launched an effective basic smart lock for just $70, focusing on essentials without extras. The company has now released a revised version of its initial Bolt Lock model, enhancing it to align with recent developments in the smart lock sector.
The updated lock remains exceptionally affordable and offers strong appeal for those seeking economical smart home solutions.
The Wyze Bolt Lock v2 comes equipped with eight AA alkaline batteries.
This iteration features a full redesign, including a lighted glass touchscreen in place of buttons and the addition of a traditional key slot, which was absent previously. The biometric sensor is retained but improved with an artificial intelligence system that tracks touch pressure, orientation, and subtle skin movements during each use to optimize recognition.
Priced only $10 higher than the original model's debut cost, this device appears poised to deliver unmatched value in the near term.
The most significant internal upgrade is the inclusion of Wi-Fi capability (limited to 2.4GHz), shifting from the prior Bluetooth-exclusive setup—a standard expectation in current smart lock offerings. It runs on eight included AA batteries, expected to endure around eight months, and includes a USB-C charging option on the outer panel for power emergencies.
With an IP53 rating for environmental resistance, it falls short of some competitors but should suffice for entryway use. Its ANSI Grade 2 rating indicates reliable physical protection suitable for typical residential settings. For details on these standards, see explanations of ANSI and BHMA door lock evaluations.
It accommodates up to 50 access codes and 50 biometric profiles, aligning with the app's capacity for 50 accounts. Temporary codes can be generated to expire up to seven days in advance, as chosen by the owner. The auto-secure function allows delays from immediate to 15 minutes, but lacks door status sensing, so it activates regardless of whether the door is closed. Daily or weekly scheduled securing is also possible, aiding routine automation. Compatibility extends to Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant platforms.
Access to the Wyze Bolt v2 can be gained via biometric scan, numeric code, metal key, or through the mobile application.
Installation mirrors the earlier version, with the outer panel secured to an inner bracket using two screws and a wire linking to the inside panel, fixed with three additional screws. However, the openings for these inner screws proved too tight for a regular tool, risking damage to the plastic; a narrower-head driver was required, though it didn't fully match the screw size, complicating the process unnecessarily.
When inserting batteries, note the caution against using 1.2-volt rechargeable NiMH types; stick to standard 1.5-volt alkalines, of which eight are provided.
The mounting took under 10 minutes, followed by integration into the Wyze app, where users must manually choose the device from a menu or search— a method growing cumbersome as the lineup expands. Wyze should adopt automatic detection like some rivals. Still, with only four lock models currently, locating the v2 is straightforward.
The application's onboarding encountered unexplained glitches on first try, including calibration, but subsequent attempts succeeded. After basic configurations and a short software patch, functionality began.
The app delivers standard smart lock tools, such as comprehensive event histories, with minimal evolution since the prior model's review three years back.
In operation, the lock performs reliably, consistent with Wyze's lineup. Door opening is swift and smooth using the screen, sensor, or remote app access, even from afar. Adding and managing accounts is straightforward, supporting ongoing, periodic, or short-term permissions. Biometric registration is rapid, and detection proved mostly precise, if not flawless. Scheduled temporary accesses functioned without issues, backed by thorough records.
The mechanism operates silently, but frequent audio alerts prompted disabling the sound notifications for activities.
At a mere $10 above the v1's starting price, the v2 underscores industry progress over three years. With enhanced aesthetics and Wi-Fi integration, it stands as the top budget option currently, surpassing many sub-$100 alternatives that omit wireless features or biometrics.
Market dynamics shift quickly, yet a superior bargain seems unlikely soon.
This evaluation forms part of TechHive's detailed examination of leading smart locks.
Christopher Null, an acclaimed tech writer with over 25 years in the field, has evaluated consumer and enterprise gadgets extensively. He formerly led PC Computing as Executive Editor and launched Mobile magazine, the pioneering print outlet for mobile technology. For TechHive, he reviews various home automation items and contributes regularly to Wired, This Old House, and AAA’s Via Magazine.