Ultraloq Motion Sensor Review

The Ultraloq UL3 BT Motion Sensor is the flagship model that puts hands-free unlocking at the forefront. The proximity sensor detects you from about 3 feet away and automatically retracts the latch, which is convenient when carrying groceries. Owner reviews on Amazon and Home Depot consistently note the motion feature works reliably, though some users report occasional false triggers when walking past the door.

The lock also includes a capacitive fingerprint reader and a keypad backup, but the fingerprint sensor is the most common complaint. Many users find it fails to read their print after a few days, requiring a re-scan. The lock runs on 4 AA batteries, and Ultraloq claims up to one year of life, though heavy motion use can drain them faster.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the benchmark for smart lock reliability. It replaces only the interior thumb turn, leaving your existing keyed deadbolt intact, which is a major advantage for renters. The 4th Gen includes built-in Wi-Fi, so you can control it from anywhere without buying a separate bridge. Owner reviews praise the app's geofencing auto-unlock, which works well for most users.

The main drawback is the lack of a keypad or biometric entry. If you want to give access to guests without a smartphone, you need to buy the separate August Keypad. The lock also relies on your phone's location, which can be less reliable than a dedicated motion sensor. Battery life is typically 3-6 months with moderate use.

The Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi is a strong contender for users who want a reliable keypad lock with full smart home integration. It replaces your entire deadbolt and offers a sleek backlit keypad for code entry. The built-in Wi-Fi means you can lock or unlock from anywhere, and it works with all major voice assistants. Owner reviews on Amazon and Best Buy rate it highly for ease of use and build quality.

Unlike the Ultraloq, the Yale does not offer a motion sensor or fingerprint reader. This makes it less convenient for hands-free entry, but the keypad is very reliable. Battery life is rated at up to 6 months, and the lock includes a low-battery warning. The 2-year warranty is also better than most competitors.

The Ring Smart Lock is designed for users already invested in the Ring ecosystem. It replaces only the interior thumb turn, similar to August, and works with your existing keyed deadbolt. The lock connects via Z-Wave to a Ring Bridge or Alarm base station, allowing you to control it from the Ring app. Owner reviews highlight the convenience of having the lock work with Ring doorbells for package delivery access.

The main limitation is that you need Ring hardware to use it remotely, which adds cost if you are not already in the ecosystem. It also lacks a keypad or biometric entry, so guests need a smartphone or a physical key. Battery life is typically 4-6 months, and the lock includes a low-battery alert.

The Schlage Encode Plus is the premium option for Apple users. It supports Apple Home Key, which lets you unlock the door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch, even if the phone battery is dead. The lock also has a built-in keypad and works with Wi-Fi for remote access. Owner reviews consistently praise the solid feel and reliability, with many noting it feels more durable than plastic competitors.

The main downside is the price, which is significantly higher than the Ultraloq or August. It also lacks a motion sensor or fingerprint reader, so it is not as hands-free as the Ultraloq. Battery life is rated at up to 6 months, and the 3-year warranty is the best in this roundup.