Yale’s flagship smart lock series, the Assure Lock 2, checks off all the boxes I look for in a smart lock. Not only does it have a slim and attractive design, but it also offers more than two ways to control it and the ability to connect to my smart home without the need for a single-purpose Wi-Fi bridge. With the option to add the right networking module, these locks are compatible with all the major smart home platforms. In addition, Yale now offers fingerprint and Apple Home Key variants for added convenience and security.
The Assure Lock 2 series offers several models to choose from, each with its own unique features. The base model starts at $159.99 and comes with a physical keypad or touchscreen option, with or without a physical keyhole. For added security, the Assure Lock 2 Touch model (priced from $199.99) includes a fingerprint reader. The Assure Lock 2 Plus model (starting at $209.99) offers Apple Home Key functionality. Unfortunately, you can’t get both the fingerprint reader and Apple Home Key in one lock, which is a drawback. Yale has also yet to deliver on its promise of integrating Matter and Thread into its flagship locks.
One of the standout features of the Assure Lock 2 series is its slim and compact design. These locks are full deadbolt replacement locks with an ultra-slim exterior. Even the models with physical keyways are still impressively compact. The rear housing houses the four AA batteries and thumb turn, and it is one of the smallest rear housings I’ve seen. Control options for the locks include the built-in keypad, Bluetooth connectivity through the Yale Access app for iOS or Android, or the Apple Home app with Siri voice commands.
For compatibility with other smart home platforms, Yale offers swappable networking modules. The Wi-Fi module allows you to connect to Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and others, while the Z-Wave module is compatible with Ring Alarm, Samsung SmartThings, and other Z-Wave systems. Yale has also announced plans to release a module for Matter over Thread, which is currently delayed. These modules come at an additional cost, but they offer the flexibility to integrate the locks with a wide range of smart home platforms.
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In my testing of the Assure Lock 2 series, I found that all three models performed excellently. The Assure Lock 2 Touch, with its fingerprint unlocking capability, was my personal favorite. The fingerprint reader was fast and reliable, providing a convenient hands-free way to unlock the door. However, the reader is small and can be a bit tricky to use. Setting up the fingerprint was also slightly buggy, but it eventually worked. The base Assure Lock 2 model, without the fingerprint reader, is a great option for those who don’t need that functionality. The Assure Lock 2 Plus, with Apple Home Key, offers the convenience of unlocking the door with an Apple Watch or iPhone. While it lacks a fingerprint reader, it is compatible with Apple Home and other smart home platforms.
Although the Assure Lock 2 series has its strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The touchscreen interface may not be intuitive for everyone, and the connectivity modules come at an extra cost. Yale has also yet to integrate Thread or Matter into these locks, and there is no option for a physical keyway on the Assure Lock 2 Plus model. Additionally, the integrations with Alexa and Google Home can be slow.
Overall, the Yale Assure Lock 2 series offers an excellent combination of design, control options, and smart home connectivity. While it may not have every feature or integration currently available, it still delivers on its main promises. Whether you’re looking for a slim and stylish smart lock or a lock that seamlessly integrates with your smart home, the Assure Lock 2 series has something to offer.
