Kwikset's Entry-Level Smart Lock 'Kevo Convert' Available to Pre-Order for $150

[MacRumors]

Smart lock manufacturer Kwikset recently announced that the company's simplistic deadbolt solution, the Kevo Convert, is now available for users to pre-order for $149. Unlike Kwikset's other systems, including the Kwikset Kevo, the Kevo Convert is an easy-to-install conversion kit that keeps the outward-facing hardware of a standard door lock, while replacing the interior deadbolt.

Due to its simpler solution, the Kevo Convert system is cheaper at $149 than Kwikset's other products, which run for upwards of $230. The conversion kit comes with all of the company's smartphone-connected abilities, including ways for users to distribute access keys to people trying to get into their home when they aren't around, and push notifications each time the deadbolt is locked or unlocked.

Other features include an "auto lock" security system that automatically locks the door thirty seconds after it's been unlocked, "eliminating the need to double-check the front door before bed." The Kevo Convert system works with any smartphone within Bluetooth range, but users who want the ability to unlock their home and gain remote access to their smart lock when out of that range will have to purchase the $99.99 Kevo Plus kit.

Like other Kwikset products, the Kevo Convert will also be able to integrate with the Nest Learning Thermostat, Ring Video Doorbell, and other smart home connected devices.

Anyone interested can pre-order the Kevo Convert for $149 in Satin Nickel or Venetian Bronze at The Home Depot.

Article Link: Kwikset's Entry-Level Smart Lock 'Kevo Convert' Available to Pre-Order for $150

 

[bteters]

Waiting for them to have Home-Kit before I buy one.

 

[adamjackson]

No Home Kit. Not sure why this one is on MacRumors. I'm still on the Schlage for now. August is a retrofit and the Schlage is an entire system.

 

[miknos]

Other features include an "auto lock" security system that automatically locks the door thirty seconds after it's been unlocked

Imagine early morning going naked to your yard to get the newspaper. Poor neighbours.

 

[macosxuser01]

Is this product Z-Wave compatible?

 

[thisisnotmyname]

Imagine early morning going naked to your yard to get the newspaper. Poor neighbours.

August is configurable to five minutes (or just turn it off) so I find myself planning out things I will do for short periods of time out of the house as I don't want to run over the five minute mark and return to a locked door.

edit: what's a newspaper? (kidding... I saw one once)

 

[Peepo]

No HomeKit. Good one for HomeKit is schlage sense but it replaces entire lock.

 

[Murphintosh]

I want one of these locks, so I was alarmed when I saw "...the company's simplistic deadbolt solution..."
I don't see any criticism that explains the use of the word "simplistic." Did you mean to say simple or is this lock lacking something?

 

[6836838]

What an ugly looking thing! Are they intended for hotel rooms?

 

[HobeSoundDarryl]

Waiting for them to have Home-Kit before I buy one.

Add Home-Kit and add about 50%-100% to the price of stuff like this. Exact same lock, different software "smarts", plus 50%-100% retail. I challenge anyone to find anything with Home-Kit that bucks that observation vs. the same product without.

 

[44267547]

What an ugly looking thing! Are they intended for hotel rooms?

As much as this product interests me, it is ugly. And you're correct, it makes me think of a hotel. Perhaps over time, these could be more discreet and blend in somewhat better.

 

[Peepo]

As much as this product interests me, it is ugly. And you're correct, it makes me think of a hotel. Perhaps over time, these could be more discreet and blend in somewhat better.

Have you looked at most other electric deadbolts? They are all pretty big on the inside door, therefore I wouldn't single this one out. I personally think the August lock is ugly with that huge round knob.

 

[44267547]

Have you looked at most other electric deadbolts? They are all pretty big on the inside door, therefore I wouldn't single this one out. I personally think the August lock is ugly with that huge round knob.

I have. Which is why this technology is still evolving. Over time, this can be easily minimized or less intrusive. I prefer Functionality over physical appeal, but I would like to see it somewhat more discreet.

 

[imola.zhp]

Does the Kevo 2nd gen also require Kevo Plus? If not, then you are better off replacing the lock.

 

[macduke]

No HomeKit. Good one for HomeKit is schlage sense but it replaces entire lock.

I really like my Schlage Sense. One time it bugged out after an update and I just had to reboot our iPhones to fix but it's usually pretty solid. I just wish I could lengthen the auto lock timeout beyond 4 minutes (or 4:15 seconds with a third party app, which is 255 seconds, which makes me think it's a hardware thing).

 

[zhang96]

Any mention about locking yourself out after 30s?

 

[TheRealTVGuy]

Waiting for them to have Home-Kit before I buy one.

I'm waiting for Apple to allow access to the NFC chip in the Apple Watch so all I have to do is double-tap, swipe to my key icon and touch the watch to the door.

No Bluetooth, no wifi, no apps to open, and NO heavy phone to take running! Just keep it as simple as Apple Pay.

 

[Gymgenius]

I want one of these locks, so I was alarmed when I saw "...the company's simplistic deadbolt solution..."
I don't see any criticism that explains the use of the word "simplistic." Did you mean to say simple or is this lock lacking something?

I think the simple is describe anyone who buys one of these.

They will eventually be hacked. Of that, there is no question.

 

[imola.zhp]

I think the simple is describe anyone who buys one of these.

They will eventually be hacked. Of that, there is no question.

I am concerned about this as well, but I really just want one for our door into the house from the garage. It will be the secondary line of defense (of four), garage door, deadbolt, anti-kick plate, alarm system. I am comfortable with it being the secondary line of defense but not so comfortable to put them on actual perimeter doors of the home (primary defense). I am spoiled by my car that allows me to just walk up and unlock it, or touch the door handle to lock while walking away. I would like the same to happen at home.