Buy Kwikset Home Connect 620 Smart Lock Review

Introduction

As a tech enthusiast and homeowner, I recently had the pleasure of installing and using the Kwikset Home Connect 620 Smart Lock Deadbolt with Z-Wave Technology. This smart lock promises to offer secure keyless entry, seamless home automation integration, and enhanced security features. After using it for several weeks, I can confidently say that it delivers on most of its promises, making it a valuable addition to any smart home setup.

Key Features

• Secure Keyless Entry: The Kwikset 620 provides a fast and quiet motorized deadbolt with an illuminated keypad, ensuring keyless door entry. The one-touch locking feature is particularly convenient when leaving the house in a hurry.
• Z-Wave Home Connect: This smart lock communicates wirelessly with security and home automation systems, requiring a Z-Wave hub for full functionality.
• Ring Alarm Compatibility: The lock can be controlled directly through the Ring app, provided you have a Ring-compatible Z-Wave hub.
• Auto-Locking Safety: You can set the deadbolt to automatically lock after entry or exit, with multiple time settings available.
• Easy Installation: The lock is designed for DIY installation, fitting doors between 1-3/8 inch and 1-3/4 inch thick. It includes 4 AA batteries that last 12 months or longer.
• SmartKey Security: This feature protects against advanced break-in techniques and allows you to re-key the lock yourself in seconds.
  

Installation Experience

The installation process was straightforward but required careful attention to detail. It took me about an hour to install the lock on my shed door, which has a standard exterior door. The instructions were clear, though I found it beneficial to pre-drill holes for the screws, especially the longer ones, to ensure a secure fit. One minor challenge was the tight space for wiring within the lock, which took some time to manage properly. Overall, the installation was smooth, and the lock was functional in no time.

Integration with Smart Home Systems

Integrating the Kwikset 620 with my SmartThings hub was a breeze. I initiated the device addition through the SmartThings app, pressed the “A” button on the lock, and scanned the QR code. The lock connected instantly, and I could control it through the app without any issues. This seamless integration is a significant advantage, as it usually takes multiple attempts to connect other smart devices in my home.

Performance and Usability

The Kwikset 620 performs admirably, providing reliable keyless entry and remote control. The illuminated keypad is easy to use, even in low-light conditions, and the motorized deadbolt operates quietly. The auto-handing process, where the lock determines the correct direction for locking and unlocking, was a bit confusing initially. However, it resolved itself after the first use, and I haven’t faced any issues since.

Setting and managing access codes is straightforward through the keypad and the SmartThings app. While the app’s user interface for managing codes could be more intuitive, the functionality is robust, allowing for easy addition and deletion of codes. The SmartKey Security feature is a highlight, enabling me to re-key the lock to match my existing house key effortlessly.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smart lock, and the Kwikset 620 does not disappoint. The use of Z-Wave technology helps extend battery life compared to Wi-Fi models. After a few weeks of use, the battery meter still shows 100%, indicating excellent efficiency. The lock also operates reliably in cold weather, which can often affect battery performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Z-Wave Technology: Ensures longer battery life and reliable performance.
• Physical Keypad: Preferred over touchscreens for its tactile feedback.
• SmartKey Security: Allows for easy re-keying and enhanced security.
• Seamless Integration: Works well with SmartThings and Ring Alarm systems.
• Auto-Locking: Convenient safety feature with customizable settings.
• Easy Installation: DIY-friendly with clear instructions and necessary tools included.

Cons

• Z-Wave Hub Required: Necessary for full smart functionality, which could be a drawback for those without an existing Z-Wave setup.
• Quiet Beep Sound: The beep sound during operation is not very loud, which might make it hard to hear from a distance.
• Installation Space: Tight wiring space within the lock can be challenging during installation.
• Auto-Handing Confusion: The auto-handing process can be confusing during initial setup.
  

Urban vs. Suburban Use Cases

The Kwikset 620 Smart Lock Deadbolt is versatile enough to suit both urban and suburban settings. In urban areas, where security concerns are typically higher, the lock’s advanced features like auto-locking, remote monitoring, and SmartKey Security are invaluable. The ability to control the lock via the Ring app or SmartThings hub means you can ensure your home is secure even when you’re away.

In suburban settings, the convenience features of the Kwikset 620 shine. Families often have multiple members coming and going, and the ability to set different access codes for each person ensures that everyone can enter without the need for physical keys. The lock’s compatibility with home automation systems allows for integration with other smart devices, creating a seamless smart home experience.

Comparison with Competitors

Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt

The Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt is one of the main competitors to the Kwikset 620. It also uses Z-Wave technology and offers robust security features, including an alarm system that alerts you to potential security breaches. The Schlage Connect has a touchscreen keypad, which some users may prefer over the physical buttons on the Kwikset 620. However, the touchscreen can be less reliable in extreme weather conditions.

Yale Assure Lock SL

The Yale Assure Lock SL is another strong competitor, known for its sleek design and integration with various smart home systems, including Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. It uses a touchscreen keypad and offers similar features to the Kwikset 620, such as keyless entry and auto-locking. However, the Yale Assure Lock SL is typically more expensive and does not include the SmartKey Security feature, which allows for easy re-keying.

August Smart Lock Pro

The August Smart Lock Pro stands out for its ability to retrofit existing deadbolts, making it an excellent choice for renters or those who prefer not to replace their entire lock. It uses Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi, offering extensive connectivity options. The August Smart Lock Pro integrates well with various smart home systems and includes features like remote access and auto-locking. However, it does not have a keypad, so users must rely on their smartphones for entry, which may not be as convenient in all situations.

User Experiences

Here are some user experiences that highlight the practical benefits and challenges of the Kwikset 620 Smart Lock Deadbolt:

1. Smooth Installation: Many users found the installation process straightforward, noting that the instructions were clear and easy to follow. Pre-drilling holes for screws was recommended to ensure a secure fit.
2. Reliable Performance: Users appreciated the reliable performance of the lock, mentioning that it consistently operated smoothly and quietly. The physical keypad was favored over touchscreens for its tactile feedback.
3. Seamless Integration: Integration with smart home systems like SmartThings and Ring was frequently praised. Users noted that the lock connected easily and worked flawlessly with their existing setups.
4. Security and Convenience: The SmartKey Security feature received positive feedback for allowing easy re-keying. Users also appreciated the ability to set multiple access codes and the convenience of keyless entry.
5. Battery Life: The long battery life was a significant advantage, with users noting that the lock operated efficiently even in cold weather conditions.

Potential Concerns

While the Kwikset 620 has received generally positive reviews, some users noted potential concerns:

1. Tight Wiring Space: The tight space for wiring within the lock was a common issue during installation. Users recommended being patient and carefully managing the wires to ensure a proper fit.
2. Quiet Beep Sound: Some users found the beep sound during operation to be too quiet, making it difficult to hear from a distance.
3. Auto-Handing Confusion: The auto-handing process, which determines the correct direction for locking and unlocking, was confusing for some users during the initial setup.
   

Use Cases and Scenarios

The Kwikset 620 Smart Lock Deadbolt can be used in various scenarios, from residential homes to rental properties and small businesses. Here are a few examples:

1. Residential Homes: The lock is ideal for homeowners who want to enhance their home security and convenience. The keyless entry and auto-locking features are particularly useful for families with multiple members coming and going.
2. Rental Properties: For property managers, the Kwikset 620 offers a secure and convenient solution for managing access. The ability to re-key the lock easily and set different access codes for tenants simplifies the process of changing locks between tenants.
3. Small Businesses: Small business owners can benefit from the lock’s advanced security features and remote monitoring capabilities. The ability to control the lock via the Ring app or SmartThings hub ensures that the business premises are secure even when the owner is not on-site.
   

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Kwikset Home Connect 620 Smart Lock Deadbolt with Z-Wave Technology is a fantastic addition to any smart home. Its combination of secure keyless entry, robust smart home integration, and user-friendly features makes it a top choice for homeowners looking to enhance their home security. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh any negatives, making this smart lock a worthy investment. Whether you are integrating it with a Ring Alarm system or another Z-Wave compatible hub, the Kwikset 620 delivers reliable performance and peace of mind.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kwikset Home Connect 620 Smart Lock Deadbolt with Z-Wave Technology is a reliable and versatile smart lock that offers excellent value for its price. Its secure keyless entry, seamless integration with smart home systems, and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to enhance their home security and convenience. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the tight wiring space and quiet beep sound, these are outweighed by its numerous benefits. Whether you live in an urban or suburban setting, the Kwikset 620 is a smart investment that will provide peace of mind and convenience for years to come.

If this article piqued your interest and you are looking for more smart home devices for your home, check out the rest of our Smart Home product reviews, technical analysis, and comparisons.