Kevo Convert Smart Lock Review (Why We Liked It!)

Features and Specifications

You presumably lock and unlock your door daily, making your deadbolt an ideal match for replacement. If you go the smart method, you’ll be able to lock it wirelessly from your phone if you forget or give houseguests and repair personnel software access.

However, installing these devices is not as simple as plugging in a smart power outlet adaptor or swapping light bulbs. The setup is perhaps more complex, and the selected features are somewhat different. Also, keep in mind that these items aren’t cheap; most of them cost $200 or maybe more.

Installation and Design

The inner half of the entire Kwikset Kevo convert — the portion with the Bluetooth, the motorized lock-turning device, and the battery that powers it — is all inside the device. You won’t have the touch-to-open capability of the original Kevo, but you will get the same baseline features that you can operate using the same Kevo app.

The Convert has a clean, basic, though not spectacular in appearance. It’s slightly smaller inside than other smart locks from Yale and Schlage, but only by a few millimeters. It’s not quite as eye-catching as the August Smart Lock, which uses a similar modification approach, but it’s far from unsightly.

But, before you get started with the Convert, double-check that your door is smart-lock suitable. Here are some things to keep an eye out for:

• A typical deadbolt is installed individually from the knob or the handle.
• A door with a thickness of 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches (38mm to 44mm).
• If you properly align the doorknob with the doorframe, you might not have to push or pull it to open the lock.

You should also know that convert supports Android or iOs devices, notably Android 5.0 or higher is necessary for Android.

Compatibility

Various smart locks provide different features, but they all have one thing in common: they’ll turn your deadbolt on their own. That’s great, but you still need to ensure your door is accessible.

Go ahead and manually lock and unlock your door. Did you have to push or pull on the door to get the bolt to turn smoothly? You won’t be around to do it if your new smart lock tries to move the bolt on its own, which may lead it to malfunction.

Is the bolt long enough to reach into the jamb? If not, your smart lock will always try to extend the bolt, which could cause another issue entirely. You risk burning out the motor or possibly progressively harming your door if the door jamb isn’t deep enough.

However, you may solve both problems with a bit of elbow grease, the correct tools, and possibly a little research. The solution to a misaligned door could be as easy as tightening a few screws in the hinge. Other concerns may require the assistance of a professional. In either case, you should be aware of what you’re getting yourself into before buying this product.

Daily Usage and Multiple Users

Another consideration is how a smart lock manages numerous users. The touch-to-open Kwikset Kevo, for example, is simple when coupled with your smartphone, but if you have a large family, everyone will need to download the app — and it doesn’t help that after the first two, you have to pay $2 per “eKey.”

Performance

You’ll need to pair it with the Convert through Bluetooth using the Kevo app once it’s successfully fastened to your door. If you’re within Bluetooth range, you’ll be able to monitor the lock’s activity on your phone or lock and unlock it online. You’ll also be able to share “eKeys,” which allows you to give other people access to the lock.

So, why should you give your lock a Bluetooth connection? Below are some reasons why:

1. If you ever get locked outside, you can utilize the app to get back in.
2. After getting to sleep, check to see that the door is locked.
3. Accessibility will be available to everyone (family or friends) if you are away.
4. To provide a repair person or a dog sitter time-restricted admission
5. You can check your home through your phone. The lockset logs who was at the door and the time of visit.

Limitations

The Kevo Convert Smart Lock’s drawback is that you can’t control the lock with your voice. It doesn’t function with the Apple HomeKit; therefore, Siri isn’t an option. Even though Amazon now has dedicated smart-lock programming tools for manufacturers, the Convert will not operate with Alexa and Google Assistant. (1)

Features

Even so, this lock does a lot of things right. The Kevo app, in particular, excels at user administration, with simple settings for delivering eKeys to friends and acquaintances. I loved how quick it was to put time limits on those eKeys, such as fully configurable Scheduled eKeys that only run on the days and times you choose and Guest eKeys that simply stop operating after 24 hours. Best of all, Kwikset no longer charges a fee for those eKeys. They’re all completely free and unlimited.

Another excellent feature is the app’s lock history area. It provides users with a precise and thorough list of arrivals and departures. It only operates with an app-enabled entry; use your key to go in or lock the door by hand, twisting the deadbolt, and it won’t appear on the app.