We.lock Smart Lock Review [SOHO-EU] – Combination and RFID smart locks are more convenient to use than the Bold

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We.Lock, or Welock, depending on which website you go to, is an affordable Chinese brand that focuses on smart locks. They offer a wide range of locks for different markets. This includes locks for the U.S. deadlock and a different set of products for the EU market, which typically feature a more secure multi-point locking system.

I received the We.lock SOHO-EU, which has a keypad that also reads RFID tags and unlocks from the phone. This also seems to have the same functionality as the PCB41. Alternatively, the Ai.one Smart Lock replaces the keyboard with a fingerprint scanner.

Specification

• Unlock method:
  • Temporary and code access
  • Mobile APP (Bluetooth connection)
• Mechanical (Key) Backup: No
• Backup Power: Yes, microUSB
• Battery: 3 AAA, about 1 year life
• Protection class: IP44
• Security Level: Super B, Bank Level (whatever that means)
• Accessories: Universal design, up to 60mm on both sides of the glass, suitable for doors with a thickness of 55-105mm

Welock SOHO vs Bold Smart Lock

Welock is designed and used in the same way as Bold Smart Lock I recently reviewed. In some ways it’s a better lock, but in others it’s a lot worse.

Both locks work by engaging and disengaging external knobs. They both require you to manually turn a knob to unlock the door, and neither lock uses a traditional key as a mechanical backup.

So how do locks compare, and what are the pros and cons?

Welock SOHO smart lock

Advantages of Welock SOHO smart lock:

• Multiple access methods including PIN code, RFID tag and via phone
• Use the microUSB port for emergency power in case of battery failure
• Universal Design – The barrel length is adjustable so you don’t have to buy the exact size for your door.

Cons of Welock SOHO Smart Lock:

• A bad Android app and a really bad signup process.
• All electronic equipment is exposed outdoors. They are IP44 rated, but there is still the possibility of malfunction or malicious damage.
• The process of locking the door when leaving the property is slower.
• Unknown security/encryption

Bold Smart Lock

Advantages of Bold Smart Lock:

• Better app and initial setup process
• No electronics are exposed
• You can purchase Bold connect for remote management
• Bold clickers available for phone-free access
• way out easier to lock

Disadvantages of Bold Smart Lock:

• Using your phone is the primary way to unlock, which can be slow
• Bold clickers are expensive and require batteries (compared to RFID)
• Cannot power smart lock if battery is dead/failed

Safety

Ever since I started introducing smart locks, the inevitable security concerns have been raised. This is also a looming question for me.

Those concerns were allayed when reviewing locks at universities like Yale, thanks to various safety announcements. Yale has some locks that are UK Kitemark approved and they usually give some details about encryption. E.g, Yale Linus It states that it has two layers of encryption, using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology encryption, and AES 128-bit and TLS encryption, often referred to as bank-grade security.

Bold means:

“Messages between your Bold products and Bold servers are end-to-end encrypted. Each Bold product has its own unique code – which cannot be duplicated. This way, your certified products can only communicate with each other and our servers. “

There’s also the fact that it’s much easier to physically break into a property than to bypass any locked encryption. Also, by comparison, most cylinder locks are easily bumped, so I’m fairly confident that my smart lock is more secure than my cheap old-fashioned lock.

However, when using Welock, I’ve noticed that not much is said about encryption or security. Around the tech specs, you’ll find the only thing they state is “Super B, bank grade,” which could mean anything.

In my case, I use Welock on garage/gym doors, so I’m not too worried about hackers bypassing its security. But this is something to emphasize and should be factored into your buying decision.

Installation, Settings and Apps

I have reviewed a lot smart Lock Now and the Bold smart look is very similar to this one. Therefore, physical installation is a breeze.

One problem I had was that I didn’t write down the lock serial number before installing, so I had to remove it all when I tried to set it in the app. In hindsight, it would have been easier if you set the lock with the app before the physical installation.

Unfortunately, the application and registration process sucks.

I struggled to sign up for an account and the app insisted I get a sms code and was very slow to send sms and failed to accept the first 4 times. I’m pretty sure it’s a problem connecting to the remote authentication server, which again doesn’t inspire confidence in security.

When I finally signed up, everything else went fairly smoothly, but the app was poor and not very user friendly.

is using

Thankfully, once I had everything set up, the lock worked just fine and you really don’t need to worry about the app.

For me, using a password is by far the best way to get in. I don’t need to remember my phone or RFID card, and I don’t need to wait for my phone to connect to the lock. I just enter my password and enter.

My only complaint is that the small LCD is almost useful during the day. You don’t really need it, so it’s not a big deal.

Also, with the Bold lock, I can press the button inside, then close the door, lock the lock and turn the knob. With this, I had to enter my passcode again before activating the external knob again.

Price and Alternatives

The Welock SOHO-EU-PCB has a suggested retail price of $199, but is currently only $159 with free shipping. I was not charged VAT or any import charges. This equates to a suggested retail price of £150 or the current £120.

This makes it cheaper than most competing options:

• The bold smart lock is £169.
• Yale Lynas is £220
• Nuki Smart Lock 3.0 £129
• Ultion smart lock is £259

comprehensive

I love the Welock SOHO so much that I’ll keep using it for the time being rather than going back to the Bold Smart Lock. For me, password access is much more convenient than using a phone, and I like the assurance that there are multiple ways to unlock it.

However, my opinion on the lock is somewhat damaged as I really don’t like the app and the initial registration process was very frustrating. The bad app also raises the question of how good the overall lock security is. I’ll admit I’m a little tired of smart lock security, I believe it’s always easier to smash windows, I can’t imagine there are many competent smart lock hackers where I live. Having said that, I would still like to know what security measures are in place.

Last updated on March 23, 2022 / Affiliate Links / Image from Amazon Product Advertising API