We were fans of Wyze’s original smart deadbolt from 2022—heck we even gave it an Editors’ Choice award—but it arrived with a key drawback: it only supported Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi or any other wireless protocols.
While the first Wyze Lock Bolt is inexpensive compared to other smart locks in its class and boasts an easy setup process, its lack of Wi-Fi or other wireless connectivity means it can’t be controlled remotely without help from the Wyze Video Doorbell. It also suffered from a ho-hum industrial design, and there’s no keyhole option.
Wyze appears to have rectified those issues with the Wyze Lock Bolt v2, which arrives with built-in Wi-Fi, a snazzier tempered-glass design, and a mechanical lock with a key.
On sale now for $79.98, just a $10 premium compared to the original model, the Lock Bolt v2’s Wi-Fi support means it can be controlled and accessed from anywhere via the Wyze app, so there’s no longer any need for helper devices such as the Wyze Video Doorbell. The lock also works with Alexa and Google Home, ideal for allowing the lock to trigger Alexa or Gemini for Home automations.
The dull metal-and-plastic look of the original Lock Bolt has gotten a much-needed update for the Lock Bolt v2, with the latter sporting “high-grade” and anti-glare tempered glass that’s resistant to scratches and smudges, Wyze says.
Boasting an IP53 certification (meaning it’s resistant to dust and water sprayed at an angle up to 60 degrees on either side of vertical), the Lock Bolt v2 is equipped with a self-learning, AI-powered fingerprint scanner that logs the pressure, angle, and even “tiny skin shifts” of your finger presses, allowing the scanner to recognize fingerprints in just half a second, Wyze says.
There’s also a keypad that stores up to 50 different access codes, while a mechanical lock lets you unlock the deadbolt with the included key, even if the lock loses power.
Speaking of power, the Wyze Lock Bolt v2 can run on eight AA batteries (included) for up to 8 months. If the batteries die before you can replace them, you can operate the lock with a power bank via the USB-C emergency port.
Other features include auto-lock with a time delay, anti-peep technology (which means you can tap in extra digits before or after your PIN to keep snoopers from stealing your code), a built-in alarm that sounds if the lock is jammed or after too many unsuccessful unlock attempts, and yes, integration with the Wyze Doorbell (for the ability to lock or unlock your door directly from the doorbell’s live video feed).
This story is part of TechHive’s in-depth coverage of the best smart locks.
