Aqara Smart Lock U400 vs TP-Link Tapo DL100

Aqara Smart Lock U400, thanks to UWB hands-free unlocking, fingerprint, NFC, Apple Home Key, Matter over Thread and an IP65 outer panel. TP-Link Tapo DL100 wins on price, on about ten months of AA battery life, on hub-free Wi-Fi and on its built-in doorbell button.

Ultra-wideband lets Aqara Smart Lock U400 detect an iPhone or Apple Watch approaching and unlock without you touching anything, which owners describe as fast and genuinely useful. TP-Link Tapo DL100 has no UWB and relies on the keypad, the app, Bluetooth or a physical key.

Aqara Smart Lock U400 needs a Thread border router for remote access and Matter, and Google Home and Alexa specifically require an Aqara hub. TP-Link Tapo DL100 has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so it works remotely with no hub at all.

Aqara Smart Lock U400 rates its outer panel IP65, covering dust, splashes and heavy rain. TP-Link Tapo DL100 is IP54 on the exterior assembly, which suits a sheltered doorway rather than full exposure, and owners note water can reach the key cylinder.

Aqara Smart Lock U400 offers fingerprint, touchscreen passcode, NFC, Apple Home Key, UWB, Bluetooth, app and a rekeyable key. TP-Link Tapo DL100 offers up to 200 keypad codes, Bluetooth, app control and two backup keys, with no fingerprint, NFC or Home Key.

Anyone wanting a dependable keypad deadbolt at an entry price, with hub-free Wi-Fi, one-time guest codes, anti-peep entry, a doorbell button and ten months of AA battery life. If Apple Home, fingerprint or hands-free unlocking matter, Aqara Smart Lock U400 is the more advanced lock.