Three years ago, Wyze disrupted the smart home market with a remarkably affordable smart lock – a no-frills solution that delivered surprising capability for a fraction of the cost. Now, they’ve reimagined that original lock, the Bolt, bringing it into the present with a sleek redesign and crucial upgrades, all while maintaining its unbelievably accessible price point.
The Wyze Lock Bolt v2 isn’t just an incremental improvement; it’s a significant evolution. Gone are the simple buttons, replaced by a modern, illuminating glass touchscreen. For the first time, a mechanical key option is included, offering a reassuring backup. Even the fingerprint reader has been refined, now boasting an “AI self-learning scanner” that adapts to your unique touch for faster, more reliable access.
But the biggest leap forward lies within. The original Bolt relied solely on Bluetooth, limiting its functionality. The v2 integrates 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, instantly expanding its possibilities and bringing it in line with today’s smart home standards. Powering this upgrade are eight AA batteries (included), promising approximately eight months of operation, with a USB-C port available for emergency power.
Despite these enhancements, the price remains astonishingly low – just $10 more than the original Bolt’s launch price. This commitment to affordability is what sets Wyze apart, making smart home security accessible to everyone. The lock also carries an IP53 weatherproofing rating and ANSI Level 2 certification, providing a solid level of physical security for most homes.
Installation is straightforward, mirroring the simplicity of the original. The exterior escutcheon attaches to a mounting frame with just a few bolts. While the process is generally smooth, some users may require a smaller screwdriver to avoid damaging the interior escutcheon’s plastic casing. A crucial reminder: use only 1.5-volt alkaline batteries – NiMH rechargeables are not compatible.
Once installed, the Wyze app guides you through a quick onboarding process. While Wyze’s app is becoming increasingly crowded with products, finding the Lock Bolt v2 isn’t overly difficult. Initial setup may require a couple of attempts, but persistence pays off, leading to a seamless connection and firmware update.
The Wyze Lock Bolt v2 offers a comprehensive suite of features. You can unlock the door using a fingerprint, PIN code, physical key, or remotely through the app. It can store up to 50 PINs and 50 fingerprints, supporting a maximum of 50 users. Customizable one-time passcodes, auto-locking (configurable up to 15 minutes), and scheduled locking times add layers of convenience and control.
Integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Home ecosystems further expands its capabilities. The lock’s internal motor operates quietly, though the audible chimes during operation can be adjusted or disabled to suit your preference. The app itself provides a detailed activity log, giving you a complete overview of access events.
Compared to its predecessor, the Wyze Lock Bolt v2 represents a substantial upgrade. Unlocking is swift and reliable, whether using the keypad, fingerprint reader, or the app. User management is intuitive, and the scanner’s accuracy is impressive, though not flawless. One-time codes function perfectly, and the logging system is robust and informative.
The Wyze Lock Bolt v2 isn’t just a good value; it’s arguably the best value currently available in the smart lock market. It delivers a compelling combination of features, security, and affordability that’s hard to beat. In a rapidly evolving industry, this lock stands out as a testament to Wyze’s commitment to making smart home technology accessible to all.
It’s a remarkable achievement, and a strong indication that you don’t need to spend a fortune to secure your home with smart technology. The Wyze Lock Bolt v2 is a game-changer, proving that smart security can be both powerful and remarkably affordable.
