Turns by ITSELF?! Danalock V3 Review - Smart Home Locks/Smart Home Security System
Вставка
- Опубліковано 22 сер 2024
- The Danalock V3 is an Apple Home compatible smart lock that allows you to turn your existing deadbolt setup into a smart lock by replacing only your latch.
It’s the same kind of product as an August Smart Lock so that begs the question: Which one is better? The Danalock V3 is by a tiny margin. It’s easy to install, annoying to setup but overall, better.
In this review:
00:00:58 - Features of the Danalock V3
00:03:53 - Installation w/Tips
00:05:41 - Issues with app/software
00:09:04 - Comparison against August Smart Lock
Get the Danalock V3 on Amazon!
Amazon US: shreh.ca/2LlgWN6
Amazon CA: shreh.ca/2Lha1EJ
Amazon UK: shreh.ca/2wa7p6L
Amazon DE: shreh.ca/2wa7ozJ
Or get it on eBay: shreh.ca/2w8k8H8
-FEATURES-
The Dana Lock is a retro-fit smart lock. It has more in common with the August Smart Lock then it does the Kwikset or Weiser Premis or the Schlage Sense.
The exterior of the lock is made from anodized aluminum which provides a decent level of scratch resistance. Now despite the touted Danish design, I did find face of the lock having a sharp edge which seems odd but I didn’t notice it during normal usage.
Now one of the standout marketing features of this lock is the AES-256 encryption, coupled with the TLS 1.2 protocol with everything that sits on a HSM. Basically, the Danalock V3 is digitally, very secure.
When it comes to compatibility, the Danalock V3 works with Apple Home, Z-wave and Zigbee BUT you’ll need to buy a different lock for each platform you plan on using.
The Danalock is powered by CR123 batteries which look like 1/2 AA’s BUT pack a bit more juice than the standard Double AA battery. The CR123 lithium battery, according to Danalock will last 1.5 years with 10 remote unlocks a day.
-INSTALLATION-
Installing the lock is quite simple and isn’t as involved as the Premis or Schlage Sense BUT I did come across a small issue during install that some of you need to be aware if you’re planning on getting this unit which is the first pro-tip.
Now the install was pretty painless except for the plate portion. Why? Because the labelled Weiser plate did not work with my Weiser lock. I had to use the Kwikset plate. Now this seems like a boo-urns moment BUT Weiser and Kwikset are owned by the same parent company so their parts are going to be interchangeable. Which explains why Weiser Premis and Kwikset Premis looks exactly the same.
Now before you can use the Danalock to it’s full potential, you’ll not to poke this tiny hole a bunch of times. I’m not joking but I’ll cover that in the app portion of this review.
-APP/SOFTWARE-
Onto the app and software which is an area that Danalock needs to improve from my perspective. Now the overall functionality of a purely Apple Home lock in Apple Home is going to be hamstrung a bit. BUT other brands have products that are compatible with Apple Home also have additional features in their apps which would be a value add when compared to the Danalock.
The second reason why I think the app needs work is that several hardware features such as auto-lock needs to be configured on the actual device rather than through the app. This seems a little backwards to me but there is a tiny pinhole button that you press a number of times in order to enable hardware features.
One of the standout features is Twist Assist. It allows you to unlock your door by slightly turning the latch. I found that twist assist is handy when you need to access the lock with your hands full. Sure it doesn’t take much effort to turn the normal lock, being able to push it slightly with one finger is nice.
-August Smart Lock Comparison-
Now my goto recommendation for a retro-fit style of lock was going to be the August Smart Lock Pro. Why did I change my mind after using the Danalock V3?
There are two reasons:
- The first reason is the size. The August product is just way too big. It won’t work on my back door because the window. Apart from the longer life, Danalock’s decision to use the CR123 batteries is smart due to the smaller size.
- The second reason is ease of use. The Danalock V3 acts more like a regular deadbolt than the August Smart Lock which acts like a jar lid that I have to take off. The Twist Assist is a feature that will be handy every once in a while when your hands are full. Or if you’re just incredibly weak-fingered.
Now the only reason why I wouldn’t get the Danalock V3 is if you want more flexibility when it comes to giving people access to your home. Specifically when it comes to the Apple Home version of the Danalock. Again, the cleaning person doesn’t need to see if my infant is sleeping when they’re not cleaning my house. As I said at the beginning of the video, your home life will come into play when it comes to choosing the right lock.
![[#38] Обзор Danalock V3 - установка и обзор умного замка с цилиндром M&C](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/aKOWYkqbijQ/mqdefault.jpg)
![[#38] Обзор Danalock V3 – установка и обзор умного замка с цилиндром M&C](/img/tr.png)
Thank you for taking the time to make quality content!
I dont mean to be so off topic but does any of you know a method to log back into an Instagram account?
I was dumb lost the login password. I would love any assistance you can give me
I just bought a Danalock V3, and it is an awesome lock, really nice design, it is very easy to mount, also easy to setup, and the app works flawlessly, i really recommend it
Do you live in a cold country? I am in Canada, and I am not sure it works well in winter.
I have the Danalock v3 here (had the v2 before), I have the BT+ZWave. The missing feature you mention with limiting users is only in the Homekit version, the other versions can handle this, we gave our cleaner on it, but the only have access on the say and time which is relevant for them.
those transitions from each door at 4 minutes were pretty dope lol
Having to invite people to your home and give access to everything is a function of the Apple limitation. If the other version of this were ordered instead, you have more functionality and can send temporary invites to people just to use the lock. with the Bluetooth version you can also get the Danapad keypad that lets you give PIN codes to people. Generally when things get hooked up to Apple, I've seen the product get blamed for limitations Apple creates.
So clear and straight forward with pure information and data. Thank you sir!
We have a Kevo (Kwikset) lock. We chose it because it is the best looking lock for our antique door. It does have connection issues which are annoying, but the main thing we don't like about it is that when you need to leave the door open (if you've nipped out to the garage for something or are unloading the shopping for instance) it beeps and tries to close constantly, running the batteries down. It needs an 'on the snip' mode that you can set. You CAN do this in the settings and lock the lock manually, but you can't have either or without taking the lock apart. We prefer the lock to close automatically as we have kids and want to know the door locked behind them, but for those times you need to leave the door ajar we'd like to be able to disarm the Automatic locking mode. I suspect that ALL the locks operate like the Kevo in this respect but I've never seen it mentioned in a review. We're looking at the Dana and August for other doors so it'd be good to know whether you can temporarily disarm the auto-lock feature?
Hold back latch feature is provided only by Danalock (to the best of my knowledge). August does not have that option. This feature is common in EU where the outside handle does not operate the latch but only helps to open/close the door itself (from the outside side). This way a person inside does not need to lock the door every time the doors are used. The premises are not accessible from the outside unless opened (not unlocked) from the inside. I have a main door like that and like it for the most part - until the door accidentally closed behind me as I am checking the mailbox... :(. I would appreciate anyone knowing another brand having hold back latch option. Thank you for posting the review - probably the best comparision of Danalock and August.
This is still relevant now, 4 years later. All August locks up to V3 are similar. V4 changed slightly to more expensive batteries.
The install process looks virtually identical, though I feel the August may be a little more secure with its adaptor? The August seems to be a little more polished as well.
That said, I like that it has a handle on it where you have to grab the side of the August.... It's a had choice really.
The thing that moves me slightly toward the Danalock V3 is the fact there is a Z-Wave version of it available as well. Other than that I really can't find a lot of differences. Though the battery life is pretty good. That said, the cost of 4 batteries over the 2 AA's in the August locks may counter each other. Hard choice
zigbee and zwave do have an advantage over homekit, that all "z-devices" create a mesh network so your doorlock does not need to be in range of the hub. just in range of another z-device.
I was saying "Bu-urns"
Was indifferent until the Simpsons reference. Loyal for life now.
You are able to use the optional keypad and individual codes for people that need adhoc access. AFIK also the hub feature will open up the world of real smart home tech.
So in fact Danalock is compatible with most open standard smart home systems.
Thanks for the review , very helpful. Surely if you add the wireless key pad and the Dana bridge you can add as many users as needed and they all can use the key pad .
Thanks, Im looking to get a smart lock and this Dana lock is the type I'm thinking of going for.
Good to see your back!!!
Nice overview. Thanks. Looking to help out the grandma that has trouble turning the lock as well as providing ad hoc access. The Danlock V3 twistAssist wins the day. The DanaPad provides individual access for me. Thanks again.
Thanks for the great review. Definitely a better looking product than the competition.
I was planning to get a retrofit lock in hopes of saving a little money over an actual smart lock. I am completely shocked that the retrofits cost the same if not more than the actual smart lock.
The price of the august v2 is $80on Ebay now.
Ty so much for this video. Been trying to do as much research as possible to help with deciding which smart locks to get for my home.
I'd go with the August Smart Lock Pro. Much improved over the original August Lock, and the Door Sense feature is a game changer when it comes to auto-locking! Nice video.
Just an fyi i believe the hold back feature is for european homes using their euro lock cylender instead of a dead bold. This retracts the latch that european doors can have where you have to apply a constant presure while opening the door.
Thank you for doing these reviews. Keep up the great work .
I know you are an Apple FanBoy, but adding information about the compatibility or lack there of to other popular platforms like Google home would be a real plus.
I have on of those "weird" doors (actually fancy :) without handle on the exterior and after you unlock the door you have to twist the key further 15 deg. to be able to push the door open . Danalock has that and for me is a winer.
SSL+ is used between your phone and august servers, then again from august servers to the lock via wifi.
the fact that august uses a web service for the lock dictates their encryption... kinda. SSL+ is just easier for them.
Thanks. Bought the dan-lock and subscribed to your channel. Being danish I did buy it in Denmark :).
Canadian alert!!! Dude is Canadian. The way he says house.
Nest X Yale is the best, cause they work together.
Hi, great review and just wondering whether anything has changed in the last year and what smart lock you're now recommending?? Cheers
Greetings from Denmark 🇩🇰😁👍
I would - surprise - get the danalock! 👌
I like the Danalock more than the August lock in the same ways that you like it and am unsure of the software limitations that you pointed out also. I would hope they will change in the future but if they are anything like many manufacturers, they will not roll out software updates for previous models and will insist that you buy the new equipment for the software upgrade.
Amazing review!!!
I’d love to know how have you got on with the Danalock 1 year on? Has the functionality of the app changed at all for the home kit version?
hey! any suggestion for house with grill doors? Is it possible to disable unlocking from inside panel? just unlock by key or phone? bcuz ppl from outside can.. sneak their hand in..
Wow. I might just buy this. Thx for the revirw
I don't have a handle on my door, so would like to find out more info on the quick release feature!
yes it's made for doors that doesn't have handles that's normal in all europe we have this system
Enjoy all your videos, Well done sir.
What happens to these 'smart' locks when the door isn't quite pushed in so the deadbolt is right lined up with the hole? Sometimes I find you have to give the door a little pull when turning the key.
I really like the Danalock. It looks more like an actual deadbolt lock instead of a hockey puck. They don't seem to be available for purchase in the USA though.
well, my main purpose of wanting a smart lock is to give access to people (pet sitters, cleaners, etc.). seems like a deal breaker for people like me, even though I like Danalock's design overall.
EDIT: seems it's only absent for apple users. since apple is not allowed in our home, looks like we have a winner.
Can I lock from inside by my mobile and no one can open the door from inside (my kids) from the door until I open from my mobile?
thanks for the nice video review 👍👍👍
I like your videos, please post more....thanks.
any idea how this works with Apple Watch?
Great video. Can you please make a comparison video for wall light switches like Wemo and others. Thanks!
Nice transitions
I think i would prefer August.
Just wanted to say that someone kicking in the door is only a problem for americans, and maybe others, that have their doors open inwards. Here in Scandinavia front doors open outwards and are usually sturdy enough that kicking in the door means kicking in the wall. Could still break a window thou...
It’s small but noisy AF. Also, not digging the lack of lock out of the rest of my smart devices. Still thinking the August smart lock is best.
The Homekit version for use with Apple Siri does not seem to be available in the USA. Not on Amazon.
I have the most secure and intelligent smart lock ever made, Woof!
I am always hesitant to have smart home products because I have had issues with app function that cannot be solved. I want to know if there are any fingerprint activated smart locks that DONT require an app to function with key backup and good battery life. Am I dreaming?
I wish it came in a bronze or brass color.
Monty rocks!!
Hello. What about reliability? I'm looking for a smart lock that allow me to open the door to mi child when I am at work o driving to home. It have tobe reliable becuase I dont want her carrying the keys.
I was almost sure about buy the august pro, but I read to many bad reviews about the reliability. What is the best smart lock in that matter?
I second this - I don't need the ability to give someone shared access, but this video does not call out if Remote Features work outside your Homekit bluetooth area - such as unlocking the door when I am at work.
you can buy the code panel and use a code and no access to phone, app or anything else.
Hi there just came across your video. August is releasing a smaller wifi only version (size of door knob). I've been toying with the idea of a retrofit for a while and you seem to have have same points / interests I have. Have you been able to see / review this new August lock in comparison to Danalock v3? I use smartthings and am trying to avoid WiFi and use more z Waze or zigbee so I am now thinking of Danalock but I have not seen much about the new upcoming August. Thank you.
if you don't change your batteries they could start to corrode. make sure you check them even if the device works...
How would you compare this to say the 3rd gen August that isn't as bulky as their past stuff?
I had the ultion smart lock( danalock) for around one week, and I had to send it back. It was just a bluetooth version so, is "smart" only when you are at bluetooth reach, also the twist assist stopped working, I had to restart the phone few times, to be able to connect with the lock, the auto unlocking was very temperamental, either unlocking very early, or not at all. The auto lock function is based on time so, if is too early you don't have time to arrive at the dor before closing and so one, anyway, It was a disappointing experience.
Danalock lock app is got only 2.6 * so , it looks like I'm not the only one disappointed.
4:02. My man!
@@TheG60528XiJinPing haha, dude's taking advantage of his wife's absence! Lol
He said "cleaning person" instead of the much easier "maid", so there is no doubt in my mind he's Canadian.
I want one but my lock is weird. You have to pull the door, turn the key and then push open. It wont unlock unless the door is pulled ☹
That is not the lock being "weird", that is an issue with the door itself needing to be adjusted.
Como comprar a sua nova fechadura eletronica DANALOCK?
www.dana-lock.pt
This is where you can buy your Smart Lock if you are in Portugal.
August smart lock for me...
Off topic but do you do fitness videos
2:21. In Nordic countries, you cannot kick down the door, because it opens outward, not inward.
I really like your videos. Thank you for making this video. The other reviews on UA-cam about this lock are all not in English and UA-cam's closed-captioning isn't always correct.
My question about the lock is the noise level. You mentioned in your video that it's loud, but it seems like all of the motorized locks are "loud". Can you give a frame of reference as to how much louder the danalock is than the August.
Waiting for new videos men
How safe smart locks are?
hey, do you know if danalock is google home compatible?
doest the keypad works with the homekit version on danalock
I was looking for Danalock to my home and my AirBNB apartment (in Brazil). However, looking in European market I found Xiaomi Sherlock smartlock. Did you already try this smartlock? It is bluetooth only, and not so smart (hard to add to my Homekit - hack needed). Other problem is that Xiaomi Home app only detects the smart lock if your location is selected as China. 😒
What is cool? We don’t need to change original keys, quick install.
Hi can I unlock and lock using ok google?
I didn't know the guy from how to get away with murder had a review yt channel
Shoutout to Citizen Brewing, haha.
Would you like to test ESCAM outdoor security camera?
I kinda wonder what it is with like 95% of the Smart Lock Makers to use motors/gearboxes that sound like I'd be grinding my own coffee? Is it really _that_ hard to choose components or come up with a mechanical design that would _greatly_ if not entirely eliminate the noise coming from the lock? _Jesh..._ 🙄
Can't you use the HomeKit App for access? :)
Please help configuration TWIST ASSIST on Danalock v3 Homekit
how about comparing this to the Sesame Smart Lock!!
Damn that was loud.
Here in Denmark most insurance companies will not pay if the smart lock was hacked (as it will look equivalent to not having the door locked). So if you have a bunch of valuables, you don’t want to have an insecure smart lock....
Why would you tell your security company, you have a smart lock, that wouldn't be to smart.
@@bigbossjc4117 after a burglary, you call the police to report it if you want any insurance money. If the police cannot determine how the thief entered your house, it will be equivalent to you having forgotten to lock your door (which is not covered by most insurance plans, as it would require a way to high risk premium).
Its not like you have a choice.
@@bjerkeneren That's messed up, out of all the insurance companies in the US, the one that will pay out is home owner insurance. Even if you left your door unlocked. Sound like you all would have to kick in your own door after a break in just for them to pay you.
BIGBOSS JC are you sure that the US will always pay, a quick google search tell me that US insurance plans follow the same procedure in the as Denmark (although the source is a blog which means one should be sceptical, yet I see no reason to lie about this). If people uses the insurance policy a lot it gets more expensive (or they will even cancel your subscription), so you cannot repeatedly cheat the system. 😊
www.yourmoney.com/insurance/blog-dont-accidentally-invalidate-your-home-insurance/
@@bjerkeneren No, they all don't pay. I had Allstate years ago and they will give you the run around about anything. I got American family now and so do my cousin. They walked out and left their door open somebody walked in and took the TVs and they replaced them after two weeks. Some insurance companies here seem to be more forgiving if you have an active alarm system.
is it compatible with google assistant?
Not out of the box, currently looking into Smartthings to have it control it
Hey,Monty! And that Asian /Canadian dude !try Nuki! Nuki is much better than those two (Dana and August Lock 🔐)
I think you meant Chinese Canadian, the guy is Chinese by heritage. Asian is simply too broad of a term since people from parts of Middle East and Russia can also be grouped as Asian.
DarkZerol you are absolutely right. I wasn’t sure from where he is. I didn’t want to offend anyone by calling someone on their wrong Nation. I‘m Indo-Chinese ,I would hate it ,if someone (would)call me Thai,Philipino,Malay,Vietnam, or Taiwan, or anything other than Indo-Chinese.
One does not simply kick down a Scandinavian door. Mark my words xD
Danalock, dose someone make a lock that works off of your phone when your 30' from the door that it unlock an locks automatically with all that Security
August
poor connect bluetooth in winter
My Siri turned on at 2:16 😂
The only danger about this locks are google home, if you left your windows open you only have to ask your google home to open the door. Word 9/10x be carefull with that.
US links doesn’t work
This is an apple product? I have an android phone. Can I still use it?
yes
Still like August
august's regular lock look like a regular one too, much smaller than the pro version. also, i personally prefer the AA batteries as i keep them on hand and dont need to buy extra batteries just for the lock. august.com/products/august-smart-lock-connect
cool video! how can i ship the products to you so that you can help us do the video review? What is the timing and commission?@SmartHomeReviewEh
smartlocks for that day when you leave your keys at home by mistake, and the batteries in the lock die so you get locked out of your house XD
hmm, that a lock isnt very good, if anyone can unlock it from within. break a window, and then just use the front door to walk out with whatevery you have
hey you stopped with video's.
but you love other people having eyes in your home?
Danalock Home Kit after a year of use - I still can't write anything positive. It's an industry crack. The same mistakes are repeated over and over again. It doesn't work without problems for a month, and you can repeat the whole non-functioning setup process again before it is "caught" by God's will. I don't even know why I didn't throw it in the trash a long time ago ... probably an unreasonable price for this disgrace. Siri? Don't even try. Out of ten attempts, maybe it gets working twice. Callibration aslo doesn't work. Be sure to take you keys with you otherwise it could happen you sleep outside. In case of security door you very likely wohn't be able to calibrate the lock at all. You lock it and if you want to open in emergency with key, the key will not go into the lock.
TLS 1.2 lol
you need to use a better mic