Welock Smart Lock Cylinder Review: Unlocking Modern Convenience with a Unique Design

The world of home security is constantly evolving, with smart locks leading the charge towards a keyless, more connected future. Among the myriad options, the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder stands out for its distinctive design, promising an effortless upgrade to smart entry without extensive modifications. This review delves into what makes the Welock cylinder a noteworthy contender, exploring its features, installation, and overall user experience to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your home.

What is the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder and Why is its Design Unique?

The Welock Smart Lock Cylinder is an innovative electronic door lock designed to replace your existing Euro profile cylinder, transforming a traditional entry point into a smart, secure one. Unlike many smart locks that require bulky surface-mounted hardware or complex wiring, the Welock’s unique cylindrical design allows it to seamlessly integrate into your door. This means you can upgrade your security without drilling new holes or altering your door’s aesthetic, preserving its original look while adding advanced functionality.

The design typically features a robust construction of high-quality stainless steel combined with a sleek black plastic cover, giving it a modern yet durable appearance. The external side of the cylinder often houses a small display, a responsive fingerprint sensor, and an RFID card reader, while the internal knob remains simple for manual locking. This thoughtful construction is also found in models like the Welock Touch61, which boasts an IP65 certification, providing protection against water and dust, making it suitable for doors with some weather protection like a porch.

Close-up of Welock Smart Lock Cylinder showing fingerprint sensor, display, and RFID reader

Exploring the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder’s Features and Functionality

The Welock Smart Lock Cylinder is packed with features designed to offer convenience, security, and smart integration. Its core appeal lies in its diverse unlocking methods and smart management capabilities.

Diverse Unlocking Methods

One of the primary benefits of the Welock system is the array of ways you can gain entry. Forget fumbling for keys; the Welock offers multiple convenient options:

• Fingerprint Recognition: The integrated fingerprint sensor provides rapid and reliable access. It can store a substantial number of fingerprints (up to 100 in some models), making it ideal for families or small offices.
• RFID Cards: For those who prefer a physical credential or need to grant temporary access, Welock cylinders often come with RFID cards (typically three are included, with support for up to 20). Simply tap the card against the scanner for quick entry.
• Smartphone App Control: Via Bluetooth, the dedicated Welock app (available for Android and iOS) allows you to unlock the door with a tap on your phone. The app is also crucial for managing users, adding new fingerprints, and configuring settings.
• PIN/Password (select models): Some Welock models offer a keypad for PIN entry, often with an anti-peep function that allows you to input extra digits before or after your actual code for added security.
• Emergency Power: Should the batteries completely discharge, a micro USB port is available for emergency power, allowing you to temporarily power the lock with a portable power bank.

Smart Connectivity and Remote Access

While the Welock cylinder operates efficiently via Bluetooth, its true smart home potential is unlocked with an optional Wi-Fi Gateway or Hub. This accessory connects the lock to your home network, enabling remote access and advanced features. With the hub, you can:

• Unlock from Anywhere: Grant access to guests or service providers even when you’re away from home.
• Activity Logs: Monitor who enters and exits your property and at what times, providing peace of mind and enhanced security oversight.
• Smart Home Integration: Integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa (with Google Assistant support often promised for the future) for hands-free control.

Power Management and Durability

The Welock Smart Lock Cylinder is designed for efficiency and resilience. It typically runs on 3x AAA batteries, which can last approximately 10-12 months or around 8,000 openings, depending on usage. The lock usually features a display that shows the battery status, alerting you when a change is needed. As mentioned, the IP65 weatherproof rating on models like the Touch61 ensures it can withstand dust and splashes, making it robust enough for various entry points, especially those with some overhead protection.

Advantages and Considerations: Is the Welock Cylinder Right for You?

Choosing a smart lock involves weighing its benefits against its potential limitations. The Welock Smart Lock Cylinder offers a compelling package, but it’s essential to consider all aspects.

Key Benefits

• Effortless Installation: One of Welock’s biggest draws is its DIY-friendly installation. It’s designed to be a straightforward replacement for your existing cylinder, often requiring just a screwdriver and the included tools. This avoids the need for professional installation, saving time and money.
• Enhanced Convenience: The variety of keyless entry options — fingerprint, RFID card, and app — means you’ll rarely need to worry about lost keys or being locked out. The quick recognition and multiple access methods streamline daily entry.
• Sleek Aesthetics: By replacing only the cylinder, the Welock maintains the original look of your door, avoiding the bulky appearance of some other smart locks.
• Robust Security Features: Biometric access, encrypted app control (within Bluetooth range), anti-peep functions, and detailed activity logs contribute to a heightened sense of security.
• Flexible Access Management: Easily grant temporary access to guests or service providers and revoke it when no longer needed, a significant advantage for rentals or visitor management.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations

• Design Quirks: Some users have noted that the external fingerprint scanner section can be a “tad chunky” and might occasionally catch on door frames during operation, requiring a slight adjustment.
• Setup Instructions: While installation is easy, some reviewers suggest that the initial setup instructions could be better ordered, recommending app configuration before physically installing the lock.
• Remote Access Requires a Hub: For true remote access and smart home integrations (like Alexa), a separate Wi-Fi Gateway/Hub is required, which is an additional cost. Without the hub, app control is limited to Bluetooth range.
• Door Compatibility: The Welock cylinder is not universally compatible. It is specifically designed for doors with Euro profile cylinders and typically supports door thicknesses between 50mm and 100mm. Users must check their door’s measurements before purchasing.
• Weather Exposure: While IP65 rated (for some models), the lock is best suited for doors with some protection from direct weather exposure, such as those with a porch or roof covering, rather than fully exposed outdoor gates.
• Manual Turn Requirement: The smart lock primarily releases the cylinder, meaning you still need to manually turn the knob to engage or disengage the bolt to open the door.

A Practical Guide to Installing and Using Your Welock Cylinder

Installing and setting up your Welock Smart Lock Cylinder is designed to be a straightforward process, making it accessible even for DIY novices.

What’s in the Box?

Upon unboxing your Welock Smart Lock Cylinder, you can typically expect to find:

• The Welock fingerprint smart lock cylinder itself.
• RFID cards (usually three).
• A special Allen key and a small Phillips screwdriver for installation.
• Small fixing screws and silicone plugs.
• Spacers to adjust for different door thicknesses.
• Instruction manuals in multiple languages.
• A micro USB cable for emergency power.

Step-by-Step Installation

The installation process for the Welock cylinder is notably simple:

1. Remove Your Existing Cylinder: Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw that secures your current door cylinder, then pull it out.
2. Insert the Welock Cylinder: Place the Welock cylinder into the recess. The flexible design allows the knobs to be removed, meaning you can install the cylinder from either side.
3. Adjust and Secure: Depending on your door’s thickness, adjust the knobs to fit correctly using the provided spacers and screws.
4. Insert Batteries: Once the cylinder is secure, insert the required AAA batteries into the external knob.
5. Power On and Register: Switch the lock on using the power button and register your administrator fingerprint as prompted. Welock also provides helpful YouTube videos to guide you through the process.

Hands demonstrating the installation of a Welock Smart Lock Cylinder into a door

Initial Setup and App Configuration

After physical installation, setting up the app is the next crucial step for maximizing your lock’s functionality:

1. Download the Welock App: Get the official Welock app from your smartphone’s app store.
2. Create Account and Add Lock: Set up a user account, then add your newly installed lock by scanning the QR code on the lock’s rubber flap and entering its ID.
3. Pair and Configure: Confirm the pairing with your administrator fingerprint. Once connected via Bluetooth, you can access various settings in the app. This includes adding new fingerprints, authorizing RFID cards (with optional validity periods for guests), and enabling/disabling features.
4. Optional Hub Connection: If you have the Welock Hub, connect it to your home network and then pair it with your lock via Bluetooth to enable remote access and smart home integrations.

Choosing the Right Smart Lock for Your Needs (Buying Guide)

Selecting a smart lock is a significant decision for home security and convenience. When considering the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder, keep these factors in mind:

Assessing Your Door’s Compatibility

The Welock cylinder is designed for doors with Euro profile cylinders and specific thickness ranges (typically 50mm-100mm). Before purchasing, carefully measure your existing cylinder and door thickness to ensure compatibility. This is a critical step to avoid installation issues.

Prioritizing Security and Features

Evaluate the unlocking methods that best suit your lifestyle. If fingerprint access is a priority, the Welock offers reliable performance. Consider if remote access is essential, as this would necessitate the additional purchase of a Welock Hub. Also, factor in the IP rating if the lock will be exposed to any elements.

Considering Long-Term Reliability and Support

Look for customer reviews regarding long-term performance and the reliability of the fingerprint sensor and app. Understand the warranty provided by Welock and the availability of customer support. The emergency micro USB power option is a vital backup feature that enhances reliability, preventing lockouts due to dead batteries.

Maintaining Your Welock Smart Lock Cylinder

Proper maintenance ensures your smart lock remains functional and secure for years to come.

Routine Care and Battery Management

• Regular Battery Checks: The display typically shows battery status. Pay attention to low battery warnings and replace the 3x AAA batteries promptly. High-quality batteries can last up to a year.
• Emergency Power Readiness: Keep a portable power bank handy, especially if you anticipate being away from home when the batteries might die. The micro USB port ensures you can always gain emergency access.
• Cleaning: Periodically wipe down the fingerprint sensor and external unit with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust and grime buildup that could affect sensor accuracy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Fingerprint Recognition Issues: If the sensor isn’t recognizing your fingerprint, ensure your finger is clean and dry, and placed correctly on the sensor. Re-registering your fingerprint in the app can sometimes resolve persistent issues.
• App Connectivity Problems: If the app isn’t connecting to the lock via Bluetooth, ensure you are within the 10-foot range and that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. For remote access issues, verify your Wi-Fi Hub is properly connected to your home network and the internet.
• Lock Not Engaging/Disengaging: Check for any physical obstructions in the door frame or strike plate. If the problem persists, ensure the cylinder is correctly installed and secured.

Conclusion

The Welock Smart Lock Cylinder offers a compelling solution for those looking to upgrade their home security with modern, keyless convenience. Its unique design, which seamlessly replaces your existing cylinder without invasive modifications, is a significant advantage, preserving your door’s aesthetic while delivering advanced functionality. With multiple unlocking methods including rapid fingerprint recognition, RFID cards, and smartphone control, alongside optional remote access via a Wi-Fi hub, it provides a versatile and user-friendly experience.

While potential considerations like door compatibility and the need for a separate hub for full remote functionality exist, the overall ease of installation, robust build quality, and comprehensive features make the Welock a strong contender for enhancing your home’s security and convenience. Is it time to ditch traditional keys and embrace the future of smart access?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder be used on any door?

The Welock Smart Lock Cylinder is designed primarily for doors with a Euro profile cylinder and specific door thicknesses, typically ranging from 50mm to 100mm. It’s crucial to measure your existing lock and door carefully to ensure compatibility before purchasing.

How does the Welock cylinder get power, and what happens if the battery dies?

The Welock cylinder is powered by 3x AAA batteries, offering a battery life of about 10-12 months or 8,000 openings. The lock will display a low battery warning. If the batteries completely discharge, you can use a portable power bank connected via a micro USB port for emergency access.

Is remote unlocking possible with the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder?

Yes, remote unlocking is possible, but it requires the purchase of an optional Welock Wi-Fi Gateway or Hub. Without the hub, app control is limited to Bluetooth range (within about 10 feet of the lock).

How secure is the Welock Smart Lock Cylinder?

The Welock cylinder offers several security features, including biometric fingerprint access, activity logs to monitor entries, and an anti-peep function for PIN codes. The Bluetooth connection for app control requires proximity, reducing risks of remote hacking without a hub. Some models also feature an IP65 rating for durability.

What makes the Welock’s design unique compared to other smart locks?

Its unique design allows it to replace your existing Euro profile cylinder directly, eliminating the need for drilling new holes or installing bulky surface-mounted hardware. This preserves the original aesthetics of your door while providing a seamless upgrade to smart lock technology.