Aqara U200 Lite smart lock is coming! What will the lighter version of the popular predecessor offer?

A new player is appearing on the smart security market, likely targeting easy installation and Matter support. The Aqara U200 Lite is an inconspicuous smart lock that brings important features even where drilling into doors is not possible. However, compared to the classic Aqara U200 lock, it unfortunately lacks some features and accessories, such as an external keypad for entering numerical codes. Let’s nevertheless see what it can offer despite its limitations.

Its functionality is relatively simple. It physically turns the key inserted in the cylinder on the inside of the door, allowing it to be installed without drilling or modifying the door, which can be especially useful if you want to install a smart lock in a rented apartment.

All you need is a compatible key, up to 0.5 cm thick and 3.8 cm long. This concept is not revolutionary on the market – for example, Nuki products have been using similar solutions for a long time.

The Aqara U200 Lite is capable, but we won’t see some familiar features

The Aqara U200 Lite smart lock can be unlocked via Bluetooth, NFC, or even voice, if you connect it to a system like Apple Home, Google Home, or Samsung SmartThings and others. It uses the Matter protocol via Thread, which means very low power consumption and fast response – but only if you have a compatible Thread router on your network.

However, what you definitely shouldn’t expect compared to the original version of the smart lock is, for example, fingerprint unlocking, numerical code, or using Apple Home Keys. Similarly, we won’t see temporary passwords, which could be especially useful for visitors.

As for unlocking via NFC, you’ll have to rely more on your smartphone. Instead of a classic NFC card, the Aqara U200 Lite offers a self-adhesive NFC device that can be placed, for example, above the handle or anywhere the smart lock can reach; just not on metal surfaces.

It also supports automatic locking when the door is closed and scheduled locking at a chosen time. From the inside, you can manually unlock and lock the door using a physical button.

The built-in 2,000 mAh battery should last up to 6 months of operation, just like the original model. It charges via USB-C and also provides a silent mode option, so the lock won’t unnecessarily make noise with every movement.

Price and Availability

Currently, the Aqara U200 Lite is available on Amazon, for the equivalent of 3,720 CZK, which is roughly half the price of the original model at the moment. The price reduction is therefore fair, but for some, it might still represent a relatively higher price tag for the limited functionality. The device is otherwise available in two colors, black and white.

Would it be useful for you? What do you think about the lighter model?

Source: NotebookCheck, Amazon