Hornbill, a brand renowned for its high-quality smart locks, has once again caught our attention. Following our previous review of their Keyless Entry Deadbolt, which we found impressive, we now turn our focus to another of their innovative products: the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock.
In this review, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of this smart lock, based on rigorous testing. We aim to provide our readers with a comprehensive understanding of what they can expect should they decide to invest in this product.
To showcase the maximum capabilities of the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock, we have paired it with the Hornbill Wi-Fi Gateway, which is sold separately. Please note that this gateway is not included in the box.
Connectivity and Smart Home Controller Options
Like many smart locks, the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock does not have built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. However, it does support Bluetooth, allowing you to control the lock via the TTLock app within Bluetooth range.
For remote access, you will need to purchase the G2 Wi-Fi Gateway separately. This gateway not only enables remote access but also allows you to control the lock using Alexa Voice Assistant. Unfortunately, the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt does not support other voice assistants or smart hubs.
If you require a smart lock with Google Assistant support, we recommend checking out our reviews of the Aibocn Fingerprint Smart Lock and SMONET Smart Lock.
Alexa Voice Assistant Integration
Many smart lock users already have Amazon Alexa in their homes, and the ability to control their smart lock using voice commands is a significant advantage. The Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock can be controlled using an Echo, Echo Dot, or similar Echo device. The pairing process is straightforward and quick, taking approximately four minutes in our test.
We conducted multiple tests of voice commands at different locations to ensure consistent results. The Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock performed admirably with Amazon Alexa, responding accurately to all commands. Here are the commands we used, replacing “Front Door” with the name assigned to your smart lock:
- “Alexa, lock Front Door.”
- “Alexa, unlock Front Door.” (you will be asked for your pin)
- “Alexa, Is the Front Door Locked?”
Fingerprint Reader Performance
The fingerprint reader, located at the top of the lock, activates immediately upon touch and reads your fingerprint in under 0.2 seconds. If the fingerprint is accepted, the door unlocks instantly.
Hornbill is confident about the performance of their fingerprint reader, claiming that it can be used by children and elderly people without any issues. Our tests with a group of children and elderly people showed that while children had no problems, some elderly people did struggle.
We concluded that the fingerprint reader might not be the ideal solution for elderly people. However, for other demographics, the results were impressive, with almost 98% of attempts successfully unlocking the door.
Programming the fingerprint can be done easily via the TTLock app. The lock can store over 150 fingerprints, which is more than sufficient for household use. We recommend registering your fingerprint from several different angles to ensure near-perfect accuracy.
Keypad Performance
The keypad, located beneath the fingerprint reader, is a completely touchscreen interface. Touching the screen activates the keypad in under 0.5 seconds. The brightness is ideal for both day and night usage, and the buttons are visible even without activating the backlit. The screen is very responsive, allowing for easy input of user codes.
A keyhole is located just below the keypad at the lever, which can be used tounlock the door with a mechanical key. Additionally, a micro USB port is located under the keypad, which can provide temporary power to the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock when needed.
A word of caution for all touchscreen smart locks: they must be used with care as the screen can lose sensitivity under extreme cold or hot conditions. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can easily crack the screen.
Overall, we were satisfied with the performance of the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock’s keypad.
User Code Types
The TTLock app offers a wide range of user codes to fit various needs. You can program up to 300 user codes, each 4 – 9 digits long. Programming can only be done via the app; there is no option to program user codes via the keypad.
We tested these codes to ensure they functioned as expected, and we can confirm that they all worked perfectly. Here are the user codes we used with our Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock:
- Permanent: Ideal for trusted individuals as it allows unrestricted access.
- Timed: Perfect for temporary guests, allowing access only during specific dates and times.
- One Time: Ideal for individuals who need to enter your home once. This code is automatically deleted from the system after use.
- Erase: This code deletes all the codes in the system at once. Use with caution.
- Recurring: Ideal for visitors who come to your home at the same time every week.
- Custom: Allows you to set a 4-9 digit permanent code with a starting and ending date and time.
IC Cards and E-Keys
The Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock also supports IC Cards and E-Keys. IC Cards are easy-to-use tools for unlocking your door, especially suitable for kids and elderly people. You simply touch the IC Card to the screen to unlock the door.
E-Keys, similar to user codes, can only be used on a mobile phone with the TTLock app. Once you create and share an E-Key, the recipient must download the TTLock app on their phone.
Auto Lock Feature
The auto-lock feature, which is enabled by default, allows you to completely automate the locking operation. It is set to 5 seconds out of the box, but you can program the Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock to lock your door within a range of 5 – 900 seconds.
Battery Life
The Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock requires 4 x AA Alkaline batteries to operate. According to the company, the lock has a 6-month battery use duration. However, factors such as the quality of the batteries, weather conditions, usage frequency, status of the door, and enabled features can significantly affect battery life.
The Hornbill Smart Lock’s battery life is a key selling point. The manufacturer claims a six-month duration, but our independent tests suggest a more conservative estimate of four to five months. This discrepancy is not a deal-breaker, though. Battery life can vary greatly depending on usage patterns, weather conditions, and the quality of the batteries used.
The lock also features a low battery alert, both audible and via an app notification, ensuring you’re never caught off guard. And if you do find yourself in a pinch, the lock’s design allows for easy battery replacement or temporary power via a microUSB input.
Installation: Simplicity is Key
Ease of installation is another crucial factor when considering a smart lock. The Hornbill Smart Lock shines in this regard, with a straightforward installation process that can be completed in as little as 14 minutes with nothing more than a Phillips-head screwdriver.
However, compatibility is key. The lock is designed to fit doors with specific dimensions, so it’s essential to check these specifications before purchase.
Technical Details: A Closer Look
Weighing in at 9.49 pounds and with dimensions of 9.5 x 8.25 x 4 inches, the Hornbill Smart Lock is a robust piece of technology. It’s constructed from durable zinc and requires 1.5 volts to operate. The lock comes with a one-year warranty and lifetime technical support, providing peace of mind for homeowners.
| Item | Weight |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 9.5 x 8.25 x 4 inches |
| Voltage | 1.5 volts |
| Batteries | 4 AA batteries required. (not included) |
| Material | Zinc |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | Yes |
| Battery Cell Type | Alkaline |
| Warranty Description | 1-year warranty and free life-time technical support |
Opinion: A Smart Choice for Home Security?
The Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock is an impressive piece of technology. Its battery life, while perhaps not living up to the manufacturer’s claims, is still substantial. The ease of installation and robust technical specifications make it a strong contender in the smart lock market.
However, as with any technology, it’s not without its potential drawbacks. The reliance on batteries means there’s always a risk of being locked out if you’re not diligent about replacing them. And while the installation is straightforward, the lock’s compatibility with specific door dimensions could limit its appeal.
In conclusion, the Hornbill Smart Lock represents a significant step forward in home security technology. It’s a smart choice for those willing to embrace the future, but as always, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and circumstances before making a purchase.
