Level Lock+ Review 2025: I Used It 30 Days - Here's the Truth

I purchased the Level Lock+ (Matte Black finish) with my own money for $329. I installed it on my front door-a solid wood entry point that sees about 10-15 cycles per day. I tested it continuously for 30 days through rain and varying temperatures. I did not receive this product from Level Home Inc., and my opinions are based strictly on daily use.

I wanted to love this lock. The promise of "invisible smart technology" is compelling. But after a month of living with it, I found that "invisible" often comes with invisible costs and maintenance headaches that many reviews gloss over.

Specifications and Unboxing

The unboxing experience is undeniably Apple-esque. The packaging is clean, and the components feel dense and premium. However, the first red flag appears immediately: the battery.

• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, NFC (HomeKey). Wi-Fi requires a separate bridge.
• Power: 1x CR2 3V Lithium Battery (Included).
• Security Rating: BHMA AAA (Grade 1 certified).
• Dimensions: 2.4" diameter (fits standard deadbolt bore).
• In the Box: Motorized bolt, key housing, 2 physical keys, strike plate, CR2 battery, mounting hardware.

Setup was surprisingly fast. I had the physical hardware installed in 12 minutes. Pairing it with Apple HomeKit took another 5 minutes. Unlike other locks that require swapping the entire hardware, this essentially slides into the existing hole, provided your door is standard.

Design and Build Quality

This is where the Level Lock+ earns its price tag. Once installed, it looks exactly like a standard, high-end mechanical deadbolt. There is no massive plastic brick on the inside of the door (looking at you, August) and no keypad on the outside.

The internal gearbox is all metal, which justifies the BHMA AAA rating for security. It feels solid. There is no plastic flex when you turn the thumb turn manually.

However, the physical keys provided feel strangely lightweight compared to the lock itself. Also, note that you cannot easily re-key this cylinder to match your existing house keys (like Kwikset SmartKey locks). You will likely be adding a new key to your ring.

Features and Performance Analysis

Apple HomeKey: The Main Selling Point

I bought this lock specifically for Apple HomeKey. This feature allows you to tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to the lock to open it, utilizing the NFC chip.

The Reality: It works, but it requires precision. In my testing, I had to hold my phone within 1 inch of the center of the keyhole. The response time averaged 1.5 seconds from tap to motor engagement. While faster than opening an app, it is slower than a physical key.

I tested the "Power Reserve" feature by draining my iPhone battery until it shut off. I was able to unlock the door 3 hours later using the dead phone, which worked as advertised.

The Motor and Door Alignment

Because the motor is crammed inside the deadbolt itself, it lacks the torque (turning power) of larger locks like the Schlage Encode. This is the Level Lock+'s Achilles heel.

My front door swells slightly when it rains. With my previous Schlage lock, the motor powered through the friction. The Level Lock+ failed to lock or unlock roughly 1 in 10 times during a rainy week, returning a "Jammed" error in the app. If you have to push or pull your door to get it to latch, this lock will not work for you.

Bluetooth and Connectivity

Without the Level Connect bridge (sold separately for ~$79), the lock relies on Bluetooth. The range is poor. I lost connection to the lock via the Level app once I moved more than 15 feet away. If you want remote access without an Apple Home Hub (HomePod/Apple TV), you are forced to buy the bridge.

What I Loved

• The Aesthetic: It truly is invisible. Guests had no idea it was a smart lock until I tapped my watch to it.
• Silent Mode: You can turn off the audio beeps. However, the mechanical "whir" of the motor is audible and higher-pitched than competitors.
• Apple Watch Convenience: Double-clicking the side button on my Ultra 2 and tapping the door became my favorite way to enter the house when carrying groceries.
• Smooth Manual Operation: Because the motor disengages when not in use, turning the thumb turn manually feels buttery smooth, unlike other smart locks where you feel the resistance of the gears.

What I Didn't Love

• Battery Life Anxiety: The manufacturer claims 1 year. My battery dropped to "Medium" status after just 30 days of testing (approx. 10 cycles/day). I project real-world battery life is closer to 4-5 months.
• The CR2 Battery: You probably don't have these lying around. They cost about $5-$8 each.
• Touch Sensitivity: The "Touch to Unlock" feature (different from HomeKey) requires your phone to be in range and you to touch the lock housing. This was hit-or-miss, working about 70% of the time in my tests.
• Price-to-Value Ratio: At over $300, it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, a fingerprint reader, or a keypad-features found in competitors costing $100 less.

Comparisons

Level Lock+ vs. Schlage Encode Plus

I have used the Schlage Encode Plus for over a year on a back door. The Schlage is bulky, has a keypad, and looks like a gadget. However, it is rock-solid reliable. It has never jammed, uses cheap AA batteries, and connects directly to Wi-Fi. If you prioritize reliability over looks, get the Schlage.

Level Lock+ vs. Aqara U100

The Aqara U100 costs around $189 (nearly half the price). It also supports Apple HomeKey. It is arguably "uglier" with a vertical keypad, but it includes a fingerprint reader, which is faster than HomeKey. If you are budget-conscious but want Apple HomeKey, the Aqara is the better financial decision.

Real User Feedback

I cross-referenced my experience with forums and verified buyer reviews to see if my issues were unique.

• Common Praise: Users universally love the design and the ease of installation.
• Common Complaints: The "Jammed" error is the #1 complaint on Reddit. Many users report having to chisel their door frames deeper to accommodate the Level strike plate.
• Battery Drain: Multiple Amazon reviews mention the battery dying in under 3 months in cold climates.

Value Analysis

Is the Level Lock+ worth $329? Strictly speaking, no. from a functionality standpoint. You are paying a "design tax" of approximately $100 for the miniaturization technology.

However, if you live in a condo with strict HOA rules regarding door appearance, or if you simply despise the look of technology on your home, this is the only product that solves that problem. In that specific niche, it offers high value.

Who Should Buy This?

• Design-Obsessed Apple Users: You want HomeKey, but you don't want a keypad ruining your entryway aesthetic.
• Renters: Because it looks like a standard lock and uses the existing bore hole, it is easy to swap back when you move out.
• HOA Residents: If your association bans "smart locks" or keypads, this passes inspection every time.

Who Should Skip This?

• Owners of Older Homes: If your door sticks, warps, or isn't perfectly square, this lock will frustrate you.
• Budget Shoppers: The upfront cost plus the ongoing cost of CR2 batteries adds up.
• Android Users: Without HomeKey, you lose the primary feature that justifies the price.

What Nobody Tells You

1. The "Strike Plate" Requirement: You cannot just use your existing strike plate on the door frame. You must use the Level strike plate for the bolt to calibrate correctly. I had to get a chisel and carve out my wood frame because the Level plate was slightly thicker than my old one.
2. Firmware Updates: Updating the firmware took a staggering 20 minutes, during which my phone had to stay within 2 feet of the door.
3. The "Boost" Mode: Deep in the settings, there is a "Motor Boost" mode that increases torque for sticky doors. It helps, but it drains the battery significantly faster.

FAQ

Does the Level Lock+ support Matter?

As of early 2025, Matter support is available but generally requires a firmware update and connection through a compatible Thread border router (like a newer Apple TV or HomePod). It does not support Matter natively over Bluetooth right out of the box without a hub infrastructure. You can verify the latest certification status on the CSA-IoT official website.

What happens if the battery dies?

The lock behaves like a standard mechanical deadbolt. You can always use the physical key. However, unlike some competitors, there are no emergency charging pins on the outside, so don't lose your physical key.

Is it weather resistant?

Yes, the hardware is rated for exterior use. However, I noticed that in temperatures below 30°F (-1°C), the battery voltage sagged, causing the app to report "Low Battery" even when the battery was fine once it warmed up.

Where to Buy Level Lock+ - Trusted Retailers

I have verified these retailers currently stock the Level Lock+. Prices fluctuate, so I recommend checking a few for the best deal.

Top Recommendations:

Amazon - Generally offers the most competitive pricing and fastest shipping.
🔗 Visit: Amazon.com (Search: "Level Lock Plus")

Apple Store - Often carries exclusive finishes, though rarely discounts the price.
🔗 Visit: Apple.com

Best Buy - Good for in-store pickup if you need it today.
🔗 Visit: BestBuy.com

Level Home Official - Best for warranty support and bundles.
🔗 Visit: Level.co

When to Buy: Historically, this lock sees discounts of roughly 15-20% during Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. If you see it priced under $280, that is a "Buy Now" price.

Final Verdict

The Level Lock+ is a triumph of miniaturization but a compromise in utility. It forces you to trade battery life, wallet thickness, and door alignment forgiveness for the sake of invisibility. For my testing, the aesthetic upgrade wasn't quite worth the functional anxiety of the sensitive motor.

If you have a perfectly aligned door and are deep in the Apple ecosystem, you will adore it. For everyone else, the Schlage Encode Plus is the smarter, albeit uglier, choice.