Alfred DB2S smart lock review
Homes are becoming smarter and smarter as time goes on, and smart locks are quickly becoming a popular product for smart homes. However, what makes people hesitant to upgrade their smart locks is the fact that they are battery powered. The fear is that if the lock’s battery dies, you’ll be locked out of the house.
But what if it had a key? Would you consider upgrading? I’m checking out the Alfred DB2S Smart Lock and it has all the features you need. And you can still open it with a key. If you’re looking to upgrade your front door, this review is for you.
Alfred DB2S Smart Lock Specifications
Four lock unlocking methods:Pin Code, RFID card, Key, App
Bluetooth compatible connection to the Alfred Home app.
Equipped with Connect V2, Alfred’s smart lock Wi-Fi integration system
Built-in RFID reader with two RFID tags
Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Unlimited digital Bluetooth keys can be created in the Alfred Home app to share with friends, family or renters
Alfred DB2S – Unboxing
Unpacking the Alfred DB2S Smart Lock
The Alfred DB2S Smart Lock kit provides everything you need to install the unit. The only additional tool required is a screwdriver. The box contains the internal and external parts of the smart lock, the WB2 Wi-Fi bridge and the door bolt. The strike and reinforcement plate are included along with screws and battery pack. Also included are two RFID cards, two physical keys, a reset tool and USB-C charging cable.
The kit comes with a quick start guide, installation guide and programming guide. For successful installation and setup, you must follow the instructions in these guides to the letter.
Alfred DB2S – Installation
Installing the Alfred DB2S Smart Lock
I have installed many traditional and smart locks. If your current lock has alignment issues with the bolt, so will your smart lock. I learned this the hard way with my front door, but I’ve solved the problem.
Alfred DB2S provides the entire digital installation process in the BILT app. I had never heard of this app before, but it provides 3D interactive instructions with voice and text instructions. I highly recommend downloading this app and the instructions about the Alfred DB2S smart lock. Just follow the steps and you’ll have this lock installed in no time. Thank goodness my installation went smoothly. After putting in the batteries, it was time to set up the app.
Cutting down the Alfred DB2S Smart Lock
The Alfred DB2S uses Bluetooth to pair the lock with the app. First, I had to place my palm on the keypad to activate the lock. Then the lock appears in the app. After successful pairing, I can name the lock. After that, I can lock the door with my smartphone. I should note that this is done via Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi.
In order to access it remotely via the app, I needed to connect the Alfred Connect V2. which is the smart lock Wi-Fi integration system. At first I thought it connected to the router via Ethernet to connect to Wi-Fi. however, simply plug it into an outlet near the Alfred DB2S. It connects to the lock via Bluetooth and then connects itself to the Wi-Fi network. This is the first time I’ve seen this setup. Nonetheless, I followed the app’s instructions to access the Wi-Fi.Next, I programmed the door with my own personal code.
Alfred DB2S – Side
Using the Alfred DB2S Smart Lock
Once installed and set up, the Alfred DB2S Smart Lock is easy to use. I like that there are now four ways to lock and unlock the door:pin code, RFID, key and app. It has two RFID tags, just like a hotel key, which is perfect for kids who might lose their keys. However, I think I will use the pin code mostly. I keep a locked box by the door just in case. This is where I plan to keep a copy of the key. (My suggestion would be to tie a string long enough to reach the lock on the inside of the key lock box. That way, you won’t accidentally take the key out of the key lockbox.)
To open the door, I first tap the touch screen to activate it. The numbers light up, I enter my code, and press the check mark button. A voice prompt says “open door.” To lock it, I just press any of the buttons for a second. A voice prompt says “close door”. To open it with the key, I push the round cover on the front to one side, exposing the keyhole. Again, the voice prompts indicate whether the door is locked or not.
