SwitchBot, a company known for making smart home gadgets, just launched a powerful update to its smart lock system. The new SwitchBot Lock Ultra can unlock your door using facial recognition technology, thanks to its new companion device, the SwitchBot Keypad Vision.
With this setup, you can walk up to your door, and it will recognize your face and unlock automatically. No keys, phones, or codes are required.
Even better, this lock is a retrofit smart lock, which means it installs on the inside of your existing lock. You don’t have to replace your door hardware. From the outside, your door looks the same, and your physical keys still work.
This new lock and keypad system is part of a bigger smart home lineup. SwitchBot also released the new Hub 3, which connects all your SwitchBot gear to Wi-Fi and links it to smart home platforms like Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant.
Credits: TechRadar
What Makes the SwitchBot Lock Ultra Stand Out
The Lock Ultra is all about flexibility and convenience. Instead of replacing your whole lock, it attaches to the back and physically turns the mechanism using a small motor. This makes it renter-friendly and easy to install without tools or professional help.
Key Features of the Lock Ultra:
Attaches to existing deadbolts (U.S. and EU compatible)
Keeps your physical key usable
Controlled by the app via Bluetooth
Supports auto-unlock using your phone’s location
Rechargeable battery lasts up to 9 months
The backup battery lasts up to 5 years
If you pair it with the new Keypad Vision, you get even more ways to unlock the door:
3D facial recognition
Fingerprint scanner
PIN code
NFC card
This is ideal for households with multiple members or for Airbnb hosts. You can assign different codes or use biometric methods for different people.
A Quick Look at the Product Line
To help you compare the main products in this release, here’s a breakdown of what SwitchBot is offering:
SwitchBot Product Comparison
ProductPrice (USD)Key FeaturesSmart Home CompatibilitySwitchBot Lock Ultra$159.99Retrofit smart lock, app control, geofencingWith hub: Apple Home, Alexa, Google HomeSwitchBot Keypad Vision$99.993D facial recognition, fingerprint, keycode, NFCBluetooth to Lock UltraSwitchBot Lock Ultra Vision Combo$249.99Includes lock, keypad, Hub MiniApple Home, Alexa, Google Home (with hub)SwitchBot Hub 3$119.99Enables Wi-Fi control for the lockApple Home, Home Assistant, IR devicesSwitchBot Hub MiniIncluded in ComboEnables Wi-Fi control for lockApple Home, Alexa, Google Home
This table helps make sense of what you get with each product. If you want full remote control and smart home integration, you’ll need either the Hub Mini (included in the combo) or the newer Hub 3 for more advanced control and features.
Credits: matter-smarthome
Introducing the Hub 3: Smart Home Control Center
The SwitchBot Hub 3 is more than just a Wi-Fi bridge. It’s a full-featured smart home command center.
It connects your Bluetooth-based SwitchBot devices to the internet, allowing you to control them from anywhere. More importantly, it links everything together using Matter, a new smart home standard supported by Apple, Google, and Amazon.
Here’s what the Hub 3 brings to the table:
Compatible with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant
Controls up to 30 Bluetooth devices
Built-in screen shows temperature, humidity, and lock status
Motion-activated display
USB-C powered with a built-in stand
Four buttons and a dial for controlling lights, volume, and more
Works as an IR remote for over 100,000 devices
This means you can use the Hub 3 to turn off your TV, dim your lights, lock your door, and adjust your thermostat, all from one spot.
If you’re building a full smart home, the Hub 3 makes everything easier and more seamless.
Switchbot Lock Ultra Questionsbyu/quixx0tic inTrySwitchBot
Is the SwitchBot Lock Ultra Worth It?
The short answer: yes, if you want modern security without changing your whole lock setup. It’s also a great option if you want to add advanced access features like face unlock, but don’t want to spend hundreds on high-end replacements.
Here’s who it’s ideal for:
Renters who can’t change the lock hardware
Families who want easy access for kids, grandparents, or guests
Airbnb hosts who need quick, flexible access control
Smart home users who want full integration with Apple, Google, or Alexa
The full system (Lock Ultra, Keypad Vision, and Hub Mini) costs about $250, which is competitive compared to other smart lock systems, especially ones with biometric features.
Setup is straightforward, and the app gives you control over access, logs, automation, and settings. You can add users, assign PINs, and set unlock rules.
Check out this review!
Final Thoughts: Why It’s a Smart Upgrade
First retrofit lock with facial recognition
Doesn’t replace your existing lock, just adds to it
Multiple ways to unlock (face, fingerprint, PIN, phone, key)
Long-lasting rechargeable battery and 5-year backup
Works with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant (with hub)
Hub 3 adds a display, sensors, and infrared remote support
Affordable bundle option for full smart home integration
If you’re looking for a smart lock that’s easy to install, packed with features, and future-proof with Matter support, the SwitchBot Lock Ultra Vision Combo is one of the best options out there right now.
Recommended:
This article was made with AI assistance and human editing.