Head-to-head · Best Smart Locks

Level Lock+ vs Yale Assure Lock 2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Level Lock+ comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.8 vs 3.3). The gap is mostly about Apple-centric users valuing a hidden motor and seamless Home Key over remote access — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Smart Locks

Level Lock+

3.8

$349as of Apr 22

The Level Lock+ is widely considered the best smart lock for Apple users due to its seamless HomeKit integration, Home Key support, and discreet design that hides the motor inside the door. However, it requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote control and currently has limited compatibility with non-Apple ecosystems like Google Assistant. While installation is straightforward, the included security cylinder is a weak point that may require upgrading by a locksmith for maximum protection.

Strengths

— Understated industrial design that hides the smart mechanism inside the door frame
— Supremely easy to install and set up using only a Phillips screwdriver
— Supports Apple Home Key for instant NFC unlock via iPhone or Apple Watch

Watch-outs

— Limited to local operation without purchasing a separate Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge for remote access
— Essentially incompatible with Google Assistant until the Thread radio is activated
— Security cylinder lacks security pins and can be picked with a simple bump key

$349 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Smart Locks

Yale Assure Lock 2

3.3

$229as of Apr 22

The Yale Assure Lock 2 offers versatile smart home integration with support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread, making it a flexible choice for modern homes. However, users report inconsistent Wi-Fi performance and shorter battery life when connected wirelessly, which may require frequent maintenance.

Strengths

— Supports multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread for flexible smart home integration
— Features a sleek, modern keypad design with a backlit interface for easy nighttime entry
— Compatible with major smart home ecosystems like Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa

Watch-outs

— Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent and sometimes requires a separate bridge or hub for stable connection
— Battery life is shorter than expected when using Wi-Fi features, requiring frequent replacements

$229 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Level Lock+

The Level Lock+ offers a uniquely discreet design that hides the motor inside the door, a feature absent in the bulky Schlage Encode Plus and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, and provides superior Apple Home Key integration. However, it is significantly less versatile than the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, which supports six unlock methods including fingerprint, whereas the Level Lock+ requires a separate bridge for remote access and has limited Google Assistant compatibility.

Yale Assure Lock 2

The Yale Assure Lock 2 distinguishes itself from the August and Level Lock+ by offering a built-in backlit keypad and support for Thread connectivity, though it suffers from inconsistent Wi-Fi performance that the Schlage Encode Plus and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro handle more reliably with integrated hubs. Its battery life is notably shorter than the Ultraloq's when using Wi-Fi features, and it lacks the Level Lock+'s discreet, hidden-motor design.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Level Lock+	Yale Assure Lock 2
Connectivity	Bluetooth, Thread, Wi-Fi (via bridge)	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread
Smart Home Support	HomeKit, Home Key, Siri support	Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa
Unlock Methods	NFC (iPhone/Watch), App, Physical Key, Keypad (optional)	Backlit Touchscreen
Power Source	4 AA batteries	4 AA Batteries
Door Compatibility	Standard deadbolts	1-3/8" to 1-3/4"

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