Facial recognition smart locks offer a hands-free alternative to traditional keypads or geofencing, though they vary significantly in speed, reliability, and battery performance.
Key facts
- •The Eufy FamiLock E40 is the only tested model that consistently recognized the user while wearing sunglasses.
- •All four tested facial recognition locks claim to process and store biometric data locally to enhance privacy.
- •The Lockly Visage Zeno is the only model among those tested that supports Apple Home Key.
- •The Eufy FamiLock E40 features a backup battery to keep the keypad functional if the primary battery dies.
- •Facial recognition locks use infrared sensors to create 3D maps, preventing them from being fooled by photos.
Facial recognition technology is emerging as a viable solution for hands-free smart lock access, allowing users to unlock doors without needing a smartphone or physical key. While ultrawideband (UWB) technology is considered the fastest and most reliable method, its current high cost and limited availability have made facial recognition a practical alternative for those seeking convenience. These devices utilize infrared sensors to create 3D maps of faces, ensuring security by capturing depth.
By the numbers
Top Performing Facial Recognition Locks
The Eufy FamiLock E40 is noted as the most effective model, offering sub-second unlocking speeds and consistent performance while wearing sunglasses. It includes a 2K video doorbell, fingerprint reader, and physical key, though it requires frequent charging. The Lockly Visage Zeno is also highly regarded for its build quality and support for Apple Home Key, though its PIN Genie keypad system can be difficult for some users to operate.
Budget Options and Performance Trade-offs
Lower-cost alternatives like the Lockin Veno Solar Face and SwitchBot Lock Vision Pro offer more affordable entry points but suffer from slower recognition speeds and difficulties with accessories like sunglasses. The SwitchBot model, in particular, experienced issues with false triggers, occasionally prompting users to stand closer to the door when no one was present.
Privacy and Future Outlook
A primary concern for many users is the storage of biometric data. However, the tested models process and store facial data locally rather than in the cloud. Despite the convenience, these locks remain expensive and require users to register each household member's face. While facial recognition is currently a functional hands-free option, the industry may shift toward UWB technology as it becomes more accessible and affordable.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The Verge.
