Tired of fumbling for keys or worrying if you locked the door? The Tapo DL100 Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt offers a budget-friendly solution to modernizing your home’s entry. This review dives deep into its features to see if it lives up to the smart lock promise.
Quick Facts
💰 Price: $59.99
🏷️ Brand: Tapo
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- ✅ Multiple convenient unlocking methods (keypad, Bluetooth, app, voice)
- ✅ Generous capacity for custom access codes (up to 200)
- ✅ Real-time monitoring and remote control via the Tapo App
- ✅ Auto-lock feature for added peace of mind
- ✅ Durable BHMA Grade 3 certification and IP54 weatherproofing
❌ Cons
- ❌ Requires a Wi-Fi hub (sold separately or can use your existing Tapo ecosystem) for full remote functionality
- ❌ Voice commands require PIN verification for security, adding an extra step
- ❌ No physical key override in the smart lock itself (backup keys provided separately)
Detailed Review
The Tapo DL100 Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt aims to bring smart home convenience to your doorstep without breaking the bank. At $59.99, it’s an attractive option for those looking to ditch traditional keys. Installation is designed to be straightforward, fitting standard door sizes, and it offers a tactile, backlit keypad for easy code entry, even in low light. The ability to create up to 200 unique access codes is fantastic for managing family members, guests, or even temporary service providers, and the Tapo app allows for detailed management of these codes and user groups.
One of the standout features is the flexibility in unlocking. Beyond the keypad, you can use energy-efficient Bluetooth when you’re nearby, or leverage the Tapo App for remote unlocking via Wi-Fi. For added convenience, voice commands are supported, though it’s worth noting that a PIN verification is required for security, which is a smart, albeit slightly less seamless, approach. The app provides comprehensive monitoring, allowing you to check the lock status, receive real-time alerts, and review an activity log with timestamps, giving you complete visibility into who has accessed your home and when. The auto-lock function, with customizable intervals, is a welcome addition for those prone to forgetting to lock up.
Powering the Tapo DL100 are 4 AA batteries, which offer a respectable lifespan of up to 200 days in Wi-Fi mode or 300 days in Bluetooth mode, with included batteries to get you started. For emergency situations, a USB-C port is available for temporary power. The lock boasts BHMA Grade 3 certification, indicating a good level of security and durability for everyday use, and the IP54 rating means it can handle exposure to rain, dust, and dirt. While the absence of a physical key override directly on the lock mechanism might be a concern for some, the inclusion of two backup keys offers a traditional fallback. It’s important to note that for full remote functionality, you’ll need to ensure you have a compatible Wi-Fi hub, or are already integrated into the Tapo smart home ecosystem.
Our Verdict
The Tapo DL100 Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is a compelling option for anyone seeking an affordable and feature-rich entry into smart home security. Its multiple unlocking methods, robust app control, and durable build make it a strong contender in its price range.