Aqara U50 Smart Lock Review (2025): Affordable Until the Hub

Aqara’s newest lock, the U50, has been on my front door for the better part of three months. I almost forgot about it as it smoothly inserted itself into my family's life just before the holiday season. My family learned the new code, and even though I handed out the included two keys, none of us needed them. It's the most affordable lock I've tested. However, it comes with all the features I want in a smart lock: automated locking after a certain time and the ability to generate multiple entry codes, and it can tell if the door is open or closed without any added extra accessories or sensors. It doesn't even have any of the sneaky subscription fees that you'll find with some smart-home and security companies. I really like this lock. But you'll want to get the Aqara M3 Hub ($110) to get access to all of its features, and the hub's price tag just about doubles the cost of purchasing the lock. If you can get by without needing Wi-Fi access, though (which means no smart-home integratio ... Read full article.