Aqara Smart Lock U400
By Ethan Halfhide · Updated
The Aqara Smart Lock U400 is a Matter over Thread deadbolt with UWB presence detection for automatic unlocking and Apple Home Key support. It is priced at $269.99 on Aqara's site. It works with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings, and offline access is available through fingerprint, keypad, NFC card, or mechanical key. Suited to Apple Home households wanting tap free entry.
Apple Home Key deadbolt with UWB hands-free unlock and fingerprint scanning
Aqara Smart Lock U400
Specs and price last verified September 27, 2026
Specifications
- Price
- $269.99
- Device type
- Smart Lock
- Ecosystems
- Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter, SmartThings
- Rooms
- Front Door, Back Door
- Connectivity
- Thread, Matter, Bluetooth, UWB
- Hub required
- No
- Rental friendly
- No
- Matter certified
- Yes
- Installation
- DIY
- Energy Star
- No
- Local control
- Yes
- Voice control
- Yes
About
The Aqara U400 is the first smart lock to combine Apple Home Key, Matter-over-Thread, and UWB hands-free unlock in one package. Walk toward your door with your iPhone or Apple Watch and the deadbolt retracts automatically before you touch the handle. A built-in fingerprint sensor unlocks in under a second as a backup, and NFC tap-to-unlock rounds out the entry options. The Aqara Home app provides clean remote access, auto-lock scheduling, and fast local control via Thread.
Setup and compatibility notes
Basic Matter pairing works with any Matter controller, but Apple Home Key and UWB auto-unlock require a Thread capable Apple hub such as a HomePod 2nd Gen, HomePod mini, or Apple TV 4K. The lock runs on a rechargeable battery rated for about 6 months per charge. No subscription is required for local automations.
Pros
- +UWB hands-free auto-unlock with Apple Watch or iPhone
- +Apple Home Key support, no hub needed
- +Matter-over-Thread for fast reliable local control
- +Fingerprint unlock in under one second
- +Undercuts competitors at $269.99
Cons
- −Requires Thread border router for best performance
- −Retrofit-only, no full lock cylinder replacement
- −No built-in camera
How it compares
| Device | Price | Ecosystems | Matter | Hub required | Local control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aqara Smart Lock U400 | $269.99 | Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter, SmartThings | Yes | No | Yes |
| Lockin V7 Max | Not listed | Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter, SmartThings | Yes | No | Yes |
| Aqara Smart Lock U100 | $189.99 | Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter | Not published | Yes | Yes |
| Level Lock+ Connect | $329 | Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit | No | No | Yes |
FAQ
- Does the Aqara U400 work with Apple Home?
- Yes, it supports Apple Home and Apple Home Key, though tap to unlock and UWB auto-unlock need a Thread enabled Apple hub like a HomePod or Apple TV 4K.
- Does the U400 need a hub?
- Basic Matter operation does not require a separate Aqara hub, but a Thread border router improves range and unlocks Apple Home Key features.
- Does it need a subscription?
- No subscription is mentioned for standard lock functions or local automations.
- Can it be unlocked without a phone?
- Yes, it supports fingerprint recognition, a physical keypad, an NFC card, and a mechanical key as backups.
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About the author
Ethan Halfhide: Ethan Halfhide is a smart home enthusiast and AI technologist who follows the connected home market closely, from smart locks and security cameras to robot vacuums, lighting, sensors and hubs. He curates HomeGearLab's device directory, comparing products on published specs, compatibility, setup requirements and price so readers can pick gear that fits their home and works together.