Aqara Smart Rim Lock U500
By Ethan Halfhide · Updated
The Aqara Smart Rim Lock U500 is a surface-mounted rim lock (no mortise cutting) that supports Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock, fingerprint, NFC and mechanical key entry. It runs on Matter over Thread with Aliro support, working with Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings and Home Assistant. A Matter controller and Thread border router are needed to join it to a smart home ecosystem. Price was not listed on Aqara's page; it suits Apple Home Key users wanting rim-lock installation.
Surface-mounted Matter lock built for doors a standard deadbolt cannot fit.
Aqara Smart Rim Lock U500Specs and price last verified September 27, 2026
Specifications
- Price
- Not listed
- Device type
- Smart Lock
- Ecosystems
- Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter, SmartThings
- Rooms
- Entryway
- Connectivity
- Thread, Matter, Bluetooth
- Hub required
- Yes
- Rental friendly
- No
- Matter certified
- Yes
- Installation
- Surface-mounted rim lock
- Energy Star
- No
- Local control
- Yes
- Voice control
- Yes
About
The U500 series is Aqara's answer to entrances that defeat conventional smart locks, iron gates, glass doors and classic rim-lock setups. The Smart Rim Lock U500 mounts on the surface rather than replacing a deadbolt, and the wider series includes a dual-side Gate Lock with fingerprint and key access from both sides. Launched May 2026 across the UK, Southeast Asia and the Middle East at a UK RRP of £279.98; US availability had not been announced at time of listing.
Setup and compatibility notes
Surface-mounted rim lock design fits doors 20 to 60mm thick with a 40 to 45mm backset, and needs no mortise cutting. Runs on 4 AA batteries rated for up to 7 months, with USB-C emergency charging. A Matter controller and Thread border router (such as an Apple TV, HomePod mini, or Aqara hub) are required to add it to a Matter ecosystem, though Bluetooth and NFC control work locally without one.
Pros
- +Fits doors that standard deadbolt locks cannot
- +Thread and Matter native
- +Part of a series covering gates and glass doors
- +Aqara has a solid multi-ecosystem track record
Cons
- −No confirmed US availability or pricing yet
- −Surface-mounted look will not suit every door
- −Higher price than mainstream deadbolt smart locks
How it compares
| Device | Price | Ecosystems | Matter | Hub required | Local control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aqara Smart Rim Lock U500 | Not listed | Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter, SmartThings | Yes | Yes | 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 |
| Aqara Smart Lock U400 | $269.99 | Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, Matter, SmartThings | Yes | No | Yes |
FAQ
- Does the Aqara U500 support Apple Home Key?
- Yes, it supports tap-to-unlock with an iPhone or Apple Watch via Apple Home Key.
- Does it need a hub?
- A Matter controller and Thread border router are needed to use it with a smart home ecosystem, though local Bluetooth and NFC control work without one.
- What is the U500's list price?
- Aqara's product page does not list a price.
- Is it Matter certified?
- Yes, it runs on Matter over Thread and also supports the Aliro standard.
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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.