TCL’s New Smart Lock: 4 Ways to Unlock in One Knob
▼ Summary
– TCL has launched the K1, a budget-friendly smart lock that integrates all electronics into a door knob for easy installation on interior doors without a dead bolt.
– The K1 offers four unlocking methods: fingerprint recognition, a physical key, a PIN code including one-time use codes, and wireless control via TCL’s mobile app.
– It can store up to 100 fingerprints, supports multiple users, and unlocks in under a second with a finger tap, but lacks broader smart home support like voice commands.
– The lock runs on four AAA batteries housed inside the interior knob, lasting up to 12 months, and features automatic locking and a privacy mode for added security.
– With an IP53 rating for dust and water resistance, the K1 is suitable for outdoor use, such as on backyard shed doors.
TCL’s new K1 smart lock offers a surprisingly affordable way to upgrade interior doors with modern access control, all packed into a single sleek door knob design. Priced at just $79, this device eliminates the need for complex deadbolt installations while providing four distinct unlocking methods in one compact unit. It’s an ideal solution for bedrooms, home offices, or any interior space where convenience and security matter.
Users can unlock the K1 using a built-in fingerprint scanner that recognizes up to 100 unique fingerprints and responds in under a second. For those who prefer traditional methods, a physical key is also included. Digital access is available via a customizable PIN code, complete with temporary one-time codes for guests, or through TCL’s dedicated mobile app. While the lock doesn’t support voice commands or broader smart home ecosystems, the app does allow for user tracking and scheduling, so you can program the lock to engage or release at specific times.
Power comes from four AAA batteries neatly tucked inside the interior knob, providing up to 12 months of operation on a single set. An auto-lock feature engages whenever the door closes, and a handy privacy button on the inside temporarily disables all external entry methods. Thanks to its IP53 dust and water resistance rating, the K1 can even be installed on exterior shed or patio doors without concern about weather exposure.
(Source: The Verge)
