Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth dead bolt reviewed (pictures)

CNET does a hands-on review of this exciting, touch-activated smart lock.

Rich Brown

Oct. 18, 2013 11:59 a.m. PT

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth dead bolt

Thanks to Bluetooth and an iPhone app, you can open the new Kwikset Kevo dead bolt with a simple touch.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Low profile

The Kevo uses a simple lighting scheme when you interact with it to indicate its status. Otherwise, it looks like a standard dead bolt, and shouldn't draw any undue attention to your front door.

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Screenshot by Ry Crist/CNET

App-controlled access

With Kevo's app, you can grant eKey access to others. Timed control isn't available yet, and right now Kevo only supports more recent iOS devices. You get one free additional eKey with purchase. Additional eKeys will cost $1.99 through the App store.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Easy-to-install hardware

If you can install a standard dead bolt, which is easy, you can install the Kevo.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Meatspace key included

A traditional, physical key means you don't need to worry if the Kevo's batteries run out.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Two keys and a fob

In addition to assigning phone-based eKeys to others, you can also hand off the regular keys, or a digital fob if you want to grant keyless access to someone who doesn't own a smartphone.