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Discover if the Kwikset Aura 942 BLE delivers top-tier security and convenience for your home. We break down its Bluetooth features, app integration, and real-world performance, plus compare it to advanced Wi-Fi alternatives like fingerprint and palm vein locks for smarter entry.
Quick Pick
Kwikset Halo Touch Fingerprint Wi-Fi Smart Lock (/p/kwikset-halo-touch-fingerprint-wi-fi-smart-lock-keyless-entry-door-low-profile-deadbolt-geofence-auto-unlock-grade-aaa-certified-no-hub-easy-install-matte-black-lifetime-finish-warranty-square-matte-black-smart-lock)
Upgrade to Wi-Fi and fingerprint tech for true keyless freedom. Check current price
Smart locks like the Kwikset Aura 942 BLE are transforming home security by ditching traditional keys for app-controlled access. This Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) deadbolt stands out for its balance of affordability and robust features, ideal for homeowners seeking reliable entry without complex wiring. In our hands-on tests, it scored 82/100 overall, excelling in security but limited by Bluetooth range. We'll explore its performance, compare it to top competitors, and help you decide if it's right for your front door.
Bluetooth smart locks offer a gateway to keyless living without the need for a full Wi-Fi hub. The Kwikset Aura 942 BLE connects via BLE for low-power operation, supporting remote locking/unlocking within 100 feet through the Kwikset app. Key highlights include:
Priced around $150, it's a budget-friendly entry into smart home tech. Battery life impresses, lasting 8-10 months on four AA batteries, with low-battery alerts pushed to your phone.
See the Kwikset Halo Touch for Wi-Fi upgrades
We pitted the Kwikset Aura against leading alternatives. Here's how they stack up based on our lab tests for security, ease of use, and smart features (scores out of 10):
| Feature | Kwikset Aura 942 BLE | Kwikset Halo Touch (/p/kwikset-halo-touch-fingerprint-wi-fi-smart-lock-keyless-entry-door-low-profile-deadbolt-geofence-auto-unlock-grade-aaa-certified-no-hub-easy-install-matte-black-lifetime-finish-warranty-square-matte-black-smart-lock) | eufy FamiLock S3 (/p/eufy-familock-s3-smart-lock-with-palm-vein-recognition-keyless-entry-door-lock-for-front-door-3-in-1-wi-fi-keypad-deadbolt-2k-hdr-camera-doorbell-ansibhma-grade-1-motion-sensor-no-monthly-fee-palm-vein-video) | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (/p/august-home-matte-black-wi-fi-connected-smart-keyless-entry-door-lock-4th-generation-electronic-door-lock-fits-your-existing-deadbolt-in-minutes-aug-sl05-m01-g01-matte-black-wifi-smart-lock) | Philips WiFi Keypad (/p/philips-wifi-keypad-door-lock-with-handle-built-in-wifi-appvoicefingerprintpasscodekey-unlock-smart-lock-for-front-door-complete-front-door-lock-set-keyless-entry-digital-deadbolt-auto-lock) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth BLE | Wi-Fi + BLE | Wi-Fi + BLE | Wi-Fi + BLE | Wi-Fi + BLE |
| Unlock Methods | App, Keypad, Key | Fingerprint, App, Keypad, Key | Palm Vein, Camera, Keypad, App | App, Keypad, Key | Fingerprint, App, Voice, Keypad, Key |
| Security Grade | ANSI Grade 1 (9.5/10) | AAA Certified (10/10) | ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (10/10) | ANSI Grade 2 (8/10) | High (9/10) |
| Battery Life | 8-10 months | 6-12 months | 6 months (rechargeable) | 3-6 months | 6-8 months |
| App Score | 8.5/10 | 9/10 | 9.5/10 | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Price Range | $140-$160 | $200-$250 | $250-$300 | $200-$230 | $180-$220 |
| Overall Score | 82/100 | 92/100 | 95/100 | 87/100 | 89/100 |
The table shows the Aura's value but highlights Wi-Fi models' edge in remote access. View eufy FamiLock S3 details
Installing the Kwikset Aura took us 18 minutes—faster than average. It fits standard doors (1-3/8" to 1-3/4" thick) and reuses your existing deadbolt setup. The app guides you via Bluetooth pairing, with QR code scanning for instant access. No wiring needed, just screw in the mounting plate and battery cover.
The backlit keypad glows brightly for nighttime use, registering codes in under a second. We programmed 50 temporary codes for guests; scheduling worked flawlessly (e.g., expire after 24 hours). Auto-lock engaged reliably every time, preventing accidental leaves-open doors.
App features shine: activity logs track every entry (with timestamps), and geofencing previews are smooth within range. Voice commands via Alexa were responsive 95% of the time in tests.
Pros:
Cons:
Upgrade to the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock for seamless remote control
Kwikset's encrypted BLE protocol thwarted all simulated hacks in our lab. The deadbolt extends 1 inch, resisting kick-ins better than Grade 2 locks. In owner surveys (n=500), 92% felt safer post-install.
Predicted reliability: 4.5/5, backed by Kwikset's 88% satisfaction rate over 5 years.
While solid, the Aura lags Wi-Fi rivals. The Kwikset Halo Touch adds fingerprints and no-hub Wi-Fi for $50 more—our top pick for most homes.
The eufy FamiLock S3 bundles a 2K camera and palm recognition, perfect for high-security needs (no subscription!). Philips WiFi Keypad offers full handle sets for complete replacements.
When to Buy the Aura: Short-range needs, budget under $160, simple smart home setups.
Our Pick: Kwikset Halo Touch for all-around excellence.
Test door fit and battery access first. For rentals, opt for retrofit like August.
Yes, most users complete it in under 20 minutes with basic tools. The app provides step-by-step video guidance.
It supports Alexa and Google Assistant for voice locks. Full hub needed for Apple HomeKit or remote IFTTT.
BLE uses 128-bit AES encryption, proven against interception in independent audits.
Expect 8-10 months with moderate use (100 unlocks/month). Alerts notify at 20%.
Absolutely—it's a deadbolt retrofit, removable without damage.
Lifetime mechanical, 5 years electronic.
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