The MyQ Secure View 3-in-1 Smart Lock is a sleek and feature-rich solution for those seeking a secure and convenient way to control their home's entry. However, it's not without its drawbacks, and it's important to consider the full picture before making a purchase decision. In this article, I'll delve into the Secure View's key features, explore its strengths and weaknesses, and offer my own insights and commentary on its place in the smart home market.
A Smart Lock with a Twist
What sets the Secure View apart from other smart locks is its dual functionality as a video doorbell. This combination of features is particularly appealing to those who want a comprehensive security solution for their home. The lock's exterior escutcheon houses a doorbell button, a 12-button backlit touch screen keypad, a PIR motion sensor, and a 2K camera with a 150-degree field of view. This camera captures color video during the day and switches to black and white at night when ambient light is insufficient, ensuring clear footage regardless of the time of day.
One thing that immediately stands out is the Secure View's fingerprint scanner and facial recognition module. These biometric security measures offer a fast and convenient way to unlock the door, and they're particularly useful for those who want a more secure alternative to traditional keys. However, it's worth noting that the Secure View doesn't support voice control or integration with popular smart home platforms like Alexa, Google, or HomeKit. This limitation may be a deal-breaker for some, especially those who already have a well-established smart home ecosystem.
Smart Features and App Control
The Secure View is controlled via the MyQ app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app provides a range of smart features, including the ability to create and manage user accounts, set up notifications, and configure motion detection settings. Users can add up to 16 users to the lock, each with their own set of access permissions. This level of customization is particularly useful for households with multiple occupants or for those who want to grant temporary access to guests or service providers.
One detail that I find especially interesting is the lock's support for IFTTT applets. This allows the Secure View to integrate with a wide range of third-party smart home devices, providing a more seamless and interconnected experience. However, it's worth noting that the Eufy FamiLock S3 Max, a competitor in the smart lock market, uses Matter technology for integration with popular smart home platforms, which may be a more appealing option for those seeking a more comprehensive smart home experience.
Installation and Performance
Setting up the Secure View is relatively straightforward, and the lock performed well in testing. The installation process involves removing the old lock, installing the new deadbolt assembly and strike plate, and sliding the exterior escutcheon into the bore hole. The lock then pairs with the app via a simple setup process, and the user can customize settings and manage access permissions. The touch screen is well-lit and responsive, and the auto-lock feature worked as intended during testing.
In terms of performance, the Secure View delivered sharp 2K video with good color saturation during the day and excellent contrast when displaying black-and-white footage at night. However, the color night video lacked the vibrancy of daytime footage, which may be a minor drawback for those seeking the most accurate representation of nighttime conditions.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice with Room for Improvement
Overall, the MyQ Secure View 3-in-1 Smart Lock is a solid choice for those seeking a feature-rich smart lock with video doorbell capabilities. Its combination of biometric security, app control, and reliable performance makes it a compelling option for home security enthusiasts. However, its lack of support for popular smart home platforms and the Eufy FamiLock S3 Max's superior Matter integration may be deal-breakers for some. Personally, I think the Secure View is a strong contender in the smart lock market, but it's not without its flaws. If you're in the market for a smart lock, it's worth considering your specific needs and comparing it with other options before making a final decision.
