Smonet vs. Hornbill: Which One is Better and How To Choose?

• Smonet and Hornbill smart locks look identical on Amazon, raising questions about their authenticity.
• One user explained that this is a common business practice. A manufacturer might produce a product, like these locks, and then advertise it to businesses. These businesses can then pay for their logo, name, and branding on the product and its packaging.
• The same user also mentioned that the security of devices like these is often weak and outdated.
• Another user pointed out that similar locks might be available on platforms like Aliexpress at a much lower price but with slower delivery and potentially no warranty.

Second, let’s try to sort out both smart door lock features:

Here’s a detailed review of the SMONET Smart Lock:

SMONET Smart Lock Review:

• Connection Standards and Smart Home Controller Options: The SMONET Smart Lock has a default Bluetooth connection. You need the separately sold SMONET Wi-Fi gateway to control the lock remotely. This gateway can control the lock using Alexa Assistant and Google Assistant voice commands. However, it does not support Apple HomeKit.
• Alexa Voice Assistant: The lock pairs easily with Alexa, allowing users to lock, unlock, and check the lock status using voice commands.
• Google Assistant: SMONET Smart Lock can also be controlled using Google Assistant voice commands.
• Fingerprint Reader: The lock features a fingerprint reader that can store up to 250 fingerprints. It’s responsive and quick, with a success rate of about 90%.
• Keypad: The lock has an OLED touchscreen keypad. It’s sensitive and reliable, with features to prevent others from guessing your code.
• User Code Types: The lock offers various user code types, including permanent, timed, one-time, erase, cyclic, and custom codes. These codes can be programmed through the TTLock app.
• IC Cards: These are useful for older people and kids. Two IC Cards are included, but more can be purchased if needed.
• E-Keys: These are alternative ways to unlock your door and can be generated for various user types. They are used exclusively through the TTLock app.
• Auto Lock Feature: The lock can automatically lock after a set period, ranging from 5 to 200 seconds.
• Battery Life: The lock requires 4 AA batteries (not included) and has an estimated battery life of 3-5 months, though some users have reported up to 7-8 months.
• Installation: The lock is easy to install, with most users completing the process within 15-20 minutes.

Hornbill Smart Lock Review:

• Connection Standards and Smart Home Controller Options: The Hornbill Fingerprint Deadbolt Smart Lock offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to control the lock via the TTLock app within Bluetooth range. You must purchase the G2 Wi-Fi Gateway separately for remote access and Alexa Voice Assistant support.
• Alexa Voice Assistant: The lock pairs seamlessly with Amazon Alexa devices like Echo and Echo Dot. The voice commands tested for the lock, such as locking, unlocking, and checking the lock status, worked consistently well with Alexa.
• Fingerprint Reader:  The reader has a high success rate, with 98% accuracy for most users. The lock can store over 150 fingerprints, and it’s recommended to register fingerprints from different angles for optimal accuracy.
• Keypad: The touchscreen keypad is located below the fingerprint reader. It activates in under 0.5 seconds upon touch and is bright enough for day and night use. The lock also features a keyhole for mechanical unlocking and a micro USB port for emergency power.
• User Code Types: The TTLock app offers a wide range of user codes, allowing up to 300 user codes ranging from 4 to 9 digits. The lock supports various code types: permanent, timed, one-time, erase, recurring, and custom. An anti-peep feature ensures added security when entering codes.
• IC Cards: The lock has three IC Cards that can be programmed for time-limited or permanent access. These cards are especially useful for kids and older people.
• E-Keys: The lock supports E-Keys, similar to user codes, but is used exclusively on mobile phones with the TTLock app. E-Keys offer the same options as user codes.
• Auto Lock Feature: The lock features an auto-lock function, set to 5 seconds by default but can be adjusted between 5 to 900 seconds.
• Wi-Fi Gateway: The Hornbill Wi-Fi Gateway, sold separately, offers remote access and voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. It’s compatible with all smart locks using the TTLock app.
• Battery Life: Based on average usage, the lock requires 4 AA batteries (not included) and boasts a battery life of 4-5 months. Users receive notifications when the battery is low, and there’s a micro USB port for emergency power.
• Installation: The installation process is straightforward, with most users completing it within 20-25 minutes. The lock is compatible with doors having a thickness of 1-1/2″ to 1-7/8″, a backset of 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″, and a hole size of 2-1/8″.

Comparison Table:

Let’s make a detailed comparison between the SMONET Smart Lock and the Hornbill  Smart Lock form based on the information they published on the Internet:

Conclusion:

• Connectivity: Both locks offer Bluetooth connectivity and require a separate Wi-Fi gateway for remote access.
• Voice Assistant Compatibility: SMONET has a slight edge as it supports both Alexa and Google Assistant out of the box, while Hornbill primarily supports Alexa (unless paired with its Wi-Fi Gateway).
• Fingerprint Capacity: SMONET’s fingerprint reader can store up to 250 fingerprints, while Hornbill can store over 150.
• Battery Life: SMONET has a slightly longer estimated battery life, but the difference isn’t significant.
• Additional Features: Hornbill offers IC Cards and E-Keys, which might benefit some users.

Smonet vs. Hornbill, which one is better, and how to choose?

While both locks have their strengths, the SMONET Smart Lock seems to have a slight advantage regarding voice assistant compatibility and fingerprint storage capacity. If these features are crucial for you, then SMONET would be the better choice. However, Hornbill might be more suitable if you value additional unlocking methods like IC Cards and E-Keys.

For a balanced blend of features and broader voice assistant compatibility, the SMONET Smart Lock would be the recommended choice.

Please note: All the above information comes from the final decision made by the information published by the two brands on the Internet, which does not represent the actual usage. The specific explanation of their respective brands shall prevail.