What actually changed in the latest Ring Smart Lock
Ring is introducing a new battery-powered smart lock with a unique feature: a manual "Power Dial" hand crank. In the event that the lock's battery fully drains, turning this dial generates enough power for a brief window (10-30 seconds) to allow keypad entry and unlock the door. This sets the lock apart from many competitors, which typically require a backup key or leave users locked out if the battery dies. The Power Dial charges a supercapacitor and does not recharge the main battery, which is expected to last about a year with typical use. The device will launch in early 2027 in the US at $249, with finishes in black, silver, and brass.
Who should choose the Ring Smart Lock (and who should skip it)
This lock is best suited for existing Ring users or anyone already invested in Amazon's smart home ecosystem. Its manual override system specifically addresses "dead battery anxiety" without reverting to traditional keys. The lock integrates seamlessly with the Ring app, Alexa, and uses Amazon Sidewalk for backup connectivity if your Wi-Fi goes down. For those who value Ring’s integration and want a unique fail-safe for battery issues, this is an appealing choice.
However, the Smart Lock does not support Apple HomeKit, Home Key, or the Matter standard at launch. Those looking for cross-platform compatibility might prefer solutions from brands like August, Yale, or Schlage, which offer HomeKit or Matter support. If you strongly prefer not to use Amazon Sidewalk—a shared community network—be sure to consider this before buying, as its connectivity model is closely tied to Amazon infrastructure.
How the Power Dial impacts smart home security and convenience
The Power Dial addresses a common point of failure for electronic locks, potentially boosting both convenience and peace of mind. Users no longer have to hide physical keys outside or worry about lockouts due to power loss. The quick-use supercapacitor approach means there’s minimal waiting if the main battery fails. However, this solution does not provide a full power restoration—only a short window to unlock. If you miss that window, you’ll have to crank again, but this is a minor inconvenience compared to being locked out.
Practical takeaway: Is Ring’s Smart Lock worth it?
The Ring Smart Lock stands out for its mechanical backup, a feature that can make a significant difference in the event of battery failure. It’s a smart buy for tech-focused households prioritizing Ring and Alexa integrations. However, those seeking broader platform compatibility, local-only control, or wishing to avoid Amazon Sidewalk should look at other brands instead. It’s a future-facing design but comes with the usual trade-offs for users outside the Amazon ecosystem.