Google Nest x Yale Lock
Score: 78/100
Level Bolt
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Level Bolt is a retrofit smart lock that installs inside an existing deadbolt, preserving the original hardware and aesthetic appearance of the door. It offers multiple access methods and high security standards but suffers from short battery life and the need for additional hubs. It is best suited for design-conscious homeowners who want smart technology without visible hardware changes.
The Google Nest x Yale Lock is a high-security smart deadbolt designed for Google Nest ecosystem users, featuring Grade 2 certification and IP65 weatherproofing. Its primary limitation is the lack of compatibility with Alexa or Apple HomeKit, and it does not support voice unlocking. It is best suited for homeowners already invested in the Nest secure system who want seamless alarm disarming upon entry.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
12 monthsbest | 4 months | |
— | 1.75 inchesbest | |
— | 2.375 inchesbest | |
— | 0 entriesbest | |
2 yearsbest | 2 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Access & Security(1) | ||
Unlock Methods | Keypad, App, Voice, Physical Key | App, Keypad, Voice, Physical Key |
Connectivity & Smart Features(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | BLE | 5.0 |
Durability & Environment(3) | ||
IP Rating | IP65 | Not specified |
Body Material | Metal | Stainless Steel |
Operating Temperature (°F) | -22 to 140 °F | Not specified °F |
Access & Biometrics(1) | ||
Fingerprint Capacity (entries) | entries | 0 entries |
Installation & Fitment(3) | ||
Door Thickness Compatibility (inches) | 1.37-2.25 inches | 1.75 inches |
Backset (inches) | inches | 2.375 inches |
Installation Type | Complete Deadbolt Replacement | Retrofit |
Security & Compliance(2) | ||
Security Grade | Grade 2 | Grade 1/A |
Encryption Support | AES 128-bit | Matter |
Power & Battery(2) | ||
Battery Life (months) | 12 months | 4 months |
Battery Type | AA | CR2 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the sleek touchscreen design, Grade 2 security certification, and the significant advantage of including the Nest Connect accessory for remote access. Experts highlight the seamless integration with the Nest Secure ecosystem and the tamper-proof design as meeting high industry standards.
Users generally appreciate the keyless convenience and the ability to assign unique passcodes to family and guests. Access history alerts and automatic disarming of the Nest alarm upon entry are frequently cited as valuable features.
Professional reviewers view the Level Bolt as a breakthrough in smart lock design philosophy, prioritizing home aesthetic over technological visibility. It is praised for its ingenious engineering, particularly the invisible retrofit design and robust security standards.
Everyday users consistently praise the invisible design and the preservation of their existing keys, noting that it maintains home aesthetics while adding smart functionality. Common complaints revolve around the short battery life requiring frequent replacements and the necessity of buying additional hubs for remote access.
“Disappears inside your door”
“Key still works perfectly”
“Solid build quality”
