Lockly Smart Lock Review: PIN Genie and Advanced Security Features

When most smart locks use a fixed-position number keypad, Lockly takes a different approach. The Lockly Smart Lock features what the company calls “PIN Genie” — a randomized-digit keypad that shuffles digit positions every time it’s used, making it nearly impossible for someone to guess your PIN by watching you type or observing fingerprint smudges on the keypad. It’s a clever security innovation that distinguishes Lockly from nearly every other smart lock brand.

What Is Lockly?

Lockly is a smart lock brand that has carved out a niche with its patented PIN Genie technology and premium hardware design. Their lineup includes several models:

• Lockly Secure Pro: Deadbolt replacement with fingerprint, PIN, app, and key access
• Lockly Secure Plus: Adds a built-in Wi-Fi module for remote access without a hub
• Lockly Flex Touch: A retrofit design (similar to August) that attaches to your existing deadbolt
• Lockly Secure Link: Wi-Fi hub accessory for models without built-in Wi-Fi

All Lockly models feature the PIN Genie keypad and fingerprint reader as standard equipment, which is notable at their price points.

PIN Genie: How It Actually Works

The PIN Genie keypad replaces the standard number grid with three randomized circles, each containing three digits. The digits inside each circle change position every time the keypad is activated. To enter your PIN, you touch the circles containing your digits — not specific positions.

Because the mapping changes every use, someone watching over your shoulder can’t learn your PIN from your hand movements. And because multiple digits share each circle, smudge patterns on the glass don’t reveal your code. It’s genuinely clever and noticeably more secure than standard numeric keypads.

In practice, using PIN Genie takes about two seconds longer than a standard keypad, and new users need a brief adjustment period. But it becomes second nature quickly.

Installation

Lockly locks replace your full deadbolt and install similarly to other full-replacement smart locks. The process takes 20–30 minutes and uses standard tools.

Compatibility:

• Fits standard door prep (2-1/8 inch bore hole, 1-3/8 to 2 inch door thickness)
• Standard ANSI backsets supported
• Does not require a C-wire or special electrical work

Florida’s standard residential doors are almost universally compatible. The lock is powered by 4 AA batteries, which Lockly estimates last 6–12 months depending on usage.

Fingerprint Scanner

Lockly’s fingerprint scanner is fast and accurate, unlocking in roughly 0.3 seconds for enrolled fingers. Each lock stores up to 99 fingerprints — significantly more than many competitors — making it practical for larger households or properties with multiple authorized users.

The scanner performs well in varied conditions. Unlike some capacitive readers that struggle with dry or slightly rough skin, Lockly’s optical sensor handles these cases better than average. That said, very wet fingers (rain, washing dishes) can cause occasional misreads, as with most fingerprint-based locks.

App and Connectivity

Lockly App

The Lockly app (iOS and Android) covers:

• Remote lock/unlock (with Wi-Fi-capable models or the Secure Link hub)
• Activity log for all access events
• Management of up to 16 PINs and 99 fingerprints
• One-Time Access codes — generate a single-use PIN for a visitor
• Scheduled access — set specific days and times when a PIN is valid
• Auto-Lock configuration

The One-Time Access feature is particularly useful for service professionals or occasional visitors. You generate a PIN from the app that works exactly once, then expires — no need to create and later revoke a permanent code.

Voice Assistant and Smart Home

Lockly supports:

• Amazon Alexa — voice lock commands; unlock with PIN for security
• Google Assistant — similar functionality
• Apple HomeKit — available on select Pro models

The smart home integration is functional but not as polished as some competitors. For deep smart home automation, check whether your specific Lockly model supports your preferred platform before purchasing.

Security Standards

Lockly locks carry ANSI Grade 2 certification, the standard for residential-grade deadbolts. They also feature:

• Anti-tamper alarm (triggers after multiple failed attempts)
• Motorized latch that fully extends the bolt — the bolt doesn’t spring back, it’s driven home
• BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) certification

Grade 2 is appropriate for the vast majority of residential applications. Lockly’s PIN Genie adds a meaningful layer of access-code security that exceeds what Grade 2 typically implies.

Pricing

Lockly locks are priced in the mid-to-premium range:

• Lockly Secure Pro: ~$189–$219
• Lockly Secure Plus (built-in Wi-Fi): ~$249
• Lockly Flex Touch (retrofit): ~$169

The pricing is higher than budget options like Eufy, but comparable to August and Schlage’s smart offerings. The PIN Genie and fingerprint features are standard across the lineup, which represents good value relative to competitors where fingerprint access often costs extra.

Potential Drawbacks

• Learning curve on PIN Genie — requires a few uses to feel natural
• Limited ecosystem depth compared to August or Nest
• Wi-Fi requires upgrade on base Secure Pro models
• App could be more refined — functional but not as polished as competitors

Who Should Buy the Lockly Smart Lock?

Lockly is the right choice if:

• Security is your top priority and you’re worried about shoulder surfing or smudge attacks
• You need to manage access for many different people (up to 99 fingerprints)
• You want fingerprint access at a mid-range price point
• One-Time Access codes for visitors or service workers are important to your workflow

For Florida homeowners with vacation properties or short-term rentals, the combination of One-Time Access codes, scheduled PINs, and fingerprint access makes Lockly exceptionally practical.

Final Verdict

The Lockly Smart Lock brings genuinely innovative security thinking to a market where most products look and work the same. PIN Genie is a real-world useful feature, not a gimmick, and the fingerprint reader is among the fastest and most reliable in its class. A few software polish issues hold it back from a perfect score, but as a security-focused smart lock with advanced access management, Lockly delivers.

Rating: 4/5 — Innovative security features and great access management at a competitive price.