Lockly Secure Plus PGD628 Smart Deadbolt: features, specs and who it suits

The Lockly Secure Plus (model PGD628) is a keyless smart deadbolt for a front door. It lets you unlock with a PIN, a fingerprint or a physical key, so there's less reliance on a single key that can be lost or copied. It's aimed at homes, small offices and rental properties where several people need access.

Three ways to unlock

Lockly lists three methods: its PIN Genie keypad, a 3D biometric fingerprint sensor and a standard physical key. Having a key as a backup matters with any electronic lock, because it means a flat battery or a fault doesn't leave you outside. The lock also supports rekeying: the key cylinder can be replaced without replacing the whole lock, using a standard rekey kit, which is handy if a key goes missing.

How the PIN Genie keypad works

Most keypads show the digits in a fixed layout, and fingerprints or wear on the keys can give away a code. Lockly's patented PIN Genie keypad takes a different approach. It shows four virtual buttons, each carrying three numbers, and the arrangement changes after each use. Lockly says this mixes up the location of your PIN so that someone watching over your shoulder can't easily work out the code. In general, a shuffling layout makes shoulder-surfing harder, though a longer PIN and sensible habits matter too.

What the fingerprint sensor offers

The second-generation 3D biometric sensor is rated by Lockly at 0.3 seconds to recognise a print and 0.5 seconds to unlock. It stores up to 99 fingerprints. Fingerprint entry is convenient when your hands are full, and it means family members don't need to remember a code. Most fingerprint readers work best when the finger and sensor are clean and dry, so it's worth enrolling a finger a few times from slightly different angles.

Offline access codes and alerts

Lockly says you can issue offline access codes that work for a set time period without Wi-Fi or an internet connection, which suits a visiting cleaner, a dog walker or a guest. For real-time alerts on your phone, the listing notes that an additional Wi-Fi hub is needed, so the lock on its own isn't a remote-monitoring device. Without the hub, the keypad, fingerprint sensor and key all still work locally.

Auto lock is also listed: the bolt can lock itself after you close the door, which is useful if you tend to forget.

Installation and warranty

Lockly says the lock can be installed with common household tools and supplies a detailed installation guide. The brand lists a five-year warranty on mechanics and finish, two years on the electronics, and lifetime technical support. The unit measures about 7.4 x 3.1 x 4.5 inches (19 x 8 x 11 cm) in its box dimensions. The listed finish is Venetian Bronze.

Who it suits

It suits households that want to stop carrying keys, landlords and short-term rental hosts who need to hand out and manage access, and anyone sharing a door with several people. People who want remote alerts will need to add the hub.

What to check before you buy

• Door fit: confirm your door's thickness, bore hole and backset match what the manual lists for this lock.
• Existing deadbolt: check that you're replacing a standard deadbolt and not a different lock type.
• Remote features: if you want phone alerts, check that you'll add the Wi-Fi hub and that your home network is compatible.
• Power: check which batteries it uses and how the manual says to replace them.
• Local rules: if you rent, confirm you're allowed to change the lock, and follow local codes and the manual for installation.

The short version

• A keyless smart deadbolt, model PGD628, in Venetian Bronze.
• Shuffling PIN Genie keypad, 3D fingerprint sensor for up to 99 prints, and a backup key.
• Offline access codes for guests; phone alerts need an extra Wi-Fi hub.
• Auto lock and rekeying are listed.
• Five-year mechanical and finish warranty and two years on electronics, per Lockly.

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