About
Nuki is a pioneering smart lock manufacturer based in Austria, designing and producing retrofit electronic door locks and smart access solutions for residential and commercial use. Unlike traditional smart locks that require replacing your entire door lock, Nuki's flagship Smart Lock line installs directly on top of your existing cylinder — no drilling or professional installation required. The Nuki ecosystem includes a range of devices: the Smart Lock Pro (most advanced), Smart Lock Go (entry-level), Smart Lock Ultra (ultra-compact), NFC and fingerprint keypads, door sensors, a Fob remote, and an Opener for intercom systems in multi-apartment buildings. All devices are managed through the free Nuki App, available for iOS and Android, with a companion Nuki Web portal for browser-based control. Users can grant permanent or time-restricted access permissions to family, guests, or service providers — all without physical keys. An activity log records every access event for full transparency. Automatic locking, unlock triggers, and timers streamline daily routines. Nuki integrates with major smart home platforms via Matter and Thread, including Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and more. Built and engineered in Europe, Nuki upholds strict privacy and data protection standards. The Nuki Club membership program offers exclusive discounts, early access, and insider benefits. Nuki is ideal for homeowners, Airbnb hosts, property managers, and businesses seeking modern, keyless access control.
Key Features
- Retrofit Installation: Installs on top of your existing door cylinder in minutes — no tools, drilling, or locksmith required.
- Multiple Access Methods: Open your door via smartphone, NFC, fingerprint, PIN code, Fob remote, or smartwatch — your choice.
- Smart Home Integration: Fully compatible with Matter, Thread, Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and other major platforms.
- Access Sharing & Activity Log: Grant permanent or time-restricted access to guests or family, and monitor every entry in a detailed activity log.
- Automatic Locking & Timers: Set auto-lock and auto-unlock rules based on time, GPS proximity, or custom schedules for hands-free access.
Use Cases
- Homeowners upgrading to keyless entry without replacing their existing door lock
- Airbnb and short-term rental hosts managing guest access remotely with time-restricted codes
- Property managers overseeing access across multiple units or apartment buildings via the Nuki Opener
- Smart home enthusiasts integrating door lock control with Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa routines
- Families sharing secure access permissions with children, housekeepers, or service providers without duplicating physical keys
Pros
- No Lock Replacement Needed: Nuki retrofits onto most existing European cylinder locks, making it fast and cost-effective to go keyless.
- Rich Ecosystem of Accessories: Keypads, door sensors, Fob remotes, and an intercom Opener provide flexible solutions for any home or building.
- European Privacy Standards: Hardware and software are developed in Europe with high data protection and production quality standards.
- Free App with Powerful Features: The Nuki App is free and covers access management, activity logs, automation, and device settings across all Nuki products.
Cons
- Hardware Purchase Required: Core functionality requires purchasing physical Nuki devices, which represent an upfront cost compared to software-only solutions.
- App & Connectivity Dependency: Remote access and some features rely on internet connectivity and the Nuki app ecosystem, which may be a concern for some users.
- Primarily Designed for European Locks: Nuki's retrofit design is optimized for European-style door cylinders, which may limit compatibility in North American homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nuki and how does it work?
Nuki is a smart lock system that attaches to the inside of your existing door, turning your smartphone into a key. It communicates via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, letting you lock and unlock your door through the Nuki App or compatible smart home systems.
Does Nuki require replacing my existing door lock?
No. Nuki is a retrofit solution that mounts on top of your current lock cylinder on the inside of your door. Your existing keys still work, and no permanent modifications are needed.
Which smart home systems does Nuki support?
Nuki supports Matter and Thread protocols, enabling integration with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and other major smart home platforms.
What happens if my phone battery dies or I lose internet access?
Nuki offers multiple backup access methods including physical keys, PIN keypads, NFC cards, and Fob remotes, ensuring you're never locked out even without a smartphone.
Can I share access with guests or family members?
Yes. Through the Nuki App, you can grant permanent or time-limited access permissions to other users, ideal for Airbnb hosts, families, or property managers who need flexible access control.
