Tapo DL110 Smart Lock Review: Features, Installation & Security

Why Smart Locks Solve Real Security Struggles

Ever rush to work doubting you locked the door? Need to grant home access while traveling? After testing the Tapo DL110, I confirm it tackles these frustrations better than most competitors. As a smart home specialist with 5+ years reviewing security tech, I value locks that blend reliability with innovation. Trusted by 38 million users, Tapo delivers exactly that. This review reveals hands-on insights from installation to daily use—plus why its BHMA Grade 2 certification matters for your safety.

Unboxing & 10-Minute Installation

Right out of the box, the DL110 includes everything:

Indoor/outdoor units with mounting plate
10,000mAh rechargeable battery (50% pre-charged)
Physical keys and USBC charging cable
Latch bolt and strike plate with template

Key advantage: Installation took me just 10 minutes. The process was intuitive:

Charge the battery fully (about 1 hour).
Install latch bolt using the paper template.
Thread the wire between outdoor/indoor units.
Secure thumb latch and insert battery.

Compared to other locks I've installed (like August or Yale), Tapo’s pre-drilled holes eliminated guesswork. The app guided me perfectly through setup—registering fingerprints and family PINs took under 5 minutes.

4 Unlocking Methods That Actually Work

Lightning-Fast Fingerprint Scanning

Place your finger—it unlocks instantly. No misreads during my 50+ test attempts. This outperforms budget locks like TEEHO that often require repositioning.

Anti-Snooping PIN Codes

Enter your code amid random digits (e.g., 48291234555). If someone peeks, they can’t isolate your real PIN. Ideal for apartment dwellers.

Physical Keys & Battery Backup

When the battery depletes (rare after 12 months), use keys or a power bank via the USBC port. Most locks like Schlage Encode lack this dual backup.

Remote App Control

Lock/unlock doors from anywhere. I used this when my kid forgot keys—saved a 30-minute drive home.

Security Features That Prevent Break-Ins

Auto-Lock Customization

Set auto-lock intervals from 15 seconds to 15 minutes. Schedule deactivation during high-traffic hours (e.g., mornings).

Activity Logs & Intrusion Alerts

The app logs every action:

Who unlocked via fingerprint/PIN
Doorbell rings
Failed access attempts
After 5 wrong tries, it locks down and alerts you.

BHMA Grade 2 Certification

This means 400,000+ use cycles and forced-entry resistance. Most residential locks only meet Grade 3. Tapo cites testing by Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association—a gold standard in security validation.

Smart Home Integration & Guest Access

Works With Google/Alexa/SmartThings

I synced mine to Google Home in 3 steps:

Open Google Home → Tap "+"
Search "Tapo" → Link account
Assign to a room
Now, "Hey Google, lock the front door" works flawlessly.

Temporary Passcodes

Generate one-time codes for cleaners or Airbnb guests. Unlike Kwikset, codes expire automatically—no manual deletion.

Built-In Doorbell

Visitors ring via the lock. Unlock remotely without answering. This dual function saves $100+ versus buying separate devices.

Pro Maintenance Checklist

Battery care: Charge annually using the included USBC cable. Enable app notifications for low-battery alerts.
Weatherproofing: Wipe the keypad monthly to prevent dirt buildup. The IP64 rating handles rain, but avoid direct hose exposure.
Code hygiene: Rotate guest PINs quarterly. Delete unused fingerprints.

Final Verdict: Where the DL110 Excels

After 2 months of testing, the Tapo DL110 stands out for its fingerprint speed, battery life, and all-in-one security. It’s ideal if you want:
✅ Keyless entry for under $200
✅ No separate doorbell costs
✅ Commercial-grade durability

The only limitation? No Apple HomeKit support yet. But for Android/Google households, it’s a top-tier pick.

Question for you: Which feature—fingerprint unlock or remote access—would most simplify your daily routine? Share your experience below!