Kwikset Halo – Touch, Turn, and Enter
When Theodorus of Samos invented the key, way back in 6th century BC, I like to think that he envisioned a future where the ridges on your finger replace those of a key. It’s a long shot, I know, but wouldn’t it be cool? Fortunately for Theodorus’ legacy, and maybe more so fortunate for your safety, the fingertip is now the unlocking device for many of your most valued possessions. What would an iPhone be if it wasn’t for the contours of your digits? Now, your home can reap the benefits of this technology with the Kwikset Halo Touch.
Smart locks are fairly common these days, but they come in many shapes and sizes. Given that the installation, network capabilities, and features vary widely, there’s a good chance the Kwikset checks all the boxes for you. Let’s see if it’s the smart home device you need now.
Halo Form Factor
The original Halo was a monstrosity. Kwikset’s first unit was nearly double the size of the newest unit, which measures just 3.5 inches high by 2.75 inches wide. The escutcheon — a term new to me, which means the extra, non-functional parts that cover the device — is still quite large compared to a standard lock, but you have to fit that tech in somewhere.
The Kwikset Halo Touch’s face is pretty minimal. You’ve got a small circular pad for your fingers. There’s also an actual keyed locking device in case your finger doesn’t work, and a LED. The lighting system just above the finger pad indicates a positive or negative scan of your finger. Any of your ten digits will lock the device, but only one registered finger will unlock. If you forget, the LED bar will remind you repeatedly that you have supplied the wrong finger or that you’re an intruder. In which case, you aren’t getting in.
Installing the Kwikset Halo
Like most lock installations, the Kwikset requires the dexterity of someone who grew up playing a lot of the Hasbro game Operation. Threading the wires through the small holes of the door’s interior, along with lining up the escutcheon plates on both sides to get the screws just right, can be a real task. Many reviews we read complained about this process, but we’re fairly certain that’s because they’ve asked a tech editor to do handy work; this is not ideal.
However, consider the fortunate position you find yourself in: you’re installing a locking device for your home to protect your most important assets. This device is activated by your very biological aesthetic — what a time to be alive.
Purchasing the Kwikset Halo
Fortunately for you, the Kwikset Halo Touch comes in two different form factors. If your house’s construction took place before the 1950s, you might want to consider their Traditional design, which features a more parabolic exterior with sharp corners. If your place is more on the mid-century to modern design, their Contemporary design will probably suit your needs.
These models are available in Matte Black (Editor’s favorite), Satin Nickel, and Venetian Bronze. The retail price for the Kwikset Halo Touch is $249, and of course, Amazon is the best place to pick up this piece of digital home protection. Just make sure that when you load up all 22 bags of groceries as you head into your house, you keep the one-digit that separates you from relief available for a quick unlock.
