Eufy S3 Max Video Smart Lock vs LG Smart Deadbolt Lock (Apple Home Collection)
3 questions both answer, side by side. Every answer is backed by the dated sources at the bottom.
Side by side
Can a smart lock open without a key or phone in hand?
The S3 Max unlocks when you hold your palm over its sensor; it stores up to 50 palms and also works as a video doorbell.
Good to know: The reviewer found it touchy at first: hold your hand still for a few seconds. Re-enrolling helped.
LG's Apple Home lock uses Ultra Wideband to unlock as you approach with Home Key on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
Good to know: $349.95, on sale from December 2026 (US and Canada). Keypad and backup key included. Not yet reviewed.
Can a smart lock work with any smart home app?
The S3 Max works with Matter, so it can join smart home apps that support the standard.
Good to know: Its camera stream isn't available over Matter; for video you still need the Eufy app.
LG's Apple Home lock works with Matter and keeps working locally without internet.
Good to know: $349.95, on sale from December 2026. Not yet reviewed.
Can you still get in if a smart lock's battery dies?
The S3 Max runs up to 5 months on two batteries, has 4 AAA backup batteries for outages, and also opens with a code or key.
Good to know: Battery life is Eufy's figure and depends on use.
LG's Apple Home lock comes with a keypad and a backup key.
Good to know: On sale from December 2026. Not yet reviewed.
How we know (4 sources)
Hands-on review of the Eufy S3 Max Video Smart Lock, which unlocks by reading the veins in your palm (up to 50 users), plus code or key, and doubles as a 2K video doorbell. The palm reader was touchy at first: you hover your hand for a few seconds, re-enrolling helped, and older users may struggle with holding a hand in mid-air.
Read the sourceExplains that HomeView supports both Matter and Thread, so Matter accessories from other brands work with it alongside Apple HomeKit accessories. Buyers still need to check that a device is Matter-enabled.
Read the sourceUS product page for the FamiLock S3 Max, read Oct 22, 2026: $399.99; palm vein unlocking with the data stored on the lock; built-in 2K video doorbell; two batteries for up to 5 months of use plus 4 AAA backup batteries for power outages. Works with Matter, though camera streams aren't available over Matter.
Read the sourceApple Home Collection, built by LG and Schneider Electric, goes on sale from December 2026, some items in early 2027. LG Smart Deadbolt ($349.95) unlocks via Ultra Wideband as you walk up with Home Key on iPhone or Apple Watch, has a keypad and backup key, works with Matter and locally without internet. Cameras $199.95-$399.95 (Video Doorbell Wired $249.95) recognize people, familiar faces, pets, vehicles and packages; recordings need iCloud+ ($0.99 for one camera, $2.99 for five, $9.99 unlimited), live view works without, and a HomePod, Apple TV or HomeView is required as hub.
Read the source