A smart lock can be packed with advanced technology and designed to look futuristic.

But truly good design is not simply about making a product attractive or filling it with as many features as possible. It is about bringing form, interaction, and real-world needs together naturally.

This is the principle SGUDA values when developing smart locks:

Form Follows Function.

A door lock is something we interact with every day. From entering a PIN and pressing a handle to checking the lock status, every seemingly simple action is influenced by product design.

That is why design should begin with how people actually use the product. Form should emerge naturally from function, rather than being decorated with unnecessary elements after development is complete.

“Form Follows Function” Is About Solving Problems, Not Decoration

The phrase “Form Follows Function” was introduced by architect Louis Sullivan. Its central idea can be summarized simply:

A product’s form should not exist merely for decoration. It should reflect what the product is designed to do.

At SGUDA, we also identify with architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s interpretation of this philosophy:

In other words, form and function should not be treated as separate elements. They should work together as one complete design.

The same philosophy applies to smart locks.

At its core, a smart lock is a practical tool. Its aesthetics should not be an added layer of decoration, but a natural result of engineering, ergonomics, and everyday usability working together.

From the arrangement of internal components and the selection of materials and finishes to the restraint of notification sounds, every detail should respond to how people actually use the product.

A Poor Example

A lock may look impressive, but an overly decorative housing could interfere with your fingers when gripping or pressing the handle. Likewise, adding feature after feature can result in a bulky lock with complicated controls that are rarely used.

A Better Approach

SGUDA combines minimalist design with practical technology.

As a smart deadbolt, the proportions, panel angles, and interaction areas are designed with ergonomics in mind, making everyday actions such as entering a PIN or scanning a fingerprint feel natural and comfortable.

Unnecessary complexity is removed so users can choose the model that best fits their lifestyle—keeping the technology they actually need without paying for redundant features they may never use.

A Smart Lock Is More Than an Electronic Device

Unlike ordinary consumer electronics, a smart lock does more than house chips, batteries, sensors, and mechanical components.

It must also withstand the repeated opening, closing, pulling, and physical interaction of everyday use.

That means smart lock design needs to consider several factors at the same time:

• Durability of the mechanical structure
• Stability of electronic components
• Ergonomics and user interface
• Compatibility with different doors and interior environments

Form and function are not two separate design challenges. They need to be considered together from the very beginning of product development.

More Features Don’t Always Mean Better Design

Smart locks can offer an impressive range of features.

But if every additional feature adds another button, menu, or complicated step, the product can quickly become cumbersome and difficult to use.

Throughout product development, SGUDA focuses on one key question:

“How can this feature become a natural part of the way people open a door?”

Good technology should feel intuitive. It should work quietly in the background rather than constantly demanding attention.

Design Starts with Real-World Use

The same type of smart lock can be installed in completely different environments:

• Homes: Family members of different ages may use the door repeatedly every day, making intuitive operation and durability especially important.
• Offices: Multiple employees and regular working hours create a greater need for efficient access permissions and entry management.
• Rentals and hospitality: Guests change frequently, making digital access management and reliable backup options more important.

Understanding who will use the lock, how often they will use it, and what problems they need to solve helps determine which features truly belong in the product.

European Industrial Design × Taiwanese Lockmaking Craftsmanship

SGUDA product design does not begin with electronics alone.

We combine decades of Taiwanese lockmaking and precision manufacturing experience with European industrial design expertise, bringing mechanical engineering and contemporary user experience together.

From the angle of a handle and the proportions of a keypad to the interaction between internal mechanical components, every detail has a reason behind it.

Because a well-designed lock should do more than make a strong first impression.

Even after years of everyday use, it should still feel natural and intuitive.

Good Design Naturally Becomes Part of the Space

Technology products can quickly begin to look outdated, but a well-made lock may remain on your door for many years.

SGUDA does not rely on excessive styling simply to make a product look “high-tech.”

Instead, we let form serve function and function respond to real-world needs, allowing the lock to become a natural part of the space—and part of the way you come home every day.

That is SGUDA’s interpretation of Form Follows Function.

A smart lock can do much more than fingerprint or card unlocking.
With the SGUDA App, your smartphone becomes a convenient access management tool—allowing you to remotely control your door lock, manage user access, and check activity logs from one place.

Remote Lock and Unlock

Unlock your door even when you’re away.

If a family member forgets their key, a guest arrives earlier than expected, or someone needs emergency access, there’s no need to rush home.

Simply open the SGUDA App to remotely lock or unlock the door, giving you greater flexibility wherever you are.

Check Your Lock Status in Real Time

With the SGUDA App, you can check your smart lock’s connection and current status without having to be physically present.
Combined with remote control features, managing your door lock while you’re away becomes much easier.

4 Lock Modes

Note: Custom Mode (C) is not available on older lock models.

Your smart lock doesn’t have to operate the same way all day. Choose a mode that fits different situations and daily routines.

Normal Mode (N)

The door automatically locks after closing. Best for: everyday use.

Open Mode (O)

Keeps the door unlocked for easier access.
Ideal for situations such as house parties, office hours, or spaces where people frequently enter and leave.

Private Mode (P)

Restricts access when greater privacy or access control is needed.
For example, an office can use Private Mode during a meeting to restrict access by general staff.

Custom Mode (C)

Set specific operating times based on your needs.

For example, offices can schedule lock operation around business hours, reducing repetitive manual adjustments.

Activity Log

When a smart lock is shared by multiple users, knowing when and how the lock was used can be just as important as controlling who can unlock it.

The Activity Log in the SGUDA App records information such as:

• Door opening and closing activity
• Lock mode changes
• Wi-Fi connection and disconnection
• Locking failures or continuous motor operation alerts

This helps administrators keep track of lock activity over time.
It can be useful for:

• Monitoring household access
• Office employee access records
• B&Bs and rental properties
• Shared spaces with multiple users

User Access & Scheduled Access

User Access

SGUDA smart locks can store up to 100 users.

Access permissions are divided into three levels: Admin, Owner / Master, and Guest, making it easier to control who can access and manage the lock.

Admin

The first person who successfully pairs a smartphone with the lock becomes the Admin.
Each lock can have only one Admin. The Admin cannot be deleted, but Admin access can be transferred to another user’s smartphone.

Recommended for: homeowners, primary household managers, or the person responsible for office access.
The Admin has the highest level of control, including managing Owners and Guests, transferring Admin privileges, and configuring system settings.

Owner / Master

Owners have full everyday access along with basic management permissions.

They can lock and unlock the door, view activity records, and add or remove Guest access. However, they cannot change certain system-level settings or transfer Admin privileges.

Recommended for: family members, spouses, adult children, or office managers.

Guest

Guests only receive permission to unlock the door. They cannot access lock settings or view other users’ activity.There are two types of Guest access:

1. Password Guest: Unlocks the door using an assigned PIN code.
2. Password + App Guest: Can unlock using either a PIN code or the SGUDA App.

Recommended for: visiting family and friends, cleaners, babysitters, B&B guests, or temporary users.

Blocked

The user who’s been blocked has no permission to the door.

Scheduled Access

Instead of sharing one password with everyone or making multiple physical keys, you can assign each user their own access method and permitted access times.

Always

Allows access at any time.

Recommended for: family members or permanent employees.

Schedule

Set specific start and end dates. Access automatically expires when the scheduled period ends.

Up to 3 scheduled time periods can be configured at once.

Example: If a friend is staying over on June 6 and August 8, you can set access for those dates in advance. Their access will automatically expire afterward.

Repeat

Allow access only on specific days and during specific hours each week.

Up to 3 recurring time periods can be configured at once.

Example: If a cleaner visits every Tuesday and Friday afternoon, you can grant access only during those specific periods.

Remove Access Instantly—No Need to Collect Keys or Change the Lock

When a roommate moves out, an employee leaves the company, or a guest checks out, there’s no need to collect a physical key or worry about unauthorized copies.

Simply remove that user’s access through the SGUDA App.

This makes access management faster and reduces the risks associated with lost or copied physical keys.

With SGUDA App, everyday access and user management can all be handled directly from your smartphone.

Built-in Wi-Fi — No Extra Hub Required

Some smart locks require an additional Wi-Fi Bridge or Hub to enable remote features.

SGUDA U-Lock has Wi-Fi built directly into the lock, eliminating the need for an additional Wi-Fi Hub.

Through the SGUDA system, users can:

• Check lock status
• Remotely lock and unlock the door
• View activity logs
• Manage the smart lock

This takes your smart lock beyond simple keyless entry and turns it into a remotely manageable access solution.

Explore Our Smart Locks

As travel and accommodation habits continue to change, self check-in has become increasingly common for Airbnb, vacation rentals, and short-term rental properties. In the post-pandemic era, demand for contactless experiences, flexible arrival times, and remote property management has made it less necessary for hosts to be physically present for every check-in.

Airbnb describes self check-in as allowing guests to access a property without the host being present, using options such as a lockbox, smart lock, keypad, or 24-hour building staff.

While self check-in eliminates many face-to-face key handoffs, hosts still need an effective way to manage guest access.

1. Guests Get Locked Out

A guest arriving late at night may discover that they forgot their key or accidentally left it inside the property.

With a traditional lock, hosts usually need a spare-key plan or someone nearby who can assist the guest.

With a passcode or smart lock, guests do not need to carry a physical key. If remote access is supported, hosts may also be able to help guests enter without traveling to the property.

2. Guests Lose the Key

A lost physical key creates more than an inconvenience. Hosts may need to replace the key and consider whether the missing key creates a security risk.

With a smart lock, hosts can instead change or remove a guest’s passcode or access permission. After checkout, the previous access can be removed and new access created for the next guest.

This is particularly useful for Airbnb and short-term rentals where guests change frequently.

3. The Lock Stops Working

Both traditional and smart locks should have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.

A traditional lock failure may require a locksmith or repair service. When choosing a smart lock, having an alternative such as a mechanical backup key can provide emergency access if electronic functions become unavailable.

How Can Smart Locks Make Self Check-in Easier?

For Airbnb and rental hosts, the main advantage of a smart lock isn’t simply going keyless. It is the ability to manage access for different guests remotely.

For example, hosts can provide a time-limited passcode before arrival, allowing guests to check in without waiting for an in-person key exchange.

Simplify Airbnb & Rental Management with SGUDA

The SGUDA SU-W6 is particularly suitable for Airbnb, vacation rentals, and short-term rental properties where users change frequently.

Before guests arrive, hosts can create time-limited access, while the SGUDA App supports remote passcode management, mobile access permissions, remote lock/unlock, and activity logs. After checkout, access can be changed or removed, reducing the need to exchange, recover, or replace physical keys.

• Wi-Fi Management: Manage check-ins even when you’re abroad!
• Guest Passcodes: Reduce the hassle of handing over access cards.
• Activity Logs: Check whether guests have arrived and accessed the property.
• Emergency Power & Mechanical Key: Access the property even when the batteries run out.

We recommend…

Choosing a smart lock isn’t just about finding the model with the most features. The right lock should fit your door, provide reliable security, and match how you actually use it every day.

Here are five key things to consider before buying a smart lock.

1. Choose the Right Lock Type

Before comparing smart features, start with the basics: what type of lock does your door need?

Common smart lock types include:

• Deadbolt locks – Commonly used for residential entrance doors.
• Lever locks – Combine the lock and handle into one unit.
• Mortise locks – Installed inside the door and commonly found in commercial or higher-security applications.

Deadbolt smart locks can also vary in how they are installed. Some attach to an existing deadbolt, some replace only the interior portion, while others replace the complete deadbolt.

Always check your door type, thickness, dimensions, and existing lock configuration before purchasing.

2. Check Both Physical and Digital Security

A smart lock needs to protect against both physical attacks and digital threats.

For physical security, look for recognized standards such as ANSI/BHMA ratings, which evaluate factors such as durability and lock performance.

For connected smart locks, cybersecurity is equally important. Check how the manufacturer protects communication between the lock, App, and cloud services.

Technologies such as AES-128 encryption and TLS/SSL can help protect transmitted data and prevent unauthorized access.

3. Consider How the Lock Connects

Connectivity determines what your smart lock can do.

A lock with built-in Wi-Fi can provide remote features without requiring a separate hub. Depending on the product, this may include remote unlocking, user management, access records, and other App-based controls.

However, connectivity can also affect battery consumption, so consider both remote functionality and power requirements rather than choosing based on Wi-Fi alone.

4. Choose the Access Methods You Actually Need

More unlocking methods do not automatically mean a better smart lock.

Consider who will use the door and how often.

Common access methods include fingerprint, passcode, RFID card, smartphone App, Bluetooth, smartwatch, voice assistant, and mechanical key.

For example, fingerprint or card access may be convenient for frequently returning users, while temporary passcodes can be useful for guests, rentals, or other short-term access.

5. Think About Everyday Ownership

A smart lock is something you may use several times every day, so long-term usability matters.

Before buying, consider:

• Battery life and low-battery alerts
• Emergency power options
• Mechanical key backup
• User and permission management
• Access history
• App usability
• Installation requirements
• Warranty and after-sales support

The best smart lock is not necessarily the one with the longest feature list. It is the one that provides the right security, access methods, connectivity, and management features for your specific space and users.

Looking for a Smart Lock That Balances Security and Convenience? Meet SGUDA

When choosing a smart lock, convenient access is only part of the equation. Physical security, cybersecurity, user management, and everyday usability should all be considered.

Developed by a team in Taiwan, SGUDA smart locks combine decades of lock manufacturing experience with smart technology to provide access solutions for homes, offices, and rental properties.

For physical security, SGUDA smart locks include an ANSI Grade 3 Deadbolt. For digital security, SGUDA uses AES-128 encryption and TLS/SSL communication security technologies to help protect data transmission and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Depending on the model, SGUDA offers access methods including fingerprint, passcode, RFID card, smartphone App, Bluetooth, mechanical key, smartwatch, and voice assistant. App-connected models also support features such as remote operation, user access management, and activity logs—helping users manage not only how a door is unlocked, but also how access is controlled.

Get to know our products

A home equipped with modern technology and connected devices is what many people imagine when thinking about a smart home.

Lights, speakers, TVs, screens, doors, and even door locks can now be automated or controlled through smart devices.

There are many different types of smart door locks on the market, including electronic deadbolts, keyless smart locks, and touchscreen keypad deadbolts. Choosing the right smart lock for your home requires understanding your existing door and lock first.

Here are five things you should know before choosing and installing a smart door lock:

1. Door Lock Types
2. Exterior Door Types and Materials
3. How to Measure Your Door
4. Smart Door Lock Types
5. Features of Smart Door Locks

1. Door Lock Types

Knob Lock

Knob locks are one of the most common types of locks and are often found on interior doors such as bathrooms and backyard doors.

Because the locking mechanism is located inside the knob, this type of lock can be relatively easy to damage with tools such as a wrench or hammer. Therefore, it is generally not recommended as the primary security lock for an exterior door.

One solution is to add a deadbolt smart lock or replace the knob lock with a smart lever lock.

Lever Handle Lock

Lever handle locks are commonly used on interior doors and are easy to grasp and operate.

Smart lever locks and deadbolt smart door locks may be suitable options for doors using this type of hardware.

Mortise Lock

A mortise lock is installed inside a pocket, known as a mortise, cut into the edge of the door.

Because the lock body is installed inside the door itself, replacing or upgrading a mortise lock usually requires checking the existing door dimensions and lock specifications.

Deadbolt Door Lock

Deadbolt locks are among the easiest types to upgrade to a smart lock.

For homeowners interested in DIY installation, many smart deadbolts are designed to use existing deadbolt holes and include quick installation instructions.

Cylinder Locks

There are several types of cylinder locks, including rim cylinders, mortise cylinders, and European cylinders.

Depending on the existing door configuration, a deadbolt smart lock may be suitable for this type of installation.

2. Exterior Door Types and Materials

Before purchasing an electronic door lock or smart keypad lock, make sure your door material and construction are compatible with the smart lock.

Common exterior door types include:

• Panel doors
• Double-leaf wooden doors
• Storm doors
• Windowed doors

Common exterior door materials include:

• Steel
• Wood
• Fiberglass
• Aluminum

3. How to Measure Your Door

The following measurements were originally provided to determine whether a door was compatible with the SGUDA U-Lock touchscreen smart deadbolt.

A. Door Width

Measure from the edge of the door.

The available door surface should be more than 10 cm wide.

B. Door Thickness

Door thickness should be greater than 1⅜ inches.

C. Latch Dimensions

Measure the width and length of the existing latch.

D. Distance Between Main Door and Exterior Gate

If there is another gate or security door outside the main door, the gap between the two doors should be greater than 4 inches.

E. Deadbolt Installation Measurements

For SGUDA U-Lock installation, check:

• Backset
• Door thickness
• Latch dimensions
• Required deadbolt hole position

4. Smart Door Lock Types

Deadbolt

A smart deadbolt is one of the easiest types of smart locks to install.

If your door already has a traditional deadbolt, upgrading is relatively simple because the existing hole can often be reused.

Example: SGUDA U-Lock smart deadbolt door lock.

Lever

Smart lever locks are suitable for replacing traditional lever locks or knob locks.

In many cases, no additional hole needs to be drilled during installation.

Mortise

Mortise smart locks are commonly used when replacing or upgrading an existing mortise lock system.

Because mortise systems vary considerably in size and construction, compatibility with the existing door and lock body should be confirmed before installation.

5. Features of Smart Door Locks

Smart locks offer different levels of security, functions, and entry methods depending on the product and user’s requirements.

They can generally be divided into three levels:

A. Basic

Common entry methods include:

• Key card
• Passcode
• Mechanical key

B. Intermediate

Additional entry methods may include:

• Key card
• Passcode
• Mechanical key
• Bluetooth
• Fingerprint

C. Advanced

Advanced connected smart locks may provide:

• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Activity logs
• Remote lock and unlock
• User access management

These features allow users to manage their doors remotely and monitor access through a connected smart lock system.

Get to know our products

“Can a smart lock get wet?” is one of the most common questions people ask before purchasing a smart lock.

Smart locks contain electronic components, batteries, sensors, and internal wiring. In addition to unlocking methods and smart features, it is also important to consider whether the installation location will be directly exposed to rain or moisture.

Before deciding whether a smart lock is suitable for your door, it is important to understand one thing: waterproof and splash-resistant are not the same.

What’s the Difference Between Waterproof and Splash-Resistant?

In everyday use, the term “waterproof” is often used broadly to describe a product’s ability to resist water. However, the actual level of protection can vary depending on the amount of water, direction of exposure, and duration.

Here is a simple comparison:

A product described as “splash-resistant” is therefore not necessarily designed for prolonged exposure to heavy rain or immersion in water.

If a product has an IP protection rating, its suitability should be evaluated according to the manufacturer’s specified rating and testing conditions rather than relying solely on the term “waterproof.”

Why Does Rain Exposure Matter for Smart Locks?

Smart locks are different from purely mechanical locks.

The exterior and interior units typically communicate through internal wiring and electronic components, while the lock may also contain circuit boards, batteries, and other electronic modules.

Even when a smart lock is designed to handle everyday splashes, prolonged exposure to heavy rain or standing water should still be avoided.

Extra attention should be given to locations such as:

• Outdoor doors without overhead protection
• Entrances exposed to wind-driven rain
• Coastal or high-humidity environments
• Locations where the lock may be directly exposed to water spray

Is an Awning Enough for Smart Lock Installation?

An awning or roof provides useful protection, but it is not the only factor to consider.

The direction of rainfall, wind conditions, and the actual position of the lock should also be evaluated.

For example, even when an entrance has an awning, strong winds may still blow rain directly onto the lock. Long-term exposure to moisture may also affect electronic components.

Before purchasing a smart lock, consider:

Door Type → Installation Location → Direct Rain Exposure → Level of Shelter → Suitable Operating Environment

Evaluating the actual installation environment gives you a much clearer answer than simply asking whether a smart lock is “waterproof.”

How Are SGUDA Smart Locks Designed for Everyday Environments?

SGUDA smart locks are designed with the everyday needs of residential and commercial environments in mind.

Splash resistance does not mean that a smart lock should be continuously exposed to heavy rain or submerged in water.

If you plan to install a smart lock outdoors, in an unsheltered location, or somewhere frequently exposed to heavy rain, we recommend confirming the installation environment and product suitability before purchase and installation.

You can also provide photos of your door and installation location, allowing us to help evaluate whether the door type and environment are suitable.

Beyond Residential Use: Smart Access for Hospitality

For vacation rentals, short-term rentals, and hospitality businesses, the installation environment is only one consideration. Guest access permissions and remote management can also play an important role when choosing a smart lock.

Depending on the product and system requirements, SGUDA smart locks can also be evaluated for integration with a PMS (Property Management System), extending smart access control to self check-in and hospitality management applications.

If you are considering smart access for a vacation rental, hotel, or PMS integration project, share your use case and system requirements with us to discuss potential SGUDA smart access solutions and collaboration opportunities.