Access history is available in some setups (and was highlighted in early coverage), but in practice it can depend on the hub and platform, and not every controller app exposes detailed logs.
PINs can be assigned per person and activity/history views are referenced, enabling basic visibility into who accessed the door.
Reviews note no built-in alarm/siren, so there is no siren loudness benefit to rely on.
App support is inconsistent: some versions rely on a smart-home hub app rather than a dedicated Kwikset app, which can limit advanced controls like remote code creation on certain platforms.
Reviews consistently praise the myQ app for guiding setup, managing PINs/biometrics, and providing remote control; however, multiple reviewers warn that key camera/AI conveniences may be gated by a subscription or altered over time.
Auto-relock/auto-lock features are commonly praised for convenience and worked consistently in testing, but toggling settings may require opening the interior panel and using small switches.
Auto-lock can be enabled and timed in-app (example: ~90 seconds), providing set-and-forget security once the door is closed. Hands-free face access and other biometric/PIN methods make entry convenient, but at least one outlet notes face-based automations can require a paid plan, reducing the value of the feature.
Installation guidance explicitly supports common backsets (2-3/8 and 2-3/4), with the latch adjustable to match standard door prep.
Powered by four AA batteries with low-battery warnings and external 9V jump terminals for emergencies; battery life reports vary (some cite roughly 5 to 6 months), and battery access can require partial disassembly.
Most sources cite roughly 4–6+ months per charge and like the rechargeable pack; charging can take several hours, and a swap/spare battery option is mentioned for avoiding downtime.
Multiple reviews explicitly note there is no Bluetooth, so there is no phone-proximity unlock or key fob option.
Bluetooth is mentioned as part of the internal module/antenna during installation, but Wi-Fi remains the primary path for remote control and camera features.
The exterior build is described as sturdy and the mechanism proved reliable in use, but at least one reviewer reported sloppy bolt machining that made installation harder.
Unboxing and install videos describe the exterior unit as dense/heavy with solid materials and good fit, suggesting strong build quality for a first-gen lock.
Reviews note no full door-open/closed alerting, but some describe auto-lock behavior that only triggers when the door is closed and may beep when it is not fully shut.
A door-position sensor (magnet) can report door-ajar vs closed status and is used during calibration; installation can be adhesive or a more permanent drilled mount.
If you are replacing another Kwikset deadbolt, the footprint and standard door prep can make swaps easier, with minimal changes to the door.
Z-Wave Plus versions cite over-the-air firmware update capability, but overall functionality remains intentionally minimalist and still depends on the hub ecosystem.
At least one reviewer notes an initial firmware update during setup; other coverage raises concerns that Chamberlain has historically changed features or added paywalls post-launch.
Fingerprint access is widely described as fast and reliable after setup, with support for enrolling multiple family members.
Obsidian stores up to 16 codes on the standalone model and up to 30 codes on connected versions, with 4 to 8 digits per code; code limits and scheduling features vary by model and ecosystem.
Guest access is handled via PINs and temporary passes in the app, aimed at deliveries, pet sitters, and short-term visitors without sharing a physical key.
Most smart features require a compatible Z-Wave hub; without it, Obsidian behaves like a standalone keypad deadbolt.
Many reviewers found setup straightforward with good hardware options, but others ran into alignment issues, confusing instructions, or a tricky handing/calibration step that required rework.
DIY installation is considered doable with clear instructions, but some doors may require drilling or extra strike/fitment work; careful alignment and cable connections matter.
Obsidian is keywayless, so there is no physical key override if electronics fail; the emergency fallback is the external 9V jump terminals plus your PIN.
A physical key is available (often hidden under a cover), and multiple videos highlight an emergency 9V contact method to power the lock long enough to get inside if the main battery is drained.
The illuminated touchscreen keypad is central to the design and is generally responsive and easy to use, though a few reviewers note it can take multiple touches to wake.
The touch keypad is easy to use and supports PIN entry for guests; one reviewer prefers physical buttons, so tactile feedback may not suit everyone.
Unlocking is generally quick once the keypad wakes, but some reviewers reported slower wake behavior and slightly slower operation in hot, sunny conditions.
Multiple reviews repeat Chamberlain’s two-second unlock claim and hands-on videos describe face/fingerprint unlock as very quick in real use.
Motor noise is noticeable to some reviewers, who describe the mechanism as loud during operation.
Across reviews, the lock generally operated consistently without jamming, and the auto-relock feature performed reliably when enabled.
Locking works reliably after calibration, but one install notes initial tightness/alignment issues that required strike/door prep adjustments—typical of deadbolt installs.
The lock provides audio/LED indicators (including low-battery alerts) and hub apps can show lock state, but native, lock-specific push notifications are limited and platform-dependent.
You will get basic lock and motion notifications, but richer, context-aware alerts (what triggered motion) and video-related conveniences may require a subscription.
Removing the keyway reduces exposure to key-based attacks, but otherwise Obsidian is a standard deadbolt without advanced intrusion sensing or active defense features.
Keywayless entry reduces the risk of traditional picking and bump-key attacks; reviews do not provide an explicit drill-resistance rating.
When paired to a Z-Wave hub, reviewers were able to lock/unlock and check status remotely, but code management and other functions can be restricted by the chosen platform.
Remote lock/unlock from the myQ app is described as straightforward and responsive, making it practical for letting in guests or service providers when you are away.
SecureScreen (decoy/random digits) helps prevent fingerprint-based code guessing, and Z-Wave versions mention encryption; the keywayless design also removes common key-based attack vectors like bump keys.
One walkthrough emphasizes that facial data stays on-device and references network protection settings, pointing to a privacy/security-first approach for biometrics.
Integration centers on Z-Wave hubs (such as SmartThings, Wink, and Control4) with Alexa/Google voice control typically routed through that hub; multiple reviews call out missing native HomeKit support.
Coverage repeatedly notes limited integration with major platforms (Apple Home/HomeKit, Alexa, Google) and stronger ties to the myQ ecosystem and select security partners.
The glossy, minimalist touch surface looks premium on modern doors but can smudge; SecureScreen and anti-fingerprint coatings help reduce obvious fingerprint trails.
The touchscreen/touch surface looks modern and responsive, but some users may still prefer traditional button keypads for feel and certainty.
You can add/remove PINs and use an optional master code, but advanced guest access controls (expiring or scheduled codes) are limited or unavailable on some models and hubs.
User and credential management (adding users, quick/temporary passes, PINs, faces, fingerprints) is a core strength highlighted in setup walkthroughs.
Pricing is mid-to-premium for a touchscreen deadbolt; value is better if you already own a Z-Wave hub, but paying extra for a hub and living with limited code controls can reduce perceived value.
At roughly $279.99 plus potential monthly fees for premium camera/AI features, reviewers frame it as a premium-priced option where total cost depends on whether you subscribe.
Voice control generally works for locking and status checks through Alexa/Google when paired with a hub, but unlocking by voice is often restricted for security.
Voice control via mainstream assistants is called out as missing/limited, so hands-free voice unlocking routines are not a focus here.
Media coverage flags broader trust/support concerns based on Chamberlain’s past platform decisions, even though hands-on reviewers do not report direct support failures yet.
The black exterior can absorb heat in direct sun; at least one reviewer noted it can get hot to the touch and may slow slightly under high heat.
Hardware is presented as built for outdoor use with wide operating temperatures and good sealing/gasketing to help keep moisture out.
There is no built-in Wi-Fi; remote access typically depends on Z-Wave plus a hub rather than direct Wi-Fi connectivity.
Wi-Fi setup is app-driven and generally smooth, but one install walkthrough highlights 2.4GHz-only pairing and a firmware update step during onboarding.