Reviews

Nuki Bridge Review

22 February 2023 2 min read
Nuki Bridge Review

Nuki Bridge Review: Is It Worth Buying?

If you’re a Nuki smart lock user wondering whether the optional Nuki Bridge accessory is worth buying at its £89 price point, you’ve come to the right place. Our review explores if the limited uses of this bridge justify its cost.

Who Needs the Nuki Bridge?

The Nuki Bridge has limited use cases due to its high price and the built-in HomeKit compatibility in the Nuki 3.0, which provides out-of-home access via Apple devices acting as a home hub. So, who might find it useful?

  • Android users seeking out-of-home access
  • Users wanting to integrate their lock with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
  • Advanced users interested in the Nuki Web and Bridge APIs for custom commands

The Design, Specification, and Setup

The design of the bridge is simple and unobtrusive. It’s a black rounded plug shape (for UK users) with a button and indicator light on the front.

Its specification includes built-in Bluetooth for connecting to your lock and Wi-Fi for connecting to your network, ideally within 5 meters of your Nuki lock.

Setup is straightforward using the instructions in the Nuki App. For Nuki 3.0 users, there may be a waiting period of a few hours between setup and linking your lock to the bridge due to internal software updates.

Voice Assistants

To configure the Nuki Bridge with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, go into your lock settings in the Nuki app, ensure Nuki Web is switched on, then choose your preferred assistant under Features and Configuration settings.

Note that a security pin will be required for voice commands to prevent unauthorized access.

Out-of-home Access

The Nuki Bridge brings out-of-home access via the Nuki app, allowing you to control and monitor your lock’s status when away from home. However, Apple users already have this feature through the Apple Home app without needing a bridge.

Nuki Web and Bridge API

For advanced users, the bridge grants access to the Nuki web and app APIs, enabling custom commands via tools like Raspberry Pi or Siri Shortcuts. Commands set up with the web API work outside of your home, while calls to the bridge API require you to be on your home Wi-Fi network.

Should You Buy a Nuki Bridge?

At its £89 price point, we believe the Nuki Bridge is only worth considering if you’re an Android user or desperately want Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant integration. For Apple users without advanced needs like APIs, it’s hard to justify the cost at this price.

Read more reviews from us here.

Written by Mark's Tech Blogs

Reviews smart home tech hands-on, in his own house, before it goes on the channel.

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