Affordable Doesn’t Mean Basic
The smart lock market in Australia has changed dramatically over the last few years. Once considered a luxury item, smart locks are now available at prices that make them accessible to most households, all without sacrificing the quality, security, or features that people expect. In fact, some of the most practical, stylish, and secure smart locks now sit in the under-$600 range — perfect for homeowners, renters, and Airbnb hosts who want smarter access without overspending.
What to Look for in a Smart Lock Under $600
Shopping in this price range no longer means compromising on performance. Many sub-$600 smart locks offer the same convenience features as their premium counterparts, including biometric unlocking, app control, and multiple access modes. The key things to consider are: whether the lock offers secure and reliable unlock methods like fingerprint or PIN; if it’s compatible with standard Australian doors for easy installation; whether it has strong battery life to minimise maintenance; and if there’s a solid local warranty with responsive support. Smart home compatibility, such as integration with Google or Alexa, can also be a deciding factor for tech-savvy buyers.
Lockin X1 – Stylish Simplicity for Everyday Use
The Lockin X1 is proof that affordable can also be elegant. Finished in a sleek rose-gold design, it’s as much a statement piece as it is a home security upgrade. A one-touch fingerprint unlock makes coming and going effortless, while app notifications keep you in the loop about who’s entering your home. It’s an ideal choice for apartment dwellers, couples, or anyone looking to upgrade from a traditional lock to something smarter without dealing with complexity. The X1 delivers all the essentials — security, style, and convenience — for $549, backed by local Australian support.
Lockin X9 – Versatile Access for Families and Hosts
If you’re looking for flexibility in how people access your property, the Lockin X9 is the standout choice in this price bracket. With six unlock methods — including fingerprint, PIN, NFC, key, Bluetooth, and app control — it’s built for households or properties with multiple users. A 12-month battery life means fewer maintenance interruptions, and a built-in safety clutch adds an extra layer of protection. Priced at $549, the X9 is well-suited to busy family homes, short-stay rentals, or investment properties where different people need access at different times.
How X1 and X9 Compare to Other Options
The X1 and X9 aren’t the only contenders in the sub-$600 smart lock space, but they stand out for the combination of build quality, features, and local availability. The Eufy Wi-Fi Smart Lock C210, for example, offers app control and PIN access at a competitive $248–$500 price range, but lacks biometric unlocking, which many now consider an essential security feature. The Aqara U300 lever lock brings fingerprint and Apple Home Key support for around AU$330, but has limited distribution in Australia, making local support harder to access. For renters on a tight budget, the SwitchBot Lock is a retrofit option at roughly $150, but it doesn’t match the aesthetics, security, or functionality of a purpose-built smart lock.
Against this backdrop, the Lockin X1 and X9 present a compelling proposition. They deliver premium-grade biometric access, durable construction, and thoughtful design, while still offering the reassurance of a local warranty and support team.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the X1 and X9 comes down to how you plan to use your smart lock. If you want a sleek, stylish upgrade for everyday use in a smaller household, the X1 ticks all the boxes. It’s simple, reliable, and elegant — a great entry point into smart security. If you need a lock that can handle multiple users, frequent access changes, or property management duties, the X9’s versatile access modes and robust battery life make it the clear winner.
The Final Word
Smart locks under $600 have reached a point where you can expect premium performance at a value price. With the X1 and X9, Lockin proves that affordability can coexist with design excellence, feature richness, and real-world durability. Whether it’s your family home, an investment property, or your very first smart lock, both models offer security you can trust — and a smarter way to come home.