Smart Lock Buying Guide: Bluetooth vs Gateway — Which One Do You Really Need?

So you’re thinking about upgrading your front door.

You’ve probably seen terms like “Bluetooth Enabled” and “Gateway Required” everywhere — on product pages, packaging, and comparison charts. They look similar in the app, but in real life, they solve very different problems.

In the previous article, we walked through how to install a Wi-Fi gateway.

Naturally, the next question is:

Do I actually need one?

Is a gateway just an upsell — or is it essential?

This article breaks down the real difference between Bluetooth-only access and Gateway-connected access, so you can understand how each system works and choose the setup that actually fits your lifestyle.

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1️⃣ Bluetooth: Smart — As Long As You’re There

Bluetooth mode is how every TTLock starts.

Your phone communicates directly with the lock when you’re nearby — no internet involved.

Think of it like wireless headphones: smooth, fast, and reliable, but only within range.

A Real-Life Scenario

You’re carrying groceries, juggling bags, maybe a coffee too. You reach the door, and your phone automatically unlocks it.

That moment feels great.

That’s Bluetooth doing its job.

But later that day, you’re at the office and suddenly think:

“Wait… did I lock the door this morning?”

You open the app.

Nothing connects.

Now you’re stuck with pure anxiety — because Bluetooth can’t reach your door from miles away.

Pros

• Very battery-efficient

• Works even if your home internet goes down

• Simple and reliable for everyday entry

Cons

• No remote unlocking

• No way to check door status when you’re away

• No real-time access records

Bluetooth is convenient — but only when you’re physically there.

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2️⃣ The Gateway: Where “Smart” Really Starts

The Wi-Fi Gateway is a small device that stays near your door and connects your lock to the internet.

It acts as a bridge:

• Bluetooth between the lock and the gateway

• Wi-Fi between the gateway and the internet

A Real-Life Scenario

A delivery driver calls. You’re not home.

Instead of rushing back or rescheduling, you open the app, unlock the door remotely, let the package inside, and lock the door again — all from your phone.

You can even check the access record afterward.

That’s not just convenience.

That’s control.

Pros

• Unlock the door from anywhere

• Check door status remotely

• View real-time access logs

• Works with Google Home or Alexa

• Ideal for shops, offices, rentals, and families

Cons

• Extra cost (usually €30–€50)

• Needs a nearby power outlet

• Requires proper placement for stable Bluetooth connection

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What About Security and Stability?

This is where many people worry — understandably.

What If the Internet Goes Down?

No problem.

If Wi-Fi is unavailable or the gateway loses power:

• Bluetooth unlocking still works

• Passcodes, fingerprints, cards, or physical keys still work

Nothing gets locked out permanently.

Placement Matters

For stable remote unlocking, the gateway must be:

• Within recommended distance of the lock

• Not blocked by thick walls or metal objects

If the gateway is too far away, Bluetooth signals weaken — and remote actions may become unreliable.

The system is secure — as long as it’s set up properly.

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Why Not Just Put Wi-Fi Inside the Lock?

You might wonder:

"Why do I need a separate box?

Why can't the lock just connect to Wi-Fi directly?" 

The answer is Power.

Wi-Fi is a power-hungry beast. If a smart lock connected directly to your Wi-Fi router, you’d be changing those AA batteries every few weeks.

The Bluetooth + Gateway design is intentional:

• Bluetooth keeps the lock energy-efficient

• The gateway handles internet communication using wall power

It’s currently the best balance between battery life and remote control.

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So… Do You Actually Need a Gateway?

Ask yourself these three questions:

• Do I ever need to unlock the door for someone when I’m not home?

• Do I worry about whether the door is locked after I leave?

• Do I want access records or voice control with Google Home or Alexa?

If the answer to any of these is “yes” —don’t skip the gateway.

The Verdict: Which one should you choose?

• Stick with Bluetooth if: You live in a small apartment, you’re the only one with access, and you only care about "keyless entry" when you are physically at the door.

• Add the Gateway if: You have a family, you host on Airbnb, you’re the type of person who gets halfway to work and wonders, "Did I remember to lock the door?" or want to say

  "Alexa, lock the front door."

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🌟Final thought:

Bluetooth is the starting point.

The gateway is what turns a smart lock into a smart system —and unlocks the full experience of smart living.

If you decide to add a gateway, you’re not just enabling remote unlocking.

One of the most surprisingly useful features it unlocks is “Works with Google Home or Alexa.”

In the next article, we’ll take a closer look at what that actually means in real life—and when voice control truly makes a difference.