August Smart Lock Review
August is a leading brand in the smart lock space, known for its retrofit design that works with your existing deadbolt. This review covers the key models, their features, and how they perform to help you decide if an August lock is right for your home.
Quick answer
For most homeowners, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is the best overall pick, offering a perfect balance of features, reliability, and ease of installation. For a more affordable option that still includes Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (3rd Gen) is a strong alternative.
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Research updated June 2026.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Built-in Wi-Fi, Auto-Lock/Unlock, and works with most existing deadbolts.
| Model | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August Wi-Fi (4th Gen) | Best Overall | Built-in Wi-Fi, Auto-Lock/Unlock | 4.5/5 | Mid |
| August Wi-Fi (3rd Gen) | Best Value | Wi-Fi bridge required, Auto-Lock/Unlock | 4.3/5 | Budget |
| August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen) | Z-Wave Compatibility | Z-Wave Plus, Wi-Fi bridge included | 4.2/5 | Mid-High |
| August View | Built-in Doorbell | Built-in camera & doorbell | 3.8/5 | High |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 with August | Keypad & Keyless | Keypad, August Wi-Fi module included | 4.4/5 | Mid |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best OverallPros
- Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates need for separate bridge
- Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock work reliably
- Fits over most existing single-cylinder deadbolts
Cons
- No built-in keypad
- Battery life can be shorter with heavy Wi-Fi use
The 4th Gen August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the most refined version of the brand's retrofit design. It connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network, so you don't need the separate August Connect bridge. This simplifies setup and allows for remote access, voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant, and integration with Apple Home.
Owner reviews consistently praise the ease of installation and the reliability of the Auto-Unlock feature, which uses your phone's location. The lock is compact and doesn't change the exterior appearance of your door. Some users note that battery life is around 3-6 months depending on usage, but the app provides low battery alerts.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (3rd Gen)
Best ValuePros
- Lower price point than 4th Gen
- Same core features (Auto-Lock/Unlock)
- Compatible with existing deadbolts
Cons
- Requires separate August Connect bridge for Wi-Fi
- Bridge can be an additional cost
The 3rd Gen August Wi-Fi Smart Lock offers the same fundamental experience as the 4th Gen but at a lower price. The key difference is that it uses Bluetooth by default and requires the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge (sold separately) for remote access and voice control. If you already have a Connect bridge, this is a very cost-effective upgrade.
Owner reviews indicate that the Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock features work just as well as on the newer model. The installation is identical and takes about 10 minutes. The main drawback is the need for the extra bridge, which can add to the overall cost and requires a nearby power outlet.
August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen)
Best for Z-WavePros
- Z-Wave Plus for reliable smart home integration
- Includes August Connect Wi-Fi bridge
- Works with Ring alarm system
Cons
- More expensive than standard 3rd Gen
- Z-Wave setup can be more complex
The August Smart Lock Pro is designed for users with a Z-Wave smart home hub, such as Samsung SmartThings or Ring Alarm. It includes Z-Wave Plus technology for robust and low-power communication with your hub. The lock also comes with the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge, giving you both Z-Wave and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Owner reviews highlight the lock's reliability when paired with a Z-Wave hub, especially for automation routines. The installation is the same simple retrofit process. The main trade-off is the higher price and the slightly more involved setup for Z-Wave integration compared to a pure Wi-Fi lock.
August View
Best with DoorbellPros
- Built-in 1080p doorbell camera
- Two-way audio
- No separate doorbell needed
Cons
- Bulky design
- Camera battery life is short (weeks)
The August View is a unique product that combines a smart lock with a built-in doorbell camera. It replaces your entire deadbolt and includes a 1080p camera with a wide-angle lens, night vision, and two-way audio. You can see, hear, and speak to visitors directly from the August app.
Owner reviews are mixed. The convenience of having a lock and camera in one unit is praised, but the camera's battery life is a significant drawback, often requiring recharging every few weeks. The lock itself functions well, but the bulkier design may not suit all doors. It's a niche product for those who want a single-device solution.
Yale Assure Lock 2 with August
Best Keypad OptionPros
- Built-in keypad for keyless entry
- Uses August app and features
- Touchscreen or keypad models available
Cons
- Requires full deadbolt replacement
- More expensive than retrofit August locks
The Yale Assure Lock 2 with August is a collaboration that combines Yale's hardware reliability with August's smart home platform. It replaces your entire deadbolt and includes a backlit keypad for keyless entry. The lock comes with an August Wi-Fi module built-in, giving you all the August app features like Auto-Lock, Auto-Unlock, and remote access.
Owner reviews are very positive, praising the build quality and the convenience of the keypad. The lock is available in touchscreen or physical keypad versions. The main downside is that it requires a full deadbolt replacement, which is more involved than a retrofit install. It is also more expensive than the standard August retrofit locks.
What to check before buying an August Smart Lock
Before purchasing an August Smart Lock, there are a few key considerations. First, check your existing deadbolt. August locks are designed to retrofit over most standard single-cylinder deadbolts, but they are not compatible with all locks, especially mortise locks or those with a thumb turn that is not removable. The August app has a compatibility checker.
Second, consider your smart home ecosystem. If you use Apple Home, Alexa, or Google Assistant, all August locks work with these platforms. If you use a Z-Wave hub like SmartThings, the August Smart Lock Pro is the best option. Third, think about how you will unlock the door. August locks rely on your phone or a key. If you want a keypad, consider the Yale Assure Lock 2 with August or the August Keypad accessory.
Performance and reliability
August locks are generally well-regarded for their performance. The Auto-Unlock feature, which uses geofencing to unlock the door when you arrive home, is a standout feature that works reliably for most users. The Auto-Lock feature is also highly customizable, allowing you to set a timer for the door to lock automatically after it is closed.
Battery life is a common concern. August recommends using high-quality alkaline batteries. With typical use, batteries last 3-6 months. The app provides low battery alerts. Some users report shorter battery life with heavy Wi-Fi usage on the 4th Gen model. The lock will still function with a key if the batteries die completely.
Build quality and design
August locks have a modern, minimalist design that blends well with most door hardware. The materials are primarily plastic, but the build quality is solid. The lock mechanism is quiet and smooth in operation. The 4th Gen model is slightly smaller than the 3rd Gen, making it less obtrusive on the door.
One design consideration is that August locks do not include a keypad. You must use your phone, a key, or a separate August Keypad accessory. This is a deliberate design choice to keep the lock compact. The Yale Assure Lock 2 with August is a good alternative if you want a built-in keypad.
Alternatives to August Smart Locks
Several other brands offer competitive smart locks. The Ring Smart Lock is a direct competitor, offering similar retrofit functionality and integration with Ring security systems. It is a good choice for Ring users. The Schlage Encode Plus is a premium option with a built-in keypad and Apple Home Key support, but it requires a full deadbolt replacement.
For a more budget-friendly option, the Wyze Lock offers retrofit installation and basic smart features at a lower price point. However, it lacks the polish and reliability of the August app and ecosystem. The Yale Assure Lock 2 (without August) is another alternative that offers keypad and keyless entry with its own app, but it does not have the same level of smart home integration as August.
Mistakes to avoid when buying an August Smart Lock
A common mistake is not checking deadbolt compatibility before purchase. Always use the August app or website to confirm your deadbolt is compatible. Another mistake is buying the 3rd Gen model without realizing it needs a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote access. If you want remote access out of the box, the 4th Gen is the better choice.
Some users also overlook the need for a strong Wi-Fi signal at the door. A weak signal can cause connectivity issues. Finally, avoid buying the August View if you primarily need a reliable doorbell camera, as the battery life is a significant compromise. It is better suited for those who want a single-device solution and are willing to recharge the camera frequently.
FAQs
Do August Smart Locks work with my existing deadbolt?
Yes, most August locks are designed to retrofit over standard single-cylinder deadbolts. You should use the August app to check compatibility before buying.
Do I need a separate Wi-Fi bridge for an August lock?
The 4th Gen August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has built-in Wi-Fi. The 3rd Gen requires the separate August Connect bridge for remote access and voice control.
How long do the batteries last in an August Smart Lock?
Battery life is typically 3-6 months with standard alkaline batteries. The app will send low battery alerts before the batteries die.
Can I use an August Smart Lock with Apple Home?
Yes, all August Smart Locks are compatible with Apple Home, allowing you to control the lock with Siri and include it in HomeKit automations.
Does the August Smart Lock work with Alexa?
Yes, August locks work with Amazon Alexa for voice control. You can lock and unlock the door using voice commands.
What happens if the batteries die on my August lock?
The lock will still function with a physical key. The August app also provides low battery alerts to help you avoid this situation.
Can I add a keypad to my August Smart Lock?
Yes, August sells a separate Keypad accessory that can be mounted on the door or wall for keyless entry with a code.
Is the August Smart Lock secure?
Yes, August locks use encryption and secure protocols. They are also BHMA certified for security and durability.
What is the difference between the 3rd Gen and 4th Gen August lock?
The main difference is that the 4th Gen has built-in Wi-Fi, while the 3rd Gen requires a separate bridge for Wi-Fi connectivity.
Does the August Smart Lock work with Ring?
Yes, the August Smart Lock Pro works with Ring Alarm via Z-Wave. Other August locks can integrate with Ring through Alexa routines.
Our verdict
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is our top recommendation for its built-in Wi-Fi, reliable Auto-Lock/Unlock, and easy retrofit installation. For a more budget-friendly option, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (3rd Gen) offers the same core features if you already have or are willing to buy the Connect bridge. If you need a keypad, the Yale Assure Lock 2