August Video Doorbell Review

Who is the August Video Doorbell For?

The August Video Doorbell is designed primarily for users who already own an August Smart Lock. Its key feature is the ability to unlock your door directly from the live video feed without switching apps. This makes it a natural extension of the August ecosystem. For users without an August lock, the doorbell functions as a standard smart doorbell but lacks the unique integration that sets it apart.

Performance and Video Quality

The doorbell captures video at 1440p resolution with a 120-degree field of view. Owner reviews on retailer sites report clear daytime footage and acceptable night vision performance. The 1:1 aspect ratio provides a tall, portrait-style view that shows packages on the ground and visitors from head to toe. Two-way audio is clear, though some users note a slight delay during conversation.

Build Quality and Installation

August builds the doorbell from durable polycarbonate with a weather-resistant design. Installation requires a wired connection to an existing doorbell transformer (16-24V AC). This is a limitation for homes without pre-existing wiring. The included mounting bracket and angled wedge make alignment straightforward for standard door frames. The warranty covers one year against defects.

Smart Features and Ecosystem

The August app provides motion alerts, live streaming, and a "Doorbell Call" feature that sends a push notification when someone rings. The standout feature is the ability to unlock an August Smart Lock directly from the live view screen. This works reliably and is a major convenience for users. The doorbell supports Amazon Alexa for voice commands but lacks native Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit integration.

Cloud Storage and Subscription

August offers a free 24-hour snapshot history, but full video recording requires a subscription. The August Connect plan costs per month and provides 30 days of event history. This is a common model among smart doorbells, but competitors like Ring offer basic recording with a lower-cost plan. Users should factor this ongoing cost into their decision.

What to Check Before Buying

Before purchasing the August Video Doorbell, verify your existing doorbell wiring voltage (16-24V AC). The doorbell requires a wired connection and will not work with battery power. Also, consider whether you plan to use the August Smart Lock integration. If you do not own an August lock, other doorbells offer more features for the price.

Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is assuming the doorbell works without a subscription for recording. The free tier only shows snapshots, not full video clips. Another error is ignoring the ecosystem lock-in. The doorbell's best feature only works with August locks, so mixing brands reduces its value. Finally, ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong at the door location, as weak connectivity causes lag and missed events.

Alternatives to Consider

For users outside the August ecosystem, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 offers 1536p video, radar-based motion detection, and a wider field of view. The Nest Doorbell (wired) provides 24/7 continuous recording with a Nest Aware subscription and works well with Google Home. The Eufy Video Doorbell Dual records at 2K resolution and includes local storage without a monthly fee.