Best August Motion Sensor of 2026
Enhance your August Smart Lock with a dedicated motion sensor for automated door locking and unlocking. We analyzed specs, battery life, and owner reviews to find the best options for 2026.
Quick answer
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock with built-in motion sensor is the top pick for most, offering seamless auto-unlock. For a dedicated retrofit sensor, the August Door & Window Sensor provides reliable open/close detection at a lower cost.
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Research updated June 2026.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Built-in motion sensor for reliable auto-unlock with no extra hub needed.
| Product | Best for | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | Overall auto-unlock | Built-in motion sensor | 4.6/5 | $$ |
| August Door & Window Sensor | Budget retrofit | Magnetic open/close | 4.3/5 | $ |
| August Smart Lock Pro + Connect | Z-Wave integration | External motion sensor | 4.4/5 | $$$ |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 with August | Keyless entry | Touchscreen + motion | 4.5/5 | $$$ |
| Ring Alarm Motion Sensor | Whole-home security | PIR detection | 4.2/5 | $ |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best OverallPros
- No extra hub required
- Reliable auto-unlock
- Easy installation
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited to August ecosystem
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) integrates a motion sensor directly into the lock body. This allows the lock to detect your approach and automatically unlock when you are within range. Owner reviews highlight the convenience and consistent performance of the auto-unlock feature.
Battery life is rated at six months with typical use, and the lock connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Low Energy. The installation process is straightforward, fitting over most standard deadbolts without removing the existing interior hardware.
August Door & Window Sensor
Best Budget RetrofitPros
- Very affordable
- Long battery life
- Simple setup
Cons
- No motion detection
- Requires August lock
The August Door & Window Sensor is a magnetic sensor that detects when a door or window is opened or closed. It pairs with your August Smart Lock to trigger actions like auto-locking when the door is shut. Owner reviews note the sensor is reliable and easy to install with adhesive backing.
Battery life is excellent at up to 12 months, and the sensor communicates via Bluetooth. It is a cost-effective way to add open/close detection to your August setup, though it does not detect motion in the traditional sense.
August Smart Lock Pro + Connect
Best Z-Wave IntegrationPros
- Z-Wave for smart hubs
- Includes Connect bridge
- Works with Alexa/Google
Cons
- Bulky design
- Higher cost
The August Smart Lock Pro + Connect kit includes a separate motion sensor that can be placed on the door frame. This external sensor detects door movement and triggers auto-lock or unlock actions. Owner reviews appreciate the Z-Wave compatibility for integration with systems like SmartThings.
The kit includes the Connect Wi-Fi bridge for remote access. Battery life is similar to the 4th Gen at six months. The external sensor adds flexibility but requires separate placement and pairing.
Yale Assure Lock 2 with August
Best Keyless EntryPros
- Touchscreen keypad
- August app support
- Long battery life
Cons
- No built-in motion
- Requires August module
The Yale Assure Lock 2 with August module offers a touchscreen keypad for keyless entry and integrates with the August app for remote control. While it does not have a built-in motion sensor, it can be paired with the August Door & Window Sensor for auto-lock functionality. Owner reviews praise the sleek design and reliable keypad.
Battery life is strong at up to 12 months. The lock is available in multiple finishes and fits standard doors. It is a good option for those who want a keyless experience with August ecosystem compatibility.
Ring Alarm Motion Sensor
Best Whole-Home SecurityPros
- Very long battery life
- Wide detection range
- Integrates with Ring
Cons
- Requires Ring Alarm hub
- Not August-specific
The Ring Alarm Motion Sensor is a PIR (passive infrared) sensor that detects motion in a room. It can be integrated with the August Smart Lock via Ring's Alexa routines or through Z-Wave. Owner reviews highlight the sensor's long battery life of up to three years and reliable detection.
It is designed for whole-home security rather than door-specific automation. For August users with a Ring Alarm system, this sensor can trigger the lock to secure when motion is detected after leaving.
What to check before buying an August motion sensor
Before purchasing a motion sensor for your August Smart Lock, verify compatibility with your specific lock model. August offers several generations, and not all sensors work with every lock. Check the product specifications for supported lock versions.
Consider the sensor type: built-in motion sensors offer seamless auto-unlock but are limited to newer models. External sensors provide more placement flexibility but require separate installation and pairing. Battery life varies from six months to three years depending on the sensor technology.
Mistakes to avoid
A common mistake is assuming all August sensors work with third-party smart home hubs. Some sensors use Bluetooth only, while others support Z-Wave or Wi-Fi. Verify connectivity requirements before purchase to avoid compatibility issues.
Another error is ignoring the placement guidelines for external sensors. PIR sensors need a clear line of sight and should not be placed behind furniture or in direct sunlight. Magnetic sensors must be aligned correctly on the door and frame for reliable operation.
FAQs
Do I need a motion sensor for my August lock?
A motion sensor enables auto-unlock and auto-lock features based on your proximity or door movement, adding convenience and security.
Can I use a third-party motion sensor with August?
Yes, but it must be compatible with the August app or your smart home hub. Z-Wave sensors can work with August via hubs like SmartThings.
How long does the August motion sensor battery last?
Battery life varies by model. Built-in sensors last about six months, while external sensors like the Ring Alarm can last up to three years.
Does the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock have a built-in motion sensor?
Yes, the 4th Gen August Wi-Fi Smart Lock includes a built-in motion sensor for auto-unlock without extra hardware.
Can I add a motion sensor to an older August lock?
Yes, you can add the August Door & Window Sensor or a compatible third-party sensor to older models for door open/close detection.
What is the range of the August motion sensor?
The built-in sensor range is typically up to 15 feet. External PIR sensors like the Ring Alarm can detect motion up to 30 feet.
Does the August motion sensor work with Alexa?
Yes, August locks and sensors integrate with Alexa for voice control and routines, though a Wi-Fi bridge may be required.
Is the August Door & Window Sensor a motion sensor?
No, it is a magnetic sensor that detects open/close status, not motion. It triggers actions based on door position.
Can I use the August motion sensor without a subscription?
Yes, basic functionality works without a subscription. Advanced features like video recording may require a subscription with Ring sensors.
How do I install an August motion sensor?
Most sensors use adhesive backing for easy mounting. Follow the app instructions for pairing and placement to ensure reliable detection.
Our verdict
For most users, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) with its built-in motion sensor offers the best balance of convenience and performance. If you need a budget-friendly retrofit, the August Door & Window Sensor provides reliable open/close detection at a lower cost.