Best August Smart Lock of 2026
August Home continues to lead the retrofit smart lock market with its minimalist design and platform-agnostic approach. We've analyzed specifications, aggregated owner reviews from major retailers, and compared ecosystem compatibility to find the best August smart lock for your home in 2026.
Quick answer
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) remains the best overall for most users thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi, DoorSense technology, and broad compatibility. For budget-conscious buyers, the August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen) offers reliable performance with a Connect bridge at a lower price point.
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Research updated June 2026.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate bridge, with reliable auto-unlock and DoorSense technology.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August Wi-Fi (4th Gen) | Overall | Built-in Wi-Fi, DoorSense | 4.6/5 | $$$ |
| August Pro (3rd Gen) | Budget | Bluetooth + Connect bridge | 4.4/5 | $$ |
| August Smart Lock + Connect | Value | Includes bridge, no keypad | 4.3/5 | $$ |
| August Smart Lock Pro + Connect | Feature set | Z-Wave, DoorSense | 4.5/5 | $$$ |
| August Wi-Fi + Keypad | Convenience | Built-in Wi-Fi, keypad included | 4.4/5 | $$$ |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best OverallPros
- No separate bridge needed
- Reliable auto-unlock
- Works with all major platforms
Cons
- Shorter battery life than Pro
- No Z-Wave support
The 4th Gen August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the most refined model in the lineup. It replaces the need for the Connect bridge by integrating Wi-Fi directly, making setup simpler and reducing clutter. Owner reviews on Amazon and Best Buy highlight the consistent auto-unlock feature, which uses geofencing to unlock the door as you approach.
DoorSense technology confirms whether the door is actually closed and locked, addressing a common smart lock pain point. Battery life averages 3-4 months with heavy use, slightly less than the Pro models, but the convenience of built-in Wi-Fi and broad platform support (Apple Home, Alexa, Google Assistant) makes this the top pick for most households.
August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen + Connect)
Best BudgetPros
- Excellent battery life
- Z-Wave for smart hubs
- Lower price point
Cons
- Requires bridge for remote access
- Older design
The 3rd Gen Pro model remains a strong contender, especially for users who already own a Z-Wave smart home hub like Samsung SmartThings or Wink. It includes the Connect bridge, which plugs into your router to enable remote access via the August app. Owner reviews consistently praise the battery life, often lasting 8-12 months between changes.
DoorSense is included, and the installation process is identical to the 4th Gen. The main trade-off is the need for the bridge and the slightly bulkier design. For budget-conscious buyers or those with Z-Wave systems, this is a reliable and cost-effective choice.
August Smart Lock + Connect
Best ValuePros
- Lowest cost with bridge
- Good battery life
- Simple installation
Cons
- No DoorSense
- No Z-Wave
The standard August Smart Lock paired with the Connect bridge is the entry-level option that still provides remote access and voice control. It lacks DoorSense, so you won't get confirmation that the door is fully closed, but the core lock/unlock functionality works reliably. Owner reviews note that the Bluetooth range is adequate for most homes.
This is a great option for renters or those on a tight budget who still want the convenience of remote locking and guest access codes. The lack of DoorSense is a notable omission, but for basic smart lock needs, this package delivers solid value.
August Smart Lock Pro + Connect
Best Feature SetPros
- Z-Wave + Bluetooth
- DoorSense included
- Long battery life
Cons
- Requires bridge for Wi-Fi
- Higher price
The Pro + Connect bundle is the most feature-rich option from August. It includes Z-Wave radio for integration with smart home hubs, DoorSense for door status monitoring, and the Connect bridge for remote access. Owner reviews on forums like Reddit and Amazon highlight its reliability with SmartThings and Hubitat systems.
Battery life is excellent at 6-12 months, and the installation remains tool-free. The main downside is the higher cost and the need for the bridge. For power users with advanced smart home setups, this is the most capable August lock available.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock + Keypad
Best ConveniencePros
- Keypad for guests
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- DoorSense included
Cons
- Keypad uses separate batteries
- Higher overall cost
This bundle pairs the 4th Gen Wi-Fi Smart Lock with August's Bluetooth keypad, allowing guests or family members to enter codes without needing a smartphone. The keypad mounts on the door frame or nearby wall and uses two CR123 batteries that last about a year. Owner reviews appreciate the convenience for kids and visitors.
The lock itself is identical to the 4th Gen, with built-in Wi-Fi and DoorSense. The keypad adds flexibility but also increases the total cost. For households with multiple users who don't always carry phones, this bundle is the most practical choice.
What to check before buying an August Smart Lock
Before purchasing, verify that your existing deadbolt is compatible. August locks replace the interior thumb turn only, so your exterior keyed cylinder remains. Most standard single-cylinder deadbolts work, but some European or multi-point locks may not. Check the August compatibility tool on their website.
Consider your smart home ecosystem. If you use Apple HomeKit, the 4th Gen Wi-Fi model offers the smoothest integration. For Z-Wave hubs like SmartThings, the Pro model is required. Also assess your Wi-Fi signal strength near the door, as the 4th Gen needs a reliable connection for remote access.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't assume all August locks include DoorSense. The standard Smart Lock lacks this feature, which confirms the door is shut and locked. If you want peace of mind, choose a model with DoorSense.
Avoid buying a Bluetooth-only model without the Connect bridge if you need remote access. Without the bridge, you can only control the lock via Bluetooth when you are near the door. The bridge is essential for app control from anywhere.
Don't ignore battery life differences. The 4th Gen Wi-Fi model typically lasts 3-6 months, while the Pro models with the bridge can last 6-12 months. Plan for more frequent battery changes with the 4th Gen.
How August compares to other smart lock brands
August's key advantage is its retrofit design that works with your existing deadbolt. Unlike the Yale Assure Lock or Schlage Encode, you don't replace the entire lock, making installation simpler and preserving your existing keys. However, August locks lack a built-in keypad on the lock itself, requiring a separate purchase for that feature.
Ring and Wyze offer cheaper alternatives with built-in keypads and doorbell cameras, but their app ecosystems and platform compatibility are more limited. August's strength lies in its broad support for Apple Home, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Z-Wave, making it the most flexible option for mixed smart home setups.
FAQs
Do I need a professional to install an August Smart Lock?
No, installation takes about 10 minutes with just a screwdriver. You replace the interior thumb turn while keeping your existing deadbolt and key.
Can I still use my physical key with an August Smart Lock?
Yes, the exterior keyed cylinder remains unchanged. You can always unlock the door with your original key.
Does August Smart Lock work with Airbnb or vacation rentals?
Yes, the August app lets you create temporary virtual keys for guests with scheduled access times.
What happens if the Wi-Fi goes out?
The lock still works via Bluetooth when you are near the door. You can also use the physical key or keypad if installed.
How long do the batteries last?
Battery life ranges from 3-6 months for the 4th Gen Wi-Fi model to 6-12 months for the Pro models with the Connect bridge.
Does August Smart Lock work with Apple HomeKit?
Yes, the 4th Gen Wi-Fi model and Pro models with the Connect bridge support Apple HomeKit.
Can I use August Smart Lock without the August app?
You can use the physical key or keypad, but for remote access and guest codes, the August app is required.
What is DoorSense and do I need it?
DoorSense is a sensor that confirms the door is fully closed and locked. It is recommended for peace of mind but is not essential for basic operation.
Will August Smart Lock fit my door?
August fits most standard US deadbolts. Check their online compatibility tool to confirm your specific lock model.
Is August Smart Lock secure?
Yes, it uses 128-bit encryption and is BHMA certified. The physical lock mechanism remains your existing deadbolt.
Our verdict
For most users, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is the best choice due to its built-in Wi-Fi, DoorSense, and broad platform support. If you are on a budget or need Z-Wave, the August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen + Connect) offers excellent value and longer battery life. Both provide the reliable retrofit experience that August is known for.