In the ever-evolving landscape of smart home technology, the smart lock stands as a cornerstone of modern convenience and security. Among the many contenders, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) has consistently garnered attention. But with new innovations emerging, does this popular retrofit lock still hold its crown as the premier choice for smart homeowners?
Design and Installation: The August Advantage
|
Our Picks for the Best Smart Lock in 2026
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
|
||
| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro WiFi Smart Lock with Door Sensor, 8-in-1 Keyless Entry Door Lock with Fingerprint ID, App Remote Control, Built-in WiFi Keypad Deadbolt, Auto Unlock, IP65 Waterproof, Easy Install |
|
| 2 | TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock with Keypad - Smart Deadbolt Lock for Front Door with 2 Keys - Auto Lock - Easy Installation - Matte Black |
|
| 3 | Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock for Front Door - Keyless Entry with App or Touchscreen - Works with Alexa, Hey Google, & Airbnb - Create Codes for Guests - Matte Black |
|
| 4 | eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock, Built-in Wi-Fi, App Remote Control, Front Door Smart Lock Deadbolt, 8Months Battery, Reliable Power, IP53 Waterproof, BHMA Grade 3 |
|
| 5 | Philips Wi-Fi Door Lock, WiFi Smart Lock Keyless Entry Deadbolt for Front Door, Compatible with Alexa & Google Assistant, Remote Control, Built-in WiFi, APP Fingerprint Passcode Unlock, Auto Locking |
|
| 6 | Philips Wi-Fi Door Lock, WiFi Smart Lock Keyless Entry Deadbolt for Front Door, Remote Control, Built-in WiFi, APP Fingerprint Passcode Unlock, Auto Locking |
|
| 7 | TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock with Keypad - Smart Deadbolt Lock for Front Door with 2 Keys - Auto Lock - Easy Installation - Oil-Rubbed Bronze |
|
| 8 | eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock, Built-in Wi-Fi, App Remote Control, Front Door Smart Deadbolt, IP53 Waterproof, 8-Months Battery, Nickel |
|
| 9 | TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock with Keypad - Smart Deadbolt Lock for Front Door with 2 Keys - Auto Lock - Easy Installation - Satin Nickel |
|
| 10 | Electronic Passwords Keyless Entry Door Locks Smart Deadbolt Metal Lock Auto Time Delay Locking Secure Durable Low Battery Alert Type-C Port for Emergency Charging |
|
One of the most compelling aspects of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is its unique retrofit design. Unlike many smart locks that require replacing your entire deadbolt, the August lock attaches to the interior side of your existing deadbolt. This means you retain your original keys and the exterior appearance of your door hardware, which is a significant advantage for renters or those who prefer to preserve their home’s aesthetic.
The 4th Generation model boasts a notably more compact design, reportedly 45% smaller than its predecessors. This sleeker profile makes it less intrusive and helps it blend more seamlessly with various interior designs, available in matte black or silver finishes. Installation is generally straightforward and quick, often taking just a few minutes, making it an accessible upgrade for many homeowners.
Close-up of August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen installed on interior of a modern door.
Connectivity and Smart Features
A key upgrade in this iteration is the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This eliminates the need for a separate August Connect Wi-Fi bridge, streamlining the setup and improving reliability for remote access. The lock integrates seamlessly with major smart home ecosystems, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and supports IFTTT and Z-Wave technology. This broad compatibility allows users to incorporate it into their existing smart home routines with ease.
The August app is central to its functionality, offering a user-friendly interface for managing your lock. Features include:
- Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock: Leveraging geofencing, the lock can automatically unlock as you approach and lock once you’re inside or after a set period.
- Guest Access: You can grant temporary or scheduled access to friends, family, or service providers, managing permissions directly from your phone.
- Activity Feed: The app provides a detailed log of who enters and exits, giving you peace of mind.
- DoorSense: This proprietary sensor detects whether your door is open or closed, not just locked or unlocked, and can send alerts if the door is left ajar.
Performance-wise, the lock is known for its responsive and quiet operation, locking and unlocking almost instantly via the app. It also carries a high security rating (ANSI Grade 1), assuring robust physical protection for your home.
Smartphone displaying the August smart lock app interface with various control and monitoring features.
The Achilles’ Heel: Battery Life and Other Considerations
While the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock excels in many areas, its most frequently cited drawback is battery life. Despite manufacturer estimates, real-world usage often sees the CR123 batteries draining within 6 to 8 weeks, significantly shorter than some competitors or previous August models that used more common AA batteries and lasted longer. The specialized CR123 batteries can also be less readily available and more expensive to replace.
Other points to consider include its premium price point, which typically ranges from $230 to $250, though sales can offer better value. Additionally, it does not support 5GHz Wi-Fi networks and lacks alternative unlock methods beyond your phone, the app, or a physical key, which could be an inconvenience if you misplace your device or keys. Some long-term users have reported occasional connectivity quirks, though experiences vary.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Against the Competition
When compared to its rivals, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock maintains a strong position, particularly for its retrofit design. Competitors like Yale Assure series or Level Lock offer their own compelling features. Yale is often praised for its robust physical security and diverse style options, while Level Lock products are favored for their truly invisible design and Apple HomeKey support. However, these often require a full deadbolt replacement or rely solely on Bluetooth, necessitating an additional hub for full remote Wi-Fi functionality. The August lock’s built-in Wi-Fi and ability to keep your existing exterior hardware remain distinct advantages.
The Verdict: Is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Still the King?
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) remains an exceptionally strong contender in the smart lock market. Its seamless retrofit installation, compact design, comprehensive smart home integration, and robust feature set make it a top choice, especially for those who value maintaining their existing door aesthetic or cannot replace their entire deadbolt.
However, its noticeable drawback is the battery life. For users prioritizing minimal maintenance and longer intervals between battery changes, this could be a significant factor.
Is it still the undisputed king? Perhaps not universally, as the market now offers more specialized alternatives that excel in specific niches (e.g., truly invisible locks, enhanced keypads). But for a wide range of users – particularly renters, design-conscious homeowners, and smart home enthusiasts seeking a highly compatible and easy-to-install solution – the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is undoubtedly still a reigning monarch, offering a powerful blend of convenience, security, and smart functionality that makes it a highly recommendable choice.
