In the evolving landscape of smart home technology, smart locks stand as a cornerstone of convenience and security. They offer a modern solution to age-old dilemmas, from managing guest access to ensuring your home is always secured. Among the myriad options, August has carved out a niche with its unique approach to smart door access. Today, we’re diving deep into their latest offering: the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen), a device promising seamless integration and enhanced control without replacing your existing deadbolt hardware.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) represents a significant refinement in smart lock technology, primarily by integrating Wi-Fi directly into the unit. This eliminates the need for a separate Connect Wi-Fi bridge, which was a prerequisite for previous August models to enable remote access. The result is a more streamlined setup and a cleaner aesthetic without extra dongles near your door.
True to August’s design philosophy, the 4th Gen lock is a retrofit solution. It attaches to the inside of your door, directly over your existing single-cylinder deadbolt’s thumbturn. This means you retain your current keys and the exterior appearance of your door remains unchanged, a huge plus for renters or those who prefer a traditional look from the outside. Its physical design is also more compact than its predecessors, making it less obtrusive and capable of fitting on a wider variety of doors.
Functionality-wise, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock excels in convenience. Features like Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock leverage your phone’s location services to automatically lock the door when you leave and unlock it as you approach. This, combined with DoorSense (August’s proprietary technology that tells you if your door is securely closed and locked), provides peace of mind. You can grant temporary or permanent virtual keys to family, friends, or service providers, all managed through a user-friendly app. Integration with major smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit allows for voice control and inclusion in broader automation routines.
Features like Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock leverage your phone’s location services to automatically lock the door when you leave and unlock it as you approach.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (BLE) |
| Power | 2 x CR123 batteries |
| Compatibility | Standard single-cylinder deadbolts |
| Installation | Retrofit (interior only) |
| Key Features | Auto-Lock, Auto-Unlock, DoorSense, Virtual Keys, Activity Feed, Voice Control |
| Smart Home Ecosystems | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit |
| Dimensions | Approx. 2.6 x 2.6 x 2.0 inches (66 x 66 x 51 mm) |
| Security | AES 128-bit encryption, Two-factor authentication |
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi: No external bridge required for remote access, simplifying setup and reducing clutter.
- Easy Retrofit Installation: Installs over your existing deadbolt, preserving exterior aesthetics and traditional key use.
- Compact Design: Smaller footprint than previous models, fitting more discreetly on various door types.
- Reliable Auto-Lock/Unlock: Convenient hands-free operation based on your smartphone’s proximity.
- DoorSense Technology: Confirms whether your door is closed and locked, enhancing security awareness.
- Broad Smart Home Integration: Seamlessly works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for voice control and automation.
- Excellent App Interface: Intuitive app for managing access, viewing activity logs, and customizing settings.
Cons
- Battery Life: While improved, continuous Wi-Fi usage can drain batteries faster than Bluetooth-only locks.
- No Integrated Keypad: Requires a separate August Smart Keypad purchase if physical code entry is desired.
- Price Point: Can be a higher initial investment compared to some basic smart locks.
- Relies on Existing Deadbolt: Does not upgrade the mechanical quality of your existing lock.
Buy the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) on Amazon
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Smart Lock
Selecting the perfect smart lock for your home involves more than just picking the newest gadget. It’s about finding a device that integrates seamlessly with your lifestyle, enhances your security, and offers the features most important to you. Here are key factors to consider:
- Installation Type: Do you want a full replacement lock or a retrofit option like the August that installs over your existing deadbolt? Retrofit locks keep your existing keys and exterior look, while full replacements offer a complete overhaul of your door hardware.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi allows for direct remote access and voice control without an extra hub. Bluetooth is great for close-range control and generally offers better battery life but requires a hub for remote access. Z-Wave and Zigbee are popular for broader smart home integration and mesh networking but also require a compatible hub.
- Power Source: Most smart locks are battery-powered. Consider the battery type (AA, AAA, CR123) and estimated battery life. Notifications for low battery are crucial.
- Access Methods: Think about how you want to unlock your door. Options include smartphone app, traditional key, keypad (numerical codes), voice commands, or even fingerprint readers.
- Key Features: Look for features like auto-lock/unlock, DoorSense (or similar door status detection), guest access management, activity logs, and remote locking/unlocking.
- Smart Home Integration: Ensure the lock is compatible with your preferred smart home ecosystem (e.g., Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings) if you plan to incorporate it into broader automation routines.
- Security: Beyond the convenience, a smart lock must be secure. Look for strong encryption (like AES 128-bit), multi-factor authentication, and tamper alerts. For a more comprehensive understanding of how smart locks fit into a larger security framework, you might find our Ultimate Smart Home Security Guide incredibly helpful.
- Design and Durability: Consider the lock’s aesthetic appeal and how it will look on your door. Also, check its build quality and weather resistance if it will be exposed to the elements.
Conclusion
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to add smart capabilities to their existing deadbolt without compromising on convenience or security. Its integrated Wi-Fi is a game-changer, simplifying setup and offering immediate remote access out of the box. While the battery life could be a concern for some, the benefits of auto-unlock, DoorSense, and robust smart home integration often outweigh this minor drawback.
It’s particularly well-suited for renters or homeowners who appreciate the simplicity of a retrofit installation and the ability to retain their traditional keys. If you prioritize ease of use, a sleek design, and seamless integration with your smart home ecosystem, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is a top-tier contender that delivers a truly smart and secure entryway experience.
