The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock is designed to modernize your door without replacing your existing deadbolt. Instead of swapping out the exterior lock hardware, this smart lock installs on the inside portion of your door, allowing you to keep your original keys while gaining app‑based access, automation, and remote control.
This approach has made the August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock one of the most popular retrofit smart locks on the market. But how well does it actually perform in everyday use? In this detailed review, we analyze its design, installation, smart features, battery life, security, and overall value.
Quick Verdict
The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock is one of the most practical retrofit smart locks available today. It allows homeowners and renters to add smart‑home functionality without replacing their existing deadbolt hardware.
Its biggest strengths are easy installation, strong mobile app features, remote access, and flexible guest management.
However, the battery life is shorter than most competitors due to the built‑in Wi‑Fi radio.
If you prioritize smart features and convenience, it remains one of the best retrofit smart locks on the market.
At a Glance
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 / 10 |
| Installation | 9 / 10 |
| Smart Features | 8.5 / 10 |
| Security | 8 / 10 |
| Battery Life | 6.5 / 10 |
| Value | 7.5 / 10 |
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Lock Type | Retrofit interior smart lock |
| Connectivity | Wi‑Fi + Bluetooth |
| Smart Assistants | Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Power Source | 2 × CR123 batteries |
| Estimated Battery Life | Up to 3 months |
| Dimensions | ~72 mm diameter |
| Installation Time | 10–15 minutes |
| Compatibility | Most single‑cylinder deadbolts |
Design and Build Quality
The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock features a compact circular design that attaches to the interior side of your door.
Unlike traditional smart locks, it does not replace the exterior deadbolt, meaning your existing key and hardware remain intact.
Why This Matters
This retrofit design offers several advantages:
• Ideal for renters
• No change to exterior door appearance
• Landlords can still use the original key
• Minimal installation complexity
The lock body features a textured metal faceplate with a rotating dial that allows manual operation even without the app.
Compared with previous August models, this version is noticeably smaller and more refined, making it easier to fit behind door handles or narrow trim.
Installation Experience
Installation is where the August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock truly excels.
Most users can install the device in under 15 minutes using only a screwdriver.
Installation Steps
- Remove the existing interior thumb turn
- Attach the August mounting plate
- Connect the smart lock module
- Pair the device with the mobile app
Because the exterior lock hardware remains untouched, this setup is widely accepted in rental properties.
Spark Insight: The retrofit approach dramatically reduces the intimidation factor of installing smart home hardware.
App Experience and Smart Features
The August mobile app is one of the strongest components of the ecosystem.
It provides a powerful combination of automation, monitoring, and remote control tools.
Remote Locking
Users can lock or unlock the door from anywhere through Wi‑Fi.
This feature is especially useful for:
• letting in guests • granting temporary access • verifying the door is locked
Auto‑Unlock Technology
The lock can automatically unlock when the user’s phone approaches the door.
This hands‑free entry system works using Bluetooth proximity combined with GPS geofencing.
Guest Access Management
One of August’s strongest capabilities is its digital key system.
Users can grant:
• permanent access • temporary access • scheduled access
This is particularly useful for:
• Airbnb hosts • cleaners • dog walkers • family members
Activity Feed
Every lock and unlock event is recorded in the activity log.
This allows homeowners to see exactly who accessed the door and when.
DoorSense Technology
DoorSense is a magnetic sensor that detects whether the door is actually closed.
This prevents a common smart‑lock issue where the deadbolt engages while the door is still slightly open.
Smart Home Integration
The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock integrates with most major smart‑home ecosystems.
Supported platforms include:
• Apple HomeKit
• Amazon Alexa
• Google Assistant
This enables voice commands such as:
“Alexa, lock the front door.”
It also allows automation routines, such as locking the door automatically when the security system is armed.
Battery Life
Battery life is the main compromise of the August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock.
Because Wi‑Fi connectivity is built directly into the lock, power consumption is higher than many competing smart locks that rely only on Bluetooth or external hubs.
Typical battery life is about three months, depending on usage.
Battery Type
The lock uses CR123 batteries, which help maintain its compact size but are less common than AA batteries.
Frequent remote access or heavy automation use may shorten battery intervals.
Security and Privacy
Smart locks must meet high security standards, and the August ecosystem includes several protective measures.
Key security features include:
• encrypted communication between device and app
• two‑factor authentication for accounts
• biometric authentication via smartphone
• activity logs for monitoring access
These safeguards help protect against unauthorized access while maintaining convenience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
✔ Extremely easy installation
✔ Keeps your existing deadbolt and keys
✔ Built‑in Wi‑Fi for remote access
✔ Excellent guest‑access features
✔ Strong smart‑home compatibility
Cons
✘ Shorter battery life than competitors
✘ CR123 batteries are less convenient
✘ Keypad accessory sold separately
✘ Requires compatible deadbolt
Competitor Comparison
| Smart Lock | Key Advantage | Weakness |
| August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock | Retrofit design | Short battery life |
| Yale Assure Lock | Built‑in keypad | Full hardware replacement |
| Schlage Encode | Strong security | Larger design |
| Level Lock+ | Invisible design | Higher price |
August remains one of the best retrofit options, while competitors tend to replace the entire deadbolt.
Who Should Buy It
The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock is ideal for:
• renters
• Airbnb hosts
• smart‑home beginners
• households needing guest access
If you want to upgrade your door without replacing your lock hardware, this product is one of the best options available.
Who Should Skip It
This lock may not be ideal for:
• users prioritizing long battery life
• buyers wanting built‑in keypad entry
• homes with incompatible deadbolts
Price and Value
The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock typically retails for around $199 depending on bundles.
While slightly premium priced, the value comes from:
• retrofit installation convenience • advanced app features • smart‑home compatibility
However, adding accessories like the August Smart Keypad increases the total cost.
Sustainability Perspective (Gaia Insight)
Retrofit smart locks reduce waste compared with full hardware replacement.
By keeping the existing deadbolt and exterior hardware, the August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock minimizes material replacement and extends the life of existing door hardware.
This design approach aligns well with sustainability‑focused smart home upgrades.
Final Verdict
The August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock continues to be one of the most practical smart lock upgrades available.
Its retrofit design, excellent mobile app, and flexible access control make it especially appealing for renters and connected households.
While battery life remains its biggest weakness, the convenience of built‑in Wi‑Fi and remote access still make it a strong contender in the smart‑lock category.
⭐ Gearinhere Recommendation: A top choice for users seeking a simple smart lock upgrade without replacing their existing door hardware.
~ Get $40 off your August Smart Lock purchase through our referral program — plus earn $40 in rewards for future upgrades.
FAQ
Does the August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock require a hub?
No. The lock includes built‑in Wi‑Fi, so it connects directly to your home network.
Can I still use my physical key?
Yes. The exterior deadbolt remains unchanged, so your existing key continues to work.
Is the lock suitable for apartments?
Yes. Because installation only modifies the interior thumb turn, many landlords allow this type of smart lock upgrade.
