August Home Wi-Fi Connected Smart Keyless Entry Door Lock review: A retrofit smart ceadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi and auto-unlock

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock gives reliable performance with an especially easy installation process, taking around 15 minutes on a compatible interior door

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The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock sets a benchmark in the retrofit smart lock category by upgrading existing deadbolts without replacing exterior hardware. 

Designed for homeowners, renters, and vacation rental hosts, this compact unit attaches directly to the interior side of your door, allowing you to retain your current mechanical keys and exterior handle.

Its sleek cylindrical design is nearly 45 percent smaller than previous August generations, providing a subtle modern look that blends seamlessly into standard home décor.

Specifications

  • ASIN: B082VXK9CK

  • Brand: August Home

  • Model: Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)

  • Lock type: Retrofit Smart Deadbolt Module

  • Material: Matte Metal & Plastic Casing

  • Finish / Colour: Matte Silver

  • Connectivity: Built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2

  • Smart Home compatibility: Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings

  • Access methods: Automatic Auto-Unlock, Smartphone App, Voice Control, Existing Physical Key

  • Door compatibility: Retrofits existing single-cylinder deadbolts

  • Power source: 2 x CR123A Lithium Batteries

Performance

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock gives reliable performance with an especially easy installation process, taking around 15 minutes on a compatible interior door while preserving the existing deadbolt and physical keys.

Calibration and fit are also straightforward on doors without exterior exposure or expansion issues, although installation may be more involved on exterior doors.

Overall, its reliable connectivity, easy installation, and retrofit design make it a practical smart-lock upgrade for apartments and homes where users want to keep their existing keys.

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Reasons to buy

  • Seamless retrofit installation: Mounts directly onto existing interior deadbolts, allowing you to retain existing exterior hardware and physical keys.

  • Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity: Connects directly to wireless routers out of the box without requiring external bridge hubs or secondary adapters.

  • Compact form factor: Features a refined cylindrical body that is significantly smaller than previous generation smart deadbolts.

  • Convenient hands-free entry: Automatically unlocks your door as you approach using smartphone geofencing and Bluetooth proximity detection.

  • Comprehensive smart ecosystem support: Integrates natively with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Airbnb for flexible hosting automation.

Reasons to avoid

  • Shorter battery operational life: Integrated Wi-Fi architecture increases battery drain, requiring occasional replacements of CR123A lithium batteries.

  • Requires a reliable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network: Remote app commands, status tracking, and voice integrations rely on a stable wireless signal at the door.

  • Lacks integrated physical keypad: Entering via numeric passcodes requires purchasing an optional external August Wireless Keypad accessory.

Zainab Talha is a technology journalist specialising in electric vehicles, EV charging infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and emerging transportation technologies. Her reporting explores the innovations, policies, and industry developments driving the global shift towards cleaner and smarter mobility.

Her coverage spans the wider EV ecosystem, including charging networks, battery technology, renewable energy integration, smart mobility solutions, and government initiatives. She follows developments across automotive manufacturers, energy companies, charging providers, and technology firms to examine how new technologies are changing the way people travel and power their vehicles.

Beyond electric mobility, Zainab covers consumer technology, artificial intelligence, clean energy, connected devices, and digital transformation. She also has expertise in smart home and security technologies, reporting on deadbolts, smart locks, access control systems, surveillance devices, and connected security solutions.

Her work examines emerging technologies such as biometric authentication, remote access, IoT connectivity, and AI-powered security, with a focus on their practical applications and impact on consumers.

Known for her research-driven and accessible approach, Zainab translates complex technological developments into clear, engaging stories. Her reporting combines technical understanding with real-world context, helping readers navigate the rapidly changing worlds of mobility, technology, sustainability, and connected living.