Best Smart Locks of 2023 | SafeWise

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a pioneer of smart locks and keyless entry—especially for renters and anyone who doesn’t want the hassle of brand-new deadbolt installation. No need for a keypad door lock when your auto lock already knows you’re coming!

We love August as the best door lock because it’s packed with features. The lock’s secure built-in Wi-Fi connection means you can control it through the August Home app. It’s a bit pricier than previous versions, but it doesn’t need a hub. That means faster installation and one less device in your outlets.

August’s app is one of the easiest we’ve ever used and helps set the standard for what you should expect from a smart lock app—even competitor apps use layouts similar to August’s. We especially love the guest access tools, detailed activity reports, and low battery alerts. It also has an excellent geofencing feature that unlocks your door automatically as you approach.

Although the lock works over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the app automatically chooses the best connection for your needs. It uses Bluetooth if you’re within range at home and Wi-Fi when you’re not. We love this feature because it maximizes your battery life by turning off the power-hungry Wi-Fi when it’s unnecessary. It was fun seeing this in action during testing.

You can expect August Wi-Fi to last three to six months on a set of batteries, so energy-saving features make a real difference. This is a relatively short battery life compared to Schlage Connect and Lockly Secure Pro’s 12-month batteries, but it’s long enough that you don’t need new batteries every month.

The August electronic lock design works with the existing lock and keys you already have, so it took us just minutes to get up and running. This electric door lock may not work with every existing deadbolt model, so make sure yours is compatible before investing.

August is one of the best smart locks to integrate into a smart home because it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and IFTTT. This compatibility unlocks more possibilities for voice control and automations than you’ll see with brands like Wyze and Lockly. It even works with Airbnb, so you can manage guest access for short-term rentals.

August Wi-Fi doesn’t have a security rating, unlike Ultraloq and Schlage, because it retrofits your deadbolt and isn’t a deadbolt itself. Pair it with these top lock choices for the best security.

Learn more about August locks in our full August smart lock review.