August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen).
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) — retrofit over an existing deadbolt; built-in Wi-Fi, DoorSense, auto-unlock geofencing, HomeKit lock control + Alexa + Google + SmartThings. No NFC Home Key.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“The retrofit-over-deadbolt classic. The right pick when auto-unlock geofencing and the broad 8-platform smart-home surface (Airbnb-integration included) matter more than NFC Home Key.”
The Gavler Verdict
Precision Engineering
Built-in Wi-Fi + DoorSense
Built-in Wi-Fi (no hub required) + DoorSense (knows whether the door is actually closed vs just locked) — the two August signature features.
Auto-Unlock via Smartphone Geofencing
Auto-unlock when your smartphone crosses the geofence as you approach the door — the original convenience case for retrofit smart locks.
HomeKit Lock Control (No Home Key)
HomeKit lock control + Alexa + Google + SmartThings + Ring + Airbnb integration. Note: HomeKit tile control only — no NFC Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
August's 4th-generation retrofit smart lock. Expert consensus reflects DoorSense + auto-unlock geofencing + the broad smart-home surface; community scores reflect the lack of native Home Key (HomeKit lock control only) at this price tier.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) deserves the #4 spot in Best Smart Locks?
Best Price Availability.
Prices checked April 2026
Global Critique
“August's 4th-gen Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the retrofit classic — the lock that defined the category remains the right pick for auto-unlock convenience.”
“DoorSense + auto-unlock geofencing is the August feature set that no other retrofit lock matches in 2026.”
“Airbnb integration makes August the natural smart-lock pick for short-term-rental hosts who don't need Home Key.”
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