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August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock Review (2025): The renter‑friendly retrofit that still makes sense

John Carter Doe

September 3, 2025

8.8

Very Good

So, Is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Still Worth It?

The Gist

Look, if you want a smart lock but don't want the hassle of changing your actual lock or keys, the August Wi-Fi is still one of the best moves you can make. It's especially great for renters. It just goes on the inside of your door, using the deadbolt you already have. From there, you get all the good stuff: locking and unlocking from your phone, an auto-lock feature that actually works thanks to its DoorSense magnet, and really, really good controls for giving guests temporary access. And here's the thing, the Wi-Fi is built right in, so there's no clunky bridge to plug in somewhere. It works with Alexa, Google, and Apple HomeKit, too. Now, it's not perfect. The batteries don't last as long as some other locks—think 3 to 6 months—and you can definitely hear the motor when it works. But honestly? If you're managing guest access for an Airbnb or just the dog walker, the convenience is hard to beat.

So, Is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Still Worth It?

The Highlights and the Headaches

The best part is how easy it is to install without replacing your hardware. It’s a huge plus for anyone renting. Having Wi-Fi built in means remote control just works, right out of the box. And its automations, like unlocking when you get close to home, are genuinely reliable once you get them dialed in. The way it handles guest access is top-notch, letting you create temporary keys with specific schedules. But you need to know the downsides. Battery life is the big one; expect to change the two CR123A batteries every few months, and maybe keep spares around. The motor is also pretty audible, so it's not exactly stealthy. And, believe it or not, it still doesn't support the new Matter standard, so if you're building a smart home around that, you'll want to look elsewhere. Just remember it's designed for standard deadbolts, not the more complex mortise or multi-point kinds.

Here are a few tips to make it work great. Seriously, take ten minutes to make sure your deadbolt is perfectly aligned. It makes a world of difference for battery life. And you absolutely have to use the little DoorSense magnet and run the calibration in the app—that's what makes the auto-lock feature so solid. For security, turn on two-factor authentication, and just add another family member as an admin in the app. That way you're not locked out if your phone dies. If the auto-unlock feature ever gets flaky, check your phone's location settings and turn off any aggressive battery-saving modes. Oh, and one last thing: I'd really recommend getting the optional keypad. It's a lifesaver for those times you go for a run without your phone.