August smart locks are known for convenient retrofit mechanics, how easily they’re installed, quick other products and even voice helpers integration, having built-in Wi-Fi connection, and great durability. They are reliable. But what should you choose between August smart lock 3rd gen vs 4th gen?
Among August smart lock models there are the 3rd and the 4th gen products, which are pretty similar at a first glance. On the other hand, there are important differences as well. Two generations are designed for different user groups, therefore making it crucial to understand what you want from your purchase and what choice suits you better.
This article compares two generations to give you that critical information, answer all your questions, and help to make a better decision.
August smart lock pro – a great house addition
Let’s see why the August smart lock pro is a great purchase in the first place.
Plenty of features
Many models have a built-in Wi-Fi connection. Using an August smart lock pro, install the August app on a smartphone. Gain complete remote access, and unlock the device from anywhere.
August app’s settings can be customized widely, therefore you can make them whatever suits your case best. You may set alerts for when someone uses the front door, or get a notification if the door stays unlocked for any reason during your absence. Worried that you’ll miss something important? If yes, then you can just check the activity feed. The application also has a feature that many other smart lock apps don’t: it can tell you the entrance status. Although a DoorSense device installed is required for that to work. 
Another great improvement is automation. When you get out of the house, the entrance locks itself; don’t have to do anything else to secure the residence while you’re away. This feature along with the app becomes very convenient when you realize most manufacturers’ products don’t come keypad-equipped.
Of course, a separate purchase is possible. Buy an August smart keypad, but you can set the smart lock system like intended: without any keypad. Automaticity and cellphone usage makes using the lock much more convenient than if you had to pull out the keys or enter the codes every time.
One of the newest August features is biometric user credentials. You can choose between fingerprints and Face IDs. That’s been set, now they’ll be used to alter the entrance state. It’s extremely useful if you lose your cell phone often, or when you are away and want to make the house as secure as possible.
Pricing
Any product has its disadvantages. For the August smart lock, that’s its price. Unfortunately, modern tech along with its high quality makes the device very expensive.
Buying an August smart lock costs almost the same as models replacing an existing deadbolt or having a keypad. But if the user wants to equip their August device with one, another module has to be bought, increasing the smart lock system cost to $60. It also doesn’t replace the door’s deadbolt fully.
Although if you want to keep the equipment mechanical but still get a smart lock, August is your first choice. You will still have to pay $230, but you don’t need to spend additional money on an August Wi-Fi connection module, adequate for the connection ability, reduction in size, versatility, and durability. Other manufacturers that provide Wi-Fi built into the device from the start cost the same while replacing the deadbolt.
Installation
Most smart locks available take the deadbolt’s place entirely. It has a new latch and the design doesn’t necessarily look better. August helps avoid that problem by coexisting with the old mechanism.
That also makes the fitting easier. Remove the thumb latch, and put the new product in. Now the deadbolt has become a Wi-Fi smart lock, with no requirement for new keys to unlock it with a metal key if you want so.
To install an August smart lock you need less than half an hour of your time. The only instrument you’ll need is a common screwdriver. Don’t forget to install the August app on your smartphone. There you’ll find animated instructions to help you with the installation process. Also, check the user manual inside the same box the lock comes.
If you’re scared that you’ll damage the mechanism, don’t worry: the company makes its products retrofitted, therefore only the thumb latch is removed. That doesn’t do much to the deadbolt itself. Fit on the plate and the adapter, clip the locking wings, and the installation is finally complete.
Here are some general installation tips:
- Ensure the ability to close the entrance entirely before starting. Wi-Fi smart lock needs to calibrate, and it’ll have trouble doing so if the door can’t be closed.
- Check that the deadbolt can move smoothly. There must be no unnecessary friction between mechanical parts if you don’t like changing your batteries or even the deadbolt itself too early.
- Establish a reliable Wi-Fi network. This is important both for the installation/calibration process and the overall performance of the device.
- Organize the screws. You have to use the screws of an exact length wiring a smart lock.
- Ensure the compatibility of the August smart lock and the mechanics already attached. August provides a webpage where all possible deadbolts are listed.
Voice assistants
August smart lock supports popular digital helpers: Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. Although there are some requirements.
To use Alexa, you need either an August Wi-Fi bridge or a doorbell cam, also ensure possessing an Alexa-enabled device: Echo Dot, Shot or Plus, or Sonos. Alexa supports these commands:
- Door status check.
- Entrance locking/unlocking.
- Changing pin codes (requires an Alexa app).
- View doorbell camera.
To use Google Assistant, install an August Wi-Fi bridge or a doorbell cam, and don’t forget about a Google Nest hub. Google Assistant receives the following orders:
- Check the front door condition.
- Close the lock.
- Ensure the entrance is closed.
Finally, there is Siri. She is only supported by 4th gen August locks. To use her help, you need Apple TV, a Wi-Fi bridge, and a camera. Here are Siri’s commands:
- Unlock/lock the door.
- Check the status.
Comparison methods
It’s always better to look at the whole picture. Therefore the text below was written after a study of a big number of August smart locks of 3rd and 4th gens.
The start is a general review of both groups and answers to specific questions about them. Afterwise, I look at the similarities and differences between the two of them. In the end, there is the final verdict along with a conclusion to all the information provided.
Review of August smart lock 3rd gen
The package has all things required for the attachment, but only for single-cylinder deadbolts. The lock is only compatible with them. Therefore if you have another type of deadbolt, your choice is 4th gen August locks.
Installing, follow the instruction. Insert all four energy cells (of AA type) and connect the device to the Wi-Fi net.
There is also a DoorSense module. It’s completely optional to put it on the door frame. If you equip your security system with it, you’ll quickly be notified of the change in the door status.
The smartphone app is simple and convenient. It allows you to use the Guest List menu. Through it, you get an opportunity to add guest accounts for entering the residence at a set time.
August smart lock 3rd gen has these advantages:
- Installation is simple.
- Instruments and batteries come with the package.
- Has a low energy drain.
- Works offline with Z-Wave hubs.
- Installed on an existing lock.
But there are disadvantages, too:
- Has an unreliable auto lock.
- Is very large, which can cause a tight fit.
- The app can show outdated data.
FAQ about August smart locks 3rd gen
Any questions regarding August smart lock 3rd gen? Find the answer here.
How short is the estimated battery life?
On average, 3rd gen power cells work properly for half a year. But if too much pressure is applied to the deadbolt, it will become even shorter.
What batteries does it use?
Like most smart locks made by this corporation, 3rd gen smart lock uses 4 AA energy cells.
Are there access codes?
Yes, but you need to install an additional accessory. It allows having an unlimited amount of user codes along with a log of guests if an August HomeKit is installed. A Connect module is an alternative. In an attempt to create a pin code, you have to stay in the smart lock range to establish a Bluetooth connection.
How many users can be supported?
There is no limitation on the number of users that the 3rd gen lock supports.
Can a smartwatch be integrated with the 3rd gen lock?
Yes! Apple Watch or Android Wear 1.0 are compatible with any August 3rd gen smart lock.
August smart lock 4th gen review
The fourth generation of August smart locks is probably the best option if you want a device supporting Apple Homekit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa, but don’t want to replace your installed deadbolt completely. Additionally, it has an in-built connection to Wi-Fi networks, an elegant design, and plenty of quality-of-life bonuses.
Just like 3rd gen door locks, 4th gen ones have a retrofit internal design with all its advantages. But what is better compared to its predecessors is a significantly smaller size: only 1.8 inches in depth and 2.8 inches in diameter. This makes them much more versatile: they are visually compatible with any door no matter the color and material.
To conclude, the August smart lock has these ‘pros’:
- Versatile visuals.
- Takes little space.
- Smooth mechanics.
- Support of Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Homekit.
- Wi-Fi doesn’t require additional accessories such as August Wi-Fi.
The only ‘con’ is a relatively short battery life.
FAQ about August smart locks 4th gen
Let’s go over some frequently asked questions about these lock models.
Can it work with no Wi-Fi network?
No, not really, because it requires remote access. Thankfully, Wi-Fi connectivity is already built into the device. There’s no obligation to buy and install any separate accessories like August Wi-Fi. Without it, the Wi-Fi smart lock is used at full capability anyway.
Is a bridge needed?
No! Fourth-gen August smart lock already comes with all the crucial stuff. The algorithm and mechanics ensure that it reaches the Wi-Fi network. You don’t need a cable to use the internet.
How similar are August smart lock generations
August smart lock 3rd gen vs 4th gen the lock-controlling software didn’t change much. Therefore a big part of their likeness is about similar programming.
They both support DoorSense technology tracking the position of the door.
There is other similar stuff about August locks. Here’s a list of them.
August app
Both models work through a mobile application. August Home app is arguably the most convenient smart lock cellphone app due to its simple interface, wide choice of features, and frequent bug fixes.
All screens can be considered user-friendly even by people who aren’t on good terms with modern software. Adjust the way your Wi-Fi smart lock works, no need to go into the depths of the app and search among countless menus. A nice feature is installation help inside the app. There is a text instruction along with animated illustrations.
Wi-Fi connection
The addition makes August locks better: you have an opportunity to control the device no matter how far away you stand.
Both the 3rd and 4th gen have an in-built ability to reach the networks, so they don’t require additional money to buy corresponding accessories.
Guests’ visits
August locks, 3rd or 4th gen, allow virtual keys creation by making use of the smartphone app. Who might need them? Family members, friends, and hired workers. Most importantly, there are different levels of security system access for how much you trust a specific guest:
- “Owner” level. This is only recommended for adults living in the residence, because it enables the creation of virtual keys for other people, along with other control options.
- “Always” level. With this one, the guest will be able to access the door anytime. Mostly it’s used by minors living in the house or distant family members.
- “Recurring” level. The guest can only access the door at a specific time you’ve installed it. This option is perfect for regular guests you can’t trust completely, such as cleaners or tutors.
- “Temporary” level. That’s for one-time visits – the access enables once on a planned day and hour. For example, you can use it to let clients from Airbnb or repair services.
No matter if a keypad’s installed, the guest’s feature works as always. But if you want, you can add temporary or timed codes instead of virtual keys. It’s convenient if your guest doesn’t have a phone.
DoorSense
You can use DoorSense on 3rd or 4th gen smart lock. Still, an additional accessory’s required.
Why would you do that? DoorSense allows tracking whether the door is truly closed and avoiding the deadbolt engaging for the open front door. This fixes a loophole other smart locks have: a burglar might engage again the mechanism while not closing the entrance to the end.
Using DoorSense is convenient if you have couriers while you’re away, Airbnb residents move out, and you’re scared that the front door might stay open for a while and leave the house vulnerable.
Attaching a DoorSense module isn’t a hard task. Pull a little magnetic piece from inside the DoorSense package, place it at the frame near the lock, then re-calibrate the August smart lock. Then it’ll be able to accurately read the entrance state.
Auto-lock & auto-unlock
Any August model has automatic locking and unlocking. It’s very useful for regular security.
Auto-lock helps to maintain the safety of the house. It ensures that after some time has passed and the door stays closed, the lock engages by itself. One inconvenience is that when you’re doing something in the yard, you have to disable this feature or you risk locking yourself out of the house.
Auto-unlock feature is more about quality of life and convenience than security, which doesn’t necessarily make it worse. It’s basically a way to unlock the door to enter your house, so you don’t have to pull out the keys or use the smartphone app all the time. It uses the GPS coordinates of the cellphone, detects if it’s less than 30’ from the door frame, and unlocks if the answer is “yes”. The feature doesn’t activate while you’re home; you have to go 650’ from the door frame for it to work again.
August smart lock 3rd gen vs 4th gen differences
On the opposite of the programming, the mechanics changed drastically between the two generations. Therefore the installation, aesthetics, and battery life vary. If you deem that important to your user experience, pay attention to this paragraph because this information will be crucial to the choice.
Size
August has always been famous for its smart retrofit design. Fourth-generation devices take this up to eleven. They are 45% smaller than their third-gen counterparts. An average 4th gen door lock is 2.8 inches in diameter and 1.8 inches in depth. That made 4th gen models favored by interior and exterior designers. Even though August never looked ugly, they can still give an odd vibe that most designers would prefer to avoid.
What about other locks? Why are they bigger? Well, aesthetic is usually sacrificed for functionality. Smart devices don’t have a lot of internal parts, but they still require a thumb latch that can mount on the interior of the door frame and a relatively large battery compartment. August overcame this problem only with the 4th smart locks gen. Now the lock’s surprisingly little while retaining its functions – even widening their amount.
The new visuals of 4th gen models don’t distract the eyes from the door itself compared to 3rd gen locks. Another of the advantages is a new ridge pattern at the side of the August lock. It makes 4th gen locks have a better grip. Along the ridge, you can notice a conveniently placed August logo that is in fact an indicator of whether the door is locked or unlocked.
The design team made a great job. One of the leads was the famous Yves Béhar, who decided to stay true to his predecessors but make improvements nonetheless.
Battery life
August gives an estimated lifespan for each of their lock models. For the 4th gen, that number ranges between 3 and 6 months. Its 3rd gen predecessor has a longer battery life: from 6 to 12 months. In this regard 3rd gen is certainly a winner in the August smart lock 3rd gen vs 4th gen competition.
Remember that battery life heavily depends on various factors, for example, how often you use energy-consuming features such as automatics, the way your Wi-Fi network works, the signal’s strength and stability, and even the warmth of the climate you live in.
This is also the reason why 4th gen locks have their batteries die earlier. They rely on Wi-Fi connection a lot, and that drains a lot of battery compared to 3rd gen that can use Bluetooth to reach the cellphone.
Fortunately, the app sends a convenient message if the batteries are running out of power. Then, no matter if the battery lifespan is long or short, you’ll be able to change the energy cells in time. But if you’ve still encountered an unexpected battery death, you won’t be locked out of the house – you can use the metal key to get inside.
Z-Wave connection
Another important thing that separates the 3rd and 4th August smart locks generations – 3rd gen relies on Z-Wave connection no less than it does on Wi-Fi networks. The 4th gen only supports Wi-Fi connectivity.
This makes the battery life of 3rd gen devices end later, too. Z-Wave takes much less energy to work. Another advantage is that if there is a power outage, 3rd gen lock can still work via the Z-Wave net, while 4th gen will have to stop functioning until the power is back on. If you live somewhere where power outages are somewhat common, 3rd gen August smart lock is naturally a better option.
Other modules
The 4th generation devices are compatible with automated routine voice assistants: Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. It also has the option to create digital keys along with a wide set of customizable notifications. Overall, it’s much easier to change a 4th gen lock according to your preferences.
On the other hand, 3rd gen DoorSense has the option to get an alert when someone leaves the door unlocked or even completely opened. Also, their settings aren’t as customizable as 4th gen locks, and there are fewer additional modules available if you want some.
In the end, 4th gen locks have more functionality and security customization options.
Installation
The mechanical differences between the two generations make their installation processes completely different too. Although you can’t say that one is simpler than the other. No matter which gen model you’ve purchased, be sure to pay attention to the user guide when you’re installing the device on your door frame.
What can you say about both of the locks? Their installation is simple due to having a retrofit design. They attach to a deadbolt already set on the door. Both processes only take 10-20 minutes depending on your experience.
Compatibility with smart hubs
August smart locks are different in their ability to connect with smart hubs. They all support Alexa by Amazon and Google Assistant. If you prefer using Google Assistant or Alexa, it’s not important what gen of lock you choose.
Third gen locks don’t work with Apple HomeKit, therefore they don’t support Siri and the Apple Home application. On the other hand, it works with Z-Wave, enabling an ability to work with Samsung SmartThings hub.
Visual design & aesthetics
August locks differ both in shape and color. You already know that 3rd gen locks are significantly larger than 4th gen models. The color palette is pretty versatile for both; they are similar in this regard.
What is important is what your door looks like. With some designs, you can have a large lock, while with others 3rd gen device will look odd. You can’t say that one gen is better than the other generally because it fully depends on how your door frame looks and how a specific model is going to look on it.
General FAQ
So you and I went over both of the gens, their similarities, and differences as well as some general August lock properties. Perhaps you still have some inquiries left. Here you can answer those applied to the third and fourth August smart lock generations equally.
Is it possible to use a physical key to unlock an August smart lock?
Not only you can, but you don’t even have to change them after fitting the device. It’s like that because the products are installed on the existing deadbolt. Therefore it controls the mechanical deadbolt that’s already there, it doesn’t alter nor does it need another key other than the one possessed before.
Can you open the door manually, but without a key?
Yes, even if you don’t have a key anymore it’s possible to enter the house. Twist the device on some models or just turn the unit knob on the others. This can come in handy if you’ve experienced a power outage. You don’t get locked out of the house before the energy is back on to power the 4th gen smart lock.
Are August products safe or easy to hack?
It’s a reliable manufacturer, so no. They use plenty of safety features to protect the residence. Those include:
- Encryption of the data that’s transferred between the smartphone with the August app and the smart lock itself, preventing the hijacking of the signal in any way for any purpose.
- The lost phone feature is meant to protect the security system if you’ve lost your cell phone. August Home’s disabled remotely via the website to ensure this.
- Double-factor authentication helps to avoid accessing the account and therefore digital devices, including smart locks. Want to log into the August account? Enter a one-time code along with the password. The code’s found in a smartphone message.
Do August locks have working means outside of Wi-Fi?
Any gen supports Bluetooth, although 4th generation usually relies more on Wi-Fi networks while 3rd gen is more versatile and can even use a Z-Wave connection. But Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa require Wi-Fi. Otherwise, you need it to reach the deadbolt via the internet only.
What gen smart lock is easier to buy?
The 4th gen locks are the newest, therefore they are widely advertised and dominate the market. But 3rd gen devices still have their buyers, so it’s not a problem to find them too. Older models usually cost slightly cheaper than newer ones.
What tools do I require for the attachment?
A Phillips screwdriver is obligated to install both 3rd or 4th gen smart locks. They come in a package for third-generation products!
What mobile phone OS supports the application?
To use the app, an iOS or Android operating system is required. Open-source alternatives, such as Tizen, Sailfish, Plasma, or Mobian won’t work.
Final verdict. Which generation is better?
If you ask me, 4th gen locks are better. They are more secure, are easier to find for just a slightly higher cost, have more features, are designed better, and are simply elegant, the installation is convenient enough, and you get a lot of control over the security system due to a high amount of customization options.
But in some cases, 3rd generation devices are better. For example, if you expect any problems regarding the battery life being too short, the 3rd gen is more durable in that matter. Or if you fear power outages and require Z-Wave connectivity to rely on.
Both generations hold up well. It’s hard to make a choice because both models have their ups & downs. Even if you have preferences, stay objective and get the product that you not only like, but the one that suits your need the best. So the final verdict is that you should judge and make the decision based only on what you need and the conditions the smart lock exists in.
Conclusion
August offers deal-sealers: DoorSense feature, wide customization, versatility in regards to smart hub support, and various other convenient features for an affordable price.
The newest generation embodies everything the corporation has always stood out for. It’s a truly great device that doesn’t require any additional accessories to shine. The only cost for that is battery life, but that can be a deal breaker in some cases.
It’s important to learn about both gen models before purchasing to make the right choice.