August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen

Assuming a standard U.S. exterior deadbolt, these are the smart locks I’d actually shortlist in 2026—specific models, not just brands. My bias: buy a proven model with a real keypad/key/fingerprint fallback, not a random no-name Wi‑Fi lock just because it’s cheap.

Best smart locks to buy

My practical recommendation

If you just want the right answer without overthinking it:

1. Buy the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt — BE499WB if you use iPhone/Apple Watch or want the most confidence.
2. Buy the Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi‑Fi Deadbolt — YRD410 series if you want a cheaper, clean, mainstream keypad lock.
3. Buy the Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400 Kit with M100 Hub if you want the newest feature set: fingerprint + Matter/Thread + Apple Home Key + UWB.
4. Buy the August Wi‑Fi Smart Lock, 4th Gen only if you need to keep the existing exterior lock hardware.

Models I’d be cautious about

Cheap brands like TEEHO, Yamiry, Veise, Sifely, etc., often sell a lot online, but I wouldn’t make them my first choice for a main exterior door unless price is the overriding factor. An Amazon-sales tracker showed a low-cost Yamiry model selling strongly, but that does not make it the best long-term security/support choice. (asinsight.com)

Also, Schlage Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt — BE889WB is interesting because it launched in June 2026 with UWB hands-free unlock, Matter over Thread, and Apple Home Key support, but it’s expensive and still relatively new. I’d wait unless you specifically want cutting-edge UWB from Schlage. (schlage.com)

If you want smart locks people actually buy, the safest bets are the models that show up repeatedly across major review sites and lab tests: Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Yale Assure Lock 2, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Schlage Encode Plus, and Kwikset Halo Select.

Here are the specific models most often recommended right now, with the use case they’re best known for:

• Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt — best overall pick in Wirecutter’s 2026 review for strong hardware, simple installation, and reliability.
• Yale Assure Lock 2 — top pick from CNET and a runner-up in Wirecutter; it’s one of the most consistently recommended mainstream smart locks.
• August Wi-Fi Smart Lock — frequently recommended for renters and easier retrofit installs; it also appears as a top pick at SafeWise.
• Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt — especially popular with Apple users because it supports Home Key, and it’s listed among the best by multiple reviewers.
• Kwikset Halo Select — highlighted by The Verge for auto-unlock and broad smart-home compatibility.
• Ultraloq Bolt Fingerprint — PCMag’s top overall pick, favored for fingerprint access and flexibility.
• Eufy Video Smart Lock S330 — a strong choice if you want a lock with a built-in camera/video feature.
• Level Lock Pro — Forbes’ overall top pick for people who want a lock that looks more like a standard deadbolt.
• Lockly Visage Zeno Series Smart Lock — commonly recommended for multiple access methods, including advanced biometric options.
• Aqara Smart Lock U100 — frequently recommended for guest access and Apple Home users.

If you want the shortest “buy these” list, I’d narrow it to these four based on how often they’re recommended across sources:

• Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt
• Yale Assure Lock 2
• August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
• Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt

If you want, I can also give you a best smart lock by type list — for Apple Home, fingerprint, video, renters, budget, and high security — with exact model names only.

Top recommended specific smart lock models (based on 2026 expert reviews, testing, and real sales data) include Schlage Encode Plus / BE489WB Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt, Yale Assure Lock 2 (various configurations like Assure Lock 2 Plus or with modules), Aqara Smart Lock U400 (or U100/U200 variants), Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro (Wi-Fi or fingerprint versions), eufy Security Smart Lock C220 (or similar eufy models like FamiLock E40), Level Lock Pro, and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen).

These stand out for frequent mentions across review roundups (CNET, Wirecutter-style sites, Forbes, PCMag, etc.) and strong Amazon/sales performance, indicating what consumers actually purchase. Budget keypad models like the TEEHO TE001 also sell in high volumes but are more basic.

Premium/High-End Picks (Strong Security, Features, and Integration)

• Schlage Encode Plus (or Schlage BE489WB Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt): Often praised for ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 build quality, built-in Wi-Fi (no hub needed for remote access), reliable Apple Home Key support, Matter compatibility, and strong motor. It appears near the top of many 2026 "best" lists and ranks as a consistent Amazon bestseller in the category. Ideal for most homes wanting remote control and durability.
• Yale Assure Lock 2 (or Assure Lock 2 Plus): CNET’s frequent top overall pick for its compact design, DoorSense (confirms door is closed before auto-locking), modular connectivity (add Wi-Fi/Matter/Thread as needed), and excellent Airbnb/smart home integration (Alexa, Google, Apple). Popular for families and hosts; solid sales presence.
• Aqara Smart Lock U400 (or U100/U200/U50 variants): Leads some 2026 rankings for pioneering consumer UWB hands-free unlocking (iPhone/Apple Watch proximity), plus fingerprint, keypad, NFC, Apple Home Key, and Matter over Thread support. Strong smart home interoperability and value; rising in popularity.

Versatile Mid-Range Options (Features + Value)

• Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro (Wi-Fi or fingerprint models): Frequently recommended as a budget-friendly all-rounder with multiple entry methods (app, keypad, fingerprint, auto-unlock, knock-to-open), IP65 weather resistance, and good third-party compatibility. High mentions in reviews and solid sales for the price point.
• eufy Security Smart Lock C220 (or FamiLock E40/Video Smart Lock S330 variants): Tops or near-tops Amazon sales charts with strong volume; offers fingerprint/keypad/app options, good battery life, and some models add video doorbell features or Matter support. Reliable performer in reviews for convenience.

Discreet or Renter-Friendly

• Level Lock Pro (or Level Lock+): Praised for its invisible-from-outside design (mechanism hidden inside the deadbolt) while adding Apple Home Key, fingerprint, and Matter support. A top pick in Forbes and other testing for aesthetics without sacrificing smart features.
• August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen): Popular retrofit option that works over your existing deadbolt (keeps your original keys), with Wi-Fi for remote access. Good for renters or those wanting minimal changes; solid sales and review mentions.

Other notables: Lockly Visage Zeno (for facial recognition + multiple biometrics) and various facial-rec or advanced biometric models from Eufy/Switchbot, though they are more niche/expensive.

What drives purchases: Consumers favor models with built-in Wi-Fi or easy Matter/HomeKit integration, multiple access methods (keypad + fingerprint/app), no mandatory subscriptions, good battery life (often 6–12+ months), and proven security ratings. Schlage and Yale dominate premium sales for reliability, while eufy and Ultraloq lead in volume for features-per-dollar. Budget keypad deadbolts like TEEHO sell extremely well for basic keyless entry.

Tips: Check compatibility with your door (deadbolt vs. lever, thickness, handedness), smart home ecosystem (Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google, Matter), and installation (many are DIY-friendly). Prices typically range from ~$100–$350 depending on features. Verify current pricing/availability and read recent user reviews, as firmware and app updates can improve performance. For the latest sales data, Amazon best-seller lists are a good real-time indicator.

The top smart locks in 2026 include the Schlage Encode Plus, ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro, eufy Security C220, Yale Assure Lock 2, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen, and Level Lock Pro — each excels in different aspects like security, fingerprint access, ecosystem compatibility, or renter-friendly installation.

1. Schlage Encode Plus

Type: Wi-Fi smart deadbolt Security: ANSI Grade 1 Key Features: Apple Home Key support, direct Alexa/Google Home integration, built-in Wi-Fi, offline keypad remains functional Battery: 12–18 months on 4 AA cells Pros: Highest security rating among mainstream locks, secure remote control, physical keypad backup, hub-free setup Cons: No fingerprint reader, premium price ($319) Best For: Homeowners prioritizing top-level security and Apple ecosystem integration 1

2. ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro

Type: Fingerprint-enabled smart lock Security: BHMA/ANSI Grade 2 Key Features: 8-in-1 access (fingerprint, code, app, key, knock-to-unlock, Apple Watch), IP65 weatherproof, built-in door sensor for auto-lock Battery: ~6 months on 4 AA cells Pros: Excellent fingerprint functionality, multiple unlocking options, highly versatile, durable for extreme conditions Cons: Lower security certification than Schlage Encode Plus, Z-Wave requires add-on bridge, some inconsistent app performance 1 Best For: Families or households needing multiple access methods and strong fingerprint use

3. eufy Security Smart Lock C220

Type: Fingerprint + keypad Security: BHMA Grade 3 Key Features: AI-powered fingerprint recognition, 6 unlock methods (fingerprint, app, keypad, key, Apple Watch, voice), IP53 waterproof rating Battery: 8 months on 8 AA batteries Pros: Fast and improving fingerprint accuracy, long battery life, mid-range price ($120) Cons: Lower security grade, occasional cold/wet weather fingerprint issues 1 Best For: Tech-savvy homeowners seeking convenient fingerprint unlocking on a budget

4. Yale Assure Lock 2

Type: Keypad + smart deadbolt Security: ANSI Grade 2 Key Features: HomeKit ready, DoorSense technology, auto-unlock, multiple ecosystem support (Matter-over-Thread, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi) Battery: 12+ months on AA cells, silent motor Pros: Broad smart home ecosystem compatibility, reliable auto-unlock and smart alerts Cons: Lower raw security tier than Schlage Encode Plus, requires iOS for optimal features Best For: Apple HomeKit users or multi-ecosystem smart home setups 1

5. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen

Type: Retrofit over existing deadbolt Security: Inherited from existing deadbolt Key Features: No door drilling required, DoorSense sensor, auto-lock, HomeKit/Alexa/Google integration Battery: 3–4 months on CR123A cells Pros: Ideal for renters, quick installation (~10 mins), preserves exterior door hardware Cons: No exterior keypad, security depends on chosen deadbolt 1 Best For: Renters or those with minimally modifiable doors

6. Level Lock Pro

Type: Invisible smart lock, looks like traditional deadbolt Key Features: Smart device tap, key card, app, voice, key entry, real-time notifications, auto-lock, modern aesthetics Battery: CR2 batteries Pros: Blends seamlessly into door design, robust smart features Cons: No fingerprint reader, not rechargeable Best For: Homeowners wanting a stylish, low-profile smart lock with multiple access options 1

These models cover different priorities: top security (Schlage Encode Plus), multi-access fingerprint (ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro, eufy C220), smart home ecosystem integration (Yale Assure Lock 2), renter-friendly retrofit (August Wi-Fi 4th Gen), and discreet design (Level Lock Pro).

For Oxnard, CA users, weather considerations don’t heavily affect most locks, but fingerprint and keypad performance outdoors can benefit from models with IP-rated weather resistance like the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro (IP65) or eufy C220 (IP53).

The top-selling smart locks on the market right now are the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi DeadboltGo to product viewer dialog for this item. (the premier choice for full deadbolt replacements and Apple users) and the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th GenGo to product viewer dialog for this item. (the standard for interior retrofit installations).

Full Deadbolt Replacement & Keypad Models

If you want a completely new lock that replaces both the inside and outside of your door hardware, these are the exact models buyers rely on:

Primary Use: Premium standalone deadbolt with unmatched physical security and smart home ecosystem versatility. Key Spec: Built-in Wi-Fi and Thread compatibility means it doesn't require extra bridge hubs. Standout Feature: Seamless integration with Apple Home Keys allows unlocking by tapping an iPhone or Apple Watch. Security: Heavy-duty, grade-1 certified hardware featuring a loud, built-in tamper alarm.

Primary Use: Premium standalone deadbolt with unmatched physical security and smart home ecosystem versatility. Key Spec: Built-in Wi-Fi and Thread compatibility means it doesn't require extra bridge hubs. Standout Feature: Seamless integration with Apple Home Keys allows unlocking by tapping an iPhone or Apple Watch. Security: Heavy-duty, grade-1 certified hardware featuring a loud, built-in tamper alarm.

Primary Use: High-tech biometric entry for busy families, letting you completely ditch physical keys. Key Spec: Modular wireless chip design supporting remote Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice commands. Standout Feature: 3D biometric fingerprint scanner allows instant entry with a touch of a finger. Access Options: Backlit keypad supports up to 250 customized unique guest entry pin codes.

Primary Use: High-tech biometric entry for busy families, letting you completely ditch physical keys. Key Spec: Modular wireless chip design supporting remote Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice commands. Standout Feature: 3D biometric fingerprint scanner allows instant entry with a touch of a finger. Access Options: Backlit keypad supports up to 250 customized unique guest entry pin codes.

Primary Use: The baseline default choice for dedicated Google Home and Nest ecosystem users. Key Spec: Fully keyless design with a completely flat, sleek touchscreen interface. Standout Feature: Pairs directly with Nest Secure and Nest apps to disarm home alarms automatically. Access Options: Create distinct timed schedules for visitors using custom keyless touch passcodes.

Primary Use: The baseline default choice for dedicated Google Home and Nest ecosystem users. Key Spec: Fully keyless design with a completely flat, sleek touchscreen interface. Standout Feature: Pairs directly with Nest Secure and Nest apps to disarm home alarms automatically. Access Options: Create distinct timed schedules for visitors using custom keyless touch passcodes.

Primary Use: High-security commercial or residential entry focusing heavily on anti-prying keypad protection. Key Spec: Ships complete with an external Wi-Fi smart link hub and real-time open/shut door sensors. Standout Feature: Patented PIN Genie screen constantly shuffles button numbers so onlookers cannot guess codes. Access Options: Stores up to 99 individual digital fingerprints and generates offline guest e-keys.

Primary Use: High-security commercial or residential entry focusing heavily on anti-prying keypad protection. Key Spec: Ships complete with an external Wi-Fi smart link hub and real-time open/shut door sensors. Standout Feature: Patented PIN Genie screen constantly shuffles button numbers so onlookers cannot guess codes. Access Options: Stores up to 99 individual digital fingerprints and generates offline guest e-keys.

Interior Retrofit & Specialty Models

If you rent your home, belong to an HOA, or simply want to keep your existing exterior house keys exactly the same, these models upgrade only the interior thumbturn:

Primary Use: The absolute top-rated option for apartment renters and quick DIY installation. Key Spec: Attaches directly onto the interior side of your existing standard deadbolt mechanism. Standout Feature: Hands-free proximity auto-unlock opens the door automatically as your phone approaches. Access Options: Retains original exterior keys while giving full remote smartphone app entry control.

Primary Use: The absolute top-rated option for apartment renters and quick DIY installation. Key Spec: Attaches directly onto the interior side of your existing standard deadbolt mechanism. Standout Feature: Hands-free proximity auto-unlock opens the door automatically as your phone approaches. Access Options: Retains original exterior keys while giving full remote smartphone app entry control.

Primary Use: A highly affordable, highly compatible, rear-mounted retrofit system. Key Spec: Heavy-duty motorized thumbturn turning mechanism designed to easily fit over sticky or older locks. Standout Feature: Operates with multiple eco-options including Matter support via Matter-enabled hubs. Access Options: Leverages app control, Bluetooth, and optional ecosystem accessories like external numpads.

Primary Use: A highly affordable, highly compatible, rear-mounted retrofit system. Key Spec: Heavy-duty motorized thumbturn turning mechanism designed to easily fit over sticky or older locks. Standout Feature: Operates with multiple eco-options including Matter support via Matter-enabled hubs. Access Options: Leverages app control, Bluetooth, and optional ecosystem accessories like external numpads.

Primary Use: High-end, cutting-edge deadbolt for buyers seeking biometric facial recognition. Key Spec: Advanced built-in radar sensor that scans for approaching users. Standout Feature: Twin-camera 3D facial recognition scans your face to unlock completely hands-free. Access Options: Offers facial scanning, biometric fingerprinting, Apple Home Keys, and app access.

Primary Use: High-end, cutting-edge deadbolt for buyers seeking biometric facial recognition. Key Spec: Advanced built-in radar sensor that scans for approaching users. Standout Feature: Twin-camera 3D facial recognition scans your face to unlock completely hands-free. Access Options: Offers facial scanning, biometric fingerprinting, Apple Home Keys, and app access.

To help pick the ideal lock, could you share:

Do you need to keep your current keys (like for a rental or HOA)? Which smart home system do you use (Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa)? Do you prefer entry via fingerprint, keypad, or tapping your phone?