Head-to-head · Best Smart Locks

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) vs Level Lock+

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about Apple HomeKit users prioritizing easy installation over keypad access — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Smart Locks

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)

4.2

$200as of Apr 22

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) offers a remarkably easy installation process and reliable smart home integration, making it a solid choice for automating door security. However, its utility is limited by the lack of 5GHz Wi-Fi support and the absence of a built-in keypad, which can be problematic if a user is locked out without their phone. While the auto-lock features work well, the device's high standard retail price and bulky design may deter some buyers unless purchased on sale.

Strengths

— Super-simple setup that can be completed in minutes using a screwdriver
— Seamless integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit
— Reliable Auto-Lock and Auto-Unlock features triggered by phone proximity

Watch-outs

— Does not support 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
— Lacks an alternate unlock method if both keys and phone are left inside
— Physical unit is described as bulky or 'chonky' despite size reductions

$200 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Smart Locks

Level Lock+

3.8

$349as of Apr 22

The Level Lock+ is widely considered the best smart lock for Apple users due to its seamless HomeKit integration, Home Key support, and discreet design that hides the motor inside the door. However, it requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote control and currently has limited compatibility with non-Apple ecosystems like Google Assistant. While installation is straightforward, the included security cylinder is a weak point that may require upgrading by a locksmith for maximum protection.

Strengths

— Understated industrial design that hides the smart mechanism inside the door frame
— Supremely easy to install and set up using only a Phillips screwdriver
— Supports Apple Home Key for instant NFC unlock via iPhone or Apple Watch

Watch-outs

— Limited to local operation without purchasing a separate Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge for remote access
— Essentially incompatible with Google Assistant until the Thread radio is activated
— Security cylinder lacks security pins and can be picked with a simple bump key

$349 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)

While the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) offers a simpler setup than the Schlage Encode Plus and a more compact footprint than the bulky Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, it falls short by lacking a built-in keypad, a feature the Yale Assure Lock 2 and Ultraloq provide for keyless entry without a phone. Its reliance on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi mirrors the Ultraloq's limitation, but unlike the Yale, it does not support the newer Thread protocol for future-proofing.

Level Lock+

The Level Lock+ offers a uniquely discreet design that hides the motor inside the door, a feature absent in the bulky Schlage Encode Plus and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, and provides superior Apple Home Key integration. However, it is significantly less versatile than the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, which supports six unlock methods including fingerprint, whereas the Level Lock+ requires a separate bridge for remote access and has limited Google Assistant compatibility.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)	Level Lock+
Connectivity	Wi-Fi	Bluetooth, Thread, Wi-Fi (via bridge)
Smart Home Support	Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit	HomeKit, Home Key, Siri support
Unlock Methods	App, Auto-unlock, Key	NFC (iPhone/Watch), App, Physical Key, Keypad (optional)
Power Source	Two 3V CR123 lithium batteries	4 AA batteries
Fingerprint Capacity	None	—
Door Compatibility	Standard deadbolts	Standard deadbolts

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