Head-to-head · Best Smart Locks

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) vs Yale Assure Lock 2

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

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The short answer

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 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 #1 in Best Smart Locks

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)

4.4

4 sources$230as of Aug 1

Installation is where the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) shines, and its smart home integration is reliable enough to trust with door security. The limits: no 5GHz Wi-Fi support and no built-in keypad, which becomes a problem the day you are locked out without your phone. Auto-lock works well. The standard retail price is high and the design bulky, so many buyers will want to wait for a 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

$230 · Buy at lowes.com Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Smart Locks

Yale Assure Lock 2

3.8

6 sources$279.99as of Aug 1

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread support give the Yale Assure Lock 2 enough connectivity options to fit almost any modern home. Users report inconsistent Wi-Fi performance, though, and shorter battery life when it runs wirelessly, which can mean more frequent maintenance.

Strengths

— Supports multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread for flexible smart home integration
— Features a sleek, modern keypad design with a backlit interface for easy nighttime entry
— Compatible with major smart home ecosystems like Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa

Watch-outs

— Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent and sometimes requires a separate bridge or hub for stable connection
— Battery life is shorter than expected when using Wi-Fi features, requiring frequent replacements

$279.99 · 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.

Yale Assure Lock 2

The Yale Assure Lock 2 distinguishes itself from the August and Level Lock+ by offering a built-in backlit keypad and support for Thread connectivity, though it suffers from inconsistent Wi-Fi performance that the Schlage Encode Plus and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro handle more reliably with integrated hubs. Its battery life is notably shorter than the Ultraloq's when using Wi-Fi features, and it lacks the Level Lock+'s discreet, hidden-motor design.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)	Yale Assure Lock 2
Connectivity	Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread
Smart Home Support	Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit	Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa
Unlock Methods	App, Auto-unlock, Key	Backlit Touchscreen
Power Source	Two 3V CR123 lithium batteries	4 AA Batteries
Fingerprint Capacity	None	None
Door Compatibility	Standard deadbolts	1-3/8" to 1-3/4"
Material	—	Metal, Zinc

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