August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This august home smart lock review focuses on the August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock. It is a dark gray device that attaches to your existing deadbolt. You keep your current keys. The unit measures 2.6 inches wide and weighs 13.9 ounces. It connects via Bluetooth. You control access through a smartphone app. The system integrates with Alexa for voice commands and status checks. It also includes Door Sense to monitor if the door is closed. This lock is designed for standard residential doors. You must check your door’s backset and thickness for compatibility.
What stands out
- Attaches to existing deadbolts in under 10 minutes
- Door Sense sensor confirms if the door is securely closed
- Automatic unlocking as you arrive with timed auto-lock
- Alexa integration for voice control and battery notifications
- Supports unlimited access grants for family and friends
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this lock if you want to keep your current keys and deadbolt. It suits renters who cannot replace hardware. The Bluetooth connectivity works well for users near their home. If you already use Alexa, the voice control adds convenience. The Door Sense feature is useful for anyone who worries about leaving the door open. You need a smartphone to manage access codes and monitor status remotely.
Who should skip it
Skip this model if you need remote access when you are away from home. The lock requires an August Wi-Fi Connect Bridge for that feature, which is sold separately. You should also avoid it if you prefer key-code entry, as the Smart Keypad is an extra purchase. This device relies on Bluetooth, so it only works when you are nearby. It is not suitable for doors with non-standard backsets or thicknesses without prior measurement.
Verdict: This retrofit lock offers a quick upgrade for existing deadbolts with useful sensors and app control. It is ideal for those who want to keep their keys but add smartphone access.
Key specs explained for this lock
Connectivity: Bluetooth
This lock uses Bluetooth for local communication with your phone. You must be near the door to unlock it directly. For remote access or Alexa integration, you need to buy the August Wi-Fi Connect Bridge separately. This setup keeps costs lower than all-in-one models but requires an extra purchase for full remote features.
Access Methods: Smartphone app
You control the lock through a dedicated smartphone application. This allows you to grant time-limited or permanent access to family, friends, or service providers. You can manage permissions remotely if you have the Wi-Fi bridge. This method replaces traditional keys for digital entry, offering flexibility for managing who enters your home.
Smart Home Compatibility: Alexa
The lock works with Amazon Alexa for voice control. You can ask Alexa to lock, unlock, or check the status of your door. It also provides low battery notifications. This integration simplifies daily use by allowing hands-free operation. You can set up smart routines to automate entry or security alerts based on your voice commands.
Door Sense: Built-in sensor
A built-in sensor detects whether your door is securely closed or left open. This feature alerts you if you forget to shut the door, enhancing home security. It provides peace of mind by confirming the physical state of the entry point. This is a unique differentiator compared to locks that only track lock status without verifying door position.
Auto Lock: Timed lock
The auto-lock feature can be timed to engage as the door closes. This prevents you from forgetting to lock up after entering or exiting. It ensures the door is secure without manual intervention. This is useful for busy households or when carrying items. You can adjust the timing to suit your daily routine and security preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock presents a compact, utilitarian form factor. According to the listing, the unit measures 2.6 inches wide, 4.8 inches high, and 1.63 inches deep. It weighs 13.9 ounces and arrives in a dark gray finish. These dimensions suggest a low-profile design intended to sit discreetly against interior door frames without drawing attention. The modest weight indicates it relies on your existing deadbolt hardware for structural support rather than bearing its own load.
The device attaches directly to the inside of your current deadbolt. You keep your existing keys, which simplifies the transition from traditional entry methods. The listing notes that installation takes under 10 minutes and requires only a screwdriver. This layout prioritizes ease of retrofitting over complex mechanical integration. You do not need to replace the entire lock mechanism, which preserves the original aesthetic and function of your door.
Controls are handled primarily through your smartphone app. There are no physical buttons or keypads included with the base unit. You must purchase the August Smart Keypad separately if you prefer code entry. This design choice keeps the internal mechanism simple and reduces the number of potential failure points. The Bluetooth connectivity supports this app-centric approach, allowing you to manage access for family, friends, or service providers directly from your device. The finish is consistent with modern interior hardware, blending into most home decors.
Setup and Everyday Use Guide
Installing this lock is designed to be quick. You attach the device to your existing deadbolt from the inside. The listing states you can complete the process in under ten minutes using only a screwdriver. You keep your current keys, so the physical lock remains functional. Before starting, you must measure your door’s backset, cross bore, and thickness to ensure a proper fit. The product data includes a PDF for compatibility details, so you should check that file to confirm your door matches the requirements.
For daily entry, you use the smartphone app as the primary access method. The lock unlocks automatically when you arrive, which helps when you are carrying items. You can also set Auto Lock to engage as the door closes. The listing notes this feature requires 110 to 240 volts. You can grant access to family, friends, or service providers. You have control over the duration, setting limits for weeks, hours, or even minutes. The August Wi-Fi Connect Bridge, sold separately, enables remote access and Alexa integration. The Smart Keypad is also an optional add-on for key-code entry.
A key feature for daily peace of mind is Door Sense. This sensor informs you if the door is securely closed or left open. You can connect the lock to Alexa to check status and receive low battery notifications. The system supports smart reorders for replacement batteries, ensuring you stay prepared. This setup focuses on convenience and security through digital management rather than physical keys.
Check Door Fit And Remote Needs
Before you buy this August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock, verify your door’s physical dimensions. You must measure the backset, cross bore, and thickness to ensure the unit fits your existing deadbolt. Without these measurements, the lock may not attach properly. Since this model relies on Bluetooth, you must stand near the door to unlock it. For remote access or Alexa integration, you need to purchase the August Wi-Fi Connect Bridge separately. The listing also notes that you can add a Smart Keypad for key-code entry, though this is sold separately. Keep in mind that the auto-unlock feature requires 110 to 240 volts. Consider whether you need the Door Sense sensor for closure alerts. This lock is best for renters who want to keep their existing keys. It fits well if you already use Alexa. Compare it with other options in our 1 product guide to see if a built-in Wi-Fi model suits your layout better.
Check before you buy
- Measure backset, cross bore, and door thickness for fit.
- Confirm you have 110 to 240 volts for auto-unlock.
- Buy the Wi-Fi Bridge for remote access and Alexa.
- Decide if you need the separate Smart Keypad.
The product at a glance
August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock
Best for: Renters keeping existing deadbolts
- Access Methods
- Smartphone app, auto-unlock
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa
- Installation Type
- Attaches to existing deadbolt
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Application
- Home
- Dimensions
- 1.63 × 2.6 × 4.8 inches
View on Amazon: August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock Affiliate link
This August Home retrofit lock attaches to your existing deadbolt using Bluetooth. It works with the smartphone app and Alexa. The unit includes Door Sense to check if the door is closed. You can add a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote use or a keypad for codes. It weighs 13.9 ounces and fits standard doors. This setup suits renters who want to keep their current keys.
Pros
- Attaches to existing deadbolt in under 10 minutes
- Includes Door Sense sensor for closure status
- Compatible with Alexa for voice control
- Allows unlimited access grants via app
Cons
- Requires separate August Wi-Fi Connect Bridge for remote access
- Requires separate August Smart Keypad for key-code entry
- Local operation limited to Bluetooth range
Good fit if
- You want to keep your existing physical keys
- You need to grant time-limited access to visitors
- You want to verify door closure status
Skip if
- You need built-in Wi-Fi without extra hardware
- You prefer a keypad without purchasing a separate accessory
- You want to replace the deadbolt entirely
Verdict: August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock is a practical retrofit solution for users who want to keep their current keys and existing deadbolt hardware. It fits those who do not mind buying separate accessories for remote access or keypad entry.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock |
|---|---|
| Access Methods | Smartphone app, auto-unlock |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa |
| Installation Type | Attaches to existing deadbolt |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Application | Home |
| Dimensions | 1.63 × 2.6 × 4.8 inches |
| Weight | 13.9 ounces |
| Size | 100 |
| Color | Dark Gray |
| Model | AUG-SL04-M01-G04 |
Frequently asked questions
Does this smart lock work with Alexa?
Yes, but only with an additional purchase. The August Home Retrofit Bluetooth Smart Lock connects via Bluetooth for local use. To enable voice control with Alexa or remote access from anywhere, you must buy the August Wi-Fi Connect Bridge separately. This accessory is not included with the lock itself.
Can I use my old keys with this device?
Yes, you keep your existing keys. This unit is designed as a retrofit solution that attaches directly to your current deadbolt mechanism. You do not need to replace your door hardware or change your physical keys. The smart component simply augments the mechanical lock you already have installed.
What are the physical dimensions of the August Home Retrofit lock?
The device measures 2.6 inches in width, 4.8 inches in height, and 1.63 inches in length. It weighs 13.9 ounces and comes in a dark gray color. These compact dimensions allow it to fit standard residential doors without requiring major modifications to your existing door frame or deadbolt setup.
Is this lock suitable for renters?
It is a practical choice for renters who want to keep their existing deadbolt hardware. Since it attaches to your current lock, you avoid the need for permanent installation or drilling new holes. You retain your original keys, making it easy to revert the door to its standard mechanical state when you move.
How far away do I need to be to unlock the door?
You must be near the door to unlock it directly. This model uses Bluetooth connectivity, which has a limited range. You cannot unlock the lock remotely using just the phone and the lock itself. You will need the separate Wi-Fi bridge to control the lock from a distance.
What model number is this August Home smart lock?
The model number is ASL-3B. This identifier helps you verify you are looking at the correct Bluetooth-only version. It distinguishes this unit from other August products that may include built-in Wi-Fi or different connectivity options. Checking this number ensures you buy the specific retrofit device that matches your needs.