Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
August Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best Retrofit (No Locksmith Needed)Ultraloq Bolt Fingerprint
Most VersatilePrice
$80-$130
$100-$160
Summary
Fits over your existing deadbolt so your physical key still works — ideal for renters or anyone who doesn't want to replace their entire lock. Locksmiths love it for keeping real security hardware intact.
More unlock methods than almost any competitor — fingerprint, keypad, app, voice, and key — with broad platform support. PCMag calls it one of the most versatile smart locks tested.
Pros
- Installs over existing deadbolt in minutes — no new drilling
- Keeps your existing exterior lock and key fully functional
- Works with Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, and SmartThings
- Auto-lock and auto-unlock via geofencing
- Fingerprint reader, keypad, app, voice control, and physical key all supported
- Works with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings
- Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access without a separate hub
- Strong value for the number of features offered
Cons
- Only controls the interior thumb turn — exterior keypad sold separately
- Bulkier interior design compared to full deadbolt replacements
- Wi-Fi Connect Bridge required for remote access (sold separately)
- Brand is less established than Schlage or Yale — long-term reliability less proven
- App experience less polished than Yale or Schlage
- Fingerprint reader can be inconsistent in cold/wet conditions
Our take
The locksmith community specifically recommends August because it lets you keep a quality deadbolt underneath. That's the right instinct — don't sacrifice your physical security for smart features.
If you have multiple people coming and going with different preferences — some want fingerprint, some want keypad, some want app — the Ultraloq handles it all without forcing everyone into one workflow.
Buy
