August Smart Lock 2nd Gen Silver
Score: 72/100
Wyze Palm Lock
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Wyze Palm Lock is a biometric smart door lock that utilizes palm vein recognition technology for contactless entry, replacing standard single-cylinder deadbolts. It offers multiple unlock methods including PIN codes, mobile app control, voice assistants, and a physical key backup, while featuring a dual-battery system for reliability. The device is positioned as a biometric-first device representing a shift toward ultra-personalized, biometric-first home security.
The August Home Smart Lock 2nd Generation is a retrofit smart lock that fits on the interior side of most single-cylinder deadbolts, preserving the existing key while adding app-based control. It requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote access, which is a notable trade-off for users wanting immediate out-of-the-box connectivity. It is best suited for Apple HomeKit users and renters who want a non-destructive smart lock upgrade.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6 monthsbest | 6 monthsbest | |
— | 40 mmbest | |
— | 60 mmbest | |
— | -20 °Cbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity & Smart Home(2) | ||
Smart Home Compatibility | Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant | Wyze, Alexa, Google |
Voice Assistant Support | Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google |
Access & Security(2) | ||
Encryption Standard | AES | |
Unlock Methods | App, Voice, Physical Key, Bluetooth | Palm Vein, PIN, App, Voice, Key |
Durability & Environment(2) | ||
IP Rating | IP53 | |
Operating Temperature (°C) | °C | -20 to 50 °C |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Power Source | AAA Batteries | Removable Battery Pack |
Physical & Installation(4) | ||
Door Thickness Compatibility (mm) | mm | 40 mm |
Backset (mm) | mm | 60 mm |
Lock Type | Retrofit | Deadbolt |
Installation Type | Retrofit | Deadbolt Replacement |
Support & Service(1) | ||
Warranty | 1 | |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers stress the lock's easy, non-destructive installation, its retention of the original key, and its broad smart-home ecosystem support, especially HomeKit.
Everyday users highlight the convenience of eliminating key fumbling, the usefulness of virtual guest keys, and the peace of mind provided by activity logs.
Professional reviewers highlight the palm vein scanning as a significant security advantage over traditional fingerprint locks, noting it is considered more secure, harder to spoof, and easier for multiple family members to use without physical contact.
The search results do not contain substantial user review data or everyday consumer feedback. Specific recurring complaints or widespread user praise are not documented in the available search results.
