August Smart Lock 4th Gen Black
Score: 78/100
Schlage Encode Plus
Score: 79/100Rankings
The Schlage BE499WB CAM 622 Encode Plus delivers commercial-grade security with built-in Wi-Fi and support for up to 100 access codes. It lacks Bluetooth and offers only a single physical backup key, which may limit flexibility. It fits well for homeowners needing a reliable Wi-Fi deadbolt with extensive smart-home compatibility.
The August Wi-Fi 4th-Gen Smart Lock (Matte Black) offers auto-lock, virtual guest keys and bank-grade encryption, making it a highly featured retrofit solution. Its Wi-Fi can be unstable and the batteries drain quickly, which may frustrate power-conscious users. Ideal for renters or homeowners who prioritize remote access and security over battery longevity.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 10 minutesbest | — |
— | 3 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 181 gbest | 1,489 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Type | CR123 | AA |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11 b/g/n | 2.4 GHz |
Fit & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 181 g | 1489 g |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1-2 years | 3 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the August Wi-Fi 4th-Gen for its seamless retrofit design, built-in Wi-Fi that removes the need for a bridge, and strong HomeKit integration, calling it a convenience powerhouse with bank-grade security.
Everyday users love the quick DIY install, reliable remote lock/unlock, activity logs, and the ability to share virtual keys, often highlighting the matte black aesthetic. However, they frequently complain about Wi-Fi drops, rapid battery depletion, occasional auto-unlock failures, integration quirks with some doors, and slow customer support.
“Users love the quick install, reliable remote locking/unlocking, activity logs, and sharing access with family/guests.”
“Frequent Wi-Fi drops, fast battery use, auto-unlock failures, and integration issues with specific doors/smart homes.”
No independent professional reviews or editor analyses were found in the available sources; manufacturer and retailer descriptions emphasize the lock's commercial‑grade security, built‑in Wi‑Fi, and broad smart‑home compatibility.
Consumer feedback is absent from the research data; no user reviews, ratings, or quoted comments were identified.
