Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi vs August Smart Lock
By August Home | Smart Locks for Convenient, Keyless Entry | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi and August Smart Lock to find the best keyless entry for your home, based on features, compatibility, and security.
Quick Answer
If you want a full smart lock with built-in Wi-Fi and voice assistant support, the Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi is a strong choice. But if you prefer to keep your existing deadbolt and add smart features, the August Smart Lock is the better fit.
Key Differences at a Glance
The Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi is a complete smart lock that replaces your entire deadbolt, offering built-in Wi-Fi so you can control and monitor your door from anywhere without needing an extra bridge. It works with Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and the Google Assistant, making it easy to integrate into your existing smart home setup.
The August Smart Lock, on the other hand, is designed to retrofit onto your existing deadbolt, letting you keep your current keys and exterior look. It also offers keyless entry and remote access, but it typically requires the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Bridge or a compatible smart home hub to connect over Wi-Fi, which is an extra consideration for your setup.
Security and Convenience Trade-offs
With the Yale Approach Lock, you get a dedicated keypad and a new deadbolt, which means you might need to rekey or replace your existing locks. This can be a plus if you want a uniform lock system, but it also means more installation work.
The August Smart Lock preserves your existing deadbolt and keys, so you can keep your current keys and exterior appearance. However, because it relies on your existing lock, the security level depends on the quality of that lock. If your current deadbolt is older or less secure, you might not get the same level of protection as a purpose-built smart lock.
Both options offer keyless entry, but the Yale Approach Lock includes a built-in keypad, which can be more convenient for family members or guests who don't want to use a smartphone. The August Smart Lock often requires a separate keypad accessory if you want that option.
Which Lock Should You Choose?
- Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi: Choose this if you want a complete smart lock with built-in Wi-Fi, a keypad, and broad voice assistant compatibility. It's a straightforward upgrade if you're ready to replace your existing deadbolt.
- August Smart Lock: Choose this if you want to keep your existing deadbolt and keys. It's ideal for renters or those who prefer the look of their current lock, but you may need to buy a separate bridge for Wi-Fi connectivity. Check if your current deadbolt is compatible with the August Smart Lock before purchasing.
- Consider Your Smart Home Ecosystem: If you rely on Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung SmartThings, the Yale Approach Lock offers built-in support. With August, you might need additional equipment to achieve the same level of integration. Review your existing smart home devices to see which lock integrates more seamlessly.
Product Facts
- Yale Approach™ Lock with Wi-Fi: The Yale Approach Lock with Wi-Fi lets you control and monitor your door from anywhere and works with Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and the Google Assistant. This means you can manage access remotely and use voice commands, making it a convenient choice for smart home users.
Yale Approach™ Lock with Wi-Fi
Who Should Buy Which?
Best for
- Homeowners who want a complete smart lock with built-in Wi-Fi and a keypad
- People who use Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung SmartThings and want easy voice control
Not for
- Renters or those who cannot replace their existing deadbolt
- People who prefer to keep their current keys and exterior lock appearance
