August vs LOCKLY Smart Locks: Which Architecture Fits Better?
Compare August and LOCKLY smart locks by retrofit design, fingerprint/keypad access, guest management, remote control, fallback access and rental-property fit.
August and LOCKLY solve the same front-door problem with different architecture priorities. August's Wi-Fi Smart Lock mounts on the interior side of a compatible single-cylinder deadbolt, keeps the exterior key hardware and includes Wi-Fi in the lock. LOCKLY's Secure Pro line is a fuller lock replacement built around fingerprint access, PIN Genie keypad entry and offline guest codes.
Architecture comparison
| Decision | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | LOCKLY Secure Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Installation approach | Interior retrofit on compatible single-cylinder deadbolt | Full smart-lock replacement |
| Existing physical key | Exterior key continues to work | Depends on LOCKLY model/configuration |
| Wi-Fi | Built into current Wi-Fi Smart Lock | Remote-connected design on Secure Pro |
| Fingerprint | Available through compatible Keypad Touch bundle/accessory | Integrated biometric fingerprint reader |
| Guest access | Virtual guest keys and keypad codes | PIN codes plus Offline Access Codes |
Best for renters or reversible installs
August has a structural advantage when preserving exterior hardware matters. The interior retrofit approach can reduce the visible change to the door and keeps the original exterior key cylinder. Always verify lease terms before changing any lock hardware.
Best for keypad-first households
LOCKLY is stronger when household members, cleaners or guests should be able to enter without phones. Fingerprint and PIN access are core parts of the product design rather than an accessory-first workflow.
Guest-code economics matter
Do not assume every guest-access feature is unlimited forever. LOCKLY currently states that up to three properties can be managed at no cost and that Secure Pro supports a limited number of free Offline Access Codes per month before its LocklyOS subscription becomes relevant. August's current documentation emphasizes guest keys and keypad code entry; verify the exact accessory and feature set for the model you buy.
Bottom line
August is the cleaner retrofit choice. LOCKLY is the more access-method-heavy choice. The better lock depends on whether your constraint is preserving the existing door hardware or maximizing integrated ways to unlock it.
Sources: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock · LOCKLY Secure Pro.