Smart door locks are more than just convenient—they’re another layer to your home’s smart security. With features like custom codes, biometric authentication, and the ability to monitor your door’s activity from anywhere at any time, these locks enhance the security you’ve already got going on or begin your journey into securing your home intelligently.
In this article, we explore three smart door locks from August, Google Nest x Yale, and Schlage, that work with Google Home and Google Assistant—and two have even more compatibility than that! We will be doing a separate short feature on Lockly, which, like these others, also works with Alexa, and the company says it’s working on Apple HomeKit and Siri. Now, onward to the smart locks.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The good people at August created their own niche in the market. Most smart door locks require you to remove your current door lock and replace it, but the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock fits over your existing deadbolt to lock and unlock using your phone or any of the major voice assistants. It comes in silver or matte black.
We previously reviewed one version of the August lock designed for people like AirBnB owners, as well as their Pro video doorbell.
Benefits:
- Deadbolt Adapter – 10 min installation over most cylindrical deadbolts
- Compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity
- Unlimited Codes
- August App
- Optional Keypad
- Optional Face or Fingerprint ID (two-factor authentication using your phone)
- DoorSense – Alerts you if the door has been left ajar
To check out the $229.99 August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, visit Amazon.
Nest X Yale Smart Lock
Google Nest and Yale teamed up to create a smart lock that fits right into the Google ecosystem and can be controlled via the Google Home or Nest apps as well as Google Assistant. The lock requires either the Nest Connect or Nest Guard to work. It comes in satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze, polished brass, or black suede.
While this lock was created primarily for Google, Amazon states that it is compatible with Alexa. That said, a quick look online indicates that setting it up with Alexa is more complicated than the Google environment it was designed for. Yale has plenty of other smart locks that are more Alexa friendly if that is more your scene.
Benefits:
- Replaces Existing Deadbolt
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Wi-Fi Connectivity via Nest Connect or Nest Guard
- Google Home and Nest Apps
- Passcodes or One-Touch Lock/Unlocking via Nest App
- Included Keypad
- Quick 9V Battery Charging if Lock Loses Power
To check out the $249 Nest X Yale Smart Lock, visit the Google Store.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Lock
Another deadbolt adapter, the Schlage Encode Plus fits over your existing deadbolt rather than requiring a full replacement of what you already have. In addition to working with Google Home, this one works with Apple HomeKit and Apple Home Keys – with Home Keys, entry is faster than ever, with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. It comes in aged bronze, matte black, and satin nickel.
Benefits:
- Deadbolt Adapter – fits over your existing deadbolt
- Compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Schlage Home
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
- Schedule Codes
- Schlage App
- Included Keypad
- Works with Apple Home Keys
To check out the $319.98 Schalge Encode Plus Smart Lock, visit Home Depot.
A More Secure Home is Just a Decision Away
Like any smart product, your decision of which product you want to choose will depend on the features you find most important. Both the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Lock offer hassle-free installation, fitting over your existing deadbolt, and while they both offer HomeKit compatibility, only the Schlage has Apple Home Keys compatibility.
The August lock has unlimited codes and Bluetooth connectivity, while the Schlage has only Wi-Fi. While the Nest X Yale is the only true Google product, and it can charge with a 9V battery if the lock loses power, it does require an additional device to work, adding to the cost of ownership if you don’t already have the Nest Connect or the Nest Guard. Use your discernment when deciding which product is the best for you because ultimately, it does come down to your unique needs.
These smart locks offer premium feature sets, provide reliable security, activity tracking, and more. Obviously, if you rely on Google as your primary smart home assistant, just choose one of these for easily integrated, but full featured door security. While all three work with the Google environment, they are also capable of working with Alexa. Lots of choices, but here are three to consider as you “choose wisely.”
