August Home Review: Smart Locks for Airbnb & STR Keyless Entry (2026)
Overview
August Home makes smart locks that retrofit onto existing deadbolts, which is especially valuable for STR hosts who rent and cannot replace their door hardware. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock ($229) and Smart Keypad ($79) combine to give guests keyless entry via time-restricted codes, while the host gets auto-lock, remote access, and Airbnb integration for auto-generated codes.
- At a mid-range price point and with strong smart home ecosystem compatibility (Alexa, Google, HomeKit), August is a practical choice for hosts who want smart lock functionality without a full lock replacement.
At a glance
- Retrofit design preserves existing exterior hardware — no landlord permission needed for renters.
- Built-in Wi-Fi on the Wi-Fi Smart Lock means no separate hub or bridge required.
- Airbnb integration auto-generates time-restricted guest codes tied to reservation dates.
- Hosts who want a clean UI
- Requires the Smart Keypad ($79 extra) for guest code entry — the lock alone cannot generate codes.
- No built-in PMS integrations beyond Airbnb; managing codes across multiple bookings requires manual work.
Pros & Cons
Highlights and considerations for August Home.
- Retrofit design preserves existing exterior hardware — no landlord permission needed for renters.
- Built-in Wi-Fi on the Wi-Fi Smart Lock means no separate hub or bridge required.
- Airbnb integration auto-generates time-restricted guest codes tied to reservation dates.
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit — fits into any smart home ecosystem.
- Auto-lock and DoorSense technology confirm whether the door is actually closed and locked.
- Requires the Smart Keypad ($79 extra) for guest code entry — the lock alone cannot generate codes.
- No built-in PMS integrations beyond Airbnb; managing codes across multiple bookings requires manual work.
- Not purpose-built for STRs like Igloohome or RemoteLock — lacks offline code generation and multi-property dashboards.
- Battery-operated; dead batteries mean guests cannot enter until replaced or physical key is used.
- Consumer-grade support, not 24/7 — response times can be slow for urgent lock issues during guest stays.
Scores
Strong in ease of use and setup; weaker in data export.
Hands-on Review Notes
Pricing
| Plan | Monthly | Base includes |
|---|---|---|
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | $229 one-time (hardware) | Retrofit smart lock, Wi-Fi built-in (no bridge needed), auto-lock/unlock, remote access, activity log, voice assistant support |
| August Smart Keypad | $79 one-time (hardware) | Wall-mounted keypad, time-restricted codes, one-touch lock, works with all August locks |
Integrations
Common integrations supported by August Home.
PMS platforms
- Airbnb integration for auto-generated guest entry codes
Smart-home ecosystem
Access methods
Other integrations
- Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit compatible
- Works with Airbnb, HomeAway/Vrbo for reservation-linked access
Trial Guide: What to Test
During your trial or demo, focus on data export and confirm daily workflows.
- Connect your PMS and verify auto-generated codes match reservation dates
- Test guest code delivery timing (check-in and check-out)
- Verify remote lock/unlock works reliably over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Check battery life indicators and low-battery alert notifications
Alternatives
If you need stronger data export, consider these alternatives to August Home.
FAQ
Answers to common questions about setup, pricing, and deployment.
Community experiences
Real-world notes from hosts who have used August Home.
Share your experience
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Sources
Documentation and references used in this review.
More Smart Locks reviews
- Jervis Systems
Jervis Systems provides smart access and property automation solutions for short-term rentals and managed properties. Combining access control with energy management and occupancy sensing, it targets professional operators who want integrated property intelligence.
- Klevio
Klevio provides smart access control for multi-unit properties, letting residents and guests unlock doors via smartphone app. Primarily serving the UK and European markets, Klevio focuses on apartment buildings and managed properties.
- OpenKeyStays
OpenKeyStays (OpenKey Property Management) provides digital keyless entry for STRs/hotels via mobile app, NFC/WiFi locks, PMS integrations. Auto-generate keys on check-in, remote access, guest self-check-in. Pricing $5-$15/lock/month (volume discounts); hardware separate. 50+ PMS (StayNTouch, OpenHotel, Guesty); contactless, secure. Ideal for keyless ops, reduces turnover time.
- Nuki
Nuki offers retrofit smart locks (Smart Lock Go, Pro 4th Gen, Ultra) optimized for vacation rentals via its Smart Hosting service (€69/year per lock). The locks support app unlock, keypad PINs, Matter/Thread, and PMS integrations (Airbnb, Smoobu, Uplisting, etc.) for automatic per‑reservation codes. Hardware starts at €120–€289 plus optional Bridge/Keypad (€69–€99), making it renter‑friendly with no door drilling, though full remote access requires the subscription.
August Home head-to-head
See exactly how August Home stacks up against the alternatives hosts shortlist it against most.
- August Home vs Nuki
The two dominant retrofit smart locks for hosts who can’t (or don’t want to) replace their door hardware — built for different cylinder standards and different priorities.
- August Home vs RemoteLock
One is a universal hub for managing locks at scale; the other is the best-known consumer retrofit lock for a single door.