AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Smart home technology: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) vs. Philips Hue Smart Bulbs (with Matter support)

Quick Verdict

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is a strong choice for users seeking to enhance their home security with smart lock functionality, remote access, and user management. The Philips Hue Smart Bulbs (with Matter support) are ideal for users looking to create a smart lighting system with customizable ambiance, energy efficiency, and broad smart home integration.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeAugust Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)Philips Hue Smart Bulbs (with Matter support)
NameAugust Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)Philips Hue Smart Bulbs (with Matter support)
Installation DifficultyEasy, can be completed in under 30 minutes with a screwdriver. Retrofits to existing deadbolt. Clear instructions in the August app.Easy, fits into standard sockets. Hue Bridge (required for full functionality) connects to your router and is updated automatically.
Remote Access CapabilitiesBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows remote locking/unlocking via the August app. Voice control with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.Control lights remotely via the Philips Hue app.
Mobile App UsabilityIntuitive and user-friendly. Manages users, settings, and activity logs.Intuitive app with a good user interface, control over color schemes, and pre-set lighting scenes.
Integration with Smart Home EcosystemsSeamlessly integrates with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa.Integrates with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant. Supports Matter for easier interoperability.
Security FeaturesBank-grade encryption (AES 128-bit and TLS) and two-factor authentication. Door activity monitoring and notifications. PIN required for unlocking with Google Home/Assistant.Motion alerts and light/sound alarms. Philips Hue Secure cameras have end-to-end encryption.
Battery Life / Power ConsumptionRuns on two CR123 batteries. Estimated battery life is 3-6 months, but some users report 6-8 weeks. Depends on usage and Wi-Fi connection quality. Low battery alerts in the app.Energy efficient, 8.5-watt bulb replaces a 60-watt incandescent bulb. Designed to last approximately 25,000 hours (22 years of normal use).
Physical Design and Aesthetics45% smaller than predecessors. Sleek, minimalist design. Attaches to the inside of the door. Dimensions are approximately 2.8 inches in diameter and 1.8 inches in depth.Variety of bulb shapes and styles (standard, filament, candle, spotlight).
Material Quality and DurabilitySturdy build.High quality and long-lasting.
Compatibility with Existing Door HardwareCompatible with most standard single-cylinder deadbolts. Not compatible with mortise, rim cylinder, or interconnected locks.Not applicable.
User Access ManagementGrant access to guests by sending temporary digital keys via the app. Customize access for specific times and dates, and set up recurring access schedules.Not applicable.
Response Time and ReliabilityGenerally responsive, with quick locking and unlocking. Auto-lock and unlock features work well.Reliable and instant response due to Zigbee mesh network via Hue Bridge.
Matter Support and InteroperabilityInformation on Matter support is limited in the search results.Hue Bridge supports Matter, making Hue lights and accessories compatible. Requires connection to a Philips Hue account to use Matter.
DoorSenseIncludes a DoorSense sensor to indicate if the door is open or closed.Not applicable.
PriceNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: 3-6 months battery life (estimated). Philips Hue: 25,000 hours bulb life (estimated).

Pros and Cons

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Pros:
  • Easy installation
  • Remote access via Wi-Fi
  • Intuitive mobile app
  • Seamless smart home integration
  • Strong security features
  • Sleek, minimalist design
  • Sturdy build
  • Easy user access management
  • Responsive and reliable
Cons:
  • Some users report shorter battery life
  • Occasional connectivity issues reported
  • Limited information on Matter support

Philips Hue Smart Bulbs (with Matter support)

Pros:
  • Easy installation
  • Intuitive mobile app
  • Seamless integration with smart home ecosystems
  • Energy efficient
  • Long-lasting
  • Reliable response time
  • Matter support
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

User Experiences and Feedback