Level Lock Pricing vs August Pricing (2026)
Level Lock Pricing vs August Pricing (2026): Complete Cost Breakdown
Choosing between Level Lock and August often comes down to budget versus aesthetics. Level commands a premium price for its invisible design, while August delivers solid smart lock functionality at a lower entry point. But which one actually costs more over time?
In this pricing comparison, we break down every cost — hardware, accessories, and long-term ownership — so you can make an informed decision. Neither Level nor August charges a monthly subscription fee, which is refreshing in a world where smart home companies increasingly lock features behind paywalls. But the upfront costs differ significantly.
Level Lock Product Lineup and Pricing
Level has streamlined its product lineup for 2026 into two main offerings:
Level Lock — $249
The standard Level Lock replaces your existing deadbolt interior assembly while keeping your exterior hardware completely unchanged. From the outside, nobody can tell you have a smart lock. It includes Bluetooth connectivity, auto-lock, auto-unlock, and integration with Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa.
Level Lock+ (Pro) — $349
The Level Lock+ adds NFC capability for Apple Home Key support, additional finish options (Satin Nickel, Matte Black, Satin Chrome, Polished Brass), and a slightly refined motor for quieter operation. The NFC chip allows you to tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock — no app required, and it works even when your phone battery is critically low thanks to power reserve.
Level Accessories
- Level Key Cards — $25 for a 2-pack. These NFC cards work with the Level Lock+ and allow guests or family members without iPhones to tap-to-unlock.
- Level Keypad — Not available. Level does not offer a keypad accessory, which is a notable gap if you need PIN code access for guests.
August Product Lineup and Pricing
August (now owned by ASSA ABLOY alongside Yale) offers more variety at lower price points:
August WiFi Smart Lock (4th Gen) — $130
The most affordable option in August’s lineup. It’s a retrofit lock that fits over your existing deadbolt, includes built-in WiFi (no bridge needed), and works with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. The design is visible on the interior but keeps your existing exterior hardware and keys.
August WiFi Smart Lock with Keypad Bundle — $180
Same lock as above, bundled with August’s wireless keypad for PIN code access. The keypad is useful for guests, dog walkers, or anyone who doesn’t have the app installed.
Yale Approach Lock with WiFi — $170
A newer option from August’s sister brand Yale, the Approach is a slim retrofit design that’s less bulky than the traditional August puck shape. It includes WiFi and works within the August/Yale app ecosystem with the same feature set.
August Connect WiFi Bridge — Included
All current WiFi models include built-in WiFi, eliminating the need for the old August Connect bridge ($40–$60 in previous generations). If you have an older Bluetooth-only August lock, a bridge would be required for remote access.
Complete Pricing Comparison Table
| Model | Price | What’s Included | Connectivity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level Lock | $249 | Lock mechanism, battery, installation kit | Bluetooth, WiFi (via Thread) | Invisible design, auto-lock/unlock, Apple/Google/Alexa |
| Level Lock+ | $349 | Lock mechanism, battery, NFC chip, installation kit | Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC | Apple Home Key, premium finishes, invisible design |
| August WiFi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | $130 | Lock, mounting plate, WiFi built-in | WiFi, Bluetooth | DoorSense, auto-lock/unlock, guest access |
| August WiFi + Keypad | $180 | Lock, mounting plate, wireless keypad | WiFi, Bluetooth | PIN codes, DoorSense, guest access |
| Yale Approach with WiFi | $170 | Lock, mounting plate, WiFi built-in | WiFi, Bluetooth | Slim design, DoorSense, Yale/August app |
| Level Key Cards (2-pack) | $25 | 2 NFC key cards | NFC | Tap-to-unlock for Level Lock+ |
3-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Since neither brand charges a subscription, the total cost is purely hardware plus batteries. Here’s what you’d spend over three years:
| Scenario | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | 3-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level Lock (standard) | $249 | $7 (battery) | $0 | $256 |
| Level Lock+ | $349 | $7 (battery) | $0 | $356 |
| Level Lock+ with Key Cards | $374 | $7 (battery) | $0 | $381 |
| August WiFi Smart Lock | $130 | $7 (batteries) | $7 (batteries) | $144 |
| August WiFi + Keypad | $180 | $7 (batteries) | $7 (batteries) | $194 |
| Yale Approach with WiFi | $170 | $7 (batteries) | $7 (batteries) | $184 |
Battery costs estimated at $7 per replacement cycle. Level uses a CR2 battery (lasts ~12 months). August uses 2x CR123A batteries (lasts ~6–8 months with WiFi active).
Note that August’s WiFi connectivity drains batteries faster than Level’s Bluetooth-primary approach. You may need to replace August batteries 2–3 times per year with heavy WiFi usage, which could add $7–$14 annually to your costs.
What Does the Level Price Premium Get You?
The Level Lock+ costs $219 more than the base August WiFi Smart Lock. Here’s what that premium buys:
Invisible Design
Level’s biggest selling point is that it’s completely hidden inside your existing deadbolt. Your door looks exactly the same from both sides. August’s lock is visible on the interior — a large circular device mounted on your door. For renters concerned about aesthetics or homeowners who want zero visual impact, Level is unmatched.
Build Quality and Materials
Level locks are machined from solid steel with tight tolerances. They feel like premium hardware. August locks are functional but use more plastic in their construction. The difference is immediately noticeable when you handle both products side by side.
Apple Home Key (NFC)
The Level Lock+ supports Apple Home Key, letting you unlock with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. This is genuinely faster than any other unlock method — quicker than auto-unlock, quicker than opening an app. August does not support Home Key on any current model.
No Visible Tech
Level maintains your existing exterior hardware, meaning you keep your decorative deadbolt, your existing keys still work, and there’s no keypad or electronic housing visible from outside. This is a security advantage — potential intruders can’t identify it as a smart lock.
When August Makes More Financial Sense
August wins on value when:
- Budget is the primary concern — $130 vs $249 is a significant difference for the same core smart lock functionality
- You need a keypad — August offers keypad bundles; Level does not sell a keypad at all
- You want WiFi remote access included — August includes WiFi at $130; Level requires Thread border routers or their own WiFi bridge
- Multiple locks needed — Outfitting 3 doors with August ($390) costs less than a single Level Lock+ ($349)
- Platform diversity matters — August works with SmartThings and more platforms out of the box
Which Lock Offers Better Overall Value?
Value depends entirely on your priorities. If you want the cheapest functional smart lock with remote access and a keypad option, August at $180 (with keypad) is hard to beat. If you want an invisible lock that supports Apple Home Key and looks indistinguishable from a traditional deadbolt, Level is the only option and the premium is justified by its unique engineering.
For most renters, we recommend August for its lower cost and keypad availability — check our guide to the best smart locks for apartments. For Apple ecosystem users who value design, Level Lock+ is worth the investment, especially with Home Key support.
For a broader comparison of all major smart lock brands including Schlage, see our complete smart lock comparison or our overall best smart locks of 2026 ranking.
If Matter compatibility is important for future-proofing your smart home ecosystem, check our list of best Matter-compatible devices for 2026 to see which locks support the new universal standard.
FAQ
Does Level Lock require a monthly subscription?
No. Level Lock has no subscription fees whatsoever. All features — remote access, auto-unlock, guest access, and Apple Home Key — are included with the hardware purchase. This applies to both the standard Level Lock ($249) and the Level Lock+ ($349). Your only ongoing cost is battery replacement approximately once per year.
Does August charge a subscription fee?
No. August does not charge any monthly or annual subscription fees. All features including remote lock/unlock, guest access, activity history, and DoorSense are included free with the hardware. This is a significant advantage over some competitors that have started locking features behind paywalls in recent years.
Is the Level Lock+ worth $100 more than the standard Level Lock?
If you’re an Apple user, yes. Apple Home Key alone justifies the upgrade — tapping your iPhone or Watch to unlock is significantly faster and more convenient than waiting for Bluetooth auto-unlock or opening the app. The additional finish options and NFC key card support are a bonus. If you don’t use Apple devices, the standard Level Lock at $249 gives you the same invisible design and core smart features.
Why is Level Lock so much more expensive than August?
Level’s premium pricing reflects its unique engineering challenge: fitting an entire smart lock mechanism inside a standard deadbolt housing with no visible exterior changes. The machined steel construction, compact motor design, and NFC chip (on Lock+) all contribute to higher manufacturing costs. August uses a more conventional retrofit design that mounts over your existing deadbolt, which is simpler and cheaper to produce.
Can I use Level Lock without an iPhone?
Yes. While Level Lock is best known for Apple Home Key support, it works with Android phones via Bluetooth and the Level app. You can also use it with Google Home and Amazon Alexa for voice control. However, the NFC tap-to-unlock feature (Home Key and Key Cards) is exclusive to Apple devices and Level’s own NFC cards respectively.
Last updated: July 2026. Prices reflect current retail pricing and may vary by retailer.