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- Best overall: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver
- Best budget: Amazon Smart Thermostat
- Best premium: ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with SmartSensor and Air Quality Monitor
- Best for keeping an existing deadbolt: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), Silver
- Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) suits homes that want adaptive temperature control, a 3.9-inch display and a bundled temperature sensor.
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) upgrades an existing deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi and app-based access.
- Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium adds a 4-inch touchscreen, a SmartSensor and air-quality monitoring.
- Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt is a strong choice for built-in Wi-Fi and Apple Home Key access.
- Check compatibility, power needs and smart-home support before choosing a Black Friday 2026 upgrade.
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) solve different smart-home problems: one manages indoor temperature, while the other adds app-based control to a door. For Black Friday 2026, we researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback across 8 thermostat and lock picks to help match an upgrade to your home.
The Best bet for an adaptive heating and cooling upgrade is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen), which has a 3.9-inch display and includes a temperature sensor. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) is the straightforward pick for keeping an existing deadbolt and adding remote access. Below, each product has a clear use case, key specifications and buying advice.
How We Picked
- Compared core functions, including temperature scheduling, remote access, auto-locking and sensor support.
- Reviewed compatibility notes for HVAC systems, deadbolt types, Wi-Fi networks and major smart-home platforms.
- Prioritized products with useful standout features, such as a bundled sensor, built-in Wi-Fi or Apple Home Key.
- Considered owner feedback and product documentation to identify common setup and power requirements.
- Selected options across distinct needs so shoppers can compare a premium thermostat, a basic thermostat and several smart-lock styles.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display / entry method | Connectivity | Power / included sensor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver | Adaptive temperature control | 3.9-inch display | Wi-Fi and Matter | 1 temperature sensor included |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), Silver | Retrofit deadbolt access | App and existing key | Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | 4 AA batteries |
| ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with SmartSensor and Air Quality Monitor | Premium sensing and air-quality features | 4-inch touchscreen | Wi-Fi and smart-home integrations | 1 SmartSensor included |
| Google Nest Thermostat, Snow | Basic Google Home scheduling | 2.4-inch display | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | No separate sensor included |
| Amazon Smart Thermostat | Essential Alexa temperature control | Alexa app controls | Wi-Fi | C-wire or compatible adapter |
| Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Matte Black | Apple Home Key and access codes | Keypad and Home Key | Built-in Wi-Fi | 4 AA batteries |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad, Black Suede | Keypad-based entry | Keypad and app | Built-in Wi-Fi | 4 AA batteries |
| Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black | Fingerprint access | Fingerprint and keypad | Apple Home Key and app integrations | 4 AA batteries; up to 50 fingerprints |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver is the best adaptive thermostat for households seeking automated comfort. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver's 3.9-inch display and included sensor set it apart from simpler schedule-based models.
Best for: Adaptive heating and cooling with room-aware temperature control
- Display
- 3.9-inch display
- Included accessory
- 1 Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen)
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi and Matter
- Control
- Google Home app and on-device display
- Learns household temperature preferences
- Temperature sensor is included
- Works with Matter-compatible smart-home setups
- Requires HVAC compatibility checks before installation
- Premium features exceed the needs of basic schedule users
Is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) with Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen), Polished Silver is a strong Black Friday 2026 choice for adaptive comfort, a bright 3.9-inch display and room temperature monitoring. Confirm HVAC compatibility before purchase.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), Silver
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), Silver is the best retrofit lock for renters and homeowners who want smart access without replacing an existing deadbolt. Built-in Wi-Fi supports remote control without a separate bridge.
Best for: Keeping an existing exterior deadbolt and adding app control
- Installation
- Fits over the interior side of 1 compatible deadbolt
- Connectivity
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Power
- 4 AA batteries
- Access features
- Auto-lock, auto-unlock and DoorSense
- Preserves the exterior key cylinder
- Built-in Wi-Fi enables remote access
- DoorSense reports whether the door is closed
- Compatibility depends on the existing deadbolt
- The interior unit is bulkier than some newer retrofit designs
Is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), Silver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), Silver is a convenient Black Friday 2026 upgrade for an existing compatible deadbolt. Built-in Wi-Fi, auto-lock features and DoorSense add app-based control without replacing the exterior lock hardware.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
Google Nest Thermostat, Snow
The Google Nest Thermostat, Snow is the best simpler thermostat for shoppers who want app-based temperature scheduling without adaptive learning. The Google Nest Thermostat, Snow's 2.4-inch mirrored display keeps the design compact and easy to place.
Best for: Straightforward scheduling and Google Home control
- Display
- 2.4-inch mirrored display
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Control
- Google Home app
- Setup
- Works with many 24V heating and cooling systems
- Compact, minimalist design
- Remote temperature adjustments through the app
- Scheduling supports routine temperature changes
- Does not include a separate room sensor
- Not every HVAC configuration is compatible
Is the Google Nest Thermostat, Snow worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Google Nest Thermostat, Snow is a practical Black Friday 2026 buy for shoppers who want app scheduling and a compact 2.4-inch display. The model focuses on essential smart controls rather than the learning features of the Nest Learning Thermostat.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Amazon Smart Thermostat
The Amazon Smart Thermostat is the best budget-minded thermostat for Alexa households that want basic app scheduling. Alexa integration connects temperature routines with compatible smart-home devices, while installation still depends on HVAC wiring.
Best for: Essential thermostat controls in an Alexa home
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Voice control
- Alexa
- Scheduling
- Weekly schedules in the Alexa app
- Wiring
- C-wire or compatible power adapter required
- Fits naturally into Alexa routines
- Remote control through the Alexa app
- Simple scheduling covers everyday needs
- Limited appeal for households outside the Alexa ecosystem
- C-wire requirements need checking
Is the Amazon Smart Thermostat worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Amazon Smart Thermostat is a sensible Black Friday 2026 pick for Alexa households that want weekly scheduling and app control. Confirm the C-wire or compatible power-adapter requirement, then check that the thermostat supports your HVAC system.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Matte Black
The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Matte Black is the best connected deadbolt for Apple users who want built-in Wi-Fi and Home Key support. The lock stores up to 100 access codes for household members and guests.
Best for: Apple Home Key access and a full deadbolt replacement
- Access codes
- Up to 100 codes
- Connectivity
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Apple access
- Home Key support
- Power
- 4 AA batteries
- Apple Home Key offers tap-to-unlock access
- Built-in Wi-Fi supports remote management
- Stores separate codes for guests
- Replaces the existing deadbolt rather than preserving it
- Door and frame measurements need checking
Is the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Matte Black worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Matte Black is a strong Black Friday 2026 choice for Apple households that want Home Key and built-in Wi-Fi. The Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Matte Black's support for up to 100 access codes also suits homes that manage guest entry.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad, Black Suede
The Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad, Black Suede is the best keypad-focused smart lock for households that prefer PIN entry alongside app control. Built-in Wi-Fi supports remote access, while the keypad provides an alternative to carrying a key.
Best for: Keypad access with remote lock management
- Entry methods
- Keypad, app and compatible smart-home control
- Connectivity
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Power
- 4 AA batteries
- Lock type
- Key-free deadbolt configuration
- Keypad makes PIN entry simple
- Remote lock status and control through the app
- Clean exterior without a traditional key cylinder
- Requires replacing the deadbolt
- Battery monitoring is part of ongoing ownership
Is the Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad, Black Suede worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad, Black Suede is a useful Black Friday 2026 upgrade for households that want PIN access and remote control. Check door dimensions and confirm that a key-free deadbolt suits your entry needs.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#8
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black
The Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black is the best biometric lock for shoppers who want fingerprint access and Apple Home Key in one deadbolt. The Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black's fingerprint reader stores up to 50 fingerprints for household access.
Best for: Fingerprint entry and Apple Home Key support
- Fingerprint storage
- Up to 50 fingerprints
- Apple access
- Home Key support
- Power
- 4 AA batteries
- Access methods
- Fingerprint, keypad, key and app
- Fingerprint reader gives fast keyless entry
- Includes keypad and physical-key options
- Supports Apple Home Key
- Smart-home features depend on the chosen ecosystem
- Requires full deadbolt replacement
Is the Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black is a strong Black Friday 2026 option for shoppers who want fingerprint entry, keypad access and Apple Home Key. The Aqara Smart Lock U100, Black's reader supports up to 50 fingerprints, making household access easy to organize.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) or August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)?
These products serve different needs: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) automates HVAC temperature, while August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) adds smart access to a compatible door.
Choose Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) for adaptive temperature control, a 3.9-inch display and an included temperature sensor. Choose August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) to add app access and auto-lock features while keeping a compatible deadbolt’s exterior hardware and key.
The right upgrade depends on the gap in your home: temperature control or door access.
Which smart thermostat is the best pick for Black Friday 2026?
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) suits homes seeking adaptive schedules and Matter support. ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium adds a 4-inch touchscreen, included SmartSensor and air-quality monitoring.
Google Nest Thermostat, Snow and Amazon Smart Thermostat offer simpler app scheduling and temperature routines. Check HVAC wiring and power requirements before choosing either.
Confirm system compatibility first. Then decide whether room sensing and advanced automation justify a more feature-rich model.
Which smart lock works with an existing deadbolt?
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) retrofits a compatible deadbolt from inside the door, retaining the exterior hardware and physical key. App access, auto-lock features and DoorSense add convenience.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad and Aqara Smart Lock U100 replace the deadbolt. Check door preparation and installation dimensions before choosing a replacement.
For August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation), verify deadbolt compatibility, alignment and smooth door operation.
What should shoppers compare before choosing a smart lock?
Compare installation, entry methods, connectivity and power. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) keeps the existing exterior key cylinder; Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad and Aqara Smart Lock U100 replace the deadbolt.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt supports Apple Home Key and up to 100 access codes. Aqara Smart Lock U100 stores up to 50 fingerprints, while Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad centers on keypad entry.
Check compatibility with your phone, hub and voice assistant. Plan for battery replacement and keep a backup entry method.
Are smart thermostats and smart locks worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) can simplify temperature routines; August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) can make household and guest access easier to manage.
Choose a thermostat if temperatures need frequent adjustment or rooms feel uneven. Choose a smart lock if household members share access, guests need entry or remote lock checks are useful.
Compare compatibility, network needs, door measurements and included accessories. The right fit matters more than a long feature list.
Buying Guide
Check HVAC compatibility first
Review wiring, system type and power requirements for Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen), Google Nest Thermostat, Snow or ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium before ordering.
Decide between retrofit and full replacement
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) retains a compatible deadbolt. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi with Keypad and Aqara Smart Lock U100 replace it. Check measurements and installation requirements.
Match products to your smart-home platform
Confirm the exact support you need, such as remote access, voice control, Matter or Home Key. Features vary across Google Nest, Amazon, ecobee, Apple Home, Aqara and Yale products.
Compare included accessories and ongoing needs
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) includes a temperature sensor, and ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium includes a SmartSensor. Check box contents, battery needs and backup access options.
FAQ
Is the Nest Learning Thermostat 4th gen better than the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock?
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) is better for adaptive HVAC control, while August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) is better for app-based door access. The products serve different needs, so choose based on whether temperature or entry is the priority.
Does the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock replace the deadbolt?
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) is a retrofit lock that fits over the interior side of a compatible deadbolt. The exterior key cylinder stays in place, so the lock adds app-based control without replacing the visible outside hardware.
Does Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) include a temperature sensor?
Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen) packages include a Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd gen) in the Polished Silver configuration listed here. The sensor helps monitor temperature in a separate room, while HVAC compatibility remains important before installation.
Which smart lock supports Apple Home Key?
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Aqara Smart Lock U100 support Apple Home Key. Schlage Encode Plus also stores up to 100 access codes, while Aqara Smart Lock U100 offers fingerprint entry and stores up to 50 fingerprints.
What is the best smart thermostat for an Alexa home?
Amazon Smart Thermostat is the simplest match for a home centered on Alexa routines and app scheduling. ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium also offers voice-assistant integrations, room sensing and air-quality information. Confirm system wiring and compatibility before choosing either thermostat.
What should I check before buying a smart thermostat or lock?
Check HVAC wiring and system compatibility for a thermostat, and door measurements plus deadbolt style for a lock. Then confirm Wi-Fi needs, smart-home platform support, included sensors or accessories and battery requirements. Those details determine whether the product fits your home.






