Schlage Encode (original)
Schlage

Schlage Encode (original)

F
Ranked #14 in Smart Locks
166 LP on the category ladder what's LP?

Schlage Encode’s original model suffers from frequent connectivity issues and a short warranty.

Consolidated from 58 cited sources across 46 outlets

Where the cited sources landed, as we read them

  • 1 glowing source
  • 43 positive sources
  • 9 neutral sources
  • 3 unconvinced sources
See the sources
Flagged as a product to avoid

3 of 8 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.

Schlage Encode’s original model suffers from frequent connectivity issues and a short warranty.

Flagged 27 July 2026

2 earlier flags predate the point where runs began recording their reasoning, so their grounds were never written down.

Why the boards include products to avoid

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Pros & cons

  • Good battery life
  • Strong security and build
  • Recognized by Consumer Reports
  • Built-in Wi-Fi deadbolt from a mainstream brand
  • Earned a strong reputation when it launched in 2019
  • Frequent connectivity problems reported
  • Short warranty period
  • Coasting on a reputation earned in 2019
  • Wirecutter now passes it over in favor of the Arrive, which offers better hardware and reliability for the same or less money
  • No Apple Home Key and older internals

The sources behind this ranking

We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.

Evidence 16 articles, 37 video reviews and 5 community sources

43 positive sources

I iPhone in Canada | Canada’s source for Apple, telecom, tech news, and deals Gary Ng · reviewer
The biggest quality of life improvement over the Sense is that the Encode Plus connects directly to your home network over WiFi. No external bridges or plug-in adapters are required to get it online out of the box, which alone makes the upgrade worthwhile. It also features built-in Thread support, which activates automatically to save battery life if you have a compatible Apple Home hub nearby.
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9 9to5Mac 9to5Mac · 969K subscribers · Mar 2022
The Schlage Encode Plus (https://amzn.to/4229amd) is the best smart lock I've used because it's super versatile and supports with NFC-enabled Apple home keys!
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S Smart Lock Advice smartlock25 · reviewer
The Schlage Encode is a good value option offering WiFi connectivity and smart home integration at a more accessible price point. The Schlage Arrive provides a balance of features and affordability. If Apple HomeKit is a priority, the Schlage Encode Plus is a worthy investment. For a basic, non-smart keypad lock, the Schlage BE365 offers a cost-effective solution.
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T Terry Lee White Terry Lee White · 497K subscribers · Jan 2023
Both are great, but only one is the best. See which one Terry ultimately picks.
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T Tiktok TikTok post
This is one of my go-to smart locks because it’s easy to use, lets you change access codes in seconds, has a physical key override if you ever need it, and comes with one of the best warranties in the industry 💯 If you’re looking for a reliable smart lock for your home, office, Airbnb, or rental property, this is one I confidently recommend.
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M Mr. Locksmith Mr. Locksmith · 233K subscribers · Apr 2024
In the realm of home security and automation, the Schlage Encode Smart Deadbolt stands out as a popular choice for those looking to enhance their living space with state-of-the-art technology. As a trusted locksmith with years of experience, I have had the opportunity to install and test this electronic deadbolt extensively for my customers.
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B Buyersguide Buyer's Guide · reviewer
In terms of performance, the Schlage Encode operates smoothly and quietly, providing reliable security for your home. The keypad is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to enter your access code quickly. The lock also has a built-in alarm that alerts you if someone tries to tamper with it, adding an extra layer of security to your home.
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M Mr. Locksmith Mr. Locksmith · 233K subscribers · Apr 2025
The lock is highly recommended for its reliability and comprehensive features, despite its high price. Learn about its pros and cons, re-keying process, and additional tips for optimal use.
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T Tech Trends TechTrends-sd4gi · owner · Jun 2026
After two weeks of testing, I can say that the Schlage Encode Deadbolt is definitely worth considering. The lock's advanced features and sleek design make it a great choice for homeowners who value security and convenience. But if you're on a tight budget or don't need the advanced features, there are cheaper alternatives on the market.
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C Canadian Tire Canadian Tire · 101K subscribers · Oct 2020
Schlage Encode Century Deadbolt features smart security and built-in WiFi that allows you to simply integrate with confidence.
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I Instagram Instagram post
I recommend the Schlage Encode smart lock, which features built-in Wi-Fi technology and allows you to create unique six-digit codes for each guest, ensuring security and peace of mind. The lock comes in multiple finishes including black, gold, chrome, and nickel to match your door.
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L Locksmith Recommended Locksmith Recommended · 87.1K subscribers · Sept 2020
Schlage has done a great job at simplifying how to reset their latest locks including the Schlage Encode BE489. If you've bought a house with a Schlage Encode or suspect your codes have been compromised follow this factory reset procedure to get your lock back in the factory sent settings.
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F Feisworld Media Fei Wu · reviewer
What I especially like: The modular design. You can start with the basic Bluetooth model and add a Wi-Fi or Matter module later without buying a new lock. This makes it a solid “grow into it” choice if you’re not sure how deep you want to go with smart home integration right away.
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M Mike Holmes Mike Holmes · 63K subscribers · Feb 2021
Mike Holmes Jr quickly demonstrates how to install the Schlage Encode and the benefits of having a Schlage door lock installed to your home.
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S Smart Home Explorer Article
Compared to the Level Lock Pro (Apple Home Key) , the Schlage matches it on Home Key fidelity and beats it on bolt grade and fallback depth. The Level Lock wins only on its invisible-in-door design, which the reliability formula does not weight.
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M Mike Holmes Mike Holmes · 63K subscribers · Feb 2021
It’s total control and peace of mind at your fingertips.
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F Forbes Steven John · reviewer
If you need to control your front door from afar, our team recommends the Schlage Encode Plus Deadbolt. Thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi compatibility, you can monitor your home from anywhere without the need for a separate hub.
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R Rosco Reviews Rosco Reviews · 23.5K subscribers · Nov 2022
These are my favorite smart lock devices. They are easy to use and work seamlessly with the Schlage app. This is one of the best smart home devices.
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L Lunar Lock Solutions Lunar Locks · reviewer
The Wi-Charge system is actually cheaper than alkaline over five years. More importantly, it offers true convenience. No more alerts, no dead batteries when you’re away, and no risk of battery leaks damaging your lock.
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S SchlageLocks SchlageLocks · 22.8K subscribers · Jan 2022
The Schlage Encode Plus™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt is changing the way you protect what matters most. Built with the most trusted features you have come to expect from Schlage, this innovative smart lock also works with Apple HomeKit and home keys. Easily lock and unlock your door using your iPhone or Apple Watch, plus schedule codes and more with the complete Schlage Home app experience.
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G Getsafeandsound Article
The Encode Plus particularly excels in smart home integration, supporting Apple HomeKit alongside Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, while the standard Schlage Encode works only with Alexa and Google Assistant.
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S SchlageLocks SchlageLocks · 22.8K subscribers · Jan 2019
First-of-its-kind smart lock featuring built-in WiFi connectivity to enable secure remote access from virtually anywhere, without the requirement of an additional hub for remote control.
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S SchlageLocks benjaminwashington2555 · owner · Jan 2022
I absolutely love this smart lock. I wish I knew the Plus was releasing this year. I think I’ll buy the Encode Plus for the front door and swap the Encode to the home entry door in my garage.
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S SchlageLocks SchlageLocks · 22.8K subscribers · Jan 2023
The Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Lever is designed to work on standard single bore-hole doors, offering the security and convenience of the Schlage smart lock experience to more areas of the home. From garages and side doors to offices and guest suites, the innovative lever functionality is an ideal solution for any residential door that uses a knob or lever.
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R Rosco Reviews edzimmerman5591 · owner · Nov 2022
This was a great step by step instruction. I have minimal mechanical skills but found installation to be easy with your guidance!
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C Cam Secore Cam Secore · 13.3K subscribers · Jun 2023
Schlage Encode Plus stands out as the top choice due to its near-perfect Home Key performance and an integrated keypad, all despite a less appealing design. It ensures reliable door locking with a powerful motor, backed by four AA batteries.
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C Cision PR Newswire Wi-Charge · reviewer
Never change batteries again. Wi-Charge launches first wireless power kit for Schlage Encode smart locks. Order now.
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T The Product Critiques The Product Critiques · 8.7K subscribers · Sept 2023
From keyless entry to remote monitoring, we'll provide an in-depth look at how the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever is redefining the way we protect and manage our living spaces.
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F Faster Locksmith Article
If you’re searching for a Schlage smart lock Apple HomeKit solution, the Schlage Encode Plus is the standout option.
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B BRIGHT SIGHT BRIGHT SIGHT · 5.5K subscribers · May 2023
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is a game-changer in home security.
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T Techlicious Palash Volvoikar · reviewer
Wi-Charge has made a wireless power kit that keeps Schlage Encode smart locks charged using infrared light.
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Y Your Review Crew Your Review Crew · 4.6K subscribers · Jun 2024
Enhanced Security: Provides top-level security with built-in alarm technology.
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S Security.org Paul Frew · reviewer
Overall Schlage Encode is our nominee for best Wi-Fi smart lock that doesn’t require a home security hub .
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Q QC Dads QC Dads · 1.2K subscribers · May 2023
Watch the video to see the Schlage Encode Plus in action and find out why I highly recommend it for anyone who’s a part of the Apple ecosystem.
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S Shane Whatley chargerman165 · owner · Apr 2022
Recommend these highly Schlage and these highly and I don't say that about every product I buy!
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S Scott Jean Scott Jean · 1.1K subscribers · Dec 2023
🎥 Join us me as I dive into the unboxing of the Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt, revealing the sleek design and innovative features that make it a standout in the world of smart locks.
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H Hangtime31 Hangtime31 · 884 subscribers · Sept 2022
Turns out I love it. Today I’m going to install a second one on my front door and show you how I did it, as well as go through the admittedly convoluted steps required for me to program it to my home wifi using the app on my Android phone and the app on the TA’s Android phone. The instructions make it look easy; that assumption would be wrong.
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D Dude, I Tried It Dude, I Tried It · 813 subscribers · Feb 2026
The Schlage Encode Plus is a game-changer for smart homes, featuring Apple HomeKey compatibility and built-in Wi-Fi. No hubs are required!
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C CDM CDM · 276 subscribers · Feb 2021
A simple upgrade that's safe and looks great! Watch as we upgrade our original door lock to the Schlage encode smart lock.
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T Tech Trends Tech Trends · 172 subscribers · Jun 2026
After two weeks of testing, I can say that the Schlage Encode Deadbolt is definitely worth considering.
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Z ZProStudio Tech ZProStudio Tech · 60 subscribers · Jul 2026
The Schlaga Encode Plus offers several premium features including built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, Apple Home Key support on compatible Apple devices, matter compatibility on supported platforms, remote locking and unlocking, keypad entry, temporary guest access codes, autolock functionality, activity history through the companion app. These features provide convenience without sacrificing security.
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G getreview guy getreview guy · channel · Aug 2019
-Never worry about lost, misplaced, or duplicate keys. Lock \u0026 unlock your door from the Ring app in Live View when you download the Key app to set up Schlage Encode WiFi Deadbolt and link with your Ring account.
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B Best Buys Reviewed Best Buys Reviewed · channel · Jul 2026
That is precisely where the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim in Bright Chrome stands entirely apart. It connects directly to your home's 2.4GHz WiFi network with absolutely no hub required, delivering instant real-time control from anywhere through the Schlage Home app.
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9 neutral sources

9 9to5Mac evansims · owner · Mar 2022
Battery life is the big deal breaker on this for me. My Level Bolt smart locks have been pretty great at no-fuss automatic unlock/lock when I arrive/depart, but the battery life is abysmal. I'm constantly having to swap out the relatively expensive CR2 batteries on the things every other week. If battery life is decent, it's an instant buy for me - Home Key looks fantastic.
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J Joe's Garage Joe's Garage · 12.5K subscribers · Aug 2020
Installation was pretty straight-forward, but we ran into an issue updating the firmware. Schlage tech support was helpful and eventually replaced the door lock, but the firmware update issues persisted. Watch to the end to see what the fix is!
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L Low Rate Locksmith Article
The Schlage lock products Encode smart lock has become one of the more discussed Wi-Fi enabled deadbolts on the residential market, and homeowners evaluating it deserve a clear-eyed look at what the device actually delivers, where it falls short, and what professional involvement may be necessary for a secure, code-compliant installation.
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S St3rmTig3r St3rmTig3r · 354 subscribers · Feb 2021
Absolutely DOA.
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L LinkdHOME David Mead · reviewer
Schlage is a big name in locks but from my research it appears they’ve been having some issues lately with quality control. These locks don’t seem to hold up well in more extreme weather such as high humidity, frost, or direct rain exposure, and about 5% of customers are reporting early failures and poor component fit.
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H r/HomeKit u/cjammin17 · owner
Being able to have a single key is a nice bonus, but the quality of the lock, for me, is what puts it on top. Incredible battery life when using only Thread (and not WiFi). If you have a handle only lock, like a door from garage to house, for that I can recommend the Aqara U300.
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J Joe's Garage colorgrower · owner · Aug 2020
I too got a schlage encode last weekend after reading all the great reviews unfortunately it came with a set of dead batteries left me kinda phizzed off that after all the money spent go buy another set of batteries.
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F Facebook Elizabeth Weiss · owner
We rented a place with the Schlage Encode this past summer and I did not like it. Did not always wake up as it was supposed to.
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T The Verge Jennifer Pattison Tuohy · reviewer
The Encode Plus works with Home Key, but its convenience is costly.
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Frequently asked questions

It ranks #14 (F tier) on our consolidated smart locks board, drawn from 58 cited sources across 46 outlets.

Frequent connectivity problems reported. Short warranty period. Coasting on a reputation earned in 2019. Wirecutter now passes it over in favor of the Arrive, which offers better hardware and reliability for the same or less money. No Apple Home Key and older internals.

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