I’ll never forget the moment I decided my relationship with traditional keys was over. It was a miserable, rainy Tuesday evening. I was juggling two heavy grocery bags, trying to balance an umbrella on my shoulder, and desperately attempting the one-handed key-in-lock maneuver that every homeowner has tried and failed at. Of course, the key dropped into a puddle. As I stood there, soaked and frustrated, I realized there had to be a better way. The daily ritual of finding, carrying, and fumbling with keys is a universal point of friction. It’s not just about inconvenience; it’s about the small anxieties. Did I forget my keys? Did I remember to lock the door? Who has a spare copy? Giving a key to a pet-sitter or contractor means trusting them with a permanent point of access to your home. A simple, reliable, keyless solution isn’t just a gadget; it’s a genuine upgrade to your daily peace of mind and home security posture.
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- Grade 2 security rating
What to Consider Before Buying an Electronic Deadbolt
An electronic deadbolt is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for streamlining access to your home while enhancing security. The primary problem it solves is the elimination of physical keys, which can be lost, stolen, or copied. This brings immense benefits, such as the ability to grant temporary access to guests, cleaners, or contractors without compromising your long-term security. It also provides the simple but profound convenience of leaving the house for a walk or a run without needing to carry a bulky set of keys. For families with children, it means no more worrying about them losing their house key at school. A high-quality deadbolt is the first line of defense for your home, and an electronic one adds a layer of modern convenience on top of that fundamental role.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing these exact challenges: busy homeowners, families, property managers, or anyone who frequently has guests. It’s perfect for the person who values reliability and security over complex, feature-heavy smart home gadgets. However, it might not be suitable for those who demand full smart home integration, such as remote locking/unlocking from a smartphone app, voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant, or detailed access logs. For those users, a more advanced, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart lock would be a better fit. The SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock strikes a specific balance: it offers the convenience of keyless entry without the potential complexities and connectivity issues of a fully “smart” device.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Security Rating & Build Quality: Security is paramount. Look for locks with ANSI/BHMA Grade ratings. Grade 1 is the highest commercial standard, while Grade 2 is considered excellent for residential use. The material of the lock, typically zinc or steel, contributes significantly to its resistance against forced entry. A robust build quality means the lock can withstand both tampering and the elements.
- Access Method & Power Source: How will you unlock the door? Most electronic locks use a keypad (touchscreen or push-button). Consider if you need features like a physical key backup. Power is another critical factor. Most run on standard batteries (like AA or a 9V). Look for models with long battery life and a low-battery indicator to avoid being locked out. Some, like this Schlage model, even have a backup power terminal.
- Installation & Compatibility: Is the lock compatible with your existing door? Check the required door thickness, bore hole diameter (typically 2 1/8″), and backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole). A DIY-friendly installation can save you the cost of a locksmith, so look for products with clear instructions and a straightforward setup process.
- Keyless Operation Style: This is a subtle but vital point. Some electronic locks are motorized—you enter the code, and a motor retracts the bolt. Others, like the Schlage BE375, are mechanical—you enter the code to disengage the lock, but you must physically turn the thumbturn to retract the bolt. The latter often leads to significantly longer battery life and can be more reliable on older doors that don’t always align perfectly.
Keeping these factors in mind, the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock stands out in several areas, particularly its robust build and reliable mechanical operation. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- KEYED DEADBOLT: Use on doors requiring a high level of security, turn piece interior locking, exterior locking using a key. Recommended for exterior-facing...
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control...
- Ansi Grade-3 Security Single Cylinder Deadbolt With Decorative Turn-Piece.Note: Measure your door's backset, cross bore and thickness to ensure you find...
First Impressions: Sleek, Substantial, and Ready for Duty
Unboxing the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock, the first thing we noticed was its weight. In a market flooded with lightweight plastics, this deadbolt feels substantial and serious. The solid zinc construction and the Matte Black finish give it a premium, modern aesthetic that immediately inspires confidence. Unlike locks with physical buttons that can wear out over time, the BE375 features a sleek, capacitive touchscreen. It’s completely dark and unobtrusive until touched, at which point the numbers illuminate in a crisp, blue light. This design choice not only looks elegant but also serves a practical purpose: the fingerprint-resistant surface means wear patterns won’t develop over time, preventing would-be intruders from guessing the most frequently used digits in your code. The package includes all necessary hardware, including a heavily reinforced strike plate and impressively long 3-inch screws designed to bite deep into the door frame stud, not just the flimsy jamb. Right out of the box, it’s clear that Schlage prioritized security and durability in its design.
What We Like
- Robust, heavy-duty construction with a Grade 2 security rating.
- Manual thumbturn operation preserves battery life and ensures reliable locking.
- Sleek, fingerprint-resistant touchscreen maintains security and aesthetics.
- Extremely straightforward installation for standard door preparations.
- Emergency 9V battery power terminal provides peace of mind.
Drawbacks
- Completely keyless design means no physical key override.
- Lacks smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity or app control.
A Deep Dive into the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock’s Performance
A deadbolt’s true worth is measured in its daily reliability, security, and ease of use. We spent weeks putting the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock through its paces on a high-traffic garage entry door, evaluating everything from the installation process to its performance under constant use. This isn’t just a lock; it’s a statement of reliable, no-fuss security.
Installation: A Refreshingly Simple DIY Project
Schlage has a reputation for engineering products that are friendly to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts, and the BE375 is a prime example. Our installation experience was remarkably smooth, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish with just a Phillips head screwdriver. The instructions are clear and well-illustrated, guiding you through each step. As one user, a professional locksmith with over 14 years of experience, noted, “The lock is easy to install, as long as you have a 2 1/8″ standard bore hole.” We found the components aligned perfectly without the fiddling and adjustments required by some other brands. The wire connecting the exterior keypad to the interior battery assembly routes cleanly through the door, and the connection is secure and intuitive.
A standout feature is the included security strike plate. This isn’t a standard, flimsy piece of metal. It’s a thick, reinforced plate that comes with two 3-inch lag screws. These are designed to anchor the lock directly into the stud framing of your house, providing immense resistance against kick-in attacks. Several users highlighted this, with one stating, “This came with large 2 1/2″ long lag screws that went deep into the actual interior wall frame giving extra security.” While our door was standard, it’s worth noting a couple of users had to make minor modifications. One had to use a Dremel to slightly enlarge the deadbolt hole in the doorframe when replacing a different brand, a task that took only five minutes. This highlights that while the lock is designed for standard doors, slight variations in older homes might require minimal adjustments. One critical piece of advice we echo from a user who experienced an issue after a year: be mindful of the wire placement during installation. Ensure the wire is tucked away from the moving thumbturn tab to prevent pinching over time. A small piece of electrical tape can provide extra security. Overall, the installation process is a major win for this lock.
The Manual Advantage: Why No Motor is a Good Thing
One of the most debated features of the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock is its lack of a motorized bolt. After entering your code, you must manually turn the thumbturn on the exterior or interior to lock or unlock the deadbolt. Some users, expecting a fully automated experience, were initially confused. One buyer mentioned installing it four times, thinking it was defective, before realizing this was the intended design. However, after extensive testing, we firmly believe this is the lock’s greatest strength.
Motorized deadbolts, while convenient, have two significant drawbacks. First, they consume battery power at a much higher rate. Second, and more importantly, they can struggle and fail if the door and frame are not perfectly aligned. A door that swells in the summer humidity or shifts slightly over time can cause a motorized bolt to jam, either failing to lock or failing to unlock, and rapidly draining the battery in the process. We’ve seen this happen with other models. With the BE375, you are the motor. You can feel the bolt engage. If there’s resistance, you know it. This tactile feedback is invaluable. As one user with an older home perfectly summarized, “I have an older home and the door doesn’t always line up perfectly…so this was a must for me. It locks beautifully.” Another user who replaced a motorized Kwikset lock praised this design, stating that when his old lock was misaligned, “the device will work extra hard and this will cause the battery to drain in couple weeks. Adding the extra step to manually turn the knob solves this problem.” This design choice dramatically extends the battery life—Schlage estimates up to two years on a single 9V battery—and makes the lock far more reliable for a wider range of homes, new and old.
Security in Depth: Beyond the Code
At its core, a deadbolt must be secure. The SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock excels here, combining digital security with robust physical engineering. The ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 certification is not just a label; it signifies that the lock has undergone rigorous testing against attacks like prying, drilling, and impact. The sleek touchscreen isn’t just for looks. Because there’s no keyway, the lock is completely immune to lock picking and “bumping,” two common methods of forced entry for traditional locks. This is a huge security advantage that often goes overlooked.
Programming the lock is straightforward. It comes with a preset user code and a programming code, found on a sticker on the back of the interior assembly and in the manual. You can add, delete, or change up to 19 unique user codes, making it perfect for granting access to family, friends, or service people. The “Lock and Leave” feature is also incredibly convenient. To lock the door from the outside, you simply press the “Schlage” button at the top of the keypad and turn the thumbturn. There’s no need to enter a full code, making departures quick and easy.
But what happens if the battery dies? This is the primary concern for anyone considering a fully keyless lock. Schlage has an elegant solution. First, a blinking light gives you weeks of warning when the battery is low. If you ignore that and the battery completely dies, you can simply hold a standard 9V battery to the terminals located at the bottom of the exterior keypad. This provides temporary power, allowing you to enter your code, unlock the door, and then replace the internal battery. This backup system is a critical feature that makes the lack of a physical key a non-issue, providing total peace of mind. For those looking for a lock that masterfully blends modern access with brute-force security, the Schlage BE375 is an outstanding choice.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment for the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock is overwhelmingly positive, with users consistently praising its robust build quality and reliability. One owner, who has installed them on multiple homes, states they “never disappoint,” and their husband finds the installation “easy and fast.” Another happy customer notes, “This is a really great set. Heavy, durable, easy to use and program.” The manual operation is a recurring point of praise for experienced users who understand its benefits for battery life and reliability on imperfectly aligned doors.
However, no product is perfect, and some users have encountered issues. The most common negative feedback relates to quality control on arrival. A few customers reported receiving units that were defective out of the box, with one mentioning a “wire completely cut” and another receiving a lock that wouldn’t engage properly. Another user received a product that was missing its user manual and the crucial programming code sticker, rendering it useless until a replacement was arranged. While these instances appear to be outliers and are covered by Schlage’s warranty, they are a source of frustration. The other point of friction, as mentioned, is the initial confusion some users have about the manual thumbturn versus an automated motor, highlighting the importance of understanding this key feature before purchase.
How Does the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Schlage BE375 excels in its niche of reliable, non-smart electronic security, the market offers a wide range of options catering to different needs and budgets. Here’s how it stacks up against three distinct alternatives.
1. Probrico Keyed Alike Single Cylinder Deadbolts 2 Pack
- Keyed alike:Each dedbolt with identical key. Same key for convenience. This single cylinder deadbolt can be locked or unlocked by a key outside, or by...
- Stable&Durabel for wide application:The deadbolt confirms with ANSI Grade 3, exceeds 200,000 cycles,long lasting for daily use. Suitable for door needing...
The Probrico deadbolt set represents the traditional, budget-friendly end of the spectrum. This is a no-frills, purely mechanical, keyed deadbolt. Its primary advantages are its low cost and simplicity—there are no electronics to fail or batteries to replace. This is the ideal choice for someone who needs to secure multiple doors on a tight budget (as it comes in a two-pack) and is not interested in keyless convenience. The trade-off is significant: you lose all the benefits of keyless entry, temporary codes, and immunity to lock-bumping. The Probrico is for the traditionalist or budget-conscious buyer, while the Schlage BE375 is for the user seeking a significant upgrade in convenience and modern security.
2. ULTRALOQ Latch 5 Smart Lock Fingerprint Keyless Entry
- 【Multiple Ways to Unlock】World's first built in WiFi keyless entry door lock, App + Fingerprint + Code + Mechanical Key.
- 【Ideal for Rental Homeowners and Homeowners】Built-in WiFi allows you to share temporary passwords to your guests via smartphone app remotely. No WiFi...
The ULTRALOQ Latch 5 moves into the fully-fledged “smart lock” category. It offers a stunning array of entry methods: fingerprint, keypad, smartphone app, and even a backup key. Its built-in Wi-Fi means you can lock, unlock, and monitor access from anywhere in the world without needing a separate bridge or hub. This lock is for the tech-savvy homeowner who wants maximum features and connectivity. However, this complexity comes at a higher price and introduces more potential points of failure (Wi-Fi connectivity, app glitches, etc.). Someone might choose the ULTRALOQ for its remote capabilities and fingerprint access, while a user prioritizing steadfast reliability and long battery life over smart features would prefer the simpler, more robust design of the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock.
3. ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint WiFi Smart Lock 8-in-1 Keyless Entry
- 【Apple Home Support】ULTRALOQ’s first-ever Apple Home fingerprint smart deadbolt is a smart lock that is fully integrated into Apple Home. It can be...
- 【Control Your Smart Lock Anytime, Anywhere】: Lock, unlock, share ekey or codes remotely to your family, guests or service people for permanent access,...
Similar to its Latch 5 sibling, the ULTRALOQ Bolt is a feature-packed deadbolt designed for the smart home enthusiast. Its key differentiator is its deep integration with platforms like Apple Home, allowing for Siri voice control. With 8-in-1 entry methods, including fingerprint ID, it offers unparalleled flexibility. This is the lock for someone deeply embedded in a smart home ecosystem who wants their door lock to be an active part of their home automation routines. The choice between the ULTRALOQ Bolt and the Schlage BE375 is a clear one: do you want a connected smart home device or a standalone, ultra-reliable security appliance? The ULTRALOQ offers cutting-edge features, while the Schlage offers rock-solid, focused performance without the need for an internet connection.
The Final Verdict: A Champion of Reliable Simplicity
After rigorous testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock is an exceptional product for a specific, and very large, group of users. It is not trying to be a smart home hub; it is a superb, high-security deadbolt that has been enhanced with the profound convenience of keyless entry. Its strengths are its tank-like build quality, its intelligent manual operation that boosts reliability and battery life, and its sleek, secure design that eliminates the vulnerabilities of a traditional keyway. It’s the perfect choice for homeowners who want to ditch their keys and simplify access for family and trusted guests without introducing the complexities and potential vulnerabilities of a Wi-Fi connected device.
While the lack of a physical key may give some pause, the 9V battery backup provides a reliable fail-safe. If you value proven security, straightforward operation, and long-term durability over the latest smart features, this lock is one of the best you can buy. It delivers peace of mind in a sleek, modern package. If you’ve decided the SCHLAGE BE375 CEN 622 Touchscreen Electronic Deadbolt Lock is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API