I remember it vividly. A torrential downpour, arms loaded with groceries, and a toddler who had just decided that standing was no longer an option. As I struggled to balance bags, a squirming child, and the umbrella, the final boss appeared: the front door lock. The keys, naturally, were buried at the bottom of a bag. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated frustration—a scenario so common it’s practically a rite of passage for homeowners. This daily struggle, the anxiety of wondering “Did I lock the door?” after you’ve already driven five miles away, or the logistical nightmare of coordinating key handoffs for guests, is precisely the problem that smart locks were born to solve. Moving beyond a simple piece of metal, a smart deadbolt transforms your entryway into an intelligent, responsive, and secure gateway to your home, promising convenience and peace of mind in one sleek package.
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Plus lock to your home WiFi network to control...
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and easily manage...
What to Consider Before Buying a Smart Deadbolt
A smart deadbolt is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for modern living, offering a blend of security, convenience, and control that traditional locks simply can’t match. It solves the perennial problem of lost or forgotten keys, provides secure and manageable access for family, friends, and service providers, and delivers a detailed log of who enters and leaves your home. The main benefits are profound: enhanced security through features like auto-locking and tamper alarms, the convenience of keyless entry via codes or your smartphone, and the power of remote access, allowing you to lock or unlock your door from anywhere in the world.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone deeply integrated into a smart home ecosystem (especially Apple HomeKit for this particular model), a busy family managing multiple schedules, or a rental property owner needing to issue temporary access codes. It’s for the tech-savvy individual who values the seamless integration of their devices and the peace of mind that comes with it. Conversely, it might not be the best fit for those who are uncomfortable with technology, live in an area with unreliable Wi-Fi, or prefer a purely mechanical solution without batteries or potential software glitches. For them, a high-security mechanical deadbolt remains a viable and dependable alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Before anything else, measure your door. Smart locks are designed for standard doors, typically 1-3/8 inches to 1-3/4 inches thick. You also need to check the backset—the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the borehole—which is usually 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches. Ensure the interior housing of the lock won’t obstruct your door’s operation or any nearby fixtures.
- Capacity/Performance: Performance in a smart lock is about connectivity and responsiveness. Look for models with built-in Wi-Fi to avoid the need for a separate bridge. Consider the connectivity protocols like Bluetooth and Thread, the latter of which offers a faster, more reliable, and power-efficient connection for HomeKit devices. Also, evaluate the lock’s capacity for access codes; a model like the Schlage Encode Plus, which supports up to 100 codes, is excellent for both large families and rental situations.
- Materials & Durability: A lock’s primary job is security. Look for a robust construction, typically from materials like zinc, and pay close attention to its security rating. The highest certification for residential locks is a BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) Grade AAA rating, which covers security, durability, and finish. This ensures the lock has been rigorously tested against forced entry attempts.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A smart lock should simplify your life, not complicate it. The installation should be straightforward, ideally requiring only a basic screwdriver. The companion app should be intuitive for setting up codes and notifications. Finally, consider long-term maintenance, primarily battery life. Look for models that provide low-battery warnings and check user feedback for realistic expectations on how often you’ll be replacing them.
Keeping these factors in mind, the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock stands out in several areas, particularly for its high security rating and seamless smart home integration. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi 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:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Smart Deadbolts for Your Home
- 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: Unboxing a Premium Piece of Home Security
From the moment you lift the box, the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock feels substantial. This isn’t a flimsy piece of plastic; the hefty weight of the zinc components immediately conveys a sense of security and durability. We reviewed the Matte Black model in the Century style, and its clean, rectangular lines and smooth, fingerprint-resistant finish felt both modern and timeless. It’s a design that makes a statement without being ostentatious, blending perfectly with contemporary door hardware. Inside the box, every component is neatly organized, with the deadbolt assembly, interior and exterior units, strike plates, and a clearly labeled bag of hardware. The inclusion of a physical key is a welcome, traditional fail-safe. Compared to some other smart locks that can feel overly futuristic or bulky, the Schlage strikes an elegant balance. The touchscreen keypad is sleek and completely black when inactive, adding to its minimalist appeal—though, as we would soon discover, this design choice comes with a significant trade-off.
What We Like
- Seamless Apple Home Key integration for tap-to-unlock convenience
- Extremely easy and straightforward physical installation process
- Built-in Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate hub or bridge
- Top-tier BHMA Grade AAA security rating for peace of mind
- Quiet and smooth motor operation
What We Dislike
- Keypad numbers are nearly invisible in bright daylight until touched
- Some reports of inconsistent battery life and connectivity issues
Deep Dive: Performance Under Real-World Testing
A smart lock’s true worth is only revealed through daily use, where it must flawlessly balance convenience, security, and reliability. We put the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock through its paces for several weeks, integrating it into a busy family routine and testing every feature, from its groundbreaking Apple Home Key support to its fundamental security alarms. We wanted to see if it lived up to its premium reputation and the considerable hype surrounding it.
Installation and Setup: A DIY Dream Come True
Schlage has a long-standing reputation for user-friendly hardware, and the Encode Plus proudly continues that legacy. As confirmed by numerous users who found the process “super easy,” we had our old, dumb deadbolt removed and the new smart lock installed in under 20 minutes. All we needed was a single Philips head screwdriver. The instructions are clear, and Schlage provides a link to an excellent step-by-step video guide that removes any guesswork. The lock is cleverly designed to fit standard door preparations, so there was no need for new drilling; as one user noted, “All the pre-drilled holes in the existing door lined up perfectly.” The adjustable deadbolt fits both common backsets, and the unit feels solid and secure once the mounting screws are tightened.
The software side is where things can get slightly more nuanced. The primary setup is managed through the Schlage Home app. For Apple users, the best path we found was to use the “Works With Apple HomeKit” option directly within the Schlage app, which then seamlessly guides you through adding the lock to your Apple Home. This method proved far more reliable than trying to add it directly from the Home app first. While we had a smooth experience, a handful of users have reported initial connectivity issues, sometimes requiring a factory reset or troubleshooting their Wi-Fi network. One frustrated user discovered their lock would only connect when they physically held the battery pack in place, suggesting rare but possible hardware defects. However, for the vast majority, including us, the setup is one of the easiest we’ve ever encountered for a smart device.
The Magic of Apple Home Key and Flawless Integration
This is, without a doubt, the star of the show. If you are in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Home Key functionality is a genuine game-changer and almost single-handedly justifies the “Plus” in the product’s name. After adding the lock to Apple Home, a Home Key is automatically generated and stored securely in your Apple Wallet. From that point on, unlocking your door is as simple as tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch on the lock’s keypad. There’s no need to wake the device or open an app; it just works, instantly and reliably. It feels like magic.
We found this feature indispensable when returning with full hands. A simple flick of the wrist was all it took to hear the satisfyingly quiet whir of the deadbolt retracting. As one happy user put it, “I love just touching my Apple Watch or iPhone to the lock and having it unlock… Works every time, faster than putting in my PIN.” This isn’t just a gimmick; it fundamentally changes your interaction with your front door. The lock also supports Thread, a low-power mesh networking protocol that makes its connection to our HomeKit hub (an Apple TV) incredibly fast and responsive, which also contributes to better battery life. We could check the lock’s status or operate it remotely via the Home app with virtually no lag. For those who want the absolute pinnacle of smart home convenience, the Apple Home Key support on the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock is truly exceptional.
Daily Use, Security, and a Glaring Design Flaw
Beyond the smart features, a lock must perform its core duties flawlessly. The SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock excels here in many ways. The motor is noticeably quiet compared to older models. The auto-lock feature is reliable and can be customized with delays from 30 seconds to 4 minutes, providing peace of mind without needing a separate door sensor. The ability to manage up to 100 unique codes through the Schlage Home app is fantastic for granting temporary access to guests, dog walkers, or contractors, with a full history log of when each code was used. The built-in alarm is another robust feature, capable of sounding a loud alert upon sensing significant door impacts or repeated incorrect code entries.
However, we encountered the same major issue that dominates negative feedback: the keypad’s visibility is abysmal in bright light. The design features glossy black numbers on a matte black, non-backlit surface. The numbers only light up *after* you touch the screen. During the day, especially if the sun is shining on the door, the numbers are virtually invisible. You have to guess where to press to wake the screen up, and if your first press is a number, it’s registered as part of the code entry. One user aptly described the frustration this will cause guests: “This will surely lead to confusion/frustration from my guests.” Another lamented, “There is no reason for such an ignorant design.” This is not a minor quirk; it’s a significant usability flaw that mars an otherwise brilliantly engineered product, making code-based entry a frustrating experience during the day.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our experience largely mirrors the consensus found across hundreds of user reviews. The praise is overwhelmingly focused on the seamless Apple HomeKit and Home Key functionality. One user perfectly summarized this sentiment: “Great HomeKit lock. Easy to set up… Thread functionality means it’s fast, responsive, and battery life is great… Home Key is great.” Many, like us, also lauded the straightforward physical installation, with one person stating it was the “easiest experience I’ve ever had with ‘smart’ devices,” taking them less than 15 minutes.
On the other hand, the negative feedback is just as consistent and almost universally targets two areas. The most prominent complaint, by far, is the poor visibility of the keypad. A user who manages a rental property called it “worthless for others with keycode access” and said they would need to add vinyl letters to make it usable. The second area of concern is inconsistent reliability for a minority of users. We saw reports of erratic battery life, with one user needing to replace batteries twice in four months. More serious were isolated reports of hardware failure, such as a keypad that stopped working after 18 months or a defective unit that triggered false “keypad tamper” alerts right out of the box. While these appear to be exceptions, they highlight that even a top-tier product can have quality control issues.
How Does the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock Compare?
The SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock sits in the premium tier of the smart lock market, but it’s important to understand the alternatives, especially for those who aren’t locked into the Apple ecosystem or are working with a different budget.
1. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock Auto Lock
- Passcode Entry: This keypad lock offers 20 access codes for family use and a temporary code for single-use guest entry
- One-Time Code: A one-time PIN code can be set for door opening and will automatically be deleted after use
The TEEHO TE001 represents the budget-friendly end of the spectrum. It’s a no-frills keyless entry solution that focuses on the core functionalities: a physical keypad, auto-lock, and standard key access. It lacks any Wi-Fi or “smart” connectivity, meaning you can’t control or monitor it remotely. This is the ideal alternative for someone who simply wants to ditch their keys and have an auto-locking door without the complexity or cost of a fully integrated smart lock. If your main goal is keypad entry for your family and you have no interest in app control or smart home automations, the TEEHO offers that core convenience for a fraction of the price of the Schlage.
2. Veise Keyless Entry Door Lock Auto Lock
- Keyless Entry: With 20 password code + 2 spare keys + one-time password for temporary visitors, the one-time code will automatically deleted after use
- Smart and Convenient: With anti peeping function when entering passwords, and the front door lock set can 'auto lock' in 10-99 seconds, or press a key for...
The Veise lock is another excellent budget-conscious choice that directly addresses the Schlage’s biggest weakness: keypad visibility. The Veise features a clearly backlit keypad, making it easy to use day or night. It also includes thoughtful features like an anti-peeking function, which allows you to enter random digits before or after your real code to confuse onlookers. Like the TEEHO, it is not a “smart” lock in the connected sense—it lacks Wi-Fi or app integration. However, for users who will rely heavily on keypad codes for guests and want a reliable, easy-to-see interface without breaking the bank, the Veise presents a very compelling argument over the Schlage.
3. HIDALIFE Keyless Entry Door Lock with Handle
- Touchscreen Password Keypad: Enjoy optimal performance with our keyless door locks for front door featuring a password keypad, eliminating the...
- Anti-Peep Password Security: Your security is of utmost importance to us. Feel secure as you enter any number of random digits; the correct password...
The HIDALIFE model appeals to a different need: aesthetics and a complete entryway overhaul. It comes as a full set, including both the smart deadbolt and a matching door handle. This is the perfect choice for someone installing a new door or wanting a perfectly coordinated look for their front entry hardware. While its smart features are more basic than the Schlage’s, it offers a solid combination of a touchscreen keypad, auto-lock, and anti-peep password functionality. Someone might prefer this alternative if achieving a unified design with a matching handle is a top priority, and they don’t require the advanced smart home integration offered by the Schlage Encode Plus.
Our Final Verdict: Is the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock Worth It?
After extensive testing, our conclusion is clear: the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock is an absolutely phenomenal product with one major, frustrating flaw. For any homeowner deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, the flawless execution of Apple Home Key is revolutionary. The tap-to-unlock feature is so fast, reliable, and convenient that it makes other entry methods feel archaic. Combined with its top-tier BHMA security rating, easy installation, and quiet operation, it’s a premium piece of hardware that delivers an exceptional user experience.
However, we cannot ignore the poorly designed keypad. The difficulty in seeing the numbers in bright daylight is a significant design oversight that can cause real frustration, especially for guests. Therefore, we recommend this lock wholeheartedly to Apple users who will primarily use Home Key, their phone, or their watch for entry. If your use case relies heavily on frequent guest access via keypad codes, you should seriously consider the keypad’s limitations. Despite this drawback, the overall package of security, convenience, and build quality is so strong that it remains a top contender in the smart lock market.
If you’ve decided the SCHLAGE Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API