Shopping for the best schlage smart locks means deciding between remote access, hands-free entry, and simpler keypad control. This selection suits homeowners, landlords, and households replacing either a deadbolt or a complete lever lock.
Pros
- Built-in WiFi, remote control from anywhere
- Stores up to 100 access codes
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
- Forced-entry alarm and encrypted connection
Cons
- Requires Schlage Home app for smart features
- Four AA batteries last up to six months
Pros
- Built-in WiFi with remote lock control
- Manages up to 250 access codes
- Backlit, fingerprint-resistant push-button keypad
- Alexa, Google Home, and Ring compatible
Cons
- App features require secure WiFi connection
- Fits only 1-3/8 to 1-3/4-inch doors
Pros
- Built-in WiFi for anywhere access
- Touchscreen keypad enables keyless entry
- Customizable alarm for forced entry attempts
- BHMA-certified security, durability, and finish
Cons
- Remote features require a home WiFi connection
- App control adds setup and management
Pros
- Apple Home key support with iPhone and Apple Watch
- Built-in WiFi for remote access and monitoring
- Stores up to 100 access codes
- Forced-entry alarm and encrypted connection
Cons
- App and secure WiFi required for remote features
- Voice control requires a compatible enabled device
Pros
- Ultra Wideband hands-free entry
- Apple Home Key and NFC access
- Matter over Thread compatibility
- Built-in WiFi for remote control
- Supports up to 250 access codes
Cons
- Thread hub required for device pairing
- Apple hands-free features need supported devices
Pros
- 100% keyless touchscreen entry
- Downlighting aids nighttime code entry
- Fingerprint-resistant screen protects access codes
- Grade 2/AAA certified security
- Screwdriver-only installation, no hardwiring
Cons
- No physical key entry
- Limited to residential and light commercial use
Start With the Door Hardware
A deadbolt model is the natural fit when your existing door has a separate deadbolt and handle. The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock, Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock, Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock, and Schlage Sense Pro UWB Smart Deadbolt Lock all target that format, while the two lever models replace the handle area instead.
That distinction matters more than a touchscreen finish. A lever lock can suit an entry door or interior access point where a complete handle replacement makes sense, but it is not a substitute for a deadbolt in every door setup. Check the existing hardware and door thickness before ordering, especially because the Encode and Arrive deadbolts specify a standard 1-3/8-inch to 1-3/4-inch door range.
Before You Mount It: Do not assume every door accepts the same lock body. Confirm the existing hardware layout, backset, door thickness, and clearance before removing the old lock.
For additional door-hardware context, see this explanation of why the strike plate matters. A smart lock still depends on the door and frame lining up properly.
Remote Access Versus Local Entry
Built-in WiFi is shared by the Encode, Encode Plus, Arrive, and Sense Pro models, allowing app-based control away from home when paired with the Schlage Home app and a secure WiFi network. The Touch Electronic Lock, Lever Handle is different: its listed features focus on local touchscreen codes and Grade 2/AAA security rather than app access.
Choose the Encode Plus if Apple HomeKit and Apple home keys are central to your routine. It supports tap-to-unlock with an iPhone or Apple Watch, while the Sense Pro adds Ultra Wideband hands-free unlocking for compatible Apple devices and requires a Thread-enabled home hub for that pairing.
| Entry type | Main distinction | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi deadbolt | App access away | Separate deadbolt doors |
| Apple smart lock | Tap or hands-free | Apple households |
| Touch lever | Local keypad codes | Simple lever replacement |
Alexa and Google compatibility appears across several WiFi models, but the exact Apple features are not interchangeable. If you want voice routines, review the listed ecosystem support rather than assuming every Schlage lock offers the same integrations.
Codes, Batteries, and Daily Maintenance
The Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock manages up to 100 access codes, while the Arrive and Sense Pro models manage up to 250. That difference can matter for rentals, caregivers, or a larger household where separate codes are easier to manage than sharing one credential.
The Encode deadbolt uses four included AA batteries and lists up to six months of battery life with typical use. It also includes a physical backup key and gives low-battery alerts on the lock and in the app. The other products have different feature sets, so do not assume the same battery details apply across the range.
Pro Tip: Save the access instructions and check the lock’s battery warning before a long trip. Keep the included physical backup key in a secure, reachable place rather than inside the locked home.
Expert Examined
From Marcus Bell
I keep seeing door hardware treated as an afterthought. The mistake I see is choosing a smart feature first, then discovering the door does not close cleanly or the replacement format does not match. Measure the existing lock and check the frame before focusing on app features.
Read more about Marcus BellIf you are weighing a spare key against electronic access, this comparison of key lock boxes and smart locks covers the practical trade-off. You should also consider how access will work if your phone is unavailable.
Which Schlage Lock Fits Your Home
I would point you to the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock for a standard deadbolt door when remote app control, up to 100 codes, voice control, an alarm, and a physical backup key all matter. Its four AA batteries and stated low-battery notifications also make the maintenance routine clear.
For an Apple-focused household, I would choose the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock[/acms_link] when tap access from an iPhone or Apple Watch is the priority. I would reserve the Schlage Sense Pro UWB Smart Deadbolt Lock[/acms_link] for buyers who specifically want hands-free unlocking and already have the required compatible Apple setup and Thread-enabled hub.
If physical buttons appeal more than a touchscreen, the Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock offers a backlit push-button keypad, built-in WiFi, and up to 250 access codes. For a lever replacement without app features, the Schlage Touch Electronic Lock, Lever Handle is the simpler local-entry option.
The Bottom Line
The biggest mistake is choosing by finish or keypad style before confirming whether you need a deadbolt, lever replacement, or remote access. The six models do not provide the same hardware format or smart-home capabilities.
If you only do one thing first, inspect your existing door hardware and measure the door thickness and backset. Then select the model whose entry method and ecosystem match how your household actually uses the door.
FAQs
A deadbolt model suits a door with a separate deadbolt, while a lever model replaces the handle area. Check your existing hardware before choosing, because the two formats serve different installation needs. The Schlage Sense Pro UWB Smart Deadbolt Lock supports hands-free unlocking through Ultra Wideband with compatible Apple devices. Its listed Apple hands-free feature requires the specified device software and a Thread-enabled home hub for pairing. Use the lock’s battery warnings and replace batteries before they are depleted. The Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock uses four AA batteries and includes low-battery indicators on the touchscreen and in the Schlage Home app. The listed deadbolt and lever models carry the highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating certified by BHMA industry experts. That rating describes the product’s certified residential performance category, not a promise that every door installation is secure.Should I choose a Schlage deadbolt or lever lock?
Which Schlage lock supports Apple hands-free entry?
How should I manage smart lock batteries?
What does the Schlage security certification mean?
Sources
- BHMA residential lock certification information buildershardware.com
- National Fire Protection Association home safety resources www.nfpa.org