HearthCircuit

Smart Lock

Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt

by Schlage

The Schlage Encode Plus is an excellent choice for homeowners who want serious security paired with genuine smart home convenience, especially Apple users who value Home key integration.

Benchmarked alongside 55 other smart home products in our lab, averaging 4.5/5 across the catalog.

Overall score4.6/5.0
Verdict
The Schlage Encode Plus is an excellent choice for homeowners who want serious security paired with genuine smart home convenience, especially Apple users who value Home key integration. It costs more than entry-level smart locks, but the direct Wi-Fi connectivity, sturdy build, and expanded access code capacity justify the investment for anyone prioritizing a secure, connected front door.

Technical Specifications

ConnectivityBuilt-in Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
Power Source4x AA batteries
Access CodesUp to 100 users
MaterialAll-metal deadbolt construction
CompatibilityApple Home key, Alexa, Google Assistant
  • Built-in Wi-Fi, no hub required
  • Apple Home key tap-to-unlock support
  • Up to 100 programmable access codes
  • Tamper and forced-entry alarm system
  • Remote lock, unlock, and status monitoring
  • Access history logging via app
  • Backup physical key cylinder
  • Battery-powered with low-battery notifications

Pros

  • ✓ Direct Wi-Fi connection simplifies setup
  • ✓ Strong all-metal build quality
  • ✓ Apple Home key adds fast, secure unlocking
  • ✓ Generous number of user access codes
  • ✓ Built-in security alarm deters tampering
  • ✓ Works with Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

  • ✕ Higher price point than basic smart locks
  • ✕ Bulkier interior housing than minimalist models
  • ✕ Requires strong Wi-Fi signal near the door
  • ✕ App setup can be finicky on first install
92%

Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt

by Schlage

  • No hub required
  • Apple Home key unlock
  • Built-in tamper alarm
Check price
Trusted by readers of HearthCircuit56 products reviewedSite average 4.5/5

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The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is a premium residential smart lock built for homeowners who want robust security without juggling extra hubs or bridges. It connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network, letting you lock, unlock, and monitor your front door from anywhere using the Schlage Home app. What sets the Encode Plus apart is its built-in Apple Home key support, allowing compatible iPhones and Apple Watches to unlock the door with a simple tap, even functioning with certain low-power modes when the phone battery is nearly dead. Beyond connectivity, the lock features a durable all-metal construction with a keyed cylinder for traditional backup access, plus a built-in alarm system that can detect tampering, forced entry attempts, or repeated incorrect code entries. Up to 100 unique access codes can be created and scheduled, making it ideal for families, guests, contractors, or short-term rental hosts who need granular control over who enters and when. The deadbolt also logs access activity, so you always know who came and went. Installation is DIY-friendly, fitting most standard door prep without modification, and the lock runs on four AA batteries with a low-battery alert sent to your phone well before shutdown. With its blend of encrypted Wi-Fi communication, physical durability, and smart home ecosystem support, the Encode Plus is positioned as one of the more security-conscious and feature-rich smart deadbolts currently on the market.

Customer reviews

Apple Home key is a game changer — Marcus Thieu (2024-02-14)
Being able to tap my Apple Watch to unlock the door without even opening an app feels futuristic. Installation took about twenty minutes and the app walked me through everything clearly.
Great lock, Wi-Fi setup was tricky — Renee Castellano (2024-03-02)
The lock itself is solid and I love not needing a separate hub. My only complaint is it took a few tries to get it connected to my 5GHz-adjacent network setup.
Perfect for our rental property — Dana Whitfield (2024-01-28)
We manage a short-term rental and the ability to create temporary codes for each guest has saved us so much hassle with physical keys getting lost.
Sturdy and secure feeling — Tobias Kern (2024-04-09)
You can tell this thing is built well. The alarm feature actually triggered once when my kid tried jiggling the door and it startled all of us, in a good way.