Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Review

The Schlage Encode is an excellent smart door lock, and it’s way easier to use this lock than it is to pronounce the name “Schlage.” (It’s “shh-layg” by the way.)

A lot of smart door locks require a separate bridge if you want to connect them to Wi-Fi, but the Schlage Encode comes with Wi-Fi capabilities built right in. Combine that with top security grades, an ADA-compliant keypad, and multiple design options, and you’ve got a top-notch lock on your hands. Or rather, on your door.

The Schlage Encode is feature-packed for a mere lock. It has multiple smart home integrations, built-in Wi-Fi, guest access codes, remote control . . . we could go on. Safe to say that the Schlage Encode is a good value.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt features:

• Comes with built-in Wi-Fi connection
• Works with Schlage Home app, Key by Amazon, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Ring
• Comes with the highest available security grade (Commercial Grade 1, residential Grade AAA)
• Allows up to 100 guest user codes
• Has an ADA-compliant, accessible display
• Comes with a built-in alarm
• Includes a lifetime mechanical warranty and 3-year electronics warranty

The Schlage Encode comes with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, so you don’t have to buy or mess with extra devices. Once it’s hooked up to your Wi-Fi, you can lock or unlock the Schlage Encode from anywhere, as long as you have your smartphone.

This is a neat feature considering there are tons of smart door locks on the market, but not all of them can connect to your Wi-Fi network. They either don’t do that at all, or they require a separate Wi-Fi bridge before you can control your lock remotely through an app. Not very smart for a smart device.

Smart door locks don’t usually come with their own alarms, but the Schlage Encode has at least an attempt at one. If the Schlage detects someone trying to force their way through the lock, it will let you know about it with a beeping siren-like noise.

It’s not a great alarm. It’s pretty quiet, and you probably won’t hear it unless you’re standing right behind your front door. But it’s a nice thought, and maybe it would scare off a clumsy intruder.

The Schlage Encode lets you set temporary or permanent guest access codes so your dog walker can come and go without you giving them a physical key. You can also create virtual keys, which lets guests access your house through the Schlage Home app.

Personally, we think it’s easier to just create a code for guests, so they don’t have to download an app. But if you have someone who needs regular access, like a nanny, then the virtual key could be useful.

The Schlage Encode gets excellent marks from a security standpoint. It not only has the highest residential security score from the ANSI and BHMA (the two main security organizations that grade locks), but the Schlage Encode also scores a ANSI/BHMA Commercial Grade 1 rating, which is the highest grade possible.

That basically just means the Schlage went above and beyond what’s expected from residential deadbolts. And considering your front door lock is the most important piece of security equipment you have, a high security rating is always a perk.

If you are (or you know) someone with visual or dexterity difficulties, then most smart locks’ tiny keypads and hard-to-read screens are more trouble than they’re worth. But if you struggle with small objects like buttons and door keys, then the Schlage Encode’s ADA-compliant keypad is even easier to use than a traditional deadbolt.

The Schlage Encode has a decent-sized keypad, with big, bright numbers that are easier to see and easier to press correctly. Even the large-fingered among us can get the numbers right on the first try.

The Schlage isn’t cheap—it’ll cost you over $300. But that’s pretty standard for a smart deadbolt, and considering its features, we think the Schlage Encode is worth the price.

It’s also a one-time cost. The Schlage Encode doesn’t charge you a monthly subscription price or cost extra for access to the best features. Once you buy the lock, that’s it. Wallet closed.

The Schlage Encode replaces your entire deadbolt, latch and all. So it’s a little more labor-intensive than a smart lock that modifies your existing deadbolt instead, like the August Smart Lock Pro or the Wyze Lock.

That said, even a newbie should be able to handle the installation. All you need is a Phillips head screwdriver, and Schlage has interactive instructions that are easy to follow.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt installation overview: 

1. Remove your existing deadbolt. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver.
2. Slide the new bolt into your doorframe. Look for the word “TOP” to see which side should be on top.
3. Screw the latch into place with a screwdriver.
4. Install the reinforcement plate into your doorframe and screw it into place.
5. Hold the exterior touchscreen up to your doorframe and slide the cable through the frame below the latch.
6. Install the support plate on the interior side of your doorframe. Slide the cable through and screw the support plate into place.
7. Connect the cable to the interior body of the door lock, then connect the body to the support plate. Screw it into place.
8. Insert the included four AA batteries.
9. Select which compatible smart home app you want to use to control your Schlage Encode (Schlage Home or Key by Amazon) and set up the lock as a new device within the app.

For the money and the features, we think the Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is one of the best smart door locks you can buy.

Features: The Schlage Encode comes with built-in Wi-Fi capability, an accessible keypad, multiple app options, and a high security grade. It’s a sturdy lock that will keep your door secure and still give you all the perks of a smart device.

Pricing: This lock isn’t cheap, but it’s roughly average for a smart door lock. The Schlage Encode is a good value, and you’ll get your money’s worth.

Home automation: The Schlage Encode integrates with several smart home platforms, including Key by Amazon and Ring home security and security cameras. It also works with smart assistants Alexa and Google, so you can control the lock with your voice.

Installation: You’ll need to replace your whole deadbolt with this lock, so installation might seem a little tricky. But Schlage makes it easy with a step-by-step interactive guide.

Want to check out your other options before you commit? Read our Best Smart Door Locks review.