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Summary: The Schlage Encode Plus stands in a class of its own as the only smart lock supporting Apple Home Key, letting you unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch to the lock. But it is much more than an Apple accessory. With built-in Wi-Fi, a rock-solid Schlage deadbolt, and broad smart home compatibility, it is our top-rated smart lock for 2026.
TL;DR
- Product: Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy?
- Brand: Schlage
- Category: Alarm Systems
- Smart Safe Gear score: 9.2/10
- Best fit: Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy?
Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy? is a alarm systems manufactured by Schlage. It is commonly compared with Window locks and stoppers and LED alarm indicator light and is best suited for schlage encode plus review: the best smart lock money can buy.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Lock Review (2026)
The only smart lock with Apple Home Key. Is it the best smart lock for 2026?
Table of Contents
SMARTSAFEGEAR SCORE
The Schlage Encode Plus stands in a class of its own as the only smart lock supporting Apple Home Key, letting you unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch to the lock. But it is much more than an Apple accessory. With built-in Wi-Fi, a rock-solid Schlage deadbolt, and broad smart home compatibility, it is our top-rated smart lock for 2026.
Key Features We Tested
Apple Home Key: Tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock, no app required. It works even when your phone battery is dead (up to 5 hours of reserve power). In our testing, it unlocked in under half a second consistently.
Built-In Wi-Fi: Unlike most smart locks that need a separate hub or bridge, the Encode Plus connects directly to your Wi-Fi router. Remote locking, unlocking, and status checks work from anywhere without extra hardware.
Grade 1 Deadbolt: This is a commercial-grade deadbolt, the highest residential security rating available. The lock feels substantial and inspires confidence in its physical security.
Multiple Access Methods: Apple Home Key, Schlage app, keypad code, physical key, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. You are never locked out.
| Lock Grade | ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (highest) |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi + Bluetooth |
| Smart Home | Apple HomeKit/Home Key, Alexa, Google |
| Access Methods | Home Key, app, keypad, key, voice |
| Battery | 4 AA batteries (6-12 months) |
| Finish Options | Matte Black, Satin Nickel, Aged Bronze |
| Auto-Lock | Yes, configurable timer |
| Price | ~$299.99 |
What We Liked
- Apple Home Key is genuinely magical and fast
- Grade 1 deadbolt provides top-tier physical security
- Built-in Wi-Fi means no separate hub needed
- Works with all three major smart home platforms
- Beautiful, premium build quality and multiple finish options
What Could Be Better
- Premium price at $300
- Larger than some competitors, may not fit all doors
- Apple Home Key only works with Apple devices
- Wi-Fi can drain batteries faster than Bluetooth-only locks
- Occasional Wi-Fi disconnections in our testing (resolved with router proximity)
Our Verdict
The Schlage Encode Plus is the best smart lock available in 2026. Apple Home Key alone justifies the price for iPhone users, but even without it, you get a Grade 1 deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi and universal smart home compatibility. If $300 is within your budget and you want the most secure, most convenient smart lock, this is it.
Quick Comparison Summary
| Product | Category | Score | Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy? | Alarm Systems | 9.2/10 | Current review |
| Window locks and stoppers | Alarm Systems | 8.8/10 | Alternative review |
| LED alarm indicator light | Alarm Systems | 8.8/10 | Alternative review |
Who Should Buy This?
Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy?
Who Should Avoid This?
Avoid Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy? if you need the cheapest alarm systems option, a different smart-home ecosystem, or a feature set closer to Window locks and stoppers or LED alarm indicator light.
Final Verdict
Schlage Encode Plus Review: The Best Smart Lock Money Can Buy? is a strong alarm systems choice with a Smart Safe Gear score of 9.2/10. It makes the most sense for schlage encode plus review: the best smart lock money can buy.
Related Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Schlage Encode Plus worth $300?
For Apple users, absolutely. Apple Home Key is the fastest, most convenient way to unlock a smart lock. For non-Apple users, it is still an excellent lock, but you might consider the Yale Assure Lock 2 at $200 for similar features minus Home Key.
How long does the battery last?
We got about 8 months on a set of 4 AA batteries with moderate daily use (about 10 lock/unlock cycles per day). Heavy Wi-Fi usage can reduce this to 6 months.
Will it fit my door?
It fits standard US door preps (2-1/8 inch bore hole, 1 inch edge bore). The backset is adjustable between 2-3/8 and 2-3/4 inches. It is slightly larger than standard deadbolts, so measure your door first.
Does Apple Home Key work when my phone is dead?
Yes, Apple Home Key uses NFC which has a power reserve that lasts up to 5 hours after your iPhone battery dies. You can also use the keypad or physical key as backup.
Can I share access with non-Apple users?
Yes. You can share temporary or permanent keypad codes through the Schlage app, regardless of what phone the guest uses. Apple Home Key sharing is limited to Apple users.
