August Smart Lock vs Schlage Encode (2026): Which Is Better?

Deciding between the August Smart Lock vs Schlage Encode in 2026 comes down to a choice: do you prioritize convenience, or rock-solid security and integrated features? For most homeowners, the Schlage Encode Plus is the better bet, especially if you value strong security and smooth Apple Home Key integration. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, on the other hand, is a convenient retrofit that’s perfect for renters or anyone wanting to keep their existing door hardware. The FBI reports that According to industry research, 34% of burglars get in through the front door (ADT / FBI Crime Statistics Analysis, 2023), which really shows why solid door security matters. For more, see our guide on best home security systems for landlords. For more, see our guide on best home security systems for homeowners. For more, see our guide on best home security systems for retirees. For more, see our guide on professional vs diy home security systems your ultimate 2026 guide. For more, see our guide on professional vs diy home security systems your ultimate 2026 guide. For more, see our guide on ways choose perfect home security.

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August Smart Lock Vs Schlage Encode refers to home security systems products, services, and solutions selected and reviewed by independent experts to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.

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Reviewed by Isaac Matovu · Last verified: May 2026

August vs. Schlage Encode: Which is Better in 2026? (Quick Verdict)

The smart lock market is booming. It was valued at $3.28 billion in 2026 and is set to hit $3.77 billion in 2026, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.3% through 2036. This rapid growth means picking the right smart lock is more critical than ever. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Schlage Encode Plus both offer strong features, but they definitely serve different needs.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock wins on convenience and easy installation. It’s especially good for renters or anyone who wants to keep their door’s outside look unchanged. It simply retrofits over your existing deadbolt, so it’s a non-invasive solution. The Schlage Encode Plus, however, shines with its stronger physical security, built-in keypad, and native Apple Home Key support. That makes it a great pick for homeowners who want a solid, all-in-one smart lock.

Key Differences at a Glance

To make an informed decision, you need to understand the core differences between these two top smart locks. The August Smart Lock emphasizes discretion and adaptability. The Schlage Encode, conversely, puts thorough security and integrated access first. These distinctions show up in their design, installation, and how you use them every day.

Take the August Smart Lock: it keeps your existing keys and outside hardware, a huge plus for apartment dwellers or anyone with HOA rules. The Schlage Encode Plus, on the other hand, replaces your entire deadbolt. This gives you a new, unified look and often a higher security rating. Both offer broad connectivity and smart home integrations, but they have specific quirks that appeal to different tech ecosystems.

Design & Installation: Easy Retrofit vs. Full Replacement

The design of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and the Schlage Encode Plus directly impacts how you install them and what they look like. August built its Smart Lock as a retrofit. That means it only attaches to the inside of your existing single-cylinder deadbolt. The outside of your door stays exactly the same, and you keep using your original keys. This non-invasive setup is a huge benefit for renters or anyone who can’t change their door’s exterior.

Installing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is usually quick and simple, often under 15 minutes. You just take off your deadbolt’s interior thumb-turn and attach the August unit. The Schlage Encode Plus, however, needs a full deadbolt replacement. You’ll remove your old deadbolt completely, then install the new Schlage unit with its exterior keypad and interior assembly. It’s still a DIY job, but it’s definitely more involved than August’s retrofit.

The Schlage Encode Plus looks more integrated and strong, coming in different trims and finishes to match your home. Homeowners usually prefer this unified look and the better physical security you get with a full replacement. Renters, or anyone who needs a fast, reversible installation, will find the August Smart Lock more attractive. With smart lock adoption projected to grow by 13-17% annually in the U.S. through 2035, there’s clearly a big market for both installation styles.

Security: ANSI Grade 1 vs. DoorSense™ Technology

Both smart locks offer advanced security, but they take very different approaches. The Schlage Encode Plus holds an ANSI/BHMA A156.36 Commercial Grade 3 certification, and some reports even suggest a Grade 1 rating for the Plus model. That means a high level of physical security and strong resistance to forced entry. It replaces your old deadbolt with a solid, tamper-resistant unit, often with a built-in alarm that blares if someone tries to force their way in.

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, in contrast, uses its DoorSense™ technology to boost security. This sensor tells you if your door is securely closed and locked, giving you an extra layer of peace of mind. While August keeps your existing deadbolt’s physical security intact, its main improvements are in smart access and monitoring. It uses two-factor authentication and AES 128-bit and TLS encryption for digital security, protecting against unauthorized digital access.

For homeowners who care most about physical security, the Schlage Encode Plus’s higher ANSI rating and full deadbolt replacement clearly offer an edge. Its integrated design usually means a stronger overall lock. But August’s DoorSense™ gives you valuable real-time feedback on your door’s status – a big convenience and security feature, especially for making sure you didn’t accidentally leave the door open.

Smart Home Integration & Connectivity

Smooth integration with your smart home setup is a big deal for many people. Both August and Schlage have come a long way here, though with some differences. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has built-in Wi-Fi, so you don’t need a separate bridge for remote access. That makes setup easier and cuts down on clutter. It works widely with Apple HomeKit (Siri), Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant for voice control and smart home routines.

The Schlage Encode Plus also includes built-in Wi-Fi (2.4GHz), so you get remote access without an extra hub. What really sets the Encode Plus apart is its native Apple Home Key support. You can just tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door – super convenient, and it even works for a bit if your iPhone battery dies. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, giving you a thorough range of smart home choices.

While both locks have strong smart home compatibility, the Schlage Encode Plus’s Home Key integration is a clear winner for Apple users. If you’re deep into the Apple ecosystem, this offers a level of convenience August just can’t match right now. Still, August’s wide compatibility and simple Wi-Fi setup make it a flexible option for many smart home setups. With U.S. smart lock installations potentially hitting 50–60 million units by 2035 (up from 20–25 million in 2026), strong smart home integration is clearly important.

Access Methods: Apple Home Key & Keypad vs. App & Guest Keys

How you get into your home is key to the smart lock experience, and here, August and Schlage have different strengths. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock mainly uses smartphone access through its app, Apple Watch, or your original physical key. It’s fantastic for digital guest access: you can give unlimited digital keys with timed permissions to family, friends, or service providers. The August app handles all of this, plus it keeps a 24/7 log of who comes and goes.

Here’s the catch: for keypad entry, August needs a separate August Keypad, which you buy extra. That bumps up the total cost and gives you another device to deal with. The Schlage Encode Plus, on the other hand, has a built-in keypad that handles up to 100 access codes. This is super convenient for guests, family members without smartphones, or when your phone battery dies. The Schlage Home app also lets you manage codes and check lock history.

Which brings us to a major point: the Schlage Encode Plus offers Apple Home Key support. This cutting-edge feature lets you simply tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door, giving you an exceptionally easy and secure entry. If you really want a physical keypad and native Apple Home Key integration, the Schlage Encode Plus delivers a more complete solution right out of the box. The August system is flexible with digital keys, but you’ll have to buy extra for keypad access.

Battery Life: Real User Complaints vs. Advertised Performance

Battery life is a huge deal for smart lock owners. This is where August and Schlage really go in different directions, especially when you look at real-world performance. August advertises its Wi-Fi Smart Lock with about 3-6 months of battery life, using two CR123 batteries. But honestly, real user feedback – particularly from places like Reddit – constantly points to major battery drain problems. Lots of users say they only get 3-4 weeks when the built-in Wi-Fi is always on.

This gap between what’s advertised and what actually happens is a big headache for August users, often causing frustration and unexpected lockouts. The constant Wi-Fi connection, while handy for remote access, seems to be the main reason for the fast battery drain. Users constantly wonder, “Why do I have to replace the batteries so frequently?” and “How can I improve August Smart Lock battery life?”

The Schlage Encode Plus, by contrast, delivers much stronger battery performance, usually lasting 6-12 months on four AA batteries. This longer life is a huge plus, cutting down on how often you swap batteries and giving you more peace of mind. The Schlage system’s efficiency, even with built-in Wi-Fi, seems much better at managing power. If you care about reliability and low maintenance, the Schlage Encode Plus absolutely beats the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock on battery life.

Pricing & Value (Updated May 2026)

To figure out which smart lock offers the best value, you need to know their prices as of May 2026. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock typically costs $199.99 if you buy it directly from August, though some retailers might list it closer to $229.99. While the older August Smart Lock Pro goes for around $149, we’re focusing on the Wi-Fi model because its built-in connectivity makes it the most current and relevant comparison.

The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt comes with a higher price tag, retailing for $329.99 (MSRP $299). The standard Schlage Encode Plus is around $249. That’s a big price gap; the Schlage Encode Plus is noticeably more expensive than the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. But that higher price covers its built-in keypad, better physical security rating, and exclusive Apple Home Key support.

When you think about value, renters or anyone on a budget will likely find the August Smart Lock more appealing thanks to its lower upfront cost and non-invasive installation. For homeowners wanting a more permanent, feature-packed, and physically secure solution, the extra money for the Schlage Encode Plus is usually worth it, given its long battery life, built-in keypad, and advanced access options. The smart lock market, projected to hit $3.77 billion in 2026, clearly has room for both price points.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which smart lock is best for renters?

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is usually best for renters because it retrofits over existing deadbolts. That means you don’t need to change the outside hardware or keys, which is often a rule in rental agreements.

How long do August Smart Lock batteries last?

While August advertises 3-6 months, many users report the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock’s batteries (CR123) last only 3-4 weeks when Wi-Fi is consistently enabled, thanks to higher power consumption.

Does Schlage Encode Plus work with Apple Home Key?

Yes, the Schlage Encode Plus is one of the few smart locks in North America that natively supports Apple Home Key, letting you unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch.

Is August Smart Lock compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant?

Yes, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock offers broad smart home compatibility, integrating smoothly with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control and smart home routines.

What is the security rating of Schlage Encode Plus?

The Schlage Encode Plus holds an ANSI/BHMA A156.36 Commercial Grade 3 certification, meaning a high level of physical security, with some reports suggesting a Grade 1 rating for the Plus model.

Related reading: ADT vs SimpliSafe.

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