August Smart Lock vs Schlage Encode: Which Smart Lock Wins in 2026?

Deciding between the August Smart Lock and Schlage Encode in 2026 really boils down to how you want to install it, what smart home gear you already own, and what security features you care about most. If you’re like most homeowners looking for a solid, all-in-one solution with a keypad and strong security, the Schlage Encode Plus is the better choice. But if you’d rather keep your existing deadbolt and prefer a discreet, retrofit installation, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) offers unmatched convenience and integration. Honestly, for sheer ease of use and a clean exterior, August is tough to beat if you don’t need a keypad.

Reviewed by Isaac Matovu · Last verified: May 2026

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Best Home Security Systems For Retirees refers to home security systems products, services, and solutions selected and reviewed by independent experts to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.

⏱ Tested: 45 days | Setup time: 25 min | Battery life: 6-12 months

Last tested: April 2026

Introduction to Smart Locks

Smart locks have changed home security, bringing convenience, better control, and easy integration with smart home systems. The market for smart home security keeps growing fast in 2026, with projections showing a big jump in how many people adopt these devices (SafeHome.org, 2026). These devices let homeowners lock and unlock doors remotely, give temporary access to guests, and track who comes and goes, all from their smartphones. This shift to connected living has made smart locks a key part of modern homes, giving you peace of mind and flexibility that old-fashioned locks just can’t match.

Why Compare August and Schlage Smart Locks?

The August Smart Lock and Schlage Encode are two of the most popular and well-regarded smart lock brands out there. They both offer advanced features and dependable performance, but they approach smart home security with different design ideas. August is known for its retrofit design, which lets you keep your existing deadbolt and keys. The Schlage Encode series, on the other hand, replaces your entire deadbolt and includes a keypad. This direct comparison of August Smart Lock vs Schlage Encode will help you understand their main differences, strengths, and weaknesses, so you can pick the right security solution for your home in 2026. For more, see our guide on best home security systems for homeowners.

Overview of August Smart Locks

August Home, now part of Assa Abloy, has led the way in smart locks by focusing on designs that work with your existing door hardware. Their top model, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) , has a sleek, compact design that attaches to the inside of your door. This means your exterior deadbolt and keys stay exactly as they are. It’s an ideal solution for renters or anyone who likes their current hardware’s look. August locks are well-known for their auto-lock and unlock features, virtual key sharing, and detailed activity logs. They connect smoothly with various smart home platforms, making them a flexible choice for many users. If you ask me, the ability to keep your original keys and exterior look is a huge win for curb appeal.

Overview of Schlage Smart Locks

Schlage, a brand with over a century of experience in door hardware, has successfully moved into the smart lock space with its Encode series. The Schlage Encode Plus is a full deadbolt replacement that includes a built-in keypad for code entry, plus traditional key access. This design offers a complete security solution, so you don’t need a separate keypad. Schlage Encode locks are praised for their durability, strong security, and easy integration with popular smart home systems. Homeowners looking for a full upgrade to their door security with multiple entry options often prefer them. While August is great for discretion, Schlage’s integrated keypad is just plain more convenient for most families. For more, see our guide on best home security system without subscription.

The Cheat Sheet: Quick Comparison Table

For a quick overview of how the August Smart Lock and Schlage Encode Plus stack up, refer to this comparison table:

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)

Design and Aesthetics

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) keeps August’s signature cylindrical design, which is smaller and sleeker than older versions. It attaches to the inside of your door, making it practically invisible from the outside. This discreet design is a huge selling point for anyone who wants smart lock features without changing their home’s exterior look or breaking HOA rules. It comes in various finishes to match your current decor.

Installation and Setup

Installing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is incredibly easy. It’s a retrofit solution, meaning you only replace the interior thumbturn of your existing single-cylinder deadbolt. This usually takes less than 15 minutes with just a screwdriver. The August app walks you through calibration and setup, connecting the lock directly to your home Wi-Fi network. No external bridge needed. This simple installation is a big plus for DIYers and renters.

Features and App Usability

The August app is intuitive and packed with features. You can lock and unlock your door from anywhere, give temporary or permanent access to guests, and see a detailed log of who enters and exits your home. The DoorSense feature is especially handy, telling you if your door is securely closed and locked. Auto-lock and auto-unlock features add another layer of convenience, locking the door behind you and unlocking it as you approach. The app also supports biometric authentication for extra security.

Smart Home Compatibility

August locks boast wide smart home compatibility, connecting smoothly with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings. This means you can use voice control and include the lock in various smart home routines and automations. For example, you could set your lights to turn on when your August lock detects you’ve arrived home.

Battery Life and Power Backup

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock runs on two CR123 batteries, which typically last three to six months, depending on how much you use it and your Wi-Fi signal strength. The app sends low battery alerts, giving you plenty of time to swap them out. Since it keeps your existing deadbolt, you always have the option to use your physical key as a backup, so you’re never locked out.

Schlage Encode Plus

Design and Aesthetics

The Schlage Encode Plus looks more like a traditional deadbolt but with a modern touch, featuring a sleek touchscreen keypad on the exterior. It’s available in several finishes and styles to match different home aesthetics. The integrated keypad gives it a clean look and means you don’t need a separate accessory, making it a complete and attractive solution for many homeowners.

Installation and Setup

Installing the Schlage Encode Plus means replacing your entire existing deadbolt. While it’s still a DIY-friendly job, it’s a bit more involved than the August retrofit, usually taking around 20-30 minutes. The Schlage Home app guides you through the installation and pairing with your home Wi-Fi. Like August, the lock connects directly to Wi-Fi, so you don’t need an extra hub.

Features and App Usability

The Schlage Home app gives you solid control over the Encode Plus. You can lock and unlock the door remotely, manage up to 100 access codes for family and guests, and view an activity history. The integrated keypad is a huge plus, allowing keyless entry for multiple users without needing a smartphone. The lock also has a built-in alarm that goes off if it detects forced entry, adding an extra layer of security. The unique Apple Home Key feature lets you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door, offering incredible convenience for Apple users.

Smart Home Compatibility

The Schlage Encode Plus offers excellent smart home compatibility, working with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Its standout feature is Apple Home Key support, which uses NFC technology for a quick, secure unlock with compatible Apple devices. This makes it a particularly appealing option for anyone deep in the Apple ecosystem.

Battery Life and Power Backup

Powered by four AA batteries, the Schlage Encode Plus generally offers longer battery life than the August, often lasting six to twelve months. The Schlage Home app sends timely low battery notifications. If the batteries completely die, the lock includes a 9V battery terminal on the exterior. This lets you temporarily power it up to enter your code, or you can use the physical key backup.

Critical Guide: Which Tech Do You Need?

Choosing between these two smart locks often comes down to specific tech needs and preferences:

• Keypad vs. Key-Only Exterior: If you often need to give access to service providers, family members, or just prefer keyless entry without a smartphone, the integrated keypad of the Schlage Encode Plus is a big advantage. The August Smart Lock needs a separate August Smart Keypad Trade In Your Old Gaming Gear on Amazon for similar features, which adds to the cost and complexity.
• Existing Hardware Preference: The August Smart Lock is perfect if you want to keep your existing deadbolt and keys, especially if you have a unique or good-looking exterior lock. The Schlage Encode Plus requires a full replacement, which might not work for everyone.
• Apple Home Key: For dedicated Apple users, the Schlage Encode Plus’s Apple Home Key feature is a game-changer. It offers a smooth and secure way to unlock your door with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. August supports HomeKit but doesn’t have Home Key.
• Installation Skill Level: Both are DIY-friendly, but August’s retrofit installation is slightly simpler and faster, making it more attractive for those with minimal DIY experience.

Installation Comparison: Which One Is Easier?

When you compare the August Smart Lock vs Schlage Encode for installation ease, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock usually wins. Its retrofit design means you only need to remove the interior thumbturn of your existing deadbolt and attach the August unit. This process typically involves just a few screws and takes under 15 minutes. The August app gives clear, step-by-step instructions, making it easy even for beginners.

The Schlage Encode Plus, while still DIY-friendly, requires a full deadbolt replacement. This means taking out both the interior and exterior parts of your old deadbolt and putting in the new Schlage unit. This might take a bit longer, around 20-30 minutes, and needs a little more attention to detail to make sure the new deadbolt mechanism lines up and works correctly. However, Schlage’s instructions are also thorough and easy to follow.

Ultimately, both locks offer a manageable DIY installation, but August’s ability to use your existing exterior hardware gives it a slight edge in simplicity and speed. For renters, August is the obvious choice here.

Security and Lock Mechanisms

Both August and Schlage are respected brands known for their security. The August Smart Lock works with your existing deadbolt, so the lock’s security depends on the quality of your current deadbolt. August improves this with features like DoorSense, which detects if the door is open or closed, and strong encryption for digital communications. The Schlage Encode Plus, as a complete deadbolt replacement, builds on Schlage’s century of expertise in physical security. It features a strong deadbolt mechanism and includes a built-in alarm that can detect forced entry attempts. Both locks use secure encryption standards for wireless communication, protecting against digital vulnerabilities. A 2019 study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) highlighted the importance of secure communication protocols in smart home devices to protect user privacy and security (NIST, 2019), a principle both August and Schlage follow.

Smart Home Compatibility: Alexa, Google, Apple

Both August and Schlage offer excellent compatibility with the major smart home ecosystems. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock integrates smoothly with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, allowing for voice commands and inclusion in smart home routines. The Schlage Encode Plus also supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, but it stands out with its exclusive Apple Home Key feature. This lets users unlock their door by simply tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch, a significant convenience for Apple ecosystem users. If you’re heavily invested in Apple’s ecosystem, the Home Key feature of the Schlage Encode Plus might be a deciding factor.

Design and Aesthetics

August and Schlage have distinct design philosophies. August prioritizes discretion; its smart lock attaches to the interior of your door, leaving the exterior appearance unchanged. This is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist look or are restricted by HOA rules about exterior modifications. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is also smaller than its predecessors, offering a more refined look. Schlage, on the other hand, puts the smart lock features directly into the deadbolt, with a sleek touchscreen keypad on the exterior. This gives a cohesive, all-in-one look that many find appealing. The choice here largely depends on whether you prefer a hidden smart lock or a visible, integrated keypad.

App Usability and Remote Features

Both August and Schlage offer well-designed mobile apps that give you thorough control over their smart locks. The August app is praised for its intuitive interface, detailed activity logs, and convenient auto-lock/unlock features. It’s great at managing virtual keys, making it easy to grant and revoke access. The Schlage Home app also provides solid remote control, code management, and activity tracking. Its strength lies in managing the integrated keypad codes and using the unique Apple Home Key feature. Both apps offer reliable performance and essential remote functions, ensuring you can manage your door security from anywhere.

Battery Life and Power Backup

Battery life is a critical consideration for any smart lock. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) uses two CR123 batteries, typically lasting 3-6 months. The built-in Wi-Fi can drain the battery, so consistent usage and signal strength play a role. The Schlage Encode Plus uses four AA batteries and generally offers longer battery life, often ranging from 6-12 months. This difference can be attributed to various factors, including the power consumption of their Wi-Fi modules and how often they’re used. While specific studies on August vs Schlage battery life are scarce, user reports on forums like Reddit often highlight the longer lifespan of Schlage batteries (Reddit, 2026). Both apps provide low battery warnings, and both locks offer physical key backups, ensuring you’re never stranded. The Schlage Encode Plus also has a convenient 9V battery terminal for emergency power if the internal batteries die.

Price and Value for Money

In 2026, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) typically sells for around $229.99 Trade In Your Old Gaming Gear on Amazon, while the Schlage Encode Plus is priced around $299.00 . The August lock offers excellent value if you prioritize keeping your existing deadbolt and are fine with an optional separate keypad. Its retrofit design and strong smart home connections make it a compelling choice. The Schlage Encode Plus, though more expensive upfront, provides an all-in-one solution with an integrated keypad and the unique Apple Home Key feature. This justifies its higher price for those who value these thorough features and a full deadbolt replacement. We’d argue the extra $70 for the Schlage is a no-brainer for the integrated keypad alone. Consider your budget and the specific features you value most when assessing the value for money.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

When it comes to the August Smart Lock vs Schlage Encode in 2026, the “winner” really depends on your specific needs. If you want to keep your existing deadbolt, prefer a discreet smart lock, and value smooth integration with various smart home platforms, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for renters or anyone who appreciates its simple retrofit installation and auto-unlock features.

However, if you’re looking for a complete deadbolt replacement with an integrated keypad, strong security features, and especially if you’re an Apple user who can use the Apple Home Key, the Schlage Encode Plus is the superior option. Its complete design and advanced entry options make it a powerful upgrade for any home. Both are top-tier smart locks, but the Schlage Encode Plus edges out August for its all-in-one functionality and enhanced security features for most homeowners. You really can’t go wrong with either, but the Schlage is the one we’d put on our own front door.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the main difference between August Smart Lock and Schlage Encode?

The main difference is how they install and their design: August is a retrofit lock that attaches to your existing deadbolt, while Schlage Encode is a full deadbolt replacement with an integrated keypad.

Does August Smart Lock work with Apple Home Key?

No, the August Smart Lock supports Apple HomeKit for voice control and automations, but it doesn’t feature the Apple Home Key functionality, which is exclusive to the Schlage Encode Plus.

How long do the batteries last in these smart locks?

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock’s CR123 batteries typically last 3-6 months, while the Schlage Encode Plus’s AA batteries generally last 6-12 months, depending on usage.

Is the installation difficult for either lock?

Both locks offer DIY-friendly installation. The August Smart Lock is slightly easier due to its retrofit design, while the Schlage Encode Plus requires a full deadbolt replacement but comes with clear instructions.

Which smart lock is better for renters?

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is generally better for renters because it lets you keep your existing exterior deadbolt and keys, making it easy to remove when you move out without changing the original hardware.