The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) ($278.00) is a top pick with a 9/10 consensus score across 2 expert reviews. Experts highlight only ansi/bhma grade 1 (aaa) lock in this comparison and keypad, apple home key, and a physical keyway in one unit. Best for: Security-first homeowners who want the strongest deadbolt here with Apple Home Key and a physical-key backup.
Verified 31d ago
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Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black)
Smart Lock
SmartHomeExplorer proprietary rating
2 expert sources
The Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) earns a SHE Score of 6.9/10, driven by strong value (8.7/10) with room to improve in compatibility breadth (5/10). Based on 2 expert sources and SmartHomeExplorer compatibility analysis.
How we calculate the SHE Score →Expert Consensus: 9/10 across 2 sources
Last verified:Key Features
- ✓ ANSI/BHMA A156.40 Grade 1 (AAA) deadbolt
- ✓ Keypad + Apple Home Key + physical keyway
- ✓ Built-in Wi-Fi (Alexa, Google) and Thread (Apple Home)
- ✓ 100 access codes; 4 AA, ~6 months on Wi-Fi
Best For
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ Only ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (AAA) lock in this comparison
- ✓ Keypad, Apple Home Key, and a physical keyway in one unit
- ✓ Built-in siren alarm for forced-entry and tamper events
- ✓ Wi-Fi plus Thread means Apple, Alexa, and Google in one SKU
Common Criticisms
- ✗ At $319.00 it is the most expensive lock here
- ✗ ~6 months on Wi-Fi trails Yale's ~9-month advertised rating
- ✗ 100 access codes is well under Yale's 250-code ceiling
What The Experts Say
Ready to buy the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black)?
Check Price on Amazon$278.00 · 2 expert sources · 9/10 consensus
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) worth it?
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) earns a 9/10 consensus score across our 12 expert sources. It is rated "Must Buy" — Security-first homeowners who want the strongest deadbolt here with Apple Home Key and a physical-key backup. At $278.00, it ranks among the top picks in its category.
Who is the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) best for?
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) is best for: Security-first homeowners who want the strongest deadbolt here with Apple Home Key and a physical-key backup. Experts rate it "Must Buy" overall.
How does the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) compare to other Security options?
Among the Security products we have reviewed, Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) ranks above average with a 9/10 score. See our full category comparison for more details.
What smart home systems does the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) work with?
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) works with Amazon Alexa. Check our compatibility notes on the product page for any setup requirements or hub dependencies.
What are the pros and cons of the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black)?
The main pros of the Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt (Matte Black) are only ansi/bhma grade 1 (aaa) lock in this comparison and keypad, apple home key, and a physical keyway in one unit. The main downside is at $319.00 it is the most expensive lock here. Overall, experts rate it "Must Buy" with a 9/10 consensus score.
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This consensus review is based on 2 independent expert reviews — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.