August Smart Lock Pro vs Schlage Encode Plus
The most common smart lock decision: August adapts your existing deadbolt (no drilling, renter-friendly), while Schlage replaces the whole lock assembly (better security, built-in keypad, Home Key). Neither requires a monthly subscription.
Bottom Line: August is the pick for renters and users who want zero exterior change (installs in 10 minutes, uses your existing key). Schlage Encode Plus is the pick for homeowners who want Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock, a built-in keypad, and commercial-grade security. Both connect to Wi-Fi without a hub.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | August Smart Lock Pro | Schlage Encode Plus | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$149 (lock only) | ~$249 | August (cheaper) |
| Installation type | Retrofit (interior only, no drilling) | Full deadbolt replacement | August (renter-friendly) |
| Keeps existing key | Yes | No (new cylinder) | August |
| Built-in keypad | No | Yes (touchscreen) | Schlage |
| Apple Home Key | No (HomeKit via bridge) | Yes (tap iPhone/Watch to unlock) | Schlage |
| Wi-Fi built-in | No (need Connect bridge ~$35) | Yes (built-in) | Schlage |
| Bluetooth auto-unlock | Yes (DoorSense + auto-unlock) | Yes | Tie |
| Z-Wave | Yes (built-in) | No (separate Encode model) | August |
| Google Home | Yes | Yes | Tie |
| Amazon Alexa | Yes | Yes | Tie |
| Door position sensor | Yes (DoorSense) | No | August |
| ANSI Grade security rating | Grade 2 (deadbolt-dependent) | Grade 1 (highest residential) | Schlage |
| Battery life | ~3-6 months (4× AA) | ~6+ months (4× AA) | Schlage |
| Access codes | Up to 100 via app | Up to 100 via keypad or app | Tie |
| Monthly subscription | None required | None required | Tie |
Category-by-Category Winner
Round 1: Installation and Renter Suitability
August installs on the interior of your existing deadbolt — no drilling, no new cylinder, no changing the exterior of your door. Most landlords have no objection because the door looks identical from the outside and your original key still works. Installation takes about 10 minutes with a screwdriver. Schlage replaces the entire deadbolt assembly, which requires your landlord's permission and leaves you without the lock you started with. For renters: August is the only practical choice.
Round 2: Security Rating
Schlage Encode Plus earns an ANSI Grade 1 rating — the highest residential security grade, indicating resistance to physical attacks like forced entry, drilling, and picking. August Smart Lock Pro's security rating depends on the quality of the deadbolt it's installed on. If you install August on a high-quality Grade 1 deadbolt, the combination is equally secure; if you install it on a basic builder-grade deadbolt, the system is only as strong as that deadbolt. For homeowners who want to know they have the best physical security, Schlage is the more certain choice.
Round 3: Apple Integration
Schlage Encode Plus supports Apple Home Key — hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the lock and it unlocks instantly, no app required. This is the NFC-based express lock feature that works even in airplane mode or with low battery. August Smart Lock Pro supports HomeKit (via the separately purchased Connect bridge) but does not support Apple Home Key's tap-to-unlock express mode. For heavy Apple ecosystem users, this alone might justify Schlage's premium.
Round 4: Smart Home Automation (Z-Wave)
August Smart Lock Pro has built-in Z-Wave, making it compatible with SmartThings, Ring Alarm, Wink, and other Z-Wave hubs for complex automations (e.g., "lock when alarm arms," "unlock when doorbell rings"). It also includes DoorSense — a door position sensor that tells you whether your door is actually closed and locked, not just whether the bolt was thrown. Schlage doesn't offer Z-Wave on the Encode Plus (only on the older Schlage Connect model).
Round 5: Price
August Smart Lock Pro lists at ~$149 vs Schlage Encode Plus at ~$249. Note: adding the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge (~$35) brings August's total to ~$184, still $65 less than Schlage. Both have zero monthly subscription costs. For budget-conscious users who just want keyless entry and remote access, August's combination delivers the same core functionality for less.
Who Should Choose Which
Choose August Smart Lock Pro if you...
- Are a renter (installs without changing exterior)
- Want to keep your existing keys and deadbolt
- Use Z-Wave (SmartThings, Ring Alarm, Abode)
- Want DoorSense door position detection
- Are budget-conscious ($149 vs $249)
- Want to install in 10 minutes without tools expertise
Choose Schlage Encode Plus if you...
- Are a homeowner who can replace the deadbolt
- Use Apple Home Key (tap iPhone/Watch to unlock)
- Want Grade 1 ANSI security (highest residential rating)
- Want a built-in touchscreen keypad (no app needed)
- Want Wi-Fi built-in without a separate bridge
- Want longer battery life (~6+ months)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is August or Schlage the better smart lock?
August is better for renters and retrofit installs. Schlage Encode Plus is better for homeowners who want Apple Home Key, Grade 1 security, and a built-in keypad. Both work without a monthly subscription. See the chooser grid above for a use-case breakdown.
Does August work with Apple HomeKit?
August Smart Lock Pro supports HomeKit when paired with the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge (~$35 separate). It does not support Apple Home Key's tap-to-unlock. Schlage Encode Plus includes Apple Home Key natively — tap iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock with no app required.
Can I install August Smart Lock without replacing my existing lock?
Yes — August installs on the interior thumb turn of your existing deadbolt. No drilling, no new cylinder. Your existing key still works. Exterior appearance is unchanged. Takes about 10 minutes to install.
Does Schlage Encode require a hub?
The Schlage Encode Plus has built-in Wi-Fi and connects directly to your router. No hub required. It supports Apple Home Key, Alexa, and Google Home natively. The standard Schlage Encode (without Plus) requires a separate adapter for Wi-Fi.
✅ Our Pick: Schlage Encode Plus
Built-in Wi-Fi, Apple Home Key, no separate hub needed.
$299
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