Schlage has been making locks for nearly a century, and their smart lock lineup is among the most trusted in home security. The Encode Plus is the only smart lock with Apple Home Key support, letting you unlock your door with an iPhone or Apple Watch tap. But Schlage’s premium quality comes with premium pricing — $240 to $330, well above brands like Kwikset or August. Here’s the full 2026 breakdown.
Quick Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $240 – $330 |
| Apple Home Key | ✅ Encode Plus only |
| Smart Assistants | Alexa, Google Home (all models); HomeKit (Encode Plus) |
| Z-Wave | Connect model only |
| Auto-Lock | ✅ All models |
| Forced Entry Alarm | ✅ Built-in on all models |
| Access Codes | Up to 100 (Encode series) / 30 (Connect) |
| Warranty | Lifetime mechanical + 3-year electronics |
| ANSI Grade | Grade 1 (highest residential rating) |
2026 Product Lineup & Pricing
| Model | Price | Apple Home Key | Z-Wave | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Connect | $240 | ❌ | ✅ | Integration with security systems (Abode, Vivint, Ring) |
| Schlage Encode | $300 | ❌ | ❌ | Standalone WiFi smart lock |
| Schlage Encode Lever | $310 | ❌ | ❌ | Single-bore doors (offices, interior) |
| Schlage Encode Plus | $330 | ✅ | ❌ | Apple users who want Home Key tap-to-unlock |
Pros
- ANSI Grade 1 rated: The highest security grade available — commercial-level protection on your front door
- Apple Home Key (Encode Plus): Tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock — no app needed. Only smart lock with this feature.
- Lifetime warranty: Mechanical and finish defects covered for life. Electronics covered 3 years.
- Built-in forced entry alarm: All models detect and alert on lock tampering attempts
- Z-Wave option (Connect): Works with Abode, SmartThings, and other Z-Wave hubs for full home security integration
Cons
- Expensive: Starting at $240, Schlage costs 2-3x more than Kwikset or August alternatives
- No Home Key on budget model: The $240 Connect (best for security systems) doesn’t support Apple Home Key — you need the $330 Encode Plus
- WiFi battery drain: Encode models connect via WiFi which drains batteries faster than Z-Wave or Bluetooth-only locks
- Bulky design: Noticeably thicker than competitors like August or Yale — not ideal for aesthetics-focused buyers
- No Matter support yet: The upcoming Schlage Arrive promises Matter, but it’s not available as of March 2026
Schlage vs Competitors
| Feature | Schlage Encode Plus | Yale Assure Lock 2 | August WiFi | Kwikset Halo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $330 | $260 | $230 | $200 |
| ANSI Grade | Grade 1 | Grade 2 | N/A (retrofit) | Grade 2 |
| Apple Home Key | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| HomeKit | ✅ | ✅ (with module) | ✅ | ❌ |
| Z-Wave | ❌ (Connect only) | ✅ (with module) | ✅ (with hub) | ❌ |
| Retrofit | ❌ (full replace) | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Forced Entry Alarm | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Which Schlage Should You Buy?
- Apple users: Encode Plus ($330) — the only lock with Home Key tap-to-unlock
- Security system integration: Connect ($240) — Z-Wave works with Abode, Vivint, and Ring Alarm
- Standalone smart lock: Encode ($300) — WiFi built-in, no hub needed
- Renters: Skip Schlage entirely — you need a retrofit lock. Abode Lock or August WiFi let you keep your existing deadbolt.
Schlage in 2026: What’s New
Schlage has made meaningful updates to its smart lock lineup this year:
- Schlage Encode Plus Matter update — The Encode Plus received a firmware update adding Matter support alongside its existing HomeKit and WiFi capabilities. This means it now works with any Matter-compatible hub, including Abode, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings — all from one lock.
- Apple Home Key remains exclusive — Schlage is still one of only two lock brands (alongside Aqara) supporting Apple Home Key for tap-to-unlock with iPhone or Apple Watch. This remains a killer feature for Apple households.
- Encode pricing stable — The Encode Plus holds at $299 and the Encode at $249. No price increases despite inflation elsewhere. The Connect (Z-Wave) remains the best value at $230-250 for security system integration.
- ANSI Grade 1 still unmatched — Schlage continues to be the only major smart lock brand offering ANSI Grade 1 commercial-grade security across its lineup. Yale, August, and Level are all Grade 2. For physical security, Schlage has no peer in the smart lock market.
- Forced entry detection improved — The built-in alarm now has adjustable sensitivity settings and integrates with Abode’s CUE automations — if someone forces the lock, Abode can trigger the siren, send alerts, and dispatch monitoring automatically.
Our recommendation: The Schlage Connect (Z-Wave) + Abode Smart Security Kit remains the best lock + security system combination for 2026. For standalone use without a hub, the Encode Plus with HomeKit + Matter is the most capable smart lock available.
How Schlage Works With Home Security Systems
The Schlage Connect (Z-Wave model) integrates with security systems that support Z-Wave devices. Abode’s Smart Security Kit works natively with Z-Wave locks — you can auto-lock when you arm, unlock on disarm, and check lock status from the Abode app. This makes Schlage Connect + Abode one of the strongest DIY security + smart lock combinations available.
FAQs
Is Schlage better than Yale?
For raw security, yes — Schlage offers ANSI Grade 1 (highest) while Yale is Grade 2. Schlage also has Apple Home Key and a forced entry alarm. Yale wins on modularity (swappable radio modules) and is $70 cheaper.
Does Schlage work with HomeKit?
Only the Encode Plus supports HomeKit and Apple Home Key. The Encode and Connect models do not support HomeKit. For a full HomeKit security system with lock integration, pair Schlage Encode Plus with Abode.
How long do Schlage smart lock batteries last?
Approximately 6-12 months depending on usage. WiFi models (Encode series) drain faster than the Z-Wave Connect model. All models use standard AA batteries.
Can I install Schlage myself?
Yes. All Schlage smart locks are designed for DIY installation on standard doors. You’ll need a Phillips screwdriver and about 15-20 minutes. No locksmith needed.
Related Reviews & Guides
- Best Smart Locks for Home Security 2026 — Schlage vs Yale vs August vs Level
- Abode Review 2026 — Best Z-Wave security system for Schlage locks
- Best HomeKit Security Systems — HomeKit + Schlage Home Key combo
- Ring Alarm Review 2026 — Z-Wave compatible (works with Schlage Connect)
- Vivint Review 2026 — Pro-installed system with lock integration
- Best Smart Home Security Systems 2026 — Z-Wave & Zigbee integration guide
Last updated: March 2026
Related Reading
Comparing more lock options? See our best smart locks for home security in 2026 roundup for side-by-side battery life, app reliability, and HomeKit support.
