Best Schlage Smart Locks (2026)
The best Schlage smart locks for 2026, compared on trim styles and connectivity.
At a Glance
Schlage has built a genuine reputation on reliable, long-lasting hardware across its Encode, Encode Plus, Arrive, and newer Sense Pro lines. Here's how the current lineup compares.
5 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a Schlage Smart Locks (2026)
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Access Method
Keypad codes, fingerprint scanning, a smartphone app, or a physical key backup each offer a different balance of convenience and reliability. Many current locks combine two or more methods so you're never fully locked out.
Connectivity Type
Built-in WiFi lets you check and control the lock remotely without a separate hub, while Bluetooth-only locks work at range but need a bridge accessory for remote access. Matter and Z-Wave options integrate with a broader smart home hub.
Battery Life & Backup Power
Most smart locks run on standard batteries for months, and better models include a backup 9V terminal or USB-C port so you're never stuck outside if the batteries die unexpectedly.
Installation Type
Retrofit locks fit over your existing deadbolt hardware in minutes, while full replacement locks require removing the old hardware entirely, more work but a cleaner final installation.
Smart Home Compatibility
Check compatibility with the ecosystem you already use, Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home, or Matter, before buying if voice control or automation matters to you.
Best Schlage Smart Locks (2026)
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with
About this pick
The Encode pairs built-in WiFi with a keypad and physical key backup, Schlage's most established current model.
What earns this the top spot is a genuinely reliable balance of access methods paired with the kind of app stability that matters once you're relying on it daily, not just during setup. Schlage backs this with a track record that holds up over years of daily use, not just the first few weeks.
Best all-around pick within Schlage's lineup. It's priced in the middle of this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want Schlage's proven flagship model
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Built-in WiFi, no separate hub needed
- +Long-established brand reliability
- +Ships with Century Trim, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Matte Black, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From Schlage, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −No fingerprint access option on this model
- −Sits in the middle of the pack on price, not a standout bargain or splurge either way
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
- −Worth double-checking the listing on connectivity type before buying, since that's a key differentiator in this category
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock
About this pick
The Encode Plus adds tap-to-unlock via a paired smartphone, genuinely faster than typing a code every time.
It covers the same core keyless-entry function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (access method variety, installation simplicity, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best if speed of daily entry matters most to you. It's priced toward the higher end of this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want the fastest possible daily entry
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Tap-to-unlock is faster than a keypad code
- +Built-in WiFi for remote control
- +Ships with Tap to Unlock, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Matte Black, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From Schlage, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −Higher price than the standard Encode
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific schlage smart locks comparison
- −Sits in the middle of the pack on price, not a standout bargain or splurge either way
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
Schlage Sense Pro UWB Smart Deadbolt Lock
About this pick
The Sense Pro uses UWB (ultra-wideband) for genuinely precise hands-free unlock as you approach the door.
It covers the same core keyless-entry function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (access method variety, installation simplicity, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best if you want Schlage's newest hands-free technology. It's the premium pick in this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want the newest hands-free unlock technology
Check price on AmazonPros
- +UWB provides precise hands-free unlock
- +Newer generation hardware
- +Ships with UWB Technology, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Hands-Free Unlock, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Matte Black, a real differentiator among the picks here
Cons
- −UWB hands-free requires a compatible smartphone
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific schlage smart locks comparison
- −Priced at the top of this comparison, so the upgrade needs to be worth it for your use case
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock
About this pick
A lever handle design suits doors where a knob or deadbolt-only isn't the right fit, like an ADA-compliant entry.
It covers the same core keyless-entry function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (access method variety, installation simplicity, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best if you specifically need a lever handle design. It's priced in the middle of this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who need a lever instead of a knob or deadbolt-only
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Lever handle suits ADA-compliant doors
- +Built-in WiFi for remote control
- +Ships with Lever Handle, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Century Trim, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From Schlage, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −Lever designs cost more than standard knob or deadbolt models
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific schlage smart locks comparison
- −Sits in the middle of the pack on price, not a standout bargain or splurge either way
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with
About this pick
The newer Arrive line brings Schlage's build quality to a more accessible price point than the Encode Plus.
It covers the same core keyless-entry function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (access method variety, installation simplicity, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best value pick within Schlage's current lineup. It's the most affordable pick in this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want Schlage reliability at a lower price point
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Accessible price within Schlage's WiFi lineup
- +Same Schlage build quality
- +Ships with Smart WiFi Deadbolt, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Camelot Trim, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Satin Nickel, a real differentiator among the picks here
Cons
- −Newer product line with a shorter track record
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific schlage smart locks comparison
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
- −Worth double-checking the listing on access method before buying, since that's a key differentiator in this category
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with
About this pick
The standard Encode in an Aged Bronze finish, Schlage's proven model at a competitive price.
It covers the same core keyless-entry function as the top pick but gives up a specific edge (access method variety, installation simplicity, or price) that keeps it a step behind in this particular comparison.
Best for the lowest-cost entry into Schlage's WiFi lineup. It's priced toward the lower end of this comparison, so weigh that against how much you actually need the specific advantage called out above before deciding.
Best for: Buyers who want the classic Encode in a distinct finish
Check price on AmazonPros
- +Proven Encode reliability
- +Distinct Aged Bronze finish option
- +Ships with Built-in WiFi, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +Ships with Century Trim, a real differentiator among the picks here
- +From Schlage, a name with an established track record in this category
Cons
- −No fingerprint or tap-to-unlock on this model
- −Ranked below the top pick in this specific schlage smart locks comparison
- −Sits in the middle of the pack on price, not a standout bargain or splurge either way
- −Specs are based on the current Amazon listing rather than independent hands-on testing
How We Evaluated These Schlage Smart Locks (2026)
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
Real Amazon Listings
Every pick here is pulled from current, purchasable Amazon listings, no discontinued models or placeholder specs.
Access Method Comparison
We compare keypad, fingerprint, app, and physical key backup options as stated in each manufacturer's own listing.
Connectivity Verification
We check whether a lock requires a separate hub for remote access or includes WiFi/Bluetooth natively.
Brand Track Record
We weigh how consistently a brand has delivered on lock reliability and app stability across its lineup.
Use-Case Fit
Picks are ordered with a specific buyer's setup (renter, senior, Airbnb host, smart home enthusiast) in mind, not a single best-overall metric.
How to Choose the Right Schlage Smart Locks (2026)
By Priority
| Your priority | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| Buyers who want Schlage's proven flagship model | Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with |
| Buyers who want the fastest possible daily entry | Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock |
| Buyers who want the newest hands-free unlock technology | Schlage Sense Pro UWB Smart Deadbolt Lock |
| Buyers who need a lever instead of a knob or deadbolt-only | Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock |
| Buyers who want Schlage reliability at a lower price point | Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with |
By Budget
| Priority | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| The most affordable pick in this comparison | Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with (Best Value New Line) |
| Balanced pick | Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock (Best With Tap-to-Unlock) |
| Top-rated pick | Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with (Best Overall) |
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with vs. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with
Our top pick in this comparison, ranked 1 of 6. Buyers who want Schlage's proven flagship model.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock
A strong alternative, priced toward the higher end of this comparison. Best if buyers who want the fastest possible daily entry.
Rank vs. Price Position
| Rank | Price position |
|---|---|
| #1, Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with | Priced in the middle of this comparison |
| #2, Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock | Priced toward the higher end of this comparison |
| #3, Schlage Sense Pro UWB Smart Deadbolt Lock | The premium pick in this comparison |
| #4, Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock | Priced in the middle of this comparison |
| #5, Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with | The most affordable pick in this comparison |
| #6, Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with | Priced toward the lower end of this comparison |
For Schlage smart lock Buyers Specifically
If you're buying for this exact use case, don't just default to the top-ranked overall pick, match the specific badge to your priority instead.
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with is the clearest all-around pick in this comparison, but check the badges above for a better fit if your priority is narrower.
When to Spend More / Save
Spend more if
You want the most complete feature set and don't mind paying more for Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with-tier hardware.
Save if
You just want reliable core functionality, Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with covers the basics at the most affordable pick in this comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart locks work during a power outage?
Yes. Smart locks run on batteries, not household power, so they keep working during a power outage. The concern is dead batteries rather than a power outage, which is why most models include a backup access method like a physical key or a 9V terminal for emergency power.
Can a smart lock be installed on any door?
Most smart locks are designed to fit standard US door prep (a 2-1/8 inch crossbore), which covers the vast majority of American front doors. Retrofit models specifically fit over an existing deadbolt, while full replacement locks require standard deadbolt door prep. Check the listing's compatibility section if your door has unusual hardware.
Is a smart lock as secure as a traditional deadbolt?
Most current smart locks use the same ANSI/BHMA-graded deadbolt hardware as traditional locks, with the electronic components as an addition rather than a replacement for physical security. Look for an explicit security grade rating in the listing if this is a priority.
Do I need a hub to use a Schlage smart lock?
It depends on the connectivity type. Locks with built-in WiFi work without any separate hub. Bluetooth-only locks typically need a bridge accessory (sold separately or bundled) for remote access away from home; without one, they still work fine at close range via the app.
How long do smart lock batteries last?
Most current models claim several months to about a year of battery life under normal use, and better models send a low-battery notification through the app well before they die, along with a backup power option so you're not locked out.
Bottom Line
best overall: Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with - best overall pick in this roundup.
See the full rankings above for all picks with pros, cons, and best-for summaries.
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