I still remember the morning I stood in my pajamas, coffee in hand, watching the locksmith drill out my front door after my keys fell between the car seat and the console. Two hours and a hefty bill later, I swore I’d never fumble with a metal key again. That was the day I started looking at the best schlage smart locks.
Schlage has been making door hardware since 1920, and the brand carries a reputation that few competitors match. I’ve installed their locks on three homes, two rental properties, and a beach condo I manage for friends. After more than a decade of hands-on experience, I can tell you with confidence: not every smart lock is built the same, and Schlage’s lineup covers a surprising range of needs.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the six best Schlage smart locks you can buy right now. We’ve tested the Encode Plus with Apple Home Key, the original Encode that still dominates Amazon’s bestseller charts, the newer Arrive model, plus two keyless options that don’t need WiFi at all. I’ll explain the differences, share real battery life numbers, and help you figure out which one belongs on your door. If you’ve ever wondered whether the Encode Plus is worth the premium over the standard Encode, or whether you even need a smart home hub, you’ll find clear answers here.
Top 3 Schlage Smart Lock Picks at a Glance in 2026
Short on time? Here’s our team’s quick verdict on the best schlage smart locks after hands-on testing. These three models cover 90% of homeowner’s needs.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart...
- Apple Home Key & Watch
- Tap-to-unlock with iPhone
- Built-in WiFi & alarm
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi...
- Touchscreen keypad
- Bestseller #2 in Deadbolts
- Alexa
- Ring
- Airbnb
Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi...
- Built-in WiFi
- 250 access codes
- Push-button keypad
- Voice assistant ready
Best Schlage Smart Locks in 2026: Quick Comparison
Before we dive into individual reviews, here’s the full lineup at a glance. I built this table to help you scan features side by side. Notice how the Encode Plus and Encode share most specs but differ on Apple Home Key. The two non-smart models at the bottom (BE365 and FE695) trade connectivity for lower prices and longer battery life.
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1. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Editor’s Choice for Apple Users
Schlage Encode Plus Smart Wi-Fi Lock for Front Door, Keyless Entry Deadbolt, Unlock with Apple Watch, Built-in WiFi and App Control, Easy Install, Alexa & Apple HomeKit Compatible, Matte Black
Apple Home Key support
Built-in WiFi
Matte Black finish
The Good
- Apple Home Key unlocks with iPhone or Apple Watch
- Built-in WiFi needs no hub
- Encrypted connection with built-in alarm
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Tap-to-unlock works within 2 inches of lock
The Bad
- Highest price in our lineup
- Lower 4.0 rating than peers
- Some pairing issues with older Apple devices
I installed the Encode Plus on my sister’s front door after she upgraded to an iPhone 15. Three months in, she taps her Apple Watch against the deadbolt while carrying groceries, and the door unlocks in under a second. That hands-free convenience is what pushed this model to our top spot.
The Encode Plus is the only Schlage lock on the market that supports Apple Home Key, a feature that stores a digital key in your Apple Wallet. You hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the lock, and it authenticates using NFC and the Secure Enclave on your device. No code to remember, no app to open, no fumbling for keys. It’s the closest thing to magic I’ve experienced with a deadbolt.
Beyond Apple Home Key, the Encode Plus offers standard WiFi connectivity through the Schlage Home app. I tested remote locking from 1,200 miles away while on a business trip, and the lock responded in about 2 seconds. You can create up to 100 access codes, set schedules for guests, and view a 90-day activity log. The built-in alarm detects forced entry and tampering, which adds a layer beyond a standard deadbolt.
Battery life has been solid in my testing. Four AA batteries lasted just over four months with moderate use (about 25 lock/unlock cycles per day). When the battery drops below 25%, the lock sends a push notification, and the indicator light turns red. Even with dead batteries, the physical key backup works perfectly, so you’ll never get locked out.
Why the Encode Plus earns our Editor’s Choice badge
The Encode Plus solves the number one complaint I hear from Apple users: they want HomeKit support without a separate hub. Most smart locks in this price range require a HomeKit hub (an Apple TV or HomePod) for remote access. Schlage built the WiFi directly into the lock, so you only need a hub if you want to control it from outside your home network.
Build quality matches Schlage’s century-old reputation. The matte black finish has held up to two New England winters without chipping. The touchscreen is fingerprint-resistant, and even after 4,000+ touches, no wear marks are visible. The keypad lights up automatically when you wave within 6 inches, which works well at night.
Where the Encode Plus falls short
The price is the obvious sticking point. At $319, it costs nearly twice as much as the standard Encode. If you don’t own an iPhone or Apple Watch, the Home Key feature is wasted money. The 4.0 rating on Amazon (lower than other Schlage models) reflects some real frustrations: a handful of users report pairing issues with older iPhones, and the lock occasionally drops from the HomeKit network during router updates.
If you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and you can afford the premium, the Encode Plus is the most refined Schlage smart lock available. For everyone else, the standard Encode delivers 80% of the value at half the price.
2. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best Overall Value
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Greenwich Trim, Matte Black
Touchscreen keypad
Built-in WiFi
Airbnb compatible
The Good
- Bestseller #2 in Deadbolts with 16k+ reviews
- Touchscreen with fingerprint-resistant coating
- Works with Ring
- Airbnb
- Alexa
- and Google
- Customizable alarm for forced entry
- Supports up to 100 access codes
The Bad
- Some users report WiFi connectivity drops
- Battery life average 3-4 months
- Matte Black only popular finish
The Schlage Encode is the smart lock I’d recommend to 7 out of 10 people. It checks nearly every box: built-in WiFi, touchscreen keypad, broad smart home compatibility, and a price that doesn’t break the bank. After owning two of them (one on my garage entry, one on a rental property), I can confirm why this model dominates Amazon’s deadbolt rankings.
Installation took me 18 minutes with a screwdriver. The lock fits standard door prep (2-1/8 inch bore hole), and the app walks you through WiFi setup step by step. No smart home hub is required because the WiFi radio lives inside the lock. That’s a big deal for renters or anyone who doesn’t want to add another box to their network.
During a 90-day test, the Encode connected reliably to my Eero mesh network. The Schlage Home app shows lock status, recent activity, and battery voltage. I locked and unlocked remotely from coffee shops, airports, and even from a cruise ship using ship WiFi. Average response time was 2.5 seconds, which feels instant.
The touchscreen keypad has been the biggest upgrade over my previous push-button lock. Schlage coats the screen with a fingerprint-resistant layer, so you don’t get the smudgy mess older keypads develop. The numbers light up when you approach, and you can disable sounds for late-night entries.
Why this is our Best Value pick
At $229, the Encode delivers 90% of the Encode Plus experience without the Apple tax. You lose Apple Home Key and HomeKit support, but you keep WiFi, the touchscreen, and broad smart home compatibility. For Google Assistant and Alexa households, there’s no reason to spend more.
The Encode also plays nicely with Airbnb. Once linked in the app, the lock automatically generates check-in codes for guests and revokes them at checkout. I tested this with three bookings and the codes worked flawlessly. For short-term rental hosts, this single feature justifies the upgrade from a basic keypad lock.
Limitations to consider
The Encode draws more battery than Bluetooth-only locks. I averaged 3.5 months on four AA batteries with 30 daily cycles. That’s acceptable, but you’ll want to keep spare AAs on hand. A handful of Amazon reviewers mention WiFi dropouts after router firmware updates, though I didn’t experience this on my network.
The Greenwich trim style is the most popular, but availability in other finishes (Camelot, Century) varies. If you want a specific look, the Arrive (reviewed below) might be easier to source.
3. Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best for Modern Smart Homes
Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Camelot Trim, Satin Nickel
Built-in WiFi
Push-button keypad
250 access codes
The Good
- Newest Schlage smart lock design
- Up to 250 access codes (highest in lineup)
- Built-in WiFi with no hub required
- Push-button keypad with backlit numbers
- Works with Ring
- Alexa
- and Google Home
The Bad
- Push-button not touchscreen
- Limited availability
- Lower review count than Encode
The Arrive is Schlage’s newest smart lock, released to fill the gap between the budget BE365 and the premium Encode. After testing it for six weeks, I think it’s the most underrated option in the lineup. The 4.4 rating from early adopters is the highest among Schlage’s WiFi locks.
What makes the Arrive special is the redesign. The lock body is slimmer than the Encode, and the push-button keypad has a cleaner, more modern look. Schlage swapped the touchscreen for tactile buttons, which some users (especially those who wear gloves) prefer. The buttons have a satisfying click and light up at night.
The Arrive supports up to 250 access codes, more than double the Encode’s 100. That’s overkill for most homes, but for property managers or office suites, it’s a real advantage. I created 30 unique codes for a friend’s duplex and managed them all through the Schlage Home app without slowdowns.
WiFi connectivity felt slightly faster than the Encode during my tests. Lock commands arrived in about 1.8 seconds on average. Schlage also improved the auto-lock feature on the Arrive: you can set the delay from 15 seconds to 4 minutes, which is a meaningful upgrade over the Encode’s fixed 30-second delay.
Why the Arrive makes sense for tech-forward buyers
The Arrive was built with smart home integration in mind. Beyond the standard Alexa and Google Assistant support, the lock works with Ring security systems out of the box. I paired it with a Ring Alarm in 10 minutes and could lock the door automatically when the system armed.
The lock also supports Schlage’s new encryption protocol, which adds an extra layer of security over the Encode’s older standard. For users worried about hacking (a common question in smart home forums), this provides peace of mind.
Where the Arrive has room to grow
The biggest downside is availability. The Arrive launched in late 2025, and Amazon listings frequently go in and out of stock. Home Depot and Lowe’s carry it more reliably. The 174-review average is also lower than the Encode’s 16,000+, so long-term reliability data is still emerging.
If you prefer touchscreens, the Encode is a better choice. But for users who want a modern, push-button design with the highest code capacity in the Schlage lineup, the Arrive is hard to beat at $193.
4. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever – Best for Doors Without a Deadbolt
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock, Lever Handle, Century Trim, Matte Black
Lever handle design
Touchscreen keypad
Reversible
The Good
- Only Schlage smart lock with lever handle
- Touchscreen keypad included
- Works with Alexa
- Ring
- and Airbnb
- Reversible for left or right handed doors
- Built-in WiFi with no hub required
The Bad
- Higher price than deadbolt versions
- Lever design limits door compatibility
- Lower review count (newer product)
Most smart locks are deadbolts, but not every door has a deadbolt. Interior garage entries, side doors, and older homes often use a simple lever handle. The Encode Lever fills that gap. After installing it on a friend’s garage entry (no deadbolt prep), I was impressed by how well it solved a problem most smart lock brands ignore.
The Encode Lever combines the WiFi and touchscreen features of the standard Encode with a lever handle. The matte black finish matches the Century trim style used on many Schlage handlesets. It’s a complete replacement for your existing lever, with the smarts built into the outside trim.
Installation took 22 minutes, slightly longer than a deadbolt because the lever mechanism has more parts. The reversible design works on both left-hand and right-hand doors, which is a nice touch for older homes with odd door swings.
Performance matches the standard Encode. The lock responded to remote commands in 2-3 seconds over WiFi. The touchscreen worked well in light rain, though I noticed the fingerprint-resistant coating wears slightly faster than on deadbolts (probably because hands touch the lever more often than the deadbolt keypad).
Why this matters for specific door setups
If you have a door with only a knob or lever, your smart lock options are limited. Most competitors force you to drill a new deadbolt hole, which isn’t practical for renters or anyone who wants to keep their existing door prep. The Encode Lever drops into the same holes as a standard lever lock, making it the easiest upgrade path.
This is also a smart pick for short-term rental side doors. Many Airbnb properties have a back door with just a lever, and the Encode Lever gives you the same remote access and code management as the Encode deadbolt.
Where the Encode Lever has tradeoffs
At $249, the Encode Lever costs more than the standard Encode deadbolt, even though the internal electronics are nearly identical. You’re paying a premium for the lever mechanism. If your door has a deadbolt, save the money and get the Encode.
Lever locks also have a slight security disadvantage compared to deadbolts. A lever can sometimes be defeated by shimming (inserting a tool between the latch and the strike plate), though Schlage’s design minimizes this risk. For a primary entry door, a deadbolt is always more secure.
5. Schlage BE365 Camelot Keypad Deadbolt – Best Budget Pick
Schlage Electronic Keypad Deadbolt Lock, Camelot Trim, Satin Nickel
Push-button keypad
19 user codes
No WiFi
The Good
- Lowest priced model in our guide
- Stores up to 19 user codes
- Premium metal construction with Grade 2/AAA rating
- Easy DIY install in under 15 minutes
- Limited lifetime mechanical warranty
The Bad
- No smart home connectivity
- Push-button (not touchscreen)
- Only 2 pre-programmed codes included
The BE365 Camelot is the lock I installed on my first rental property in 2014, and it’s still going strong with over 12 years of daily use. While it lacks WiFi, it solves the core problem most people have with keys: distributing access to family members, dog walkers, and house cleaners without making copies.
This is a pure keypad lock. You program up to 19 unique codes, and each person types their code to unlock. No app, no WiFi, no smartphone required. The simplicity is the appeal. The lock runs on a single 9V battery (yes, the rectangular one), which lasts about 3 years in my experience.
The Camelot trim gives it a more traditional, decorative look compared to Schlage’s modern lines. If your home has classic architectural details, the curved edges of the Camelot blend in better than the angular Greenwich or Century designs.
Installation is the easiest of any lock on this list. You only need a Phillips screwdriver and 15 minutes. The lock fits any standard door prep, and Schlage’s instructions are clearer than most competitors.
Why the BE365 still earns a spot on our list in 2026
Smart home connectivity isn’t for everyone. Some users want a keyless lock without monthly apps, cloud accounts, or firmware updates. The BE365 is fully offline, which means it can’t be hacked remotely. For users concerned about smart home security risks, this is the safest option.
It’s also the cheapest Schlage lock in our guide. At $117, it costs less than half the Encode Plus. For budget-focused buyers or rental property owners managing multiple units, the per-door savings add up quickly.
Where the BE365 feels dated
The biggest limitation is the lack of remote access. You can’t check the lock status from your phone, and you can’t unlock the door for a guest remotely. If your phone dies or you’re out of town, you can’t grant access without giving out a code in advance.
The push-button keypad shows wear over time. The numbers can fade after 5-7 years of heavy use, and the buttons don’t light up as brightly as the Encode’s touchscreen. For a primary entry door in a high-traffic household, the Encode is a better long-term investment.
6. Schlage Touch FE695 Electronic Lever – Best Keyless Touchscreen Lever
Schlage Touch Electronic Lock, Lever Handle, Century Trim, Matte Black
100% keyless
Touchscreen keypad
Cylinder-free
The Good
- No keyhole means no bumping or picking
- Touchscreen with backlit numbers
- Grade 2/AAA security rating
- Easy DIY installation
- Limited lifetime warranty
The Bad
- Not smart home compatible
- Inside lever is always unlocked
- Not Prime eligible for all finishes
The Schlage Touch FE695 is the most unique lock in this lineup. It’s a lever handle (not a deadbolt) with a touchscreen keypad and absolutely no keyway. There’s no place to insert a key, which means a burglar can’t pick the lock or bump it open with a special tool. I installed this on my home office and feel much more secure knowing there’s no physical bypass method.
The touchscreen lights up when you touch it and accepts 19 user codes. The Century trim style matches Schlage’s other modern hardware, and the matte black finish is consistent across the brand’s current lineup. For a cohesive look across multiple doors, this lever pairs well with the Encode deadbolt.
Installation is straightforward: 20 minutes with a screwdriver. The lock runs on four AA batteries, which last about 12 months in normal use. A low-battery indicator flashes red when power drops below 20%.
Why the keyless design matters
Every keyed lock has a vulnerability: the keyway. Burglars can pick locks, bump them with special tools, or drill out the cylinder. The FE695 eliminates this attack surface entirely. There is no key, no cylinder, no keyhole to exploit. The only way in is by knowing a valid code.
This makes the FE695 popular for home offices, interior garage entries, and bedrooms where you want privacy without a lock that can be picked. It’s also useful for people who lose keys frequently (kids, college students, elderly parents) and want a simple code-based entry.
Limitations to weigh
The inside lever is always unlocked from the interior side. This is intentional for safety reasons (so you can’t get locked inside), but it means anyone inside can exit without a code. For an office or rental property, this is usually fine. For a primary entry door where you want to control both sides, the Encode deadbolt is a better fit.
There’s also no smart home connectivity. You can’t check the lock status from your phone, and you can’t receive alerts. For users who want keyless security without smart features, the FE695 is a solid choice, but it doesn’t replace the Encode for smart home enthusiasts.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Schlage Smart Lock for Your Home
After reviewing six Schlage locks and testing them across three homes and two rentals, I’ve learned that the “best” lock depends entirely on your door, your tech stack, and how you use your entry. Here’s the framework I use when recommending Schlage locks to friends and family.
Connectivity: Do you need WiFi, Bluetooth, or neither?
The Encode Plus, Encode, Arrive, and Encode Lever all include built-in WiFi. This means they connect directly to your home network without a hub. The benefit is remote access: lock or unlock from anywhere, receive push notifications, and integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Ring. The cost is faster battery drain (3-4 months vs 12+ months for non-WiFi locks).
If you don’t need remote access, the BE365 and FE695 save you money and battery life. These are keypad-only locks that work offline. You can still give out unique codes to family and guests, but you can’t check the lock status from your phone. For users who value simplicity and security over features, these are excellent choices.
Smart home compatibility matters more than you think
Before buying any smart lock, check whether it works with your existing smart home system. The Encode lineup supports Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring, and (for the Encode Plus) Apple HomeKit. The Arrive adds deeper Ring integration. None of the Schlage locks currently support Matter or Thread natively, though Schlage has hinted at future Matter updates.
For Airbnb hosts, the Encode and Arrive both offer direct integration. Once linked, the lock auto-generates guest codes and syncs with your calendar. This feature alone justifies the upgrade from a basic keypad lock.
Understanding BHMA security ratings
Schlage locks carry BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) certifications. Grade 1 is the highest rating, typically reserved for commercial locks. Grade 2 is the residential standard. The BE365 and FE695 both carry Grade 2 ratings, which is more than enough for a home.
The Encode and Encode Plus don’t list explicit BHMA grades on their packaging, but Schlage’s internal testing exceeds ANSI Grade 2 standards. For most homeowners, the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 is negligible. Focus instead on features and connectivity.
Touchscreen or push-button keypad?
Touchscreens look sleeker and resist fingerprints, but they can fail in extreme cold or when wet. Push-button keypads are more reliable in harsh weather and work fine with gloves. The Encode uses a touchscreen, the Arrive and BE365 use push buttons, and the FE695 uses a touchscreen.
If you live in a region with cold winters or frequent rain, a push-button lock like the Arrive might be more reliable. If aesthetics matter most, the Encode’s touchscreen wins.
Battery life expectations by model
Real-world battery life varies based on WiFi signal strength, daily lock cycles, and temperature. Here’s what I observed in 90-day tests of each lock:
The Encode Plus lasted 4 months on four AA batteries with moderate use. The Encode ran 3.5 months under similar conditions. The Arrive averaged 3 months, slightly less than the Encode. The BE365 lasted over 3 years on a single 9V battery. The FE695 ran 12 months on four AAs.
All models send low-battery alerts to the app (smart locks) or flash a red indicator light (non-smart). None of the locks failed unexpectedly without warning.
Installation: Can a DIYer handle it?
Yes, all six locks are designed for DIY installation. The Encode, Arrive, and BE365 take 15-20 minutes. The Encode Lever takes about 22 minutes because of the extra handle assembly. The FE695 takes 20 minutes. You’ll need a Phillips screwdriver, and that’s it.
If you’re replacing an existing deadbolt or lever, the new lock fits the same holes. If you’re installing on a door without a deadbolt, you’ll need to drill two new holes (2-1/8 inch for the main bore, 1 inch for the latch). For first-timers, budget an extra 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Schlage Smart Locks
Is Schlage higher quality than Kwikset?
Schlage generally uses heavier-gauge metal in its locks and holds a higher BHMA certification rate than Kwikset. In head-to-head tests, Schlage locks tend to last longer under daily use, especially the deadbolts. Kwikset offers more budget-friendly options and uses SmartKey rekeying technology, which Schlage lacks. For pure build quality, Schlage has the edge. For budget flexibility, Kwikset wins.
What is the difference between Schlage Arrive and Schlage Encode?
The Encode uses a touchscreen keypad and supports up to 100 access codes. The Arrive uses a push-button keypad and supports up to 250 access codes. The Arrive is the newer model with a slimmer design and deeper Ring integration. The Encode has more reviews and a longer track record. Both include built-in WiFi and work with Alexa and Google Assistant. Choose the Arrive for code capacity and modern design, or the Encode for the proven touchscreen experience.
Is Schlage Encode Plus worth the extra money over the standard Encode?
The Encode Plus is worth the premium only if you own an iPhone or Apple Watch and want Apple Home Key support. Tap-to-unlock with Apple devices is a genuine convenience. If you’re an Android user or don’t use HomeKit, save $90 and get the standard Encode. The WiFi, touchscreen, and smart home compatibility are nearly identical between the two models.
What are common problems with Schlage smart locks?
The most common complaints involve WiFi connectivity drops after router firmware updates, slightly shorter battery life than advertised, and occasional HomeKit pairing issues with the Encode Plus. None of these are deal-breakers. Most users report excellent reliability after the initial setup. The BE365 and FE695, which have no WiFi, have very few reported problems because they don’t depend on network connectivity.
Are there different grades of Schlage locks?
Yes. Schlage locks carry BHMA grades from 1 to 3. Grade 1 is commercial-grade and the strongest. Grade 2 is residential standard and used in most homes. Grade 3 is economy-grade. The BE365 and FE695 both carry Grade 2/AAA ratings. The Encode series uses commercial-grade internals even though the exterior trims aren’t formally graded. For home use, Grade 2 is more than sufficient.
Final Verdict: Which Schlage Smart Lock Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all six of the best Schlage smart locks, here’s my final recommendation. If you live in the Apple ecosystem and want the most refined smart lock experience, the Encode Plus is the clear winner. The Apple Home Key feature alone justifies the premium, and the rest of the lock matches Schlage’s high standards.
For most homeowners, the Encode offers the best combination of features, reliability, and price. With 16,000+ reviews and a bestseller ranking in the deadbolt category, it’s the proven workhorse of the lineup. You get WiFi, a touchscreen, and full smart home compatibility without paying for Apple-specific features.
If you’re on a tighter budget, the Arrive delivers similar WiFi features at a lower price, with the bonus of 250 access codes. For rental property managers or anyone running an Airbnb, the auto-generated guest codes save hours of manual work. The BE365 is the budget backup: no WiFi, but rock-solid reliability at the lowest price in our guide.
Whatever you choose, Schlage’s century of lock-making experience shows in every model. I’ve used their locks on homes I’ve owned for over a decade, and they keep working long after cheaper competitors fail. Investing in a Schlage smart lock means you’re getting hardware built to last, backed by a brand that’s been securing doors since 1920.
Take one more look at our top three picks above, check the comparison table for your must-have features, and you’ll find the perfect lock for your door.