Schlage Encode Plus.
The gold standard of smart deadbolts. We test the Schlage Encode Plus to see if its industry-leading security and Apple Home Key integration justify its premium price tag.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Security Rating | ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 (Highest possible) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread Support |
| Special Feature | Apple Home Key (Tap to unlock with iPhone/Watch) |
| Keypad | Fingerprint-resistant Capacitive Touchscreen |
The Good
- ✓ Apple Home Key support is flawless—simply tap your Apple Watch or iPhone against the lock to enter, no code required.
- ✓ Grade 1 security rating means the hardware is built to withstand serious physical attacks.
- ✓ Built-in Wi-Fi and Thread support offer future-proof connectivity and lightning-fast response times.
The Bad
- ✗ The internal motor is quite loud compared to competitors like August or Yale.
- ✗ The design is very traditional and “bulky,” which might not suit modern, minimalist doors.
The Magic of Apple Home Key
The Encode Plus is one of the very few locks on the market that supports Apple’s Home Key technology. This allows the lock to live in your Apple Wallet. You don’t even need to wake your phone or open an app.
Just like paying with Apple Pay, you hold your device near the lock and the NFC chip handles the rest. Even if your iPhone battery dies, the Power Reserve feature ensures you can still get into your home for up to five hours after the phone shuts down.
Built Like a Vault
Schlage has been in the lock business for over 100 years, and it shows. While other smart locks feel like gadgets, the Encode Plus feels like heavy-duty hardware. It carries an ANSI Grade 1 rating, which is the highest level of residential security testing.
It features a built-in alarm that will scream if it detects a forced entry attempt. For professionals managing properties in areas like Gurugram or global tech hubs, this physical robustness is a massive selling point that software-only locks simply can’t match.
Final Verdict
If you live in the Apple ecosystem, the Schlage Encode Plus is the single best smart lock you can buy. The combination of Home Key convenience and Grade 1 hardware security makes it unbeatable. It is expensive and a bit loud, but for the peace of mind and frictionless entry, it is a worthy investment for your home.