Aqara U100
Score: 88/100
Schlage Encode Plus
Score: 88/100Rankings
The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a biometric deadbolt featuring a high-accuracy fingerprint sensor, multiple unlock methods, and extensive smart-home integration via Bluetooth, Zigbee and Apple Home Key. It is housed in a durable zinc-alloy body with IP65-rated outer panel, though the inner panel lacks weatherproofing. Ideal for families or shared households needing up to 50 biometric users and smart-home enthusiasts with Apple Home setups.
The Schlage Encode Plus is a premium Wi-Fi deadbolt featuring built-in Apple Home Keys for NFC tap-to-unlock and hub-free remote control. It offers top-tier BHMA AAA security but lacks an IP rating for weather resistance. It is ideal for Apple users seeking a secure, smart-enabled lock for front doors.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
8 monthsbest | 6 months | |
1.38 inches | 1.75 inchesbest | |
2.36 inches | 2.75 inchesbest | |
65.6 feetbest | — | |
-31 °F | 151 °Fbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Battery(2) | ||
Battery Life (months) | 8 months | 6 months |
Battery Type | AA | 4 AA |
Support & Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | years | Lifetime/3 Years years |
Security & Access(4) | ||
Security Grade | BHMA Level 3 | Grade 3 |
Unlock Methods | Fingerprint, Keypad, NFC, Mechanical Key, Apple Home Key | Keypad, Mechanical Key, NFC |
Keypad Type | Matte | Touchscreen |
Encryption Standard | AES 128 | 128-bit AES |
Installation & Compatibility(3) | ||
Door Thickness Compatibility (inches) | 1.38-2.17 inches | 1.375-1.75 inches |
Backset (inches) | 2.36-2.76 inches | 2.375-2.75 inches |
Installation Type | Standard | DIY |
Connectivity & Smart Features(3) | ||
Smart Home Integration | Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, IFTTT | Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google, Siri |
Bluetooth Range (feet) | 65.6 feet | N/A feet |
Wi-Fi Standard | 2.4 GHz | |
Build & Durability(3) | ||
Material | Zinc Alloy | N/A |
IP Rating | IP65 | N/A |
Finish | Gray | Aged Bronze |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the U100 for its precise fingerprint sensor, Apple HomeKey compatibility, solid auto-lock functionality, and impressive eight-month battery life. They also note the lock's robust zinc construction, IP65-rated outer panel, and reliable Zigbee performance when used with an Aqara hub, while calling out the need for a hub for full feature access and the non-weather-proof inner panel.
Everyday users generally praise the lock's versatility, long battery life, and weather-resistant outer housing, especially valuing the multiple unlock options and local data security. Recurring complaints focus on the requirement of an extra hub for advanced smart-home features, the inner panel's lack of weatherproofing, and the relatively heavy weight during installation.
Professional reviewers, including Reviewed.com, praise the Schlage Encode Plus as one of the first locks with reliable Apple Home Keys, highlighting its impressive near-instant NFC unlocking capability.
Users generally praise the simple installation process and the app-guided setup, suggesting a positive experience with usability and configuration.
“HomeKit News praises the U100 for its fingerprint sensor, Apple HomeKey support, auto-locking, and 8-month battery life, noting solid Zigbee 3.0 performance with an optional Aqara hub and IP65 outer panel for weather resistance.”
