August Smart Lock 2nd Gen Silver
Score: 74/100
Schlage Encode Plus Satin Nickel
Score: 87/100Rankings
The Schlage Encode Plus is a Grade 1 deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi and Apple HomeKey, offering robust security and extensive smart features. Its reliance on AA batteries and lack of Zigbee/Z-Wave limit some ecosystem options. Ideal for Apple-centric homeowners who want direct Wi-Fi control and a high-security lock.
The August Home Smart Lock 2nd Generation is a retrofit lock that adds HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant voice control while preserving the existing deadbolt key. Its main limitation is the need for an optional Wi-Fi bridge for remote access and the lack of a built-in Wi-Fi module. Best for Apple HomeKit users and renters who want smart features without replacing the whole lock.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 9 minutesbest | — |
1 years | 3 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 395 gbest | 1,360.8 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Type | AAA | AA |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | unknown | Bluetooth |
Wi‑Fi Compatibility | false | true |
Fit & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 395 g | 1360.8 g |
Material | Metal | Zinc alloy |
Finish | Silver | Satin Nickel |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 3 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors, primarily from August's own product pages, stress the lock's easy, non-destructive installation, its retention of the original key, and its broad smart-home ecosystem support, especially HomeKit. They position it as a straightforward upgrade for users who want smart functionality without replacing their existing deadbolt.
Everyday users highlight the convenience of eliminating key fumbling, the usefulness of virtual guest keys, and the peace of mind provided by activity logs. No major recurring complaints appear in the available data, though users note the need for a separate Wi-Fi bridge and periodic battery changes.
Schlage Encode suits homeowners who want a full-replace smart lock with strong security, but is unsuitable for those needing a retrofit that keeps the original key.
Professional sources and Schlage's own specifications emphasize the lock's top-tier ANSI/BHMA Grade 1/AAA security ratings, the convenience of built-in WiFi that removes the need for a separate hub, and the unique Apple Home Keys tap-to-unlock feature. Reviewers highlight its robust construction, extensive code capacity, and integrated alarm as key strengths, while noting the reliance on AA batteries and the focus on residential rather than heavy-duty commercial use.
