August Smart Lock 3rd Gen Silver
Score: 77/100
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 3rd Generation is a retrofit lock that offers easy installation, auto-unlock/lock, and voice control. Its main trade-off is the need for an optional Wi-Fi bridge for remote access and uncertain battery life. Best suited for renters and households that value quick setup and smart-home integration.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 10 minutesbest | — |
1 years | 3 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 439 gbest | 1,360.8 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.0 | Bluetooth |
Wi‑Fi Compatibility | false | true |
Fit & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 439 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 praise the August 3rd-Gen Silver for its unbelievably easy, screwdriver-only installation, sturdy metal construction, and robust security features such as two-factor authentication and encryption. They also note its sleek aesthetic and the convenience of auto-unlock/lock, while calling out the need for an optional Wi-Fi bridge for remote access and the limited Bluetooth range without it.
Everyday users consistently highlight the quick, hassle-free setup, the convenience of keyless entry and temporary guest keys, and the renter-friendly, reversible installation. Common complaints revolve around occasional connectivity hiccups, app glitches, uncertain battery longevity, and incompatibility with non-standard deadbolts.
“great for apartments”
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.
