August Smart Lock Pro + Connect Hub
Score: 75/100
Schlage Encode Plus
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Schlage Encode Plus is a premium hub-free smart lock featuring built-in WiFi and Apple Home Keys for NFC tap-to-unlock. Its main limitation is the lack of an IP rating for weather resistance and the absence of geofencing auto-unlock. It is ideal for Apple users seeking high security and seamless integration without additional hubs.
The August Home Smart Lock Pro is a versatile retrofit lock that installs over existing deadbolts, offering broad smart home integration via Z-Wave and a separate WiFi bridge. Its main drawback is the reliance on an additional hub for remote features and the lack of modern entry methods like fingerprint scanning. It is ideal for users with Z-Wave hubs who want to retain their physical keys.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 6 hoursbest | |
— | 0 credentialsbest | |
30 metersbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Battery(3) | ||
Battery Life (hours) | N/A hours | 6 hours |
Battery Type | AA | AA Alkaline |
Backup Power | false | true |
Installation & Fit(3) | ||
Backset Compatibility | Standard Single-Cylinder | 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" |
Door Thickness Compatibility | Standard Door Thickness | 1-3/8" to 1-3/4" |
Installation Type | Retrofit | Standard Deadbolt Replacement |
Connectivity & Smart Home(1) | ||
Connectivity Standards | Bluetooth, Z-Wave, WiFi | WiFi |
Access & Security(2) | ||
Security Grade | Standard Residential | Grade AAA |
Unlock Methods | App, Mechanical Key, eKey | NFC, Keypad, App, Mechanical Key |
Professional reviewers praise the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect for its top-selling status, easy retrofit installation, and broad integrations with Z-Wave, HomeKit, and voice assistants. It is often called a 'next step in smart home security' due to its reliable activity tracking.
Everyday users commonly praise the seamless app control, guest eKey sharing, and the ability to retain physical keys, noting quick setup and reliable phone-based locking.
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. They commend its strong security via 128-bit AES encryption and BHMA AAA certification, positioning it as a premium, hub-free solution for Apple ecosystems.
Users generally praise the simple installation process and the app-guided setup, suggesting a positive experience with usability and configuration.
