Schlage Encode Matte Black
Score: 88/100
Aqara U100
Score: 88/100Rankings
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is a single-cylinder, touchscreen deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi that lets users lock, unlock, and monitor access via the Schlage Home app without any external hub. It offers top-tier AAA/Commercial Grade 1 security, up to 100 user codes, voice-assistant integration, and a six-month battery life. The lock is ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who want hub-free Wi-Fi smart access and remote monitoring.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6 months | 8 monthsbest | |
3 yearsbest | — | |
1.375 inches | 1.38 inchesbest | |
2.375 inchesbest | 2.36 inches | |
— | 65.6 feetbest | |
-31 °Fbest | -31 °Fbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Battery Life (months) | 6 months | 8 months |
Support & Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | 3 years | years |
Security & Access(4) | ||
Security Grade | Grade 1 | BHMA Level 3 |
Unlock Methods | Keypad, Physical Key | Fingerprint, Keypad, NFC, Mechanical Key, Apple Home Key |
Keypad Type | Touchscreen | Matte |
Encryption Standard | Secure Encrypted | AES 128 |
Installation & Compatibility(3) | ||
Door Thickness Compatibility (inches) | 1.375-1.75 inches | 1.38-2.17 inches |
Backset (inches) | 2.375-2.75 inches | 2.36-2.76 inches |
Installation Type | DIY | Standard |
Connectivity & Smart Features(2) | ||
Smart Home Integration | Alexa, Google Assistant | Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, IFTTT |
Wi-Fi Standard | 2.4GHz/5GHz (Built-in) | |
Build & Durability(4) | ||
Material | Not Specified | Zinc Alloy |
IP Rating | Not Specified | IP65 |
Operating Temperature (°F) | -31-150.8 °F | -31 to 151 °F |
Finish | Matte Black | Gray |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors consistently commend the Encode for its industry-leading security certifications, built-in Wi-Fi that removes the need for a hub, and robust construction that meets both residential and commercial standards. They also note its fire-rating and extensive voice-assistant support as differentiators in the premium smart-lock segment.
Consumers praise the lock's keyless convenience, reliable app performance, and the peace of mind provided by remote monitoring and temporary access codes. The physical key backup and finish options are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects.
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.
“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.”
