Thinking of upgrading your traditional home locks to smart locks? Perhaps you just want to avoid the risk of losing your keys, or want the convenience of locking and unlocking your door from anywhere?
Whatever your reasons are for wanting to make the upgrade, Schlage is one of the most trusted brands in the locks industry. Even better, the company offers a range of smart locks to choose from, including Schlage encode, connect, and sense.
However, because of their many similarities, you are likely to have a hard time picking the best one for your needs. Therefore, in this Schlage encode vs sense vs connect review, we’ll be looking at their unique features. We hope this helps you in making a sound buying decision.
Comparison Table
At first glance, you might mistake Schlage Encode for Schlage Sense or Schlage Connect for Encode because they look almost alike. So, to assist you in figuring out which one to buy, we created this simple comparison table.
Product | Schlage Encode | Schlage Sense | Schlage Connect |
|---|---|---|---|
No. of codes available | Up to 100 | Up to 30 | Up to 30 |
Wi-Fi compatibility | Built-in | Optional Wi-Fi adapter | Requires a hub like SmartThings, Wink, and Nexia |
Voice control | Alexa and Google Assistant | Alexa and Google Assistant via a Wi-Fi adapter | Amazon Alexa via a compatible hub |
App control | Schlage Home app or the Key by Amazon app | Schlage Home app | Nexia or Samsung SmartThings app |
Alarm technology | Built-in | Built-in | Built-in ring alarm |
Battery indicator | Notification via Schlage Home app | Notification via Schlage Home app | Blinks a red x on the touchscreen |
Z-Wave compatibility | No | No | Yes |
Bluetooth connectivity | No | Yes | Yes |
Apple HomeKit integration | No | Yes | No |
Warranty | Limited lifetime on mechanical parts ad finish plus 3-year limited on electronics | Limited lifetime on mechanical parts and finish plus 3-year limited on electronics | Limited lifetime mechanical and finish and 3-year limited on electronics |
Installation | Easy and takes less time | Easy but may take a little longer | Easy but may take a little longer |
Pricing | Higher price tag | Average price tag | A little higher than Sense |
Price |
Schlage encode vs Sense vs Connect: Which one Wins?
As much as these locks are manufactured by the same company, they tend to differ in some ways. However, the differences are not anything major. Below, you can find out how exactly they compare to each other.
Available lock codes
One of the things that set the Schlage to encode apart from its Sense and Connect counterparts is its higher number of access codes. The Encode allows you to set up to 100 lock codes which you can choose to be permanent, recurring, or even temporary. Even better, you can easily change these codes anytime you feel the need.
Schlage sense and connect, on the other hand, provides you with up to 30 codes only. Just like with Encode, you can update these codes anytime to allow keyless entry.
Wi-Fi connectivity
Another unique feature of the Schlage encode deadbolt lock is its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This means you can connect the lock directly to your home’s network in a similar way as your smartphone. Therefore, you won’t have to buy additional accessories like a Wi-Fi adapter.
As for Schlage Sense, you need a Wi-Fi adapter to enjoy a wireless connection. This is, however, not included with your purchase, so you have to buy it separately.
The Schlage Connect also does not come with built-in Wi-Fi nor can you use it with a Wi-Fi adapter. Fortunately, the lock does work remotely if you pair it with a third-party hub such as the Wink Hub and SmartThings.
Z-Wave compatibility
Z-wave is simply a mesh network designed to harness low-energy radio waves to allow for wireless control of various smart devices. However, both Encode and Sense are not compatible with Z-Wave.
This means that this feature is only unique to Schlage Connect. Basically, you can connect this lock with other Z-Wave smart devices in your home, including smart lights or thermostats. This way, every time you leave your house and lock your door, these devices will automatically go off.
Voice control
When it comes to voice control, the Encode deadbolt is the clear winner here. Thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi, you can pair the lock with either Alexa or Google Assistant right out of the box. This allows you to control your deadbolt lock with voice commands.
Similar to the Encode lock, you can also control your Schlage Sense via Alexa or Google Assistant. However, this is only possible if you use a Wi-Fi adapter. As for the Schlage Connect, you can only pair the lock with Amazon Alexa using a compatible smart hub like SmartThings.
Bluetooth connectivity
With Bluetooth connectivity, this feature is only present in Schlage Sense and Connect deadbolts. And for both locks, this feature works within a Bluetooth range of around 40 feet.
The best part is that you can pair the lock with either your iOS device or Android smartphone. Consequently, this allows you to control and even access your locks at the palm of your hands.
The reason why Schlage Encode does not allow Bluetooth connectivity is because it comes with built-in Wi-Fi.
App control
Besides allowing voice control, these locks also boast app control features designed to let you convert your phone into your key. However, the Schlage Encode has an advantage over the rest of the locks. This is because you can pair it with the Key by Amazon app or Schlage Home app.
As for the Sense lock, you can only pair them with the Schlage sense Home app. And of course, you will need a Wi-Fi adapter. The Connect locks, on the other hand, can only be paired with third-party apps like Wink and SmartThings. This simply means that the lock is not supported by any native Schlage app.
Installation
Schlage encodes, connect, and sense locks are pretty easy to install with just a screwdriver. This is because these locks are built to fit the original deadbolt lock. In addition, the locks feature a unique Snap ‘n Stay technology designed to ensure the lock snaps onto your door. Consequently, this allows for fast and easy installation.
However, installing your Schlage Sense and Connect might take slightly more time compared to the Encode. And you know why? Well, because with the Sense deadbolt, you need to connect it to a Wi-Fi adapter. The Connect lock, on the other hand, requires a hub if you want to enjoy features like voice and app control.
Pricing
Because of its more premium features, the Schlage Encode lock is the most expensive of the three locks. It includes unique features like built-in Wi-Fi, up to 100 lock codes, and convenient app and voice control.
Schlage Sense, on the other hand, is the cheapest option among the three. However, the price might go slightly higher if you opt to buy a Wi-Fi adapter. As for the Schlage Connect, you will find it slightly more expensive than the Sense deadbolt but a bit cheaper than the Encode.
Apple HomeKit integration
The Schlage Sense is the only lock among the three that is compatible with the Apple HomeKit. Therefore, you can control and access your lock via Apple assistant Siri. So, if you are a dedicated Apple user, you might want to consider the Sense deadbolt.
FAQs
Now you know the key features that set the three deadbolt locks apart from each other. So, let’s check out some frequently asked questions about them.
Is the Schlage Encode discontinued?
No. The Encode deadbolt is still on the market and has become more popular than ever compared to other locks. This is thanks to its many high-end features and high-tech security. However, the Schlage Sense was discontinued starting from 1st July 2020. Schlage made this move after the successful launch of the Encode in February 2020.
Will Schlage Encode work without Wi-Fi?
Yes, it can. You just input the access codes manually or use an actual key to lock and unlock it since it has a built-in keyhole. However, without Wi-Fi, it means you cannot access or control the lock remotely. For example, you won’t be able to keep track of any person coming through your door or even the battery life of the lock.
Does Schlage Sense work with a ring?
Unfortunately, it does not. Currently, it’s only the Schlage Connect that works with Ring Alarm among these three deadbolt locks. For improved security, the Schlage Sense features an integrated alarm system designed to deter potential thieves from trying to break into your house. It also comes with a speaker hole for the alarm and a button for silencing it.
Which is better Schlage connect or sense?
Both locks are equally good in terms of providing you with the best security. However, Schlage Connect is a better choice. This is if you are looking for a lock that is compatible with Z-Wave, ring alarm, and the SmartThings app. But if you would like a more affordable lock that works with the Apple HomeKit, the Schlage Sense is the best option.
Does Schlage Sense have a Z-Wave?
The simple answer is no. For remote control performance, you will need a Wi-Fi adapter or simply use the HomeKit app. The only Schlage lock with Z-Wave among the three is the Connect. This, therefore, allows you to connect it to your other smart devices featuring a built-in Z-Wave for more control.
What does the Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter do?
It simply connects to your home Wi-Fi signal, thereby providing you with a wireless connection. This is because Schlage does not have built-in Wi-Fi. So, the adapter allows you to pair your lock with the Schlage sense app for better control from anywhere. All you have to do is plug the adapter into a power outlet in your home.
How do I connect my Schlage Connect?
You first need to install the SmartThings app on your smartphone. Then, open the app and click on “Home.” Next, choose “Add a Thing” under the “Things” section and follow the instructions in the app to complete the installation. Once you have completed the connection, you should see a green light on your deadbolt lock.
Do you need a hub for Schlage Connect?
Yes, because the lock is not integrated with Wi-Fi. If you want a wireless connection for ease of accessing the lock from anywhere you are, you will need a hub. Also, since Schlage Connect is compatible with Amazon Alexa, the only way to do the pairing is by using a hub.
Will Schlage Connect work with Google home?
No. The only locks designed to work with Google Assistant are Encode and Sense. However, the Schlage Sense will only work with Google Home with the help of a Wi-Fi adapter. As for the Schlage Connect, it is built to be compatible with Z-Wave technology. This enables you to control various smart devices around your home through the lock.
Final Words
So, which one wins? Well, it is not easy to pick just one winner between the Schlage to encode vs sense vs connect. This is because all three make an exciting prospect for any home with their unique security features. Therefore, the winner entirely depends on your personal preferences and budget.
Nonetheless, the Schlage encode seems like the best overall choice because it comes ready to use right out of the box. Its only downside compared to Schlage sense and connect its high price tag.
Therefore, if you are looking for a more affordable option, we recommend the Schlage sense locks. However, if you’re interested in a lock that is compatible with Z-Wave, your best choice would be the Schlage connect.
