In our increasingly connected world, smart home technology is no longer a futuristic concept but a daily convenience. Among the most popular and practical innovations are smart locks, offering enhanced security, remote access, and seamless integration into your digital lifestyle. Gone are the days of fumbling for keys; with a smart lock, your smartphone, a unique code, or even your voice can grant you entry. This guide dives deep into three of the top-selling smart locks on Amazon, with a particular focus on the Schlage Encode Smart Lock, while also examining its robust competitors: the August Wi-Fi Lock and the Yale Assure Lock 2. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision for your home’s security and convenience needs.
Schlage Encode Smart Lock: The Connected Guardian
The Schlage Encode Smart Lock stands out as a market leader, lauded for its integrated Wi-Fi connectivity that eliminates the need for a separate hub. This keyless entry deadbolt offers a blend of traditional security features with modern smart capabilities, making it a favorite for many homeowners looking to upgrade their front door. It boasts a sleek touchscreen keypad for code entry, alongside traditional key access for peace of mind.
Pros of Schlage Encode Smart Lock:
- Integrated Wi-Fi: One of its biggest advantages is built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for direct connection to your home network without needing an additional bridge or hub. This simplifies setup and management.
- Remote Access & Control: Through the Schlage Home app, you can lock/unlock your door from anywhere, check lock status, and manage access codes remotely.
- Voice Control: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, you can use voice commands to control your lock, adding a layer of hands-free convenience.
- Temporary & Scheduled Codes: Easily create and manage up to 100 access codes for family, friends, or service providers. You can set them to be active for specific periods or on certain days.
- Durable & Secure: Schlage is a trusted name in security, and the Encode lives up to this reputation with a robust design and a Grade 1 security rating, the highest residential security rating.
- Intuitive App: The Schlage Home app is user-friendly, making it easy to monitor activity, receive notifications, and customize settings.
Cons of Schlage Encode Smart Lock:
- Battery Life: While good, continuous Wi-Fi usage can drain batteries faster than some non-Wi-Fi smart locks.
- Price Point: As a premium smart lock with integrated Wi-Fi, it generally comes at a higher price compared to basic smart locks or those requiring a separate bridge.
- No HomeKit Support: For Apple HomeKit users, the lack of native HomeKit integration can be a drawback, though it can be integrated via other smart home platforms.
- Internet Dependency for Remote Features: While built-in Wi-Fi is a pro, if your home internet goes down, remote functionality (e.g., locking/unlocking from afar) will be unavailable, though local keypad entry still works.
August Wi-Fi Lock: The Discreet Retrofit
The August Wi-Fi Lock takes a different approach, focusing on retrofitting your existing deadbolt. This means you keep your current keys and the exterior aesthetic of your door, as the August lock only replaces the interior thumbturn. It’s an excellent choice for renters or those who prefer to maintain their original door hardware while still gaining smart lock functionality. Like the Schlage Encode, the latest August Wi-Fi Lock integrates Wi-Fi directly, making setup straightforward.
Pros of August Wi-Fi Lock:
- Easy Retrofit Installation: Installs on the inside of your door, leaving your existing exterior hardware and keys intact. This is ideal for renters or those who want a less visible smart lock.
- Auto-Unlock & DoorSense: Its signature auto-unlock feature detects your approach and unlocks the door, while DoorSense tells you if your door is securely closed and locked.
- Integrated Wi-Fi: The latest generation includes built-in Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a separate August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with a wide range of smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, and more.
- Virtual Keys: Grant temporary or permanent access to guests via virtual keys, eliminating the need for physical keys or codes.
- Activity Feed: The app provides a detailed history of who came and went, offering excellent monitoring capabilities.
Cons of August Wi-Fi Lock:
- No Keypad Included: Unlike the Schlage Encode, the August Wi-Fi Lock doesn’t come with a physical keypad for code entry. An August Smart Keypad must be purchased separately.
- Aesthetics: While discreet on the outside, the interior unit can be quite bulky on some doors, potentially clashing with interior decor.
- Battery Life: The smaller size and continuous Wi-Fi can lead to a shorter battery life compared to some competitors.
- No Physical Key Override (Smart Lock Unit): While your original key works, the smart lock itself doesn’t offer a traditional key slot for backup.
Yale Assure Lock 2: The Versatile Modernist
The Yale Assure Lock 2 represents the evolution of Yale’s popular smart lock line, offering a sleeker design and improved connectivity options. Available in various configurations (keypad, touchscreen, or key-free), it provides flexibility to suit different preferences. Its modular design allows users to choose their preferred smart home integration module (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave), offering a future-proof solution.
Pros of Yale Assure Lock 2:
- Sleek & Compact Design: Noticeably smaller and more refined than its predecessor, blending more seamlessly with modern home aesthetics.
- Modular Connectivity: Offers the flexibility to choose a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave module, allowing for tailored integration with various smart home systems (e.g., HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings).
- Multiple Entry Options: Available with a backlit keypad, a modern touchscreen, or a key-free design. Bluetooth models offer phone-based unlocking.
- Auto-Lock & DoorSense: Similar to August, it offers auto-lock capabilities and DoorSense to confirm the door is closed and locked.
- Backup Power: In case batteries die, it includes terminals for a 9V battery jump start, ensuring you’re never locked out.
- Quiet Operation: Generally regarded as one of the quieter smart locks in operation.
Cons of Yale Assure Lock 2:
- Wi-Fi Module is an Add-on: While it supports Wi-Fi, the Wi-Fi module is often sold separately or as a specific Wi-Fi bundle, which can increase the overall cost compared to a lock with integrated Wi-Fi like Schlage.
- Installation Can Be Fiddly: While generally straightforward, some users report the installation, particularly with the modules, can be a bit more involved than a simple deadbolt replacement.
- Battery Life: While improved, Wi-Fi usage will still impact battery longevity, requiring periodic replacements.
- Price: When purchasing with the Wi-Fi module, the total cost can be comparable to or even exceed the Schlage Encode.
Comparing the Contenders: What Sets Them Apart?
Choosing the right smart lock often comes down to specific needs and preferences. While all three offer core smart lock functionalities like remote access and code management, their approaches differ.
The Schlage Encode Smart Lock is a complete package. Its integrated Wi-Fi means you buy one device and you’re set for remote access and smart home integration. It replaces your entire deadbolt, offering a unified look with a keypad built-in. It’s a robust, secure, and straightforward solution for those who want simplicity and reliability.
The August Wi-Fi Lock appeals to those who prioritize maintaining their existing exterior hardware and keys, making it a favorite for apartment dwellers or those with specific aesthetic requirements. Its auto-unlock and DoorSense features are highly praised for their convenience, but remember a keypad is an additional purchase.
The Yale Assure Lock 2 offers unparalleled versatility with its modular design, allowing you to tailor connectivity to your smart home ecosystem. Its sleeker design and various entry options make it a strong contender for those who want a modern look and the flexibility to choose their smart home platform. However, the Wi-Fi module might be a separate consideration.
Here’s a helpful video that might provide further insights into the world of smart locks:
Who is Each Lock For?
- Schlage Encode Smart Lock: Ideal for homeowners seeking a straightforward, all-in-one smart lock solution with integrated Wi-Fi, a robust keypad, and high security. Perfect for those who want to replace their entire deadbolt and enjoy seamless voice assistant integration.
- August Wi-Fi Lock: Best for renters, those who prefer to keep their existing keys and exterior hardware, or individuals who value auto-unlock and DoorSense functionality above a built-in keypad. Great for smart home enthusiasts with diverse platforms.
- Yale Assure Lock 2: Suited for users who appreciate a modern, compact design and want the flexibility to choose their smart home connectivity module. It’s a good choice for those who might want a key-free experience or specific keypad/touchscreen options.
Conclusion
The world of smart locks offers incredible convenience and enhanced security, transforming how we interact with our homes. The Schlage Encode Smart Lock stands as a strong contender with its integrated Wi-Fi and robust features, offering a complete and reliable solution for many. Its competitors, the August Wi-Fi Lock and Yale Assure Lock 2, carve out their niches with unique strengths like discreet installation or modular connectivity. Ultimately, the best smart lock for you will depend on your specific priorities: whether it’s the simplicity of an all-in-one unit, the desire to retain your existing hardware, or the flexibility of a customizable smart home integration. Whichever you choose, any of these top-tier smart locks will undoubtedly bring a new level of security and convenience to your daily life.
