Expert Pick #09

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt — first-gen Encode with built-in Wi-Fi, keypad, Alexa + Google. No Home Key, no Matter, no native HomeKit. The non-Apple-household Schlage pick.

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt

The Verdict.

7.9/ 10

Gavler Meta-Score

The non-Apple-household Schlage pick. The right pick for Android households who want Schlage build quality $50 under the Encode Plus.

The Gavler Verdict

Precision Engineering

Built-in Wi-Fi (No Hub Required)

Built-in Wi-Fi — no hub required for Wi-Fi smart-app, remote unlock, or notifications. Schlage's standing Wi-Fi-built-in advantage at this price tier.

Schlage Build Quality + Illuminated Keypad

Schlage's standing residential-deadbolt build quality with an illuminated keypad. BHMA Grade 2 (vs Grade 1 on the Encode Plus).

Alexa + Google (No Home Key, No Matter)

Alexa + Google smart-home control. No Apple Home Key, no Matter, no native HomeKit — the non-Apple-household pick at $50 under the Encode Plus.

Technical Specifications

Form FactorFull-replacement deadbolt
Wi-FiBuilt-in (no hub required)
Apple Home KeyNot supported
MatterNot supported
Smart HomeAlexa, Google
BHMA GradeGrade 2 (residential)
Unlock MethodsKeypad, key, app

The Scoreboard

Expert Consensus79%
Community Rating82%

Schlage's first-gen Encode. Expert consensus reflects Schlage build quality + built-in Wi-Fi at $50 under the Encode Plus; community scores reflect the lack of Apple Home Key + Matter + native HomeKit and the long-term-flexibility trade-off if the household later adds an iPhone.

Cast Your Vote

Do you think Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt deserves the #9 spot in Best Smart Locks?

Best Price Availability.

Prices checked April 2026

Global Critique

Schlage's first-gen Encode is the right non-Apple-household pick — Schlage build quality with built-in Wi-Fi $50 under the Encode Plus.

Wirecutter

If you're confidently Android-household and want Schlage build quality, the first-gen Encode is the right pick.

Tom's Guide

Schlage's Wi-Fi-built-in advantage holds even at the lower price tier — no hub required for full smart-app function.

Consumer Reports