Rita says: Buy it
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Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
by Schlage
$319.00
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Rita's Full Review
Let me tell you, once you stop carrying a house key, you wonder why you didn't do it years ago.
This Schlage lock replaces your existing deadbolt and lets you unlock your front door by tapping a code on the touchscreen, using your phone, or even tapping your Apple Watch. No key needed, though you can still use one if you prefer.
What makes this particularly good for our age group is the practical stuff. You can give your cleaner, caregiver, or grandchildren their own unique codes, and the app tells you exactly who came and went, and when. If you forget to lock up at night, the app sends you a reminder. You can lock and unlock from anywhere using your phone.
It connects directly to your Wi-Fi -- no extra hub or gadget needed. Works with Alexa, Google, and Apple HomeKit, so you can say "lock the front door" from bed.
The build quality is excellent. It's ANSI Grade 1, which is the highest security rating for residential locks.
The downside is price -- at $319 it's not cheap. And the batteries drain faster in cold weather.
What Rita liked
- Touchscreen keypad lets you unlock with a code -- no more fumbling with keys in the dark or rain
- Create unique codes for family, caregivers, and cleaners -- the app logs who comes and goes
- Built-in Wi-Fi means no extra hub needed -- connects directly to your home network
- ANSI Grade 1 security rating -- the highest available for residential locks
What could be better
- Expensive at $319 -- you're paying a premium for the built-in Wi-Fi and Apple HomeKit support
- Batteries drain faster in cold weather -- worth checking them monthly during winter
- The Schlage Home app can be slow to connect sometimes, especially on older phones
Key Specifications
| ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certified deadbolt (highest residential security grade) | |
| Built-in Wi-Fi -- no separate hub or bridge required for smart features | |
| Touchscreen keypad with up to 100 unique access codes; backlit for nighttime use | |
| Apple Home Key support (tap Apple Watch or iPhone to unlock); works with Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit | |
| 4 AA batteries (included); rated 12+ months battery life; auto-lock and lock status alerts via app |