Head-to-head · Best Smart Locks

Level Lock+ vs Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Level Lock+ comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.2). The gap is mostly about Apple-centric users valuing a hidden motor and seamless Home Key over remote access — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Smart Locks

Level Lock+

4.3

2 sources$345.99as of Aug 1

Apple users widely consider the Level Lock+ the best smart lock available, thanks to tight HomeKit integration, Home Key support, and a discreet design that hides the motor inside the door. Remote control requires a separate Wi-Fi bridge, and compatibility with non-Apple ecosystems like Google Assistant is limited for now. Installation is straightforward, but the included security cylinder is a weak point that may need a locksmith to upgrade for maximum protection.

Strengths

— Understated industrial design that hides the smart mechanism inside the door frame
— Supremely easy to install and set up using only a Phillips screwdriver
— Supports Apple Home Key for instant NFC unlock via iPhone or Apple Watch

Watch-outs

— Limited to local operation without purchasing a separate Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge for remote access
— Essentially incompatible with Google Assistant until the Thread radio is activated
— Security cylinder lacks security pins and can be picked with a simple bump key

$345.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Smart Locks

Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt

4.2

5 sources$319as of Aug 1

Broad ecosystem support is the Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt's advantage, Apple Home Key included, and built-in Wi-Fi means no bridge to buy. Physical installation is straightforward and there is a physical key backup, though managing it through Google or Alexa still requires the Schlage Home app, and the unit is somewhat bulky. Worth it if broad platform support and remote monitoring matter more to you than the higher price and the missing biometric sensors.

Strengths

— Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit including Apple Home Key NFC technology
— Integrated Wi-Fi eliminates the need for a separate bridge or hub
— Easy physical installation with clearly labeled parts and a straightforward manual

Watch-outs

— Google Home and Alexa apps require the Schlage Home app to function properly
— Construction is relatively bulky compared to some other smart locks
— Lacks a fingerprint reader for biometric access

$319 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Level Lock+

The Level Lock+ offers a uniquely discreet design that hides the motor inside the door, a feature absent in the bulky Schlage Encode Plus and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, and provides superior Apple Home Key integration. However, it is significantly less versatile than the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, which supports six unlock methods including fingerprint, whereas the Level Lock+ requires a separate bridge for remote access and has limited Google Assistant compatibility.

Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt

The Schlage Encode Plus stands out against the Level Lock+ and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock by offering native Apple Home Key support and integrated Wi-Fi without needing a bridge, a convenience the Level Lock+ lacks without an extra purchase. Although it shares the bulky design of the August and Ultraloq, it provides a physical key backup that the August lacks entirely, ensuring access even if the app fails.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Level Lock+	Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Connectivity	Bluetooth, Thread, Wi-Fi (via bridge)	Integrated Wi-Fi
Smart Home Support	HomeKit, Home Key, Siri support	Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit
Unlock Methods	NFC (iPhone/Watch), App, Physical Key, Keypad (optional)	Physical key included
Power Source	4 AA batteries	4 AA batteries
Door Compatibility	Standard deadbolts	Standard deadbolt doors
Fingerprint Capacity	None	None
Material	Stainless Steel	Zinc

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