Head-to-head · Best Smart Locks

Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt vs Yale Assure Lock 2

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

Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about Homeowners seeking broad ecosystem compatibility and Apple Home Key without a bridge — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #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 →

Ranked #5 in Best Smart Locks

Yale Assure Lock 2

3.8

6 sources$279.99as of Aug 1

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread support give the Yale Assure Lock 2 enough connectivity options to fit almost any modern home. Users report inconsistent Wi-Fi performance, though, and shorter battery life when it runs wirelessly, which can mean more frequent maintenance.

Strengths

— Supports multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread for flexible smart home integration
— Features a sleek, modern keypad design with a backlit interface for easy nighttime entry
— Compatible with major smart home ecosystems like Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa

Watch-outs

— Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent and sometimes requires a separate bridge or hub for stable connection
— Battery life is shorter than expected when using Wi-Fi features, requiring frequent replacements

$279.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

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.

Yale Assure Lock 2

The Yale Assure Lock 2 distinguishes itself from the August and Level Lock+ by offering a built-in backlit keypad and support for Thread connectivity, though it suffers from inconsistent Wi-Fi performance that the Schlage Encode Plus and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro handle more reliably with integrated hubs. Its battery life is notably shorter than the Ultraloq's when using Wi-Fi features, and it lacks the Level Lock+'s discreet, hidden-motor design.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt	Yale Assure Lock 2
Connectivity	Integrated Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread
Smart Home Support	Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit	Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa
Unlock Methods	Physical key included	Backlit Touchscreen
Power Source	4 AA batteries	4 AA Batteries
Fingerprint Capacity	None	None
Door Compatibility	Standard deadbolt doors	1-3/8" to 1-3/4"
Material	Zinc	Metal, Zinc

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