Schlage Encode Plus Review: Worth It? (November 2026)
The Schlage Encode Plus is a strong choice for connected home entry if you want built-in WiFi, Apple home keys, keypad access and remote control in one deadbolt. Choose the finish and code capacity that fit your door and household.
On this page (8 sections)
- Schlage Encode Plus review: the short answer
- Which Schlage Encode Plus version should you choose?
- What does the Schlage Encode Plus do?
- Is the Encode Plus easy to install?
- How does the Encode Plus handle daily entry?
- What are the main Encode Plus trade-offs?
- How should you choose the finish?
- Schlage Encode Plus review verdict
The Schlage Encode Plus is a capable connected deadbolt for homes that want built-in WiFi, keypad entry, Apple home keys and remote access in one lock. It suits people who want to manage entry from the Schlage Home app instead of handing out physical keys.
The Aged Bronze version has the highest stated access-code capacity, while Satin Nickel and Matte Black offer different door finishes with up to 100 codes. That difference matters most if you share entry with family, guests or service workers and want a separate code for each person.
This review compares the three supplied Schlage Encode Plus versions by their finish, code capacity and connected-home features. It looks at what those specs mean in daily use, how the lock fits a standard door, and where you need to check your home setup before ordering.
All three versions use the same general Encode Plus Camelot format, with built-in WiFi, a touchscreen and voice control options. The choice is mainly about which finish looks right on your door and how many access codes you realistically need to manage.
For a busy household, the larger code limit can make day to day access easier to organise. For a smaller home, the finish may matter more than capacity, and 100 codes may already be plenty.
Schlage Encode Plus review: the short answer
The Schlage Encode Plus suits a connected home where you want to manage entry from the Schlage Home app and avoid carrying a physical key. It can also support Apple home keys, voice control and customizable alerts for door movement or forced-entry attempts.
That mix works well for families, people who rent out a home through Airbnb, and anyone who wants to remove a code when access should end rather than chase a copied key. The touchscreen gives a direct way to lock and open at the door, while the app adds remote control and lock history when the lock is connected to your home WiFi.
The main decision is not the core lock design. It is the finish, the number of access codes you need and whether your door matches the installation range.
Door fit is a practical limit, not a minor detail. The lock fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in door thickness and a 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in backset, so you should measure before ordering.
It installs with just a screwdriver and no hardwiring, which suits a straightforward replacement of an existing deadbolt.
Remote features depend on a 2.4 GHz home WiFi connection, and the lock also uses Bluetooth for some setup and control. If your router, password or network name changes, you may need to reconnect the lock before remote functions work as expected.
The finish choice also brings a capacity choice. Aged Bronze supports up to 250 access codes, while Satin Nickel and Matte Black support up to 100, so a larger household or frequent guest turnover may favour Aged Bronze even if another finish looks better.
If you are still comparing basic deadbolts with smart options, start with this door deadbolt buying guide. For a direct model comparison, see Schlage Encode vs Encode Plus.
Which Schlage Encode Plus version should you choose?
The Aged Bronze model is the best fit for larger households, guests or service workers, because it supports up to 250 access codes. Satin Nickel and Matte Black each support up to 100 access codes and may be better choices when the door finish matters more than a larger code list.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock: Best for larger access-code needs
- Aged Bronze finish
- Up to 250 access codes
- Built-in WiFi
- Apple home keys
The Aged Bronze version stands out for households that need up to 250 access codes. It also combines built-in WiFi, Apple home keys, voice control and a customizable alarm.
Pros
- Highest stated code capacity among these options
- Built-in WiFi
- Apple home keys support
- Aged Bronze finish
Cons
- Check that your door matches the stated thickness and backset
- Requires a 2.4 GHz home WiFi connection for remote features
The Aged Bronze version is the highest-scoring option here because its stated code capacity gives you more room for separate household, guest and service access. It also supports built-in WiFi, Apple home keys, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Airbnb access management.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock: Best for classic door styling
- Satin Nickel finish
- Up to 100 access codes
- Built-in WiFi
- Apple home keys
The Satin Nickel version offers the same core Encode Plus format with up to 100 access codes. Its finish suits buyers who want a less dark look on the entry door.
Pros
- Satin Nickel finish
- Built-in WiFi
- Apple home keys support
- Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support
Cons
- Lower stated code capacity than the Aged Bronze version
- Check the door measurements before installation
The Satin Nickel version is a practical choice when you want the Encode Plus feature set with a lighter finish. Its up to 100 access codes cover many homes, and the lock supports remote control, history viewing, notifications and Apple home keys through compatible setup.
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock: Best for modern dark finishes
- Matte Black finish
- Up to 100 access codes
- Built-in WiFi
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
The Matte Black version is a finish choice for a more modern entry-door look. It keeps the built-in WiFi, Apple home keys, voice control and touchscreen format.
Pros
- Matte Black finish
- Built-in WiFi
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- Remote control through the Schlage Home app
Cons
- Lower stated code capacity than the Aged Bronze version
- Confirm the round lock shape and door fit before ordering
The Matte Black version has the same stated 100-code capacity as the Satin Nickel option. Choose it when the dark finish works better with your entry hardware, while keeping the same connected-home approach and fingerprint-resistant touchscreen.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you are shopping for. The scores are not a claim that one finish is mechanically stronger than another.
What does the Schlage Encode Plus do?
The Encode Plus connects to a 2.4 GHz home WiFi network and pairs with the Schlage Home app. The app can let you lock and open remotely, manage access codes, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and manage multiple locks.
Access-code capacity depends on the version. The Aged Bronze model supports up to 250 codes, while the Satin Nickel and Matte Black models support up to 100.
The lock also supports Apple Home and Apple home keys. That lets you tap to lock or open with an iPhone or Apple Watch when the Apple setup is compatible with your home.
Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant add voice-control options. Airbnb integration can help with guest access management on the models that include that capability in their product details.
The lock has an encrypted connection and a built-in customizable alarm for door movement and forced-entry attempts. Its touchscreen is fingerprint-resistant, and the product information identifies the lock as Grade 1/AAA certified for residential Security, Durability and Finish.
Is the Encode Plus easy to install?
The Encode Plus is designed for installation with a screwdriver and does not require hardwiring. Its Snap ‘n Stay design helps hold the lock on the door while you work.
Before starting, check that your door is 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inches thick. The stated backset options are 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches.
The package includes installation hardware and installation instructions. Read those instructions before removing your existing deadbolt, and confirm that the door closes and latches correctly after installation.
A smart lock still depends on sound door alignment. If the bolt rubs, the door needs force to close or the strike plate is out of position, address that mechanical issue before relying on remote control.
Measure the door rather than assuming a standard fit. The external dimensions are listed as 0.9 x 3 x 5 inches, but the door thickness and backset determine whether the lock can be installed correctly.
How does the Encode Plus handle daily entry?
The Encode Plus gives you several entry methods, including a touchscreen, access codes, remote control and Apple home keys. That mix can reduce the need to hand out physical keys.
Use separate codes for people who need different access. When someone no longer needs entry, removing their code is easier than collecting a copied key.
The Schlage Home app can show lock history and send customizable notifications when connected as required. Those records can help you check whether a door was locked or identify the timing of an entry event.
Auto-lock is available on the Aged Bronze version, with time-delay options or the ability to turn the feature off. Our guide to Schlage Encode auto lock covers the setup considerations.
One-touch locking from the exterior touchscreen can help when you leave with full hands. Still, verify the door is fully closed before depending on any automatic locking routine.
What are the main Encode Plus trade-offs?
The biggest benefit is built-in WiFi without an additional accessory. You can connect the lock to the Schlage Home app and use remote functions when the lock is connected to your 2.4 GHz home WiFi.
That convenience also creates a setup dependency. If your home WiFi changes, the lock may need to be reconnected before remote features work normally.
The second trade-off is capacity variation. The Aged Bronze option supports up to 250 access codes, but the Satin Nickel and Matte Black options support up to 100.
Most homes may not need more than 100, but frequent guest turnover can make the larger limit useful.
The third trade-off is compatibility planning. The products use Bluetooth and WiFi, support Apple Home, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and are not presented here as Z-Wave locks.
If you use a Z-Wave hub, check the platform before choosing this family.
For another view of the product family, read Schlage Encode smart WiFi deadbolt reviews. If you want to coordinate the lock with a matching handle, compare the best Schlage Encode with knob.
How should you choose the finish?
Choose the finish that matches your existing entry hardware after confirming the access-code need. Aged Bronze gives you the highest stated code capacity, Satin Nickel offers a lighter metal look and Matte Black suits a darker modern design.
Finish is a visual choice, but it affects which product version you select. Do not assume all three versions have identical code limits.
Aged Bronze is the natural pick if you want up to 250 access codes for a larger household, guests or service workers. Satin Nickel and Matte Black each support up to 100 access codes, which may be more than enough for a single family home with a few regular visitors.
The zinc construction and Camelot styling are shared across the Encode Plus Camelot WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock family, so the finish is the main visual difference. Each option is sold as one lock, with one piece and one pack, plus installation hardware and instructions.
Daily care is simple for the touchscreen, since it is fingerprint-resistant, which helps keep the keypad area looking clean with regular use. A soft cloth and mild cleaning that suits the finish will keep the lock looking tidy without harsh rubbing.
If you are replacing internal lock parts rather than the whole unit, review this guide to Schlage Encode cylinder replacement. For broader home safety planning, see how smoke alarms are interconnected, since entry security works best as part of a wider safety plan.
Schlage Encode Plus review verdict
Pick the Aged Bronze Schlage Encode Plus if you need up to 250 access codes and like its finish. Pick Satin Nickel or Matte Black if up to 100 codes is enough and the finish better matches your entry door.
All three versions make the most sense for buyers who want built-in WiFi, app control, Apple home keys and voice-assistant support. That set of features suits a connected home where you want remote locking, notifications and lock history from the Schlage Home app.
The trade-off is planning ahead. Confirm your door thickness, backset and home WiFi setup before ordering, since the lock fits doors from 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in thick and needs a 2.4 GHz connection for remote features.
For most homes, 100 access codes will be plenty, so the finish can be the deciding factor. For homes with frequent guests or many people needing entry, the Aged Bronze version gives you more room to manage codes without reusing them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Schlage Encode Plus worth it?
The Schlage Encode Plus is worth considering if you want a smart deadbolt with built-in WiFi, remote control through the Schlage Home app, Apple home keys and keypad entry. Its main trade-offs are the need for compatible door measurements and a 2.4 GHz WiFi connection for connected features.
What is the difference between the Schlage Encode Plus finishes?
The three options here differ mainly by finish and stated access-code capacity. Aged Bronze supports up to 250 access codes, while Satin Nickel and Matte Black support up to 100.
Choose the finish that suits your door after checking the code capacity you need.
Does Schlage Encode Plus work with Apple Home?
Yes. Schlage Encode Plus works with Apple Home and Apple home keys.
With home keys, you can tap to lock or open using an iPhone or Apple Watch.
The lock also supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
Does Schlage Encode Plus work with Z-Wave?
The Encode Plus products compared here use Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity. They are not presented as Z-Wave locks, so compare the connectivity details carefully if your smart home depends on Z-Wave.
Our guide to Schlage Encode Z-Wave explains the distinction.
