Quick verdict
Schlage Encode Plus Review 2026
The short answer
The Schlage Encode Plus (BE499WB) is the smart lock I’d recommend to most homeowners in 2026: a full deadbolt replacement with built-in Wi-Fi, a touchscreen keypad, Apple Home Key tap-to-unlock, and the highest residential security certifications in the business — ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 and Grade AAA. At $299.99 list (street prices often $200–$260), it’s a premium buy, and battery life is a modest ~6 months on 4 AAs. But no competitor combines this level of physical security, keyless convenience, and ecosystem support in one package.
This is a research-based review. We have not tested the Schlage Encode Plus hands-on; every fact below comes from the manufacturer’s published specs, pricing, and independent reporting. Prices and specs checked September 30, 2026.
Key specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | BE499WB (Camelot / Century trims) |
| MSRP | $299.99 (street prices commonly $200–$260) |
| Lock type | Full deadbolt replacement with touchscreen keypad + physical key backup |
| Wireless | Built-in Wi-Fi; also NFC, Bluetooth, Thread |
| Battery | 4 × AA (included); up to ~6 months typical use |
| Access codes | Up to 100 |
| Certifications | ANSI/BHMA A156.40 Grade AAA (Security, Durability, Finish); Commercial Grade 1 |
| Ecosystem | Apple HomeKit + Apple Home Key, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Fit | Doors 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 in thick; 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 in backset |
| Finishes | Matte black, satin nickel, aged bronze (Camelot and Century styles) |
Price and availability
MSRP is $299.99, but the Encode Plus is one of the most frequently discounted smart locks — Slickdeals tracked it at $202.55 on Amazon in June 2026, and Lowe’s has sold it around $220. At street prices near $200–$230 it’s a genuinely good value for a Grade 1 deadbolt with this feature set. Confirm the live price before buying; sales rotate often.
What it’s good at
- Best-in-class security credentials. The Encode Plus carries ANSI/BHMA Grade AAA in Security, Durability, and Finish plus Commercial Grade 1 — the highest residential ratings available. Yale Assure locks, by comparison, are typically Grade 2. Schlage’s century in the lock business shows.
- Apple Home Key is the killer feature. Tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock — including with Express Mode and even a dead iPhone battery. It was the first lock with Home Key support and remains the smoothest implementation.
- Built-in Wi-Fi, no hub. Remote lock/unlock, 100 access codes, lock history, and notifications all work through the Schlage Home app over your home Wi-Fi.
- Touchscreen keypad done right. A fingerprint-resistant touchscreen with up to 100 codes, scheduled access, and a physical key backup — the full package for families and rentals (it has official Airbnb integration for automated guest codes).
- Thread radio inside. Beyond Wi-Fi/NFC/Bluetooth, the Encode Plus includes Thread, positioning it for future smart-home standards as they mature.
- Installs in minutes. Snap ‘n Stay design holds the lock on the door while you work; standard screwdriver install with no hardwiring.
Where it falls short
- Battery life is just okay. ~6 months on 4 AAs is typical for Wi-Fi locks but well short of Zigbee/Z-Wave locks that can exceed a year. Heavy keypad or remote use drains faster.
- MSRP is steep. $299.99 is a lot for a deadbolt — the value proposition depends heavily on catching it at street prices near $200–$230.
- Cold-weather complaints. Some owners in extreme cold climates (Canadian prairie winters, per retailer reviews) report touchscreen and connectivity issues — worth noting if your door faces harsh weather.
- Bulkier than minimalist rivals. The Nest x Yale’s keyhole-free design is sleeker; the Encode Plus looks like what it is — a serious deadbolt.
- Schlage Home app is required for setup. Some users find the app less polished than Apple Home or Google Home for day-to-day use, though you can manage most things elsewhere after setup.
Who should buy it
Homeowners who want the most secure, most complete smart deadbolt — especially iPhone households that will love Apple Home Key. Excellent for families (100 codes), Airbnb hosts (official integration), and anyone replacing a worn deadbolt anyway.
Who should skip it
Renters who can’t replace their deadbolt (get the August retrofit instead), Android/Google-first households who’d prefer deeper Nest integration, and anyone in extreme cold climates who should research the weather complaints first.
Verdict
The Schlage Encode Plus is the complete smart lock: top-tier physical security, keypad, key backup, Wi-Fi, Home Key, and Thread — at street prices that make it a bargain for what you get. The battery life and cold-weather caveats keep it from perfection. Rating: 4.7/5.
FAQ
What is Apple Home Key and does the Encode Plus support it?
Apple Home Key lets you tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to lock/unlock, with Express Mode unlocking without authentication — even with a dead iPhone battery. The Encode Plus was the first lock to support it.
Does the Schlage Encode Plus need a hub?
No — built-in Wi-Fi provides remote access and app control without additional hardware.
How many access codes can it store?
Up to 100, with scheduling options for recurring or temporary guests.
Is it really more secure than other smart locks?
Its ANSI/BHMA Grade AAA (Security, Durability, Finish) and Commercial Grade 1 certifications are the highest residential ratings — stronger on paper than most competitors’ Grade 2 ratings.
Where to buy
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