August Wi-Fi vs. Schlage Encode: Which Smart Lock Wins?
- Nest Alpha
- Dec 31, 2025
- 5 min read
You’ve moved into your new home. You have your tools sorted. Now, it’s time to secure the perimeter.
Fumbling for keys in the rain is a thing of the past. A smart lock is one of the first upgrades new homeowners make. It allows you to let in dog walkers while you’re at work, check if the door is locked from your bed, and enter your home with just your phone.
But the market is dominated by two giants with two completely different philosophies: August and Schlage.
One promises to work with your existing keys; the other promises to replace them entirely. If you are stuck deciding between the sleek August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and the rugged Schlage Encode, this guide breaks down the pros, cons, and real-world performance of both.
The Cheat Sheet: Quick Comparison Table
In a rush? Here is the breakdown of the top two contenders.
Feature | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | Schlage Encode |
Lock Type | Retrofit (Keeps existing keys) | Replacement (New Keypad + Deadbolt) |
Best For... | Renters / HOA / Minimalists | Families / Airbnb / Durability |
Entry Method | Phone / Auto-Unlock / Original Key | Keypad Code / Phone / Key |
Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi | Built-in Wi-Fi |
Security Grade | Depends on your existing deadbolt | ANSI Grade 1 (Highest Rated) |
Battery Life | 3-6 Months (CR123) | 6-8 Months (4 AA) |
Check Price | $109 | $219 |
The Core Difference: Retrofit vs. Replacement
Before looking at specs, you need to understand how they install, because they are fundamentally different.
The Outside: Your door looks exactly the same. You keep your existing physical keys.
The Inside: You have a sleek, round metal device that turns the lock for you.
The Outside: You get a modern touchscreen keypad and a traditional keyhole.
The Inside: A rectangular housing with the battery pack.
Both locks require basic installation. Make sure you have the Multi-Bit Screwdriver from our Essential Tools for New Homeowners checklist ready to go.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Review: The "Invisible" Choice
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is designed for people who love tech but want to keep the traditional look of their front door.
The Pros:
Auto-Unlock: This is August's superpower. Using your phone's GPS, it detects when you walk up to the door and unlocks it automatically. It feels like magic when your hands are full of groceries.
Keep Your Keys: Since you don't change the exterior hardware, your old house keys still work. This is vital for renters or homes with strict HOA rules about door appearance.
DoorSense: It comes with a small sensor that tells you if the door is actually open or closed, not just locked.
The Cons:
Battery Drain: Because it has built-in Wi-Fi in a small package, it eats batteries quickly (expect 3-4 months).
Bridge Issues: While the Wi-Fi is built-in, some users with thick doors find the signal struggles to reach the router.
Schlage Encode Review: The "Fort Knox" Choice
The Schlage Encode prioritizes security and reliability over "cool factor." It is a workhorse.
The Pros:
The Keypad: This is the game changer. You don't need your phone. You don't need a key. You just punch in a code. This is superior for kids coming home from school or giving codes to contractors.
ANSI Grade 1 Security: Schlage is rated for the highest level of residential security. It is physically tougher to kick in than most standard deadbolts.
Quiet Operation: The motor is significantly quieter than the August.
The Cons:
Installation: It takes longer to install because you have to align the deadbolt perfectly. If your door is misaligned, the lock will jam.
Aesthetic: It looks like a "smart lock." If you want a traditional look, this isn't it.
Round 1: Installation Difficulty (Winner: August)
August is arguably the easiest smart lock to install. You tape your outside lock in place, unscrew the inside thumb turn, and screw the August mounting plate on. You can be done in 10 minutes with a single Philips head screwdriver.
Schlage requires removing the old deadbolt entirely. If your door hole isn't cut perfectly standard, you might need to do some chiseling.
Winner: August Wi-Fi
Round 2: Daily Convenience (Winner: Schlage)
August relies on "Auto-Unlock" or pulling your phone out. Auto-Unlock is great when it works, but if your phone battery dies or the GPS lags, you are stuck digging for keys.
Schlage relies on the Keypad. It works 100% of the time. You can create up to 100 unique codes for guests, cleaners, or Airbnb renters. You never have to worry about forgetting your phone.
Winner: Schlage Encode
Round 3: Battery Life & Connectivity
Both locks connect directly to Wi-Fi (no extra "Hub" required). However, Schlage wins on power efficiency.
Schlage uses 4 standard AA batteries. They are cheap, easy to find, and last about 6-8 months.
August uses CR123 batteries (camera batteries). They are more expensive and harder to find in a pinch.
Winner: Schlage Encode
Final Verdict: Which One Fits Your Door?
Both locks integrate perfectly with Alexa, Google Home, and Ring. The choice comes down to who lives in your house.
Buy the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock If:
You are a Renter and need to put the old lock back when you move out.
You want Auto-Unlock (hands-free entry).
You prefer the look of your existing door handle and deadbolt.
Buy the Schlage Encode If:
You have Kids or Family members who don't have smartphones (Keypad is essential).
You run an Airbnb or short-term rental (Codes are easier to manage than app access).
You want the highest possible physical security rating.
Securing your nest doesn't have to be complicated. If you want magic, go August. If you want a tank, go Schlage.
FAQs
Q: Do these locks work if the Wi-Fi goes down?
A: Yes. Both locks still work via Bluetooth (if you are standing next to them) or via the physical key/keypad. You just won't be able to control them remotely until the internet comes back.
Q: Can I re-key the Schlage Encode to match my other doors?
A: Yes, if your other doors use Schlage cylinders. You can take the cylinder to a locksmith (or Home Depot) to have it re-keyed to match your back door.
Q: Do I need a subscription fee? A: No. Both August and Schlage apps are free to use for remote locking/unlocking and guest management.
Q: How do I install the August Smart Lock?
A: It only takes about 10 minutes. simply tape your outside keyhole so it doesn't fall, unscrew the indoor thumb-turn, and replace it with the August mounting plate. Clip the August unit onto the plate and calibrate it using the App.
Q: How do I reset a Schlage Smart Lock (Encode)? A: Remove the inside battery cover. Press and hold the black reset button until the LED flashes red and then stops. The lock will reboot to factory settings (the default codes are printed on the white sticker inside the lock).
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