3 models in this file
Schlage Connect Z-Wave or Encode Wi-Fi: Which Lock Fits?
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Schlage has earned a century-long reputation in residential security by constructing heavy-duty door hardware that withstands physical tampering and environmental wear. Over the past decade, the manufacturer adapted its mechanical deadbolts and latching assemblies into electronic platforms, incorporating ANSI/BHMA-certified hardware, illuminated touchpads, and integrated security alarms into keyless entry devices. For travelers, remote property managers, and vacation rental hosts who need dependable access control while on the go, Schlage offers hardware that secures entry points without sacrificing convenience.
While every lock in this lineup provides keyless keypad entry and sturdy metal construction, the models differ fundamentally in how they communicate: some rely on hub-managed Z-Wave Plus mesh networks for extended battery longevity, others utilize built-in Wi-Fi radios for direct cloud management without external hardware, and select units function entirely offline as standalone keyless levers. Understanding the differences between these communication types is crucial for selecting the right hardware for your property’s technical setup.
The line-up at a glance
Schlage Smart Locks Compared
| Model | Lock Mechanism | Wireless Protocol | Access Code Capacity | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt Lock | Deadbolt | Z-Wave Plus | Up to 30 codes | Up to 1 year |
| SCHLAGE BE469ZP CEN 622 Connect Smart | Deadbolt | Z-Wave Plus | Up to 30 codes | Not listed |
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock | Deadbolt | Built-in Wi-Fi | Up to 100 codes | Up to 6 months |
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock | Lever Handle | Built-in Wi-Fi | Up to 100 codes | Not listed |
| Schlage Touch Electronic Lock | Lever Handle | None (Keyless Electronic) | Not listed | Not listed |
No. 1 of 3 · Schlage
Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt Lock for Z-Wave Smart Hubs
4.0 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Hub-based smart homes needing long battery life
What the listing says
- SMART HOME READY Pair with a Z-Wave smart home or security system like Samsung SmartThings or Ring Alarm to…
- KEYLESS CONVENIENCE Create up to 30 unique access codes for keyless entry; finger print resistant touchscreen; backlit keypad…
- SECURE CONNECTION Secure encryption with S2 Security and Z-Wave Plus technology
- BATTERY POWERED Deadbolt operates by 4 AA batteries (included); low-battery indicator on lock screen offers advance notice; get…
- PREMIUM SECURITY High-quality metal construction provides strength where it counts; built in alarm; certified to ANSI/BHMA Grade 1/AAA…
- EASY INSTALL Install in minutes with just a screwdriver, no hardwiring required; Snap ‘n Stay design helps keep…
Pros
- Grade 1 AAA security rating
- Up to one year battery life
- Built-in forced entry alarm
Cons
- Requires separate Z-Wave hub
- Capacity capped at 30 codes
The Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt Lock combines certified ANSI/BHMA Grade 1/AAA commercial-grade security with Z-Wave Plus wireless connectivity in a clean Century trim profile. Engineered for primary entryways, the lock features high-quality metal construction and an integrated audible alarm sensor that detects forced entry attempts at the door. Its exterior houses a backlit, fingerprint-resistant touchscreen that stores up to 30 unique user access codes, preventing visual code wear from repeated keypad use.
Operating as a dedicated schlage zwave smart lock, this deadbolt communicates over encrypted Z-Wave Plus frequencies with S2 security protocols. It does not connect directly to Wi-Fi routers; instead, it pairs with compatible smart home systems or security hubs like Samsung SmartThings or Ring Alarm, which are sold separately. Once paired, you can monitor status and trigger remote commands from anywhere. Powered by four included AA batteries, the deadbolt delivers up to one year of typical battery life, with a touchscreen low-battery indicator and a backup physical key for emergency override.
This lock is ideally suited for homeowners and rental operators who already manage an on-site hub or monitored security panel. Installation requires only a screwdriver using the Snap ‘n Stay mounting bracket, which holds the deadbolt in place on standard doors measuring 1-3/8 inches to 1-3/4 inches thick. If your travel lifestyle relies on a centralized system, integrating this smart door lock schlage model provides rock-solid perimeter security and low battery drain, though shoppers lacking a Z-Wave hub must purchase one separately to enable remote features.
No. 2 of 3 · Schlage
SCHLAGE BE469ZP CEN 622 Connect Smart for Monitored Security Systems
4.5 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Ring Alarm and SmartThings security setups
What the listing says
- Pair with a Z Wave smart home or security system like Samsung SmartThings or Ring Alarm…
- Hands free voice control requires Z Wave smart home system and compatible voice assistant; Alexa device…
- Easy to install with just a screwdriver; Unique Snap ‘n Stay technology snaps the deadbolt onto…
- Use the finger print resistant touchscreen to share up to 30 access codes instead of keeping…
Pros
- S2 security encryption
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- Integrated tamper alarm
Cons
- Requires external smart hub
- Battery life not listed
Featuring a modern matte black finish with Century trim, the SCHLAGE BE469ZP CEN 622 Connect Smart deadbolt delivers heavy-duty zinc security for property owners running central smart home networks. The unit incorporates a built-in audible alarm that sounds upon forced door movement, alerting occupants to unauthorized access attempts. Its fingerprint-resistant touchscreen supports up to 30 custom access codes, eliminating the security vulnerabilities of hiding physical keys outside.
This deadbolt utilizes schlage connect z-wave plus technology to bridge directly with popular security controllers, including Ring Alarm and Samsung SmartThings. Connecting through a compatible gateway enables hands-free voice controls when linked with an Alexa device (sold separately), as well as remote mobile locking and unlocking while traveling. The mechanical assembly utilizes a 5-pin tumbler cylinder with a standard C keyway, and includes one physical backup key to ensure access during lockouts.
With compact dimensions of 5 x 3 x 1 inches, this version of the schlage be469zp deadbolt suits hosts and travelers who prefer a low-profile, dark architectural accent on their entryway. Mounting is straightforward thanks to Schlage’s Snap ‘n Stay mechanism, which clips the deadbolt to the door so both hands remain free during installation. However, because it lacks onboard Wi-Fi, it gives way to the Encode family if you need immediate smartphone app control without maintaining an external hub.
No. 3 of 3 · Schlage
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock for Hub-Free Vacation Rentals
4.9 Amazon buyer average
Best for: Single-bore doors needing Wi-Fi control
What the listing says
- ANYWHERE ACCESS With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Smart WiFI Lever…
- ADVANCED SECURITY Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified…
- COME AND GO WITH EASE Auto-lock can relock the door for you with various time delay options in the Schlage Home…
- SECURE AND STYLISH Available with traditional and contemporary styles in multiple finishes, the Schlage Encode smart lever offers premium…
Pros
- Integrated lever handle design
- Direct Wi-Fi without hubs
- Stores 100 unique user codes
Cons
- Battery life not listed
Best for: Vacation rental hosts managing access remotely
Pros
- Direct Wi-Fi without hubs
- Holds up to 100 access codes
- Grade 1 AAA security certified
Cons
- Up to six months battery life
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock solves remote property management challenges by embedding Wi-Fi hardware directly into the deadbolt itself. Finished in Century trim matte black, this lock links directly to your home Wi-Fi network without requiring accessory bridges or plug-in hubs. It carries the highest residential rating for security, durability, and finish from BHMA industry experts, and includes a customizable built-in alarm that triggers upon detecting door movement or forced entry.
Designed for multi-guest administration, this schlage encode wifi deadbolt manages up to 100 access codes via the Schlage Home app and works alongside Key by Amazon. Property hosts can track real-time access logs, customize push notifications, set automated relocking delays, and use one-touch locking on the fingerprint-resistant exterior screen when departing. It also pairs with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice-activated controls, giving remote travelers total visibility over their property’s status from anywhere in the world.
The Encode deadbolt runs on four included AA batteries that provide up to six months of typical battery life, with low-battery warnings displayed on the touchscreen and sent through the app. It fits standard doors with 1-3/8-inch to 1-3/4-inch thicknesses and standard 2-3/8-inch or 2-3/4-inch backsets using the Snap ‘n Stay bracket. For frequent travelers and rental hosts seeking a premier schlage wifi door lock, the Encode deadbolt eliminates third-party hardware dependencies, although it requires battery replacements more frequently than Z-Wave alternatives.
From the notebook
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock for Single-Bore Interior and Exterior Doors
When securing doors that do not have a dedicated deadbolt opening, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lock offers an all-in-one solution. This model combines built-in Wi-Fi technology with a Century trim backplate and a sleek Latitude lever handle. Certified with the highest residential BHMA rating for security, durability, and finish, this lever lock brings direct-to-cloud security to primary exterior doors, internal rental suites, and home offices alike.
Equipped with a fingerprint-resistant touchscreen, this schlage encode lever connects directly to your residential Wi-Fi network and pairs with the Schlage Home app without auxiliary hubs. It allows administrators to program up to 100 unique access codes, inspect access logs, receive push notifications, and automate locking intervals. Interior control buttons let owners easily set the latch to an unlocked state for continuous passage during high-traffic events, while built-in alarms detect door tampering and forced entry.
This lever lock is ideal for travelers who rent out portions of their home or need to lock an owner storage closet without cutting a second hole in the door slab. It installs with a screwdriver into standard lever preps without hardwiring, and it pairs with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. If you require a versatile schlage entry door lock that incorporates handle latching and remote wireless control into one unit, this Encode lever is the most capable model in the catalog.
From the notebook
Schlage Touch Electronic Lock for Keyless Offline Utility
Best for: Offline keyless doors requiring pick-proof entry
Pros
- Keyless design eliminates lock picking
- Downlit illuminated touchscreen
- Grade 2 AAA metal construction
Cons
- No wireless or remote features
- Access code capacity not listed
The Schlage Touch Electronic Lock delivers pure keyless functionality for doors where remote connectivity is unnecessary. Featuring a Century trim plate and a Latitude lever handle, this standalone electronic lock replaces standard handles or knobs using only a screwdriver. Built from high-quality metal components and certified to ANSI/BHMA Grade 2/AAA standards, it provides trusted durability for interior utility spaces, guest rooms, and private storage areas.
Unlike standard keyed handles, this schlage touch lock completely eliminates the physical cylinder. With no keyhole on the exterior escutcheon, the lock is pick-proof, bump-proof, and immune to key-related tampering. Access is controlled via a fingerprint-resistant touchscreen that features specialized downward illumination, ensuring digits are clearly visible in low light while protecting pin code entry from nearby observation.
Because the Touch lever has no Wi-Fi or Z-Wave radios, it operates completely offline. It never experiences dropped signals, requires no hub pairing, and needs no ongoing app updates, making it a reliable pick-and-go solution for secured interior zones. However, for entryways that demand remote code creation or activity monitoring, this unit yields to the Wi-Fi-enabled Encode lever or the hub-connected Connect deadbolts.
Before you choose
How to Choose the Right Schlage Smart Lock
Navigating this schlage smart lock comparison requires balancing wireless connectivity preferences, door geometry, access code capacity, and long-term battery maintenance. Evaluating these primary factors will help you select the exact hardware needed for your home or rental property.
When deciding on a z-wave vs wifi smart lock, the key difference is how the device reaches the internet. The Schlage Connect deadbolts communicate over low-energy Z-Wave Plus frequencies, meaning they cannot talk directly to your router or smartphone without an intermediate hub like Ring Alarm or Samsung SmartThings. In exchange for adding a hub, Z-Wave deadbolts draw minimal power, achieving up to one full year of battery life. In contrast, the Schlage Encode series features integrated Wi-Fi that links directly to standard home networks via the Schlage Home app, making it the superior option for standalone properties where hosts want to avoid setting up and maintaining secondary bridge equipment.
Door preparation dictates whether you need a deadbolt or an integrated lever handle. Deadbolts like the Schlage Connect and Schlage Encode deadbolts require doors with two pre-bored holes—one for the deadbolt and one for a passage latch or handle. If your door only has a single bore, such as an interior office door, suite entry, or storage closet, the Schlage Encode lever and Schlage Touch lever combine the keypad and latch into a single unit. For traditional deadbolt setups that require mechanical fallback, combining electronic locks with a schlage smart key deadbolt or standard keyed latch ensures physical security across your entryway.
Access code capacity and code rotation methods are vital for hosts. The Schlage Connect models store up to 30 unique user codes, which is ample for family members, long-term tenants, and trusted maintenance staff. However, the Schlage Encode deadbolt and lever support up to 100 access codes, providing the flexibility needed for active vacation rentals. Furthermore, Encode models allow you to generate, schedule, and revoke codes remotely via the mobile app, whereas managing codes on the Connect line depends entirely on the capabilities of your third-party Z-Wave hub.
Deciding which schlage smart lock to buy ultimately depends on your existing setup. If you already run a hub-managed security ecosystem like Ring Alarm and value long battery life, choose the Schlage Connect deadbolt. If you need effortless direct Wi-Fi management with remote code scheduling for a primary deadbolt, choose the Schlage Encode deadbolt. For single-bore doors needing Wi-Fi access, choose the Encode Lever, and for private interior doors needing simple keyless security without wireless connectivity, choose the Schlage Touch.
Questions people ask
FAQ
Do Schlage Z-Wave smart locks work without a hub?
A Schlage Z-Wave deadbolt functions locally as a keyless keypad lock without a hub, allowing you to manually program access codes at the door. However, you cannot access wireless features such as remote locking, remote unlocking, access notifications, or smart home automations without pairing the deadbolt to a compatible Z-Wave hub like Samsung SmartThings or Ring Alarm. Because it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, it cannot communicate directly with your home router or phone.
What is the battery life difference between Schlage Connect Z-Wave and Encode Wi-Fi locks?
The primary difference stems from the power draw of the internal wireless transceivers. The Schlage Connect deadbolt uses low-energy Z-Wave Plus technology, allowing its four AA batteries to last up to one year under typical residential usage. The Schlage Encode deadbolt uses a higher-power built-in Wi-Fi radio to communicate directly with home routers, resulting in an expected battery life of up to six months under normal operating conditions.
Can I use the Schlage Home app with a Schlage Connect deadbolt?
No, the Schlage Connect deadbolt cannot be managed with the Schlage Home app. Because the Connect deadbolt relies on Z-Wave communication rather than Wi-Fi, remote features and code administration must be handled through the app associated with your third-party Z-Wave hub, such as the Ring or SmartThings app. The Schlage Home app is designed exclusively for Wi-Fi-enabled models like the Schlage Encode deadbolt and lever.
How do access code capacities compare across Schlage smart lock models?
The Schlage Connect deadbolt models accommodate up to 30 unique access codes, which is generally sufficient for primary residences and long-term guests. The Schlage Encode Wi-Fi deadbolt and lever models expand capacity to 100 unique access codes, making them better suited for high-turnover vacation rentals and service personnel. The product listing for the Schlage Touch electronic lever does not specify its maximum access code capacity.
Which Schlage lock is best for a vacation rental property?
The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock is generally the best choice for vacation rentals because it connects directly to Wi-Fi without secondary bridges. It supports up to 100 access codes, provides real-time access history, sends push notifications, and allows remote code creation from anywhere via the Schlage Home app. However, hosts who already manage an on-site Ring Alarm system can achieve similar remote controls and longer battery life by choosing the Schlage Connect deadbolt.
Prices, specifications and the feature lines above are read from the product listing and can change without notice. Every score is the average rating Amazon buyers left for that item; nothing on this page is written from handling the product.
