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Smart devices are becoming more and more common in homes these days. Smart locks are no different! People are moving away from traditional locks towards intuitive and futuristic smart locks!
But why do you want to install a smart lock?
Well, there can be numerous reasons but the major ones include: avoiding duplication of keys, granting remote access to home members, integration with an existing smart home system, keyless entry, monitoring, overall security, or simply because they look cool!
Today, we have more and more choices of smart locks available in the market! Schlage smart locks are one of the market leaders when it comes to smart locks in 2023.
The Schlage Connect, Schlage Sense and Schlage Encode are three of the top smart locks of Schlage. While these locks are similar in many ways, they also have some key differences.
In this article, we will compare the three Schlage locks and you will read Schlage connect vs sense. So, let’s dive in!
Schlage Connect vs Sense vs Encode: Similarities
Talking about the similarities, both locks are quite similar when it comes to their features. Here are the similarities:
Android and iOS mobile apps:
Both locks can be controlled using the Schlage app which is available for both Android and iOS.
Multiple access codes:
Both locks have an option to store multiple access codes. The Schlage Connect and Sense can store up to multiple codes while the Schlage Encode can store up to 100 access codes.
This is a really cool feature as it can allow guest access or temporary access in case you are using the smart lock for Airbnb. You can also reset these codes using the app.
Touchscreen keypad:
Both locks have a touchscreen keypad for entering the code.
Battery type:
Both locks use 4 AA batteries.
Built-in alarm sensors:
Built-in alarm system aids to prevent the forced entry of intruders.
Warranty:
Both Schlage locks have a lifetime warranty of
Grade 1 rating:
Both locks have a Grade 1 rating, which is the most secure for residential locks.
Notifications/Alerts:
Both locks notify the user (on the app) when the door is locked/unlocked.
Multiple colors:
Both Schlage smart locks come in different colors in order to match the look of your door.
But what makes them unique? Let’s have a look at their differences
Communication Protocols
When it comes to communication protocols, Schlage Connect uses Z-Wave and ZigBee communication protocols whereas Schlage Sense uses Bluetooth communication.
If you want to expand your home automation system then Schlage Connect is better for you.
Remote Access
Schlage Sense uses only Bluetooth technology for communication. Therefore, a separate Wifi adapter has to be used in order to connect it to the router.
Once you use the Wifi adapter, the Schlage Sense smart lock can be controlled remotely with either Homekit-enabled smart home devices or by simply using the Schlage mobile app.
On the contrary, Schlage Connect uses the Z-wave technology to grant remote access to its users. This makes it possible for your smart lock to connect to multiple smart home hubs easily without the need for a separate Wi-fi adapter.
Voice Control
When it comes to voice control, The Schlage Sense lock is compatible with Siri as it is suitable for Apple devices.
On the contrary, Schlage Connect works with Alexa. However, you need a smart home hub (Z-wave) in order to achieve that.
Apple HomeKit compatible
Unlike many other smart locks, the Schlage Sense smart lock can be configured and controlled by the Apple Home app. Moreover, the Schlage Sense can also be controlled using Siri which gives it a huge edge over Schlage connect which does not have Apple Home or Siri compatibility.
SmartThings compatibility:
The Schlage Sense is not compatible with SmartThings and other smart home hubs.
On the other hand, the Schlage Connect connects with SmartThings and other smart home hubs.
Therefore, if you are looking to build your smart home with such smart home hubs or with SmartThings, then Schlage Connect smart lock is the obvious choice!
Compatibility with Alexa:
While the Schlage Sense is compatible with Siri and SmartThings, it is not compatible with Alexa.
On the contrary, the Schlage Connect smart lock is fully compatible with Alexa. If you want to connect your lock with Alexa, the Schlage Connect is the perfect pick for you!
Z-Wave compatible:
Z-Wave is a radio protocol that allows all devices within the network to communicate with one another, creating a mesh-like smart home system.
This lets you connect your lock with other Z-Wave smart home devices, which are all controlled with a smart home hub like SmartThings.
For example, you can have your Z-Wave lightbulbs turn on and the thermostat turn up when your door is unlocked since you are home for the day. There are also Z-Wave doors and motion sensors to set up a security system with this lock.
Price factor:
When it comes to price, the Schlage Connect smart lock is more expensive than Schlage Sense.
Schlage Connect vs Sense – The Pros and Cons
Here’s the summary of how the Schlage Sense and Connect stack up:
Schlage Connect
Schlage Sense
Overall Review: Schlage Connect vs Sense
Schlage Sense
The Schlage Sense smart lock uses Bluetooth to connect with Apple Homekit and Siri. In my view, if you are an Apple user and want to connect your smart lock with Apple/iPhone/iPad, then Schlage Sense smart lock is the right choice for you.
However, you can’t use Schlage Sense with other Z-Wave-enabled devices. You can also separately purchase a WiFi adapter if you want to use the smart lock with Google Assistant and Amazon.
The Schlage Sense has been available for 5 years but it already has proven to be a quality smart lock.
Schlage Connect
Overall, the Schlage Connect smart lock offers more flexibility since it works with wider compatibility such as Alexa, Wink, Ring, Google Assistant, SmarthThings, and Nexia. Since it is Z-Wave and ZigBee enabled. Therefore, it is a great Schlage smart lock if you want to expand your home automation system.
See also Best Smart Thermostat Without Internet (2022)
Our Key Takeaways: Schlage Sense vs Connect
Both the Schlage Connect and Schlage Sense are two of the best smart locks of 2023.
I believe the ultimate decision on which lock to buy must be made according to your precise requirement and future goals.
If you want to expand your smart home automation in the future, The Schlage Connect is the best smart lock for you, as it is Z-wave enabled. However, if you are an Apple person who wants to control your smart lock using Siri, then Schlage Sense is the perfect choice for you.
Similarly, if you want are low on budget, then Schlage Sense is more suitable for you.
Features to consider in a smart lock
Ease of Installation
Smart door locks that claim 15-20 minutes of installation are truly easy to install and require no extra drilling in the door. Ideally, your smart lock should be of this nature.
It might come in handy to check how easy or difficult it is to install a lock and compare your shortlisted choices.
Weatherproofing
This feature is required for outdoor use, If you are considering a smart door for wet or humid environments, consider checking its weather rating and choose accordingly.
However, if your smart lock is for indoor use, then weatherproofing is not required.
If you can find a lock that has an IP65 waterproof rating, you are good to go because you know your lock will withstand rain, snow, dirt, and dust.
Many other locks lack a waterproof rating but are still durable enough to withstand outdoor use. In this case, you may want to consider caulking or other ways to block water entry into the lock.
But if you need a smart door lock that lacks waterproofing altogether, you will have to buy or build a shield for your lock.
In this case, you must consider your smart lock’s size before making a purchase decision.
Tamper-resistance
Weather and extreme temperatures can have adverse effects on smart door locks. Therefore, for smart locks that are to be used in environments with extreme use, you must consider their tamper-resistance.
Long Battery Time:
Battery capacity should be a major concern when buying a smart lock. The best choice shall be the one with a rechargeable battery.
Alternative Unlock:
Besides using an app to unlock the smart lock, there should be one or more alternate methods to unlock it for emergency cases.
FAQs about Schlage Connect vs Sense:
Do you need a Hub for Schlage Connect?
Yes. You will need a Hub only if you want to control Schlage Connect smart lock remotely. Some commonly used hubs are Samsung SmartThings, Ring Alarm, Nexia, and Wink.
Does Schlage Connect have Bluetooth?
Yes, the smart lock has Bluetooth connectivity.
You can use Schlage Sense without WiFi, but in order to control the smart lock remotely, you need to install the Schlage Sense WiFi adapter to it (which will be connected to your home’s wifi network).
Finally, you can use the Schlage Home app to pair the adapter to the smart lock.
Is there a Schlage Connect app?
Yes, The Schlage Home app is used to control and manage Schlage Connect.
How secure is Schlage Connect?
The Schlage Connect is certified ANSI/BHMA Grade 1, which is the highest possible home security rating.
