Schlage vs Yale vs August Smart Locks (2026): Brand Comparison
Schlage Encode: built-in WiFi, no hub. Yale Assure: keypad + app. August: retrofit (keep your existing deadbolt). Pick by install scope.
Smart lock brand choice depends on install scope. Schlage and Yale are full-replacement deadbolts; August is a retrofit. All three excellent. Pick by what you want to do with your existing hardware.
Quick Comparison
| Pick | Best For | Approx Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best Mainstream | Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt | $240-$300 |
| Best HomeKit | Yale Assure Lock SL Smart Deadbolt with WiFi | $200-$280 |
| Best Retrofit | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen | $200-$240 |
Our Picks
Quick Comparison
| Criterion | Schlage Encode | Yale Assure SL | August Wi-Fi (4th Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Install type | Full replacement | Full replacement | Retrofit (keep existing) |
| Built-in WiFi | Yes | No (needs Connect Bridge) | Yes |
| Keypad | Yes | Yes | No (app only) |
| Existing key works | No (new key) | No (new key) | Yes |
| HomeKit native | Limited | Yes | Yes |
| Battery life | 10-12 mo | 10-12 mo | 3-6 mo |
| Price | $240-$300 | $200-$280 | $200-$240 |
Where Schlage Wins
Full replacement deadbolt with built-in WiFi (no hub). 100 access codes. Keypad for guests/cleaners. The mainstream pick for new installs.
Where Yale Wins
Native HomeKit support out-of-box (Schlage less so). Premium build quality. Compatible with Yale Connect Bridge for additional features.
Where August Wins
Retrofit. Keep your existing deadbolt and key. 10-minute install. Best if you don't want new keys for the family.
Limitation: no keypad. App-only access for non-key users.
Which to Buy
Schlage if: full replacement, want keypad. Yale if: HomeKit household. August if: keep existing key.
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Get a Door Quote →Frequently Asked Questions
Schlage or Yale?
Schlage for non-HomeKit households. Yale for HomeKit households (better native support).
August retrofit reliable?
Yes, proven design. Best for renters or homes where you don't want a new keyhole.
Battery life difference?
Schlage/Yale: 10-12 months on alkaline. August: 3-6 months on lithium (smaller battery).
All three need WiFi?
Schlage and August: built-in WiFi. Yale: requires Yale Connect Bridge ($30 add-on).
How much for install?
Schlage/Yale: $99-$149 full replacement. August: $79-$129 retrofit.
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