August vs Schlage Smart Lock: Which Is Right for Your Home?

August and Schlage are two of the most recognized smart lock brands, but they take very different approaches. August focuses on interior retrofit locks that preserve your existing deadbolt. Schlage makes full deadbolt replacements with built-in keypads. Here is how to decide between them.

The Core Difference

August: Installs inside the door, fitting over your existing thumb-turn. Your existing exterior hardware stays. Your existing keys still work. Best for renters or anyone who wants to avoid modifying the door significantly.

Schlage: Replaces your entire deadbolt, inside and outside. Comes with a keypad. Your existing keys will not work after installation. Best for homeowners who want a keypad and a full hardware replacement.

August Smart Lock (Wi-Fi, 4th Gen)

• Installation: Interior retrofit - replaces only the interior thumb-turn
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
• Keypad: No built-in keypad (sold separately as August Smart Keypad)
• Ecosystems: Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit
• Hub required: No (Wi-Fi version)
• Exterior hardware change: None - keeps your existing deadbolt exterior
• Price: Around $150-$180

Schlage Encode Plus

• Installation: Full deadbolt replacement
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Matter
• Keypad: Built-in
• Ecosystems: Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings (via Matter)
• Hub required: No
• Exterior hardware change: Yes - replaces existing exterior
• Price: Around $200-$230

Key Comparison Points

Apple HomeKit

Both support Apple HomeKit. The Schlage Encode Plus does it via Matter (no hub). The August Wi-Fi lock does it natively via the August app.

Keypad

Schlage includes a keypad. August does not - you need to add the August Smart Keypad separately (around $60-$80) if you want code entry. This changes the total cost comparison significantly.

Renter-Friendly

August wins clearly. It preserves existing exterior hardware and your landlord keeps the same keys. Schlage replaces the exterior, which may not be permitted without landlord approval.

Matter Support

Schlage Encode Plus supports Matter. August Wi-Fi does not. Matter provides more robust cross-ecosystem integration, particularly for SmartThings users.

Security Grade

Schlage carries an ANSI Grade 1 rating (highest residential security). August does not publish an ANSI grade for their Wi-Fi lock.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose August if: you rent, you want to keep existing exterior hardware, you do not need a keypad (or will buy one separately), or you want to preserve your existing keys.

Choose Schlage Encode Plus if: you own your home, you want a built-in keypad, you want Matter support, or you want the highest available security grade.

FAQ

Can August work without Wi-Fi? The lock works via Bluetooth when nearby. Remote access requires internet. The physical key always works.

Does Schlage Encode Plus require a subscription? No. All core features are available without a subscription.

Which is easier to install? August is generally simpler - you only replace the interior component. Schlage requires replacing the full deadbolt.