Schlage Encode vs Encode Plus: What's the Difference?
Apple Home Key, Matter and price compared
Schlage Encode vs Encode Plus: Apple Home Key, Matter, Thread, Alexa and Google support and price compared, plus which one to buy.
Quick answer: Choose the Schlage Encode Plus if you use Apple Home: it adds Apple Home Key, Matter and Thread to the Encode's built-in Wi-Fi. If you only use Alexa or Google, the Encode covers the basics. Schlage lists the Encode from $299 and the Encode Plus from $329.
Specifications checked against manufacturer pages on 23 October 2026. We have not physically tested these products; this guide is based on manufacturer documentation.
Schlage sells two Wi-Fi deadbolts that look almost identical, so the choice comes down to ecosystem support. Both connect through built-in Wi-Fi, so neither needs a separate hub or bridge.
Schlage Encode vs Encode Plus at a glance
| Feature | Schlage Encode | Schlage Encode Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Built-in Wi-Fi | Built-in Wi-Fi |
| Alexa | Yes | Yes |
| Google Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Home / Siri | No (Schlage lists Apple Home only for the Encode Plus) | Yes |
| Apple Home Key (tap to unlock) | No | Yes, including hands-free unlock |
| Matter | Not listed on Schlage's Encode page | Matter Certified |
| Thread | Not listed | Works with Thread |
| Built-in alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Starting price (Schlage list price) | $299 | $329 |
What the extra cost buys you
The Encode Plus is the model to look at if you own an iPhone. It works with Apple Home, supports Apple Home Key so you can unlock the door by tapping an iPhone or Apple Watch, and is Matter Certified with Thread support. The Encode does not list any of these.
Which one should you buy?
- Apple Home user: Encode Plus. The Encode has no Apple Home support, so it is not an option.
- Alexa or Google user: either works. The Encode costs less on Schlage's own list prices, but the gap is small, so compare current retail prices.
- Planning to switch to Apple Home later: Encode Plus, so you do not need to replace the lock.
Things to know before you buy
- Apple Home Key and remote access need a Thread-enabled Apple home hub (an Apple TV 4K or HomePod).
- Hands-free unlock needs an Apple Watch Series 6 or later.
- Alexa voice unlock must be enabled in the Alexa app, and access codes are managed in the Schlage Home app.
- Both fit single-bore doors; check your door before ordering.
Read our Schlage Encode Plus review or see every option in best smart locks for Apple Home. Check either lock in the compatibility checker: Encode Plus and Encode.
FAQ
Does the Schlage Encode work with Apple Home?
No. Schlage's official comparison lists Apple Home and Home Key only for the Encode Plus.
Does the Schlage Encode Plus need a hub?
No hub is needed for Wi-Fi control. Apple Home Key and remote access in Apple Home need a Thread-enabled home hub such as an Apple TV 4K or HomePod.
Is the Encode Plus worth it if I only use Alexa?
Only if you want Matter or may move to Apple Home later. For Alexa alone, the Encode already works with it.
Sources
Where to Buy
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