August vs Schlage Fingerprint Door Lock

August vs Schlage: Which Smart Lock is Right for Your Door?

August and Schlage represent two different philosophies in smart locks. August focuses on a minimalist, retrofit design that works with your existing deadbolt, while Schlage builds a complete lock system with a focus on physical security and multiple access methods. Both brands are owned by Assa Abloy, the global lock giant, but they target different users.

Design and Installation

August locks are designed to replace only the interior thumb turn of your existing deadbolt. This means you keep your current exterior key and handle, making it ideal for renters or those who want a discreet smart lock. Installation takes about 10 minutes and requires only a screwdriver. The August lock is compact and sits flush on the inside of your door.

Schlage Encode Plus replaces the entire deadbolt assembly, both interior and exterior. This requires more installation effort (20-30 minutes) but results in a complete, unified lock system. The exterior features a backlit keypad and a traditional keyhole, offering three ways to enter: code, key, or phone. The Schlage lock is larger and more prominent on the door, which some users prefer for its visible security presence.

Security and Locking Mechanism

This is where the two brands diverge significantly. Schlage Encode Plus uses an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt, the highest residential security rating. It features a hardened steel bolt and a tamper-resistant design. The physical key override is a standard Schlage keyway, which can be rekeyed to match other Schlage locks in your home.

August locks use ANSI Grade 2 deadbolts (when paired with a compatible deadbolt) but rely entirely on your existing lock's exterior. The August lock itself has no physical key override. If the battery dies or the electronics fail, you must use the backup jump start with a 9V battery on the exterior. Many owners report this as a significant drawback, especially if they are locked out without a phone or battery pack.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Schlage Encode Plus includes built-in Wi-Fi, so no hub or bridge is needed. It also supports Matter, the new smart home standard, ensuring compatibility with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. The lock can be controlled remotely, and you can create up to 100 unique access codes for guests, service providers, or family members. The keypad allows for code entry without needing a phone.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) requires the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge for remote access. Without it, the lock only works via Bluetooth within range. August integrates with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google, but does not support Matter. The lock uses your phone's proximity to auto-unlock (DoorSense feature), which is convenient but can be unreliable in practice. Many owners report false auto-unlocks or failures to unlock when approaching.

Battery Life and Reliability

Both locks use 4 AA batteries and claim 6 months of life. In practice, August users report 3-4 months with heavy use, while Schlage users consistently report 5-6 months. Schlage provides a low-battery warning via the app and a physical chirp. August also warns in the app, but the lack of a key override means a dead battery is more problematic if you are away from your phone.

Owner reviews on Amazon and other retailers show Schlage Encode Plus has a 4.7/5 rating, with users praising its reliability and consistent performance. August locks average 4.2/5, with common complaints about Wi-Fi connectivity drops and the auto-unlock feature not working consistently. Schlage's longer warranty (3 years vs 1 year) also reflects higher confidence in durability.

What to Check Before Buying a Smart Lock

Before choosing between August and Schlage, verify your door's preparation. Both require a standard 2-1/8 inch bore hole and a 1-inch backset. Schlage locks also require a 1-inch diameter latch hole. Check your door thickness: both work with 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inch doors. For August, ensure your existing deadbolt is compatible with the retrofit plate. For Schlage, confirm you have enough clearance on the interior for the larger escutcheon plate.

Consider your smart home ecosystem. If you use Apple Home exclusively and want a simple retrofit, August works well. If you want broad compatibility, Matter support, and a physical key backup, Schlage is the better choice. Also evaluate your need for a keypad. August has no keypad, so you must use your phone or the August app on an Apple Watch. Schlage offers a keypad for code entry, which is useful for guests or when your phone is not handy.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Smart Lock

One common mistake is assuming all smart locks work with all door types. August locks do not work with mortise locks, and some older deadbolts may not accept the retrofit plate. Always check the compatibility list on the manufacturer's website. Another mistake is ignoring the need for a backup entry method. With August, if your phone dies and you have no 9V battery, you are locked out. Schlage's physical key provides a reliable backup that never fails.

Do not overlook the importance of the lock's physical security rating. A smart lock is only as secure as its deadbolt. Schlage's Grade 1 rating provides peace of mind against forced entry. August's Grade 2 rating is adequate for most homes but less resistant to physical attacks. Finally, consider future smart home plans. If you plan to add Matter-compatible devices, the Schlage Encode Plus is future-proof, while August may require a separate bridge or replacement later.