August vs Schlage Motion Sensor

How does the motion sensor technology differ between August and Schlage?

The fundamental difference lies in what triggers the lock's action. August relies on a combination of a magnetic sensor (DoorSense) and your smartphone's GPS (geofencing) to determine when you are arriving or leaving. It does not have a built-in motion sensor on the lock itself. Instead, it uses the motion of your phone as the proxy.

Schlage, particularly in its Encode Plus model, uses an internal accelerometer. This sensor detects physical motion or vibration against the lock, such as someone knocking or attempting to force the door. This motion data can be used to trigger an alarm or a notification, making it a security-focused feature rather than an auto-unlock trigger.

Which lock offers better auto-unlock performance?

For hands-free auto-unlock, the August lock is the clear winner. Its system is designed specifically for this purpose. When your phone enters the geofence (usually 50-100 feet), the lock prepares to disengage. As you approach the door, it unlocks automatically. Owner reviews consistently praise this feature for its reliability, though some note that it can occasionally be slow or require the August app to be open.

The Schlage Encode Plus does not offer true auto-unlock based on proximity. You must either enter a code on the keypad, use a physical key, or use your phone via the app or HomeKey. While Schlage's motion sensor can detect a knock, it cannot unlock the door for you. This makes Schlage more secure for those who do not want the door unlocking automatically, but less convenient for those who want a truly keyless experience.

Battery life and power consumption

Battery life is a critical factor for any smart lock. The August lock, with its constant Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communication for geofencing and remote access, typically sees battery life of 3 to 6 months. The DoorSense sensor itself uses very little power, but the radio usage is the main drain. Many users report changing batteries every 4 months.

Schlage Encode Plus, while also using Wi-Fi, benefits from a more efficient radio design and the fact that it does not constantly poll for a phone's location. The accelerometer for motion detection is also low-power. As a result, Schlage owners commonly report 6 to 12 months of battery life. Schlage also provides a low-battery warning well in advance.

Integration with smart home ecosystems

Both locks offer broad smart home compatibility, but there are nuances. August is deeply integrated with Airbnb, allowing hosts to create virtual keys for guests. It works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. However, it does not support the new Matter standard natively on older models.

Schlage Encode Plus is one of the first locks to support Matter, which promises greater cross-platform compatibility. It also supports Apple HomeKey, allowing you to unlock it with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. Both locks work with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control and routines. Schlage's integration tends to be more stable and less reliant on a third-party bridge for basic functions.

Security features: Motion sensor vs. DoorSense

The security implications of each sensor are different. Schlage's built-in motion sensor (accelerometer) can detect forced entry attempts or tampering. If the lock detects a violent knock or vibration, it can trigger an audible alarm and send a push notification. This is a proactive security feature that August lacks entirely.

August's DoorSense sensor is a passive magnetic sensor that simply tells you if your door is open, closed, or locked. It does not detect motion or forced entry. Its primary function is to confirm the lock's status, not to act as a security alarm. For users who want a basic alert if the door is left ajar, DoorSense is excellent. For those who want a deterrent against break-ins, Schlage's motion sensor is superior.

What to check before buying a smart lock with motion sensing

Before purchasing, consider your primary use case. If you want the convenience of auto-unlock, the August lock is the only real option. If you want a traditional keypad with the added security of motion-triggered alarms, Schlage is the better fit.

Also check your door's compatibility. August locks are designed to retrofit over your existing deadbolt, which is great for renters. Schlage requires replacing the entire deadbolt assembly. Finally, check your Wi-Fi signal strength at the door, as both locks require a stable connection for remote access and firmware updates.

Mistakes to avoid when choosing a smart lock sensor

One common mistake is assuming that all motion sensors are the same. August's system is proximity-based via your phone, not a physical motion detector on the lock. Do not buy an August expecting it to detect a knock.

Another mistake is ignoring battery life. If you choose August for auto-unlock, be prepared for more frequent battery changes. A third mistake is overlooking the need for a strong Wi-Fi signal. A weak signal can cause both locks to become unresponsive or drain batteries faster as they struggle to reconnect.