Schlage vs Ring Keyless Door Lock

Build Quality and Security

Schlage has been making locks for over 100 years. The Encode Plus carries an ANSI Grade 1 certification, which is the highest residential security rating. It uses a metal deadbolt and a reinforced strike plate. The lock body is all-metal, and the keypad is weather-resistant. Owner reviews on retailer sites consistently praise the solid feel and heavy-duty construction.

Ring Smart Lock Pro is ANSI Grade 2. It is still secure for most homes, but the materials are lighter. The lock body is mostly plastic with a metal deadbolt. The keypad is battery-powered and attaches to the door with adhesive or screws. Some owners report that the lock feels less substantial than Schlage. Ring does not offer a physical key override, which is a concern for some users who want a backup entry method.

Smart Features and Ecosystem

Ring is owned by Amazon, so it integrates deeply with Alexa. You can use voice commands, create routines, and see lock status in the Ring app. The Ring lock also works with Ring Alarm and Ring Video Doorbell, allowing you to unlock the door when someone rings. This is convenient for package deliveries or letting in guests.

Schlage Encode Plus works with Apple Home Key, which lets you unlock the door with your iPhone or Apple Watch by tapping it. It also supports Alexa and Google Assistant. Schlage has its own app that is straightforward but less feature-rich than Ring's. The Schlage lock can trigger automations in Apple Home, but it does not have a built-in camera or doorbell integration.

Battery Life and Power

Schlage Encode Plus uses four AA batteries. The manufacturer claims 6 months of battery life under normal use. The lock has a low-battery warning in the app and an audible alert. If the battery dies completely, you can use a physical key to unlock the door.

Ring Smart Lock Pro uses four AA batteries as well. Battery life is shorter, around 3 to 4 months, because the lock communicates constantly with the Ring bridge. The Ring app sends low-battery notifications. There is no key override, so you must replace batteries before they die or use the keypad backup (which also requires battery power). Some owners carry a 9V battery to jump-start the lock in an emergency.

Installation and Fit

Both locks are designed for standard US doors (1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inches thick). Schlage Encode Plus replaces your existing deadbolt and requires a screwdriver. The installation takes about 20 minutes. The lock fits most doors without modification. Ring Smart Lock Pro fits over your existing deadbolt, so you do not need to remove the old lock. This makes installation faster, but the lock can feel bulky on the door.

Ring requires a separate Ring Bridge (sold separately) to connect to Wi-Fi. Without the bridge, the lock only works via Bluetooth. Schlage has built-in Wi-Fi, so no extra hub is needed. This simplifies setup and reduces cost.

What to Check Before Buying

Check your door thickness and backset. Both locks fit standard sizes, but measure to be sure. If you use Apple devices, Schlage's Home Key support is a major advantage. If you already have Ring Alarm or a Ring Doorbell, the Ring lock will integrate seamlessly. Consider whether you want a physical key backup. Schlage offers it; Ring does not.

Battery life matters. If you do not want to change batteries every 3 months, Schlage is better. Also check your smart home platform. Schlage works with all three major platforms. Ring only works with Alexa.

Mistakes to Avoid

Do not buy the Ring lock if you do not have a Ring Bridge. The lock will not work with Alexa without it. Do not assume all smart locks fit all doors. Some older doors have non-standard bore holes. Do not ignore the ANSI grade. Grade 1 is stronger than Grade 2. If security is your top priority, choose Schlage. Do not forget to check return policies. Some retailers charge restocking fees for smart locks.