Wi-Fi vs Bluetooth Smart Locks: Which One Fits Your Door
Smart locks connect to your phone in one of two main ways, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and the choice affects how you unlock, how you manage guests, and how often you change batteries. Both approaches are sold widely in the US, and each has real tradeoffs in range, remote access, and power use that matter more than marketing claims.
Quick answer
Wi-Fi wins for remote access and integrations, while Bluetooth wins for battery life, simplicity, and price, so the better pick depends on whether you need to control the lock when you are away from home.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Cross-checked manufacturer-published specifications before writing any recommendation
- Verified US market availability and configuration for every model discussed
- Owner-feedback themes are summarized as feedback, never presented as our own hands-on testing
- No invented star ratings; see the visible Research Score criteria on this page
- Checked specifications against manufacturer documentation before publishing
- We separate locks by their actual radio hardware, not by app features that can change with firmware updates, and we flag when a lock needs a separate bridge or hub to reach Wi-Fi.
Research updated September 2026.
| Factor | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt |
|---|---|---|
| Factor | August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) | Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt |
| Primary radio | Wi-Fi plus Bluetooth | Wi-Fi plus Bluetooth |
| Remote access | Yes, no hub needed | Yes, no hub needed |
| Battery impact | Higher with Wi-Fi active | Higher with Wi-Fi active |
| Local control | Bluetooth when nearby | Bluetooth plus keypad |
| Best for | Renters and retrofits | Homeowners wanting a keypad |
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best Wi-Fi pickPros
- Connects directly to Wi-Fi without a separate bridge
- Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home
- Auto-unlock and remote lock control from the app
Cons
- Wi-Fi radio drains batteries faster than Bluetooth-only locks
- Bulkier interior housing than some retrofit options
August built Wi-Fi directly into this lock, so you can lock or unlock from anywhere without buying an extra hub. It retrofits over most existing single-cylinder deadbolts, which keeps installation simple. The tradeoff is battery life, since the Wi-Fi radio runs more often than a Bluetooth-only design.
Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt
Best Bluetooth plus Wi-Fi alternativePros
- Built-in Wi-Fi means no hub required
- Grade 1 residential security rating
- Keypad plus app control for guests without a phone
Cons
- No Apple Home support without extra setup
- Wi-Fi use shortens battery life compared with Bluetooth-only models
Schlage's Encode line pairs a physical keypad with built-in Wi-Fi, so it covers both the Bluetooth-style local control and the remote access that Wi-Fi enables. It carries a Grade 1 residential rating, which is a meaningful durability and security benchmark. Owners often note that heavy Wi-Fi use means more frequent battery changes.
Where August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) Wins
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) is the stronger pick if you rent or want to keep your existing keys and deadbolt, because it retrofits over what is already on the door and still gives you remote Wi-Fi control. Its Apple Home support also matters if you are in that ecosystem.
Where Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Wins
The Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt is the better choice for a primary home where you want a keypad for guests, family, or service workers who do not have the app. The Grade 1 rating and keypad give it an edge for a main entry door.
FAQs
Do Wi-Fi smart locks need a hub?
Not always. Some models, including the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Schlage Encode, have Wi-Fi built in, while others need a separate bridge or hub to connect to your network.
Which uses less battery, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?
Bluetooth-only locks generally last longer on a set of batteries because the radio draws less power and is not constantly maintaining a network connection.
Can I control a Bluetooth lock when I am away from home?
Usually no, unless the lock also has Wi-Fi or is paired with a bridge that adds remote connectivity.
Are Wi-Fi locks more expensive?
Often yes, because the Wi-Fi radio adds cost, though prices vary by brand and sales.
Do smart locks work with Alexa and Google?
Many do, but check the specific model, since support varies and some features require a compatible hub or account.
Is a keypad necessary on a smart lock?
No, but a keypad helps for guests, kids, or anyone without the app, and it is a common feature on Wi-Fi models like the Schlage Encode.
Our verdict
Choose Wi-Fi if you want to lock, unlock, or check status from anywhere and you accept more frequent battery changes. Choose Bluetooth if you mainly unlock from your phone at the door and want longer battery life and a lower price. Many current locks, including the two above, combine both radios, which is often the most flexible option.