Smart keyless entry
Schlage Encode Plus
9.5
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Smart home integration is reshaping how we think about entryways, with keyless entry and fingerprint recognition becoming standard in modern door hardware. But durability and style still reign supreme for most homeowners. Our 2026 guide cuts through the marketing noise, comparing the top door handles across security features, materials, and ease of installation, so you can confidently choose the perfect upgrade for your home.
| # | Product | Best for | Type | Finish Options | Security Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Schlage Encode Plus | Smart keyless entry | Keyless Entry Lever | Matte Black, Satin Nickel, Bright Brass | ANSI Grade 1 | Check Price |
| 2 | Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi | Modular smart lock | Keyless Entry Lever | Satin Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Black Suede | ANSI Grade 2 | Check Price |
| 3 | Schlage Camelot Single Cylinder Deadbolt | Traditional security | Single Cylinder Deadbolt | Satin Nickel, Bright Brass, Matte Black | ANSI Grade 1 | Check Price |
| 4 | Kwikset Juno Passage Door Knob | Interior passage doors | Passage Knob | Matte Black, Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze | ANSI Grade 2 | Check Price |
| 5 | Yale Real Living Touchscreen Deadbolt | Touchscreen deadbolt | Touchscreen Deadbolt | Satin Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Polished Brass | ANSI Grade 2 | Check Price |
Why we picked it: The Schlage Encode Plus is the most advanced smart door handle on the market. It supports Apple Home Key, allowing you to unlock with your iPhone or Apple Watch. The built-in alarm and tamper alert add extra security. Its ANSI Grade 1 rating ensures durability and peace of mind.
Homeowners who want a premium smart lock with seamless Apple HomeKit integration and top security.
Budget-conscious buyers or those without a smart home ecosystem.
Key specs: Type: Keyless Entry Lever - Finish: Matte Black, Satin Nickel, Bright Brass - Security: ANSI Grade 1 - Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple Home Key - Power: 4 AA batteries
Why we picked it: The Yale Assure Lock 2 features a modular design, letting you swap connectivity modules (Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Apple HomeKit) as needed. The backlit touchscreen keypad is easy to use day or night. It integrates seamlessly with the Yale Access App for remote management. Its sleek, modern look fits various home styles.
Tech-savvy homeowners who want a customizable smart lock that can evolve with their smart home.
Those looking for an all-in-one solution without extra purchases.
Key specs: Type: Keyless Entry Lever - Finish: Satin Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Black Suede - Security: ANSI Grade 2 - Connectivity: Module-based (Wi-Fi sold separately) - Power: 4 AA batteries
Why we picked it: The Schlage Camelot is a classic deadbolt with top-tier ANSI Grade 1 security. Its bump-proof and pick-resistant features deter forced entry. The adjustable latch fits both 2-3/8 and 2-3/4 inch backset. It's a reliable, no-nonsense choice for exterior doors.
Homeowners prioritizing maximum security without the need for smart features.
Those who want keyless convenience or remote access.
Key specs: Type: Single Cylinder Deadbolt - Finish: Satin Nickel, Bright Brass, Matte Black - Security: ANSI Grade 1 - Keyway: Schlage C - Latch: Adjustable 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inch
Why we picked it: The Kwikset Juno is a stylish and affordable passage knob for interior doors. Its turn-button privacy lock is perfect for bathrooms and bedrooms. The adjustable latch fits standard door preparations. It's a great value for updating multiple doors in your home.
Homeowners looking for an affordable, attractive knob for interior doors that need privacy locking.
Those needing a handleset or exterior-grade security.
Key specs: Type: Passage Knob - Finish: Matte Black, Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze - Security: ANSI Grade 2 - Latch: Adjustable 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inch - Warranty: Lifetime mechanical
Why we picked it: The Yale Real Living Touchscreen Deadbolt offers a sleek, key-free entry experience. The backlit keypad is easy to see at night. Auto-lock can be programmed to lock after a set time. It's a solid choice for those wanting a straightforward touchscreen lock.
Users who prefer a keypad deadbolt without the complexity of a full smart home system.
Those needing remote access without purchasing additional modules.
Key specs: Type: Touchscreen Deadbolt - Finish: Satin Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Polished Brass - Security: ANSI Grade 2 - Connectivity: Optional Yale Connect Module - Power: 4 AA batteries
A passage handle (non-locking) is for closets or hallways. A privacy handle locks from the inside with a turn button or push button, used for bathrooms or bedrooms. An entry handle has a keyed cylinder for exterior doors.
ANSI Grade 1 is the highest residential security, recommended for exterior doors. Grade 2 is good for most residential entry doors. Grade 3 is basic and best for interior use only.
Yes, most smart handles are designed for DIY installation with standard tools. They typically replace an existing deadbolt or knob. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Satin nickel and matte black are popular for their durability and resistance to fingerprints and tarnish. Oil-rubbed bronze also holds up well but may show wear over time.
Identify whether you need a passage (non-locking), privacy (locking from inside), or entry (keyed) handle. For exterior doors, consider a deadbolt or handleset for better security.
If you want keyless entry, remote access, or integration with smart home systems, choose a smart lock. Look for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave connectivity based on your needs.
Select a finish that complements your door and home decor. Common finishes include satin nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze. Ensure the style matches other hardware in your home.
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Security rating | The ANSI Grade (1-3) indicates resistance to forced entry. Grade 1 is best for exterior doors; Grade 2 is adequate for most residential entry; Grade 3 is for interior use only. |
| Smart connectivity | Smart handles offer keyless entry, remote access, and voice control. Consider whether you need Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a hub. Some locks support Apple HomeKit, Alexa, or Google Assistant. |
| Finish and material | Durable finishes like satin nickel or matte black resist tarnish and fingerprints. Solid metal construction (zinc, brass, steel) ensures longevity and a premium feel. |
| Ease of installation | Most handles fit standard door prep (2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inch backset). Look for adjustable latches and clear instructions. Some smart locks require additional wiring or a hub. |
Every product above was scored out of 10 on the same six-part rubric, then sorted into an S to C tier. We do not accept free units or payment for placement, and price or affiliate commission never factors into the score.
| Criterion | What we check | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Core performance | The numbers that define the category: capacity, power, resolution, battery life, speed or output, taken from manufacturer specs and cross-checked against independent test data where it exists. | High |
| Build & reliability | Materials, warranty length, brand track record, and how often the model shows up in long-term failure or return complaints. | High |
| Real-world usability | Weight, dimensions, noise level, setup difficulty and day-to-day friction, drawn from owner reviews and published measurements. | Medium |
| Running cost | Ongoing costs beyond the purchase: subscriptions, consumables, energy use or maintenance, where they apply to the category. | Medium |
| Owner feedback | Patterns across aggregated verified owner reviews: recurring praise, recurring complaints, and whether the experience matches the marketing. | Medium |
| Value | What you get relative to the rest of the field at a similar price band, not an absolute price judgment. | Medium |
Sources: manufacturer spec sheets and manuals, retailer listing data, aggregated verified owner reviews, and published independent test results where available for the category.
Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, its ranking is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review. Hands-on impressions, when included in a product entry above, are clearly written from direct use.
We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.