The Schlage smart lock can sync with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. It can also sync with specific home automation systems and smart home devices.
For example, you may have just brought Google Voice Assistant or Alexa at home that you want to connect. On the other hand, you could love to sync your Samsung SmartThings, Wink, Apple, or Homepod with your Schlage smart lock. Whatever you wish to pair it with, keep reading our review to understand how this lock works.
Before you can sync your devices, ensure the lock is correctly installed on your door and that you have the smartphone app that coincides with your hub and lock.
You may need to create an account and complete some initial start-up steps via the app before pairing your devices. Find step-by-step interactive installation instructions for each of our smart locks online:
Automating your home with smart lock systems has become a widespread practice today. As a result, the morality of security devices is available in the market, offering several safety options for your home.
These technically advanced locks are called smart locks that provide keyless opportunities to homeowners. Such innovative products can replace traditional locks with smart bolts and even extend to digital keys that allow remote access to your home security system.
This comprehensive review will note the key differences, smart features, and unique applications between Schlage Connect and Sense.
Schlage Connect vs. Schlage Sense
For consumers transitioning slowly from mechanical locks to smart lock devices, Schlage smart locks provide a user-friendly, stress-free, and simple application.
Schlage deadbolt combines traditional deadbolts with smart technology with over years of experience in home automation systems.
Their meticulous craftsmanship offers secure frameworks in the form of high-quality locks with multiple products in their lineup.
Two reliable smart locks providing a retrofit setup that aligns with an existing traditional security system are – Schlage Connect & Schlage Sense.
Similarities – Schlage Sense vs Schlage Connect
With a smart lock, you’ll never miss a visitor or need to worry about controlling your home security system.
Your smart lock will either completely replace the traditional lock or function only in the interiors of a conventional lock. Between Schlage Sense & Connect, here are a few things the two smart door locks have in common:
- Both Schlage Sense & Connect are compatible with Alexa when they’re individually paired with a home automation hub like Wink or Smart Things
- Both smart locks can be remotely accessed through the application on Android and iOS phones
- Both Schlage dook lock Sense & Connect feature a key cylinder as a backup that includes a manual key in unexpected situations.
- In terms of design, the similarity between the Connect & Sense smart lock is the illuminated display screen.
- Both smart locks feature a built-in alarm system that alerts consumers for forced entry or in case of burglaries.
- Both smart locks run on 4 AA batteries and feature a low-battery warning setup.
- Both smart locks have a simple installation process, several keypads that light up upon use, and up to 30 access codes.
- Both Schlage Connect & Sense feature limited lifetime warranties along with the highest residential security accreditation of Grade 1
Differences – Schlage Connect vs. Sense
Connectivity
One of the biggest differences between Schlage Sense and Connect is the technology on which both smart locks function.
While Schlage Connect functions well with Zigbee & Z wave-enabled devices, compared to Schlage Connect, Schlage Sense is only Bluetooth-enabled.
As a result, if you’re planning on expanding your home with an assembly of smart devices and will soon need a smart hub, then Schlage Connect is a far more appropriate choice.
Remote Access
Remote access control in Schlage Sense offers two options while pairing with a third-party home automation system – pair the lock with an Apple TV or iPad for a HomeKit-enabled smart home system or connect the safety with the Wi-Fi network at home, and it connects smoothly.
The only drawback with the Schlage Sense is that it only features a Bluetooth option. So, in this case, you will need to buy a Wi-Fi adaptor separately for connecting the smart lock with the router.
Schlage Connect, on the other hand, has a simpler remote access application since it utilizes Z-wave technology.
Moreover, with smart communication, the Schlage deadlock can easily connect with smart home hubs like Wink or SmartThings that are also Z wave enabled.
You won’t need a separate Wi-Fi adaptor since the smart lock will efficiently function within a Z wave-enabled smart setup.
Voice Control
The voice control integration is another significant difference in comparing Schlage Sense vs. Connect. Sense smart lock is the only device that can function with Siri since it supports Apple HomeKit.
Additionally, Schlage Sense functions well with Apple TVs and iPads inside the house if you’re within 40 feet of range.
Schlage Connect works remotely with a smart home hub and can be integrated within a Z wave-enabled system as long as you download the application for either Wink or SmartThings.
Schlage Connect smart lock is compatible with Amazon Alexa, but you’ll need a smart home hub to process commands.
Feature Wise Comparison of Schlage Connect vs. Sense
Ergonomics
In terms of design, both Schlage Connect & Schlage Sense smart locks have a simple, sleek, and contemporary frame. There are many similarities in terms of interface, but if you’re an avid Apple user, then the Schlage Sense would be an apt choice.
While Schlage Sense has modest exteriors with a contoured bottom, Schlage Connect is slightly longer with a clean rectangular shape.
Both models offer two separate styles – Century & Camelot. Each class is available in a range of colors. Both smart locks feature a touch screen on the exterior portion, which is well-lit and easy to read. The built-in alarm and battery are placed on the interiors of both devices.
Verdict: There is no visible difference between the two Schlage smart locks in their design. Both smart locks measure up to 3 x 5 x 1 inch in size and weigh between 3.8 – 3.7 lb. However, Schlage Connect features approximately eight shades compared to Sense, offering more variety.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Schlage Sense smart deadbolt makes it incredibly easy to access the main door using a set of access codes. The keyless entry ensures security and convenience for consumers who are mostly outdoors and have a hectic lifestyle.
Schlage Connect provides an advanced integration system with keyless entry, which is secure and Z wave/Zigbee enabled. The smart locks function on standard 4 AA batteries, and both can notify consumers when there’s a low charge.
While operating both Schlage devices, you’ll notice that Schlage Sense is excellent for homeowners who use HomeKit and Apple devices.
Schlage Connect, however, functions only with Z wave or ZigBee-enabled devices. Hence, customers using Amazon Alexa are a better option. We have a detailed review of the best devices if you are more into customized locking systems.
Verdict: It isn’t easy to decide which smart lock system works better in terms of its compatibility, especially since both smart deadbolts can program 30 access codes.
But if you want to expand your smart home with more devices and already have a smart hub (Wink or SmartThings), Schlage Connect makes a better choice. As for users who prefer using Apple or iOS products, Sense is a compatible smart lock to integrate within the system.
Smart Automation
The built-in alarm system in both smart locks functions on motion sensors. This advanced security technology makes Schlage locks durable and almost hard to break. The feature detects presence outside the door and recognizes a threat if the lock is tampered with.
The built-in security system will notify homeowners of an unknown presence outside the house and offer protection against break-ins. Since Sense and Connect are Grade 1 locks, they are fabricated using high-grade material.
The locks offer three alerts: forced entry, activity, and tampering. The activity alert sounds off whenever someone enters or leaves the house.
The tampering alert will notify if the configuration of the smart lock is being manhandled. Finally, the forced entry alert sounds like an audible alarm if significant force is applied to the door and it is pushed open.
Verdict: Since both Schlage smart locks have been built for two distinct high-end users – Apple HomeKit and Z-Wave/ZigBee- it is safer to say that Connect is more versatile, especially since, on average, more users prefer using smart home hubs like Wink & SmartThings while setting up a smart technology ecosystem.
Schlage Sense focuses on consumer satisfaction by offering a deadbolt security system that particularly furnishes Apple users, but it cannot work with third-party smart hubs; this is a limitation for consumers who cannot afford Apple HomeKit.
Schlage Connect Touch Screen Deadbolt Pros & Cons
The following pros and cons can be found in Schlage Connect:
PROS
- Features an automated home security system that’s built-in with three modes
- Durable design with fingerprint resistant touch screen
- Supports Amazon Alexa Voice Control
- Z wave/Zigbee enabled integration
- ANSI Grade 1 for Highest Residential Security
- Auto-lock feature after 30 seconds of activation
CONS
- Slightly expensive smart lock
- Multiple keys can become a hassle
- Cannot pair with HomeKit or Apple
- Requires third-party smart hub for connectivity
- Relies on smart home hub (Wink/SmartThings) application for remote access
- It does not function with Siri Voice Control
Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt Pros & Cons
The following pros and cons can be found in Schlage Sense:
PROS
- Features three distinct ways to unlock the door
- The sturdy design sports a fingerprint resistant touch screen
- Supports HomeKit Voice Control & Alexa
- It is compatible with suitable iPads and other iOS devices like Apple TV
- ANSI Grade 1 for Highest Residential Security
- Auto-lock feature after 30 seconds of activation
CONS
- Slightly expensive smart lock
- It only features two color modes – Camelot trim & Century trim
- Cannot offer remote access without a Wi-Fi adaptor
- A bulky protrusion on the interiors of the door
- Requires Wi-Fi connectivity since it’s Bluetooth-enabled
- Apple TV required to get a range extension
FAQs
How to Install Schlage Connect/Sense Smart Lock at Home?
Removing the Traditional Deadbolt
The Connect is not an add-on smart lock but replaces your traditional deadbolt at home. You can call a professional locksmith first to install the deadbolt on the door, drill a new hole after measuring dimensions, and secure the smart lock with a few power tools.
Once you’ve unscrewed the cover of the simple deadbolt, there will be two more screws on the inside that you’ll need to remove. These connect the interiors with the exteriors of the deadbolt.
Carefully remove the lock from the interiors first, the outside portion, and finally, the latch towards the sides. Then, encode your password, and you’re good to go.
Installing Schlage Connect/Sense Deadbolt
- The first step is to find and source a faceplate – square, rounded, or no faceplate, depending on the mortise of the door.
- Insert the latch into the door (drilled hole), making sure that the middle hole aligns with the door latch.
- Ensure that the ‘TOP’ marking on the latch always faces upward while punching into the door.
- Secure the door latch into place using a screwdriver.
- The next step involves sliding the smart lock’s keypad portion on the door’s outside section cable wire, which feeds through the door hole correctly, and the sticking out faces up and moves into the middle spot of the latch door.
- Hold the support plate and position it on the inside part of the door in a manner where the side that reads ‘Against the Door’ is placed against the door.
- Pull the cable through the support plate from the other side and line up the bolt holes.
- Screw the support plate securely using two long bolts with the smart lock.
- Grab the inside assembly or the other half of the smart lock, and remove the battery cover.
- Always note down the programming and user code printed on the back of the assembly.
- Once you’ve jotted down the user codes for the initial installation setup, secure the assembly lock and plug the cable into the interiors.
- Route the cable wire into the grooves of the smart lock.
- Position the assembly over the support plate so the table sticks through and lines accurately with the knob.
- Use the long black bolt to secure the upper portion of the assembly plate against the support plate.
- Once complete, slide the battery tray out of the assembly and place the 4 AA batteries into the tray.
- Place the battery tray back into the assembly and connect the battery to the tray.
- Place the battery cover back on and test to check if the lock works.
Once the keypads of the Schlage smart locks lighten up, you’ll know the systems have been turned on. From there, you must enter the user codes, after which the deadbolt extends and retracts.
After that, the smart locks will be ready for manual usage. Next, you will need to connect the smart lock with either a smart home hub application in the case of Connect or a Schlage Home application in the case of Sensor.
How to Install Schlage Connect with Z-wave Smart Hub?
Schlage Connect uses smart home hubs like Wink or SmartThings that are Z wave enabled. Therefore, you will need first to open the smart application for the smart home hub and secure your smart lock device. Once you’ve located the smart lock, pair it with your smart home hub using the ‘add a device’ option.
Open the door and extend the deadbolt out so that it remains locked, after which you will need to press the Schlage button, followed by the standard programming code ‘0’. Initially, an orange dot will blink consistently, and after a few seconds, it will rest on a green check mark, which indicates the connection is set.
How do we Differentiate between Zigbee & Z-wave lock circuits for Schlage Connect?
Zigbee locks feature a blue circuit board, while Z wave locks feature a green one.
How to Manually use the built-in Alarm in Schlage Connect & Sense Smart Locks?
Both Schlage Sense & Connect feature a built-in alarm system for maximized security. While you can change/monitor the alarm system through remote access on your Apple and Android phones, the key factor is installing the application; in this case, Sense utilizes Schlage’s home application for keyless convenience. Connect uses the smart home hub’s application (Wink/SmartThings) for securing the alarm.
The alarm system is default switched off, but you can enable this by pressing the inside Schlage button. On lighting up and giving off a chirping sound, the alarm system is good to go, but if you want to turn it off, hold down on the Schlage button until you see two flashes.
The alarm system will automatically use the ‘Forced Entry’ mode, which can be changed at your convenience. You can also view the entries filed in the alarm’s system to check if any visitor has come and gone. To note this, the alarm system configuration must be changed from ‘Forced Entry’ to ‘Activity.’
How does Wireless Access work with HomeKit for Schlage Sense?
To activate Schlage Sense through HomeKit, you’ll need Apple TV initially installed in your smart home setup. Sense is one of the few HomeKit-enabled smart lock systems, so you can either register for a Schlage account during the programming period or go straight to HomeKit while integrating the smart deadbolt with other HomeKit accessories.
You will need to incorporate the HomeKit system with the Apple TV first before using Sense, and the process is very simple. HomeKit can view the lock’s status – unlocked/locked, activity around the door, and the number of times a visitor has entered the premises.
But to use remote access control, you’ll need a Wi-Fi adaptor. While setting up codes, you can schedule user codes for different individuals, e.g., pet sitters who visit spontaneously and only need temporary regulations.
How do you pair your SmartThings with the Schlage Connect?
With Schlage Connect, you can remotely lock or unlock your door from anywhere, set up temporary access codes for visitors, and connect to other smart devices in your home.
To pair your SmartThings with the Schlage Connect:
In the SmartThings app:
1. Tap My Home
2. Under Things, tap Add a Thing at the bottom of your Things list
3. The app will say, “Looking for devices…”
4. To put your Connect in pairing mode, press and hold the Schlage button on the front of the lock until you see the Green LED light up
5. Tap the device to finish adding it to SmartThings
Check out the troubleshooting steps in our FAQ if you have any problems.
Schlage Connect vs. Sense: Crucial Difference?
A few key differences between Schlage Connect and Sense are worth noting. Schlage Connect is designed to work with Z-Wave technology, while Schlage Sense uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology.
As a result, Schlage Connect is compatible with a wider range of home automation systems but may require more setup and configuration. Schlage Sense, however, is much easier to use out of the box and can be controlled directly from your iPhone or iPad.
Another key difference is in the design of the locks themselves. Schlage Connect features a more traditional “deadbolt” style design, while Schlage Sense has a sleeker, more modern look. Both coils are highly secure, but the Sense may be better if aesthetics are important to you.
Finally, Schlage Connect is available in both a touchscreen and keypad version, while Schlage Sense is only available in the touchscreen model.
This means that if you prefer the convenience of a keypad, Schlage Connect is the better choice. However, Schlage Sense is probably the way to go if you like using your fingerprint or iPhone to unlock your door.
Schlage Connect vs. Sense – Who’s the Winner?
Although Schlage Sense is just another brother lock to Schlage Connect, there are a few reasons why one tops the other. First, between Schlage Connect & Sense, the latter focuses entirely on Apple-based devices; therefore, it is limited in its use and access.
In such a case, Schlage Connect is a better and more versatile smart lock because it is the ideal option for an automated deadbolt.
The smart lock is user-friendly, requires only a smart hub for the interface, and functions well within a smart home integrated system.
So, if you’re considering using multiple smart devices, mostly Z wave/Zigbee enabled, Connect is a perfect choice. It offers color variations, works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, and has a three-year warranty for the best home security experience.