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Only some Schlage locks need a separate WiFi adapter. The Schlage Sense may use the Sense WiFi Adapter for remote access if you do not already have a compatible Apple home hub connected to your home WiFi. Schlage Encode and Encode Plus have WiFi built in, while Schlage Connect uses Z-Wave Plus and needs a compatible home automation or security system.
Check which Schlage lock you have
Start with the model name in the Schlage app or on the lock’s packaging or documentation. The Sense WiFi Adapter is designed for Schlage Sense; it is not a universal adapter for Schlage smart locks.
| Lock model | Connectivity | Does it need the Sense WiFi Adapter? |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Sense | Bluetooth; the optional Sense WiFi Adapter enables remote access | Possibly. An eligible Apple home hub connected to home WiFi may make the adapter unnecessary. |
| Schlage Encode | Built-in WiFi | No. Use the lock’s WiFi setup and Schlage Home app. |
| Schlage Encode Plus | Built-in WiFi | No. Use the lock’s WiFi setup and Schlage Home app. |
| Schlage Connect | Z-Wave Plus | No. Connected control requires a compatible home automation or security system. |
Schlage distinguishes these models in its Sense compatibility information, Encode product information, Encode Plus product information, and electronics comparison chart.
When a Schlage Sense adapter may be useful
Sense connects over Bluetooth. Schlage’s Sense WiFi Adapter connects the lock to your home WiFi so you can control it remotely through the app. If you want remote access and do not have the compatible Apple home-hub setup described by Schlage, the adapter may be needed.
#1 Best Overall
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes for keyless entry, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and easily manage multiple locks at once - all when paired to the Schlage Home app and connected to a secure WiFi network
- VOICE CONTROL: Works with Alexa and Google Home for optional, hands-free convenience when paired with the Schlage Home app and a voice enabled device
- ADVANCED SECURITY: Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating by BHMA industry experts
- EASY INSTALL: Install in minutes with just a screwdriver, no hardwiring required; Snap ‘n Stay design helps keep the lock on the door so both hands are free; fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in door thickness and 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in backset
When an Apple home hub can replace the adapter
Schlage says an iPad, Apple TV, or HomePod already connected to home WiFi can make the Sense WiFi Adapter unnecessary for the described setup. The company also states that the adapter is not compatible with Apple HomeKit. Check Schlage’s Sense Works With details for the applicable setup.
Availability matters
Schlage says Sense and the Sense WiFi Adapter were discontinued in July 2020. That means the adapter is an existing-owner solution, and its current retail availability is not established here. If considering a listing, confirm that it specifically supports Schlage Sense, along with its condition and availability; do not assume it works with Encode, Encode Plus, or Connect.
Rank #2
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes for keyless entry, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and easily manage multiple locks at once - all when paired to the Schlage Home app and connected to a secure WiFi network
- VOICE CONTROL: Works with Alexa and Google Home for optional, hands-free convenience when paired with the Schlage Home app and a voice enabled device
- ADVANCED SECURITY: Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating by BHMA industry experts
- EASY INSTALL: Install in minutes with just a screwdriver, no hardwiring required; Snap ‘n Stay design helps keep the lock on the door so both hands are free; fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in door thickness and 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in backset
What to use with Encode, Encode Plus, or Connect
Encode and Encode Plus
Both models have built-in WiFi and offer remote access through the Schlage Home app, so neither needs the separate Sense adapter. Their WiFi is part of the lock; an adapter is not an upgrade accessory for a Sense lock.
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Connect uses Z-Wave Plus rather than the Sense adapter’s WiFi connection. To use connected controls, pair it with a compatible home automation or security system. A WiFi adapter intended for Sense does not convert Connect into a WiFi lock.
Rank #3
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Smart WiFI Lever to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app
- ADVANCED SECURITY: Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating by BHMA industry experts
- COME AND GO WITH EASE: Auto-lock can relock the door for you with various time delay options in the Schlage Home app; convenient, control buttons on the interior of the lever let you quickly put it in an unlocked state for easy, frequent use
- SECURE AND STYLISH: Available with traditional and contemporary styles in multiple finishes, the Schlage Encode smart lever offers premium quality and craftsmanship to complement a variety of homes and personal styles
If you are deciding whether to buy an adapter or replace the lock
If you already own Sense, first check whether a compatible Apple home hub connected to home WiFi provides the remote access you want. If not, the Sense adapter is the model-specific accessory Schlage describes, but it has been discontinued, so verify any potential listing carefully.
If you are shopping for a new lock rather than connecting an existing Sense, Encode and Encode Plus are complete lock replacements with built-in WiFi—not adapters for Sense. Schlage’s current smart-lock catalog provides its lineup context. For Sense installation and support, consult Schlage’s Sense FAQs.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes for keyless entry, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and easily manage multiple locks at once - all when paired to the Schlage Home app and connected to a secure WiFi network
- VOICE CONTROL: Works with Alexa and Google Home for optional, hands-free convenience when paired with the Schlage Home app and a voice enabled device
- ADVANCED SECURITY: Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating by BHMA industry experts
- EASY INSTALL: Install in minutes with just a screwdriver, no hardwiring required; Snap ‘n Stay design helps keep the lock on the door so both hands are free; fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in door thickness and 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in backset
Rank #4
- ANYWHERE ACCESS: With built-in WiFi compatibility, you can easily and securely connect your Schlage Encode Deadbolt to your home WiFi network to control and monitor your home from anywhere with the Schlage Home app
- PEACE OF MIND: Lock and unlock from anywhere, manage up to 100 access codes for keyless entry, view lock history, receive customizable notifications and easily manage multiple locks at once - all when paired to the Schlage Home app and connected to a secure WiFi network
- VOICE CONTROL: Works with Alexa and Google Home for optional, hands-free convenience when paired with the Schlage Home app and a voice enabled device
- ADVANCED SECURITY: Secure, encrypted connection; built-in, customizable alarm for door movement and forced entry attempts; fingerprint-resistant touchscreen; certified highest residential Security, Durability and Finish rating by BHMA industry experts
- EASY INSTALL: Install in minutes with just a screwdriver, no hardwiring required; Snap ‘n Stay design helps keep the lock on the door so both hands are free; fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in to 1-3/4 in door thickness and 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in backset
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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