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Best Smart Lever Handle Replacement

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever

The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever is the premier smart lock for replacing a standard doorknob, offering keypad access, built-in Wi-Fi, and a convenient physical control panel inside.

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever – buy now
3.9(529 reviews)
$299 - $310

via Amazon.com

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Pros
  • +Replaces a doorknob/lever for doors without a deadbolt, featuring an accessibility-friendly handle
  • +Includes physical buttons on the interior to easily toggle auto-lock and passage mode
  • +Offers impressive battery life, often exceeding six months on a single set of batteries
Cons
  • Lacks compatibility with Apple Home, limiting smart ecosystem options for iPhone users
  • As a full handle replacement, installation is more involved than a simple retrofit adapter
  • Higher price point compared to standard deadbolt-focused smart locks
See how this compares to similar productsFull Comparison →

The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever fills a specific and important niche: providing smart lock functionality for doors that lack a deadbolt, such as interior doors, garage entry doors, or certain apartment doors. It is a full replacement for a traditional doorknob or lever, installing directly into a single bore hole. The lever handle itself is designed for easy operation, benefiting those with mobility concerns. Its standout user-friendly feature is the pair of physical buttons on the interior assembly labeled 'Auto-Lock' and 'Passage Mode.' This allows anyone inside to instantly disable the auto-locking function without needing an app or memorizing a code—a simple yet brilliant solution to a common smart lock frustration. Like its sibling, the Schlage Arrive, it boasts built-in Wi-Fi for remote management, a tactile rubber keypad, and a physical keyway for backup access. It also demonstrates excellent battery longevity. The primary limitation is its lack of Apple Home compatibility, which may deter users invested in that ecosystem. Installation, while not overly complex, is more involved than installing a retrofit adapter, as it requires removing the old handle and aligning the new hardware. For situations where a deadbolt is not present or desired, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever provides a secure, intuitive, and fully-featured smart locking solution that is particularly well-suited for households and accessibility needs.

Last updated:

James CarterSenior Tech Reviewer

James has reviewed consumer electronics and gadgets for over 6 years. He specializes in audio equipment, cameras, and smart home devices.

Product FAQs

Yes, for most buyers. The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Lever stands out for: Replaces a doorknob/lever for doors without a deadbolt, featuring an accessibility-friendly handle and Includes physical buttons on the interior to easily toggle auto-lock and passage mode. The main trade-offs are Lacks compatibility with Apple Home, limiting smart ecosystem options for iPhone users. Check our full Electronics and Gadgets comparison for alternatives.