Last Updated on March 17, 2024 by Vincent Zhu

Choosing the right electronic door locks for your home is critical, as it influences your home’s security and aesthetic appeal. Schlage and Yale are two leading brands in the door hardware industry, known for their quality, durability, and innovative solutions.

In this Schlage vs. Yale comparison, we will analyze their design, security features, and smart home integration to provide valuable insights for your decision-making process.

What are the Key Differences between Schlage vs. Yale?

What are the Key Differences between Schlage vs. Yale

While Schlage and Yale are reputable brands in the lock and security industry, they have some key differences. Here are the main points of distinction:

Comparison AspectSchlageYaleVerdict
HistoryFounded in 1920Founded in 1840Yale (Longer history)
Main Product ModelsEncode, Connect, SenseAssure Lock SL, Assure Lever, Nest x Yale LockTie
FunctionElectronic keypads, smart lock features, built-in alarmTouchscreen keypads, smart lock features, one-touch lockingTie
Price and CostAffordable to high-endAffordable to high-endTie
DesignModern, sleek, variety of stylesModern, minimalist, variety of stylesTie
CustomizationMultiple finishes, styles, and trimsMultiple finishes, styles, and trimsTie
InstallationDIY or professional installationDIY or professional installationTie
MaintenanceMinimal maintenance, battery replacementMinimal maintenance, battery replacementTie
Rekey ProcessRekeying is possible with some modelsRekeying is not required for most modelsYale (Less rekeying required)
Smartphone AppSchlage Home App, Schlage Sense AppYale Access App, Yale Secure AppTie
Smart Home AssistantAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKitAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKitTie
Hubs & IntegrationsWi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Apple HomeKitWi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Apple HomeKit, Google NestYale (Extra integration)
Support & After-salesLimited lifetime warranty, customer supportLimited lifetime warranty, customer supportSchlage (Longer electronics warranty)
Lock Grades (Mechanical)Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3Tie
Smart Lock GradesEncode, Sense (similar to Grade 2)Assure Lock SL, Assure Lever (similar to Grade 2)Tie

While Schlage and Yale offer high-quality smart locks with various features, they are closely matched in many aspects. Yale has a slight edge in this comparison due to its long history, less rekeying required for most models, and an extra integration with Google Nest.

However, Schlage offers a longer electronics warranty for its smart locks. Ultimately, the choice between Schlage and Yale may come from personal preferences, design aesthetics, and specific functional requirements.

Main Product Model

Schlage and Yale offer a wide range of high-quality Locks for residential and commercial applications. Their main product models include mechanical, electronic, smart, padlocks, and door hardware. Below is an overview of some popular models from both brands, showcasing their quality and features.

Schlage Main Product Models:

Schlage Main Product Models

  1. Mechanical Locks:
    • Schlage B60N: A single-cylinder deadbolt offering ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 security, suitable for residential use.
    • Schlage L Series: A range of mortise locks for commercial applications featuring ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certification.
  2. Electronic Locks:
    • Schlage BE365: A keypad deadbolt with a keyless entry system, providing increased security and convenience.
    • Schlage CO Series: A range of commercial electronic locks designed for various applications, such as office buildings, hospitals, and schools.
  3. Smart Locks:
    • Schlage Encode: A Wi-Fi-enabled smart deadbolt that integrates with various smart home systems and allows remote access through a mobile app.
    • Schlage Sense: A smart deadbolt compatible with Apple HomeKit, featuring Bluetooth connectivity and voice control through Siri.

Yale Main Product Models:

Schlage vs. Yale: Unraveling the Door Hardware for Your Home 1

  1. Mechanical Locks:
    • Yale 840: A single-cylinder deadbolt suitable for residential use, offering ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 security.
    • Yale 8800 Series: A range of mortise locks designed for commercial applications featuring ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certification.
  2. Electronic Locks:
    • Yale Real Living Assure Lock: A touchscreen keypad deadbolt with a keyless entry system, suitable for residential and light commercial use.
  3. Smart Locks:
    • Yale Assure Lock SL: A sleek and key-free smart lock featuring a touchscreen keypad, compatible with various smart home systems such as Z-Wave and Zigbee.
    • Yale Nest x Yale Lock: A smart lock developed in collaboration with Google Nest, offering keyless entry, remote access, and integration with the Nest ecosystem.

Quality: Schlage and Yale are committed to producing high-quality, durable products. They have built strong reputations for reliability and long-lasting performance. Although Yale offers high-security options, Schlage locks typically have higher ANSI/BHMA security grades than Yale locks. 

Price and cost

Schlage vs. Yale Price and cost- Schlage

  1. Mechanical Locks: The prices for Schlage and Yale products are generally comparable for basic mechanical locks, such as deadbolts and door handles.
  2. Electronic Locks: Electronic locks from Schlage and Yale are available in various price ranges, depending on the features and level of security they offer. Generally, electronic locks with keyless entry systems and additional security features will cost more than basic mechanical locks.
  3. Smart Locks: Smart locks from both Schlage and Yale come at a premium price compared to mechanical and electronic locks, as they offer advanced features such as remote access, keyless entry, and smart home integration. The price of smart locks depends on factors like compatibility with home automation platforms, design, and additional security features.

Schlage smart locks, like the Schlage Encode and Schlage Sense, are available at varying prices depending on the specific features and compatibility with smart home systems.

Schlage vs. Yale Price and cost- Yale

Yale smart locks, such as the Yale Assure Lock SL and Nest x Yale Lock, are also available in different price ranges, with the cost influenced by factors like design, smart home integration, and ease of use.

Schlage vs. Yale: Installation

The installation process for Schlage and Yale locks is generally straightforward, allowing most customers to install the locks themselves with the help of provided instructions and basic tools.

  • Mechanical Locks Installation: Schlage and Yale mechanical locks, such as deadbolts and door handles, are designed for easy installation with standard door preparations. Most models come with detailed instructions and require only a screwdriver for installation.
  • Electronic Locks: Electronic locks from Schlage and Yale, like the Schlage keypad deadbolts and Real Living Assure Lock, also offer straightforward installation, with some models requiring additional wiring for power. Installation can usually be completed using basic tools and following the provided instructions.
  • Smart Locks: Schlage and Yale smart locks, such as the Schlage Encode, Schlage Sense, Yale Assure Lock SL, and Nest x Yale Lock, come with user-friendly installation guides and are designed for DIY installation. Some models may require additional setups, like connecting the Lock to a smart home hub or Wi-Fi network. Still, the process is typically simple and guided by the manufacturer’s instructions or mobile app.

Professional installation may be preferred in certain situations, such as for commercial applications or when customers are uncomfortable with DIY installation.

Maintenance

Schlage vs. Yale Maintenance

  • Schlage and Yale’s mechanical locks generally require minimal maintenance. Periodic lubrication of the lock cylinder and latch with a graphite-based lubricant and cleaning the Lock’s exterior with a soft cloth can help maintain smooth operation and preserve the finish.
  • For Schlage and Yale electronic locks, replacing the batteries when needed is essential, usually indicated by a low-battery warning. Additionally, periodic cleaning of the keypad and exterior can help maintain the Lock’s appearance and functionality.
  • Smart Locks: Maintenance for Schlage and Yale smart locks involves battery replacement, cleaning, and ensuring the Lock’s firmware is up-to-date. Updating the firmware can be done using the manufacturer’s mobile app or following the instructions provided by Schlage.

Smartphone App

Schlage vs. Yale Smartphone App

For smart locks, both Schlage and Yale offer smartphone apps to provide users with convenient control, monitoring, and management of their locks. Here’s a comparison of the smartphone apps for Schlage and Yale smart locks:

  • Schlage Home App: The Schlage Home App is designed for use with Schlage smart locks, such as the Schlage Encode and Schlage Sense. The app provides users with various features, and The Schlage Home App is compatible with iOS and Android devices.
  • Yale Access App: The Yale Access App is designed for use with Yale smart locks, such as the Yale Assure Lock SL and Yale Assure Lever. The Yale Access App is compatible with iOS and Android devices.

In conclusion, Schlage and Yale offer smartphone apps for their smart locks, providing users with convenient control, monitoring, and management.

Smart Home Assistant

Schlage vs. Yale: Unraveling the Door Hardware for Your Home 2

  1. Amazon Alexa: For voice control functionality, such as Schlage Encode, Schlage Connect, Yale Assure Lock SL, and Yale Assure Lever can be paired with Amazon Alexa. Users can lock and unlock their doors, check the lock status, and manage access codes using voice commands.
  2. Google Assistant: Schlage and Yale’s smart locks are also compatible with Google Assistant, allowing users to lock and unlock their doors, check the lock status, and manage access codes using voice commands.
  3. Apple HomeKit, such as the Schlage Sense and Yale Assure Lock SL with iM1 Network Module, is compatible with Apple HomeKit, enabling users to control their locks using Siri voice commands and integrate the Lock with other HomeKit-compatible devices.

Schlage Sense vs. Yale Assure: Which one is better?

Schlage Sense vs. Yale Assure, Which one is better

Yale Assure:

  • More connectivity options (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee with optional modules)
  • More smart home integrations (Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings with optional modules)
  • Wider door compatibility (thickness between 1-3/8″ and 2-1/4″)

Schlage Sense:

  • HomeKit compatibility out of the box (without needing an additional module)
  • It has a Wi-Fi adapter for remote access and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Well-known brand with a solid reputation for quality and durability

If you value a wider range of connectivity options and smart home integrations, the Yale Assure may be your better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize HomeKit compatibility without requiring an additional module and appreciate the reputation of Schlage, the Schlage Sense may be more suitable.

Here is a comparison of the Schlage Sense and Yale Assure smart locks, focusing on their key features, design, compatibility, and security.

Comparison AspectSchlage SenseYale AssureVerdict
ConnectivityBluetooth, Wi-Fi (with Wi-Fi Adapter)Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee (with optional modules)Yale Assure (More options)
Smart Home IntegrationApple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant (with Wi-Fi Adapter)Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings (with optional modules)Yale Assure (More integrations)
Smartphone AppSchlage Home App, Schlage Sense AppYale Access App, Yale Secure AppTie
DesignModern, sleek, variety of finishesModern, minimalist, variety of finishesTie
Keypad TypeTouchscreen keypadTouchscreen keypadTie
Key AccessKey override availableKey override available (for keyed version)Tie
InstallationDIY or professional installationDIY or professional installationTie
SecurityANSI/BHMA Grade 2 equivalent (for mechanical components)ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 equivalent (for mechanical components)Tie
Battery LifeApproximately one yearApproximately one yearTie
Door CompatibilityStandard doors, thickness between 1-3/8″ and 1-3/4″Standard doors, thickness between 1-3/8″ and 2-1/4″Yale Assure (Wider range)

Schlage Encode vs. Nest x Yale, what’s the key difference?

Schlage Encode vs. Nest x Yale, what's the key difference

The key differences between the Schlage Encode and Nest x Yale smart locks are:

  1. Connectivity: Schlage Encode has built-in Wi-Fi, while Nest x Yale requires a Nest Connect or Nest Guard for remote access.
  2. Compatibility: Schlage Encode is compatible with a broader range of smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring Alarm, and Key by Amazon. Nest x Yale is designed specifically for the Google Nest ecosystem.
  3. Key Access: Schlage Encode offers a key override option, while Nest x Yale has a keyless design with no key override.

Here is a comparison of the Schlage Encode and Nest x Yale smart locks, focusing on their key differences in connectivity, compatibility, design, and features.

Comparison AspectSchlage EncodeNest x YaleKey Difference
ConnectivityBuilt-in Wi-FiRequires Nest Connect or Nest Guard for remote accessSchlage Encode (Built-in Wi-Fi)
CompatibilityAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring Alarm, Key by AmazonGoogle Nest ecosystemEncode (Broader compatibility)
DesignModern, sleek, variety of finishesModern, minimalist, variety of finishesPersonal preference
Keypad TypeTouchscreen keypadTouchscreen keypadNo difference
Key AccessKey override availableKeyless design, no key overrideEncode (Has key override)
InstallationDIY or professional installationDIY or professional installationNo difference
SecurityANSI/BHMA Grade 2 equivalent (for mechanical components)ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 equivalent (for mechanical components)No difference
Battery LifeApproximately six months to 1 yearApproximately one yearSimilarly, it depends on the usage
App ControlSchlage Home AppNest AppDifferent app ecosystems

Ultimately, choosing the Schlage Encode and Nest x Yale depends on your preferences, design aesthetics, and desired smart home ecosystem.

The Schlage Encode may be better if you value built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, broader compatibility, and key override. However, if you are invested in the Google Nest ecosystem and prefer a keyless design, the Nest x Yale might suit you.

Schlage Encode vs. Yale Assure, what’s the key difference?

Schlage Encode vs. Yale Assure

The key differences between the Schlage Encode and Yale Assure smart locks are:

  1. Connectivity: Schlage Encode has built-in Wi-Fi, while Yale Assure offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, and Zigbee connectivity options with optional modules.
  2. Smart Home Integration: Schlage Encode is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring Alarm, and Key by Amazon, while Yale Assure offers more integrations, such as Apple HomeKit and Samsung SmartThings, with optional modules.
  3. Door Compatibility: Yale Assure has a wider range of door compatibility (thickness between 1-3/8″ and 2-1/4″) compared to Schlage Encode (thickness between 1-3/8″ and 1-3/4″).

Here is a comparison of the Schlage Encode and Yale Assure smart locks, focusing on their key features, design, compatibility, and security.

Comparison AspectSchlage EncodeYale AssureKey Difference
ConnectivityBuilt-in Wi-FiBluetooth, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee (with optional modules)Encode (Built-in Wi-Fi)
Smart Home IntegrationAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring Alarm, Key by AmazonApple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings (with optional modules)Assure (More integrations)
Smartphone AppSchlage Home AppYale Access App, Yale Secure AppDifferent app ecosystems
DesignModern, sleek, variety of finishesModern, minimalist, variety of finishesPersonal preference
Keypad TypeTouchscreen keypadTouchscreen keypadNo difference
Key AccessKey override availableKey override available (for keyed version)No difference
InstallationDIY or professional installationDIY or professional installationNo difference
SecurityANSI/BHMA Grade 2 equivalent (for mechanical components)ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 equivalent (for mechanical components)No difference
Battery LifeApproximately six months to 1 yearApproximately one yearSimilarly, it depends on the usage
Door CompatibilityStandard doors, thickness between 1-3/8″ and 1-3/4″Standard doors, thickness between 1-3/8″ and 2-1/4″Assure (Wider range)

Ultimately, the choice between the Schlage Encode and Yale Assure depends on your personal preferences, design aesthetics, and desired smart home ecosystem.

The Schlage Encode may be better if you value built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. However, the Yale Assure might be more suitable for you if you prefer more connectivity, smart home integrations, and wider door compatibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Schlage and Yale are reputable brands offering a wide range of high-quality lock and security products. Your choice between the two may be personal preferences for design, technology, and specific security needs. It is always best to research and compare individual products within each brand to find the best fit for your requirements.

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About Author

  • Vincent Zhu

    Vincent Zhu has 10 years of smart lock system experience and specializes in offering hotel door lock systems and home door lock system solutions from design, configuration, installation, and troubleshooting. Whether you want to install an RFID keyless door lock for your hotel, a keyless keypad door lock for your home door, or have any other questions and troubleshooting requests about smart door locks, don't hesitate to contact me at any time.