Yale Assure Lock 2 vs Schlage Encode Plus.
These are the two smart locks that dominate Airbnb listings, and both are excellent. The decision comes down to price, how you manage codes, and whether Apple Home Key matters to your guests.
STRKit Editorial
Updated September 2026
Based on editorial research, expert reviews, and host community feedback. How we choose →
Our verdict
Yale Assure Lock 2 for most Airbnbs · $200–$280
The Yale Assure Lock 2 wins for most hosts: it costs less, sets up in minutes, issues per-guest codes with schedules, and integrates with Hospitable and other property tools. The Schlage Encode Plus is the pick when you want Apple Home Key and a heavier, more traditional-looking deadbolt.
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Side by side.
| Product | Price | Best For | Overall | Durability | Value | Guest Delight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Yale Assure Lock 2 Yale | $200–$280 | Every listing type, Hosts managing remotely | 9.0 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 9.5 |
Schlage Encode Plus Schlage | Approx. $280–$350 | Premium listings, Apple-heavy markets | 8.8 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 9.0 |
Which one is right for your listing?
Choose the
Yale Assure Lock 2 if…
- You want the lower price without giving up WiFi and scheduled guest codes
- Your listing runs on Hospitable, Hostaway, or a similar tool that talks to Yale
- You prefer a slim keypad and a lock that disappears into the door
- You manage several properties and want one app for all of them
Choose the
Schlage Encode Plus if…
- Your guests skew toward iPhone users who will use Apple Home Key
- You want a heavier deadbolt with a classic look for a premium listing
- Built-in WiFi with no bridge is a must and you are fine paying for it
- You already have Schlage hardware elsewhere and want one ecosystem
The full breakdown.
Yale Assure Lock 2
Best OverallYale · $200–$280 · 3-year limited
Our Verdict
Best overall smart lock for Airbnb. Broad compatibility, auto-lock, and easy code management make it the most versatile choice.
Why This Matters for Short-Term Rentals
The Yale Assure Lock 2 works with every smart home ecosystem (Apple, Google, Alexa, Samsung). Create unique codes per guest, schedule auto-expiry after checkout, and get arrival notifications. Airbnb reports a 4.95 average check-in rating for listings with connected smart locks.
- +Works with all major smart home ecosystems
- +Guest codes auto-expire on checkout date
- +DoorSense tells you if the door is actually closed
- +Easy retrofit — fits standard deadbolt prep
- +Clean, modern aesthetic
- −Wi-Fi module sold separately for some models
- −Battery life is 6-9 months (plan battery schedule)
- −Touchscreen can be finicky in extreme cold
Best For
- ✓ Every listing type
- ✓ Hosts managing remotely
- ✓ Properties with multiple guest turnovers
Avoid If
- ✗ Properties where landlord prohibits lock changes
Overall Score
9.0/10
Replace Every
5 years
Warranty
3-year limited
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Schlage Encode Plus
Best PremiumSchlage · Approx. $280–$350 · 3-year electronics, lifetime mechanical
Our Verdict
Best premium smart lock. Built-in Wi-Fi + Apple Home Key support — no extra hub needed.
Why This Matters for Short-Term Rentals
Built-in Wi-Fi means no extra hub or bridge. Apple Home Key support lets guests with iPhones tap to unlock. Schlage's commercial-grade heritage means this lock is built to withstand thousands of lock cycles — important for high-turnover units.
- +Built-in Wi-Fi — no extra hub required
- +Apple Home Key (tap-to-unlock with iPhone)
- +Commercial-grade durability
- +BHMA Grade 1 security rating
- +Up to 100 access codes
- −Premium price point ($280+)
- −Best features require Apple ecosystem
- −Larger form factor than some competitors
Best For
- ✓ Premium listings
- ✓ Apple-heavy markets
- ✓ Hosts wanting hub-free simplicity
Avoid If
- ✗ Budget properties where $200 Yale does the job
- ✗ Android-primary guest base
Overall Score
8.8/10
Replace Every
7 years
Warranty
3-year electronics, lifetime mechanical
As an Amazon Associate, STRKit earns from qualifying purchases. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Complete the self check-in setup.
The rest of what this room needs, at the tier we recommend. Worth adding to the same order.
Common questions.
Do I need a WiFi bridge for either lock?
The Schlage Encode Plus has WiFi built in. The Yale Assure Lock 2 comes in versions with WiFi built in and versions that use a Bluetooth bridge; for a rental, buy the WiFi version so codes can be changed remotely.
Which lock lasts longer on batteries in a rental?
Both run on AA batteries and both last months in normal rental use. WiFi locks drain faster than Bluetooth-only locks, so put battery checks on your turnover checklist regardless of brand.
Can either lock be used with a physical key as backup?
Yes. Both keep a keyed cylinder as a backup, which is exactly why a lockbox with a spare key belongs next to every smart lock in a rental.