Fumbling for keys in the dark is ancient history. In 2026, unlocking your front door should be as easy as paying for coffee: just tap your phone.
This is the promise of Apple HomeKey. The two best locks supporting this feature are the fortress-like Schlage Encode Plus and the feature-packed value king, Aqara Smart Lock U100. One is a traditional deadlock with a brain; the other is a futuristic gadget with a fingerprint reader. Which keyless future suits your door?
The "Tap" Experience: Apple HomeKey
Both locks support this killer feature.
- How it works: You hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the lock. It unlocks instantly via NFC.
- Power Reserve: Even if your iPhone battery dies, HomeKey still works for about 5 hours using the residual power. You are never locked out.
Hardware: Fortress vs. Tech Hub
Schlage Encode Plus (The Tank):
It looks like a standard, high-quality deadbolt.
Security: Rated ANSI Grade 1 (the highest residential security rating in the USA). It is physically tougher to kick in or drill. It connects via Wi-Fi (no hub needed) or Thread.
Aqara U100 (The Gadget):
It has a modern, rectangular, keypad-heavy design.
The Fingerprint Reader: This is Aqara's secret weapon. A biometric scanner is built right onto the handle/pad. It unlocks in < 0.5 seconds. Schlage does NOT have a fingerprint reader.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi vs. Zigbee
Schlage: Built-in Wi-Fi.
Pros: No extra hub required. Works out of the box with the Schlage app.
Cons: Wi-Fi drains batteries faster (expect 4-6 months battery life).
Aqara: Uses Zigbee 3.0 and Bluetooth.
Pros: Incredible battery life (up to 8 months). Extremely fast response time locally.
Cons: To control it remotely (away from home), you MUST have an Aqara Hub (like the M2 or E1) or an Apple Home Hub (HomePod/Apple TV). Without a hub, it's just a Bluetooth lock.
Comparison Table: 2026 Specs
| Feature | Schlage Encode Plus | Aqara Smart Lock U100 |
|---|---|---|
| Unlock Methods | HomeKey, Code, Key, App | Fingerprint, HomeKey, Code, Key, NFC Card |
| Security Rating | ANSI Grade 1 (Best) | BHMA Grade 3 |
| Power | 4 AA Batteries | 4 AA Batteries |
| Price | ~$320 | ~$189 |
FAQ: What if the battery dies?
Emergency entry?
Both: Have a hidden physical keyhole. You can always use the old-school metal key.
Aqara: Also has a USB-C port on the bottom. If batteries die and you lost your key, you can plug in a power bank to jump-start the lock and enter your code.
Is the fingerprint reliable?
Aqara: Yes, it uses a semiconductor 3D fingerprint reader (like on phones). It works even with slightly wet fingers, but might struggle with very dirty fingers or extreme cold.
Buy Schlage Encode Plus if: Security and "blending in" are your priorities. If you want a lock that looks normal but acts smart and is physically indestructible, this is the gold standard.
Buy Aqara Smart Lock U100 if: You want convenience and value. The fingerprint reader changes the game (no need to even take your phone out), and it offers 90% of the features for half the price.