Article

Encode vs Assure vs Halo

Updated October 11, 2026

Three families, three philosophies

Schlage Encode (Encode, Encode Plus, Sense Pro, Arrive)

Wi-Fi-first, strongest mechanical pedigree (Grade 1 B-series roots), Apple Home Key on Encode Plus, UWB hands-free on Sense Pro. Best when the door hardware matters as much as the radio. Look up prep in the model lookup.

Yale Assure 2 (Keypad, Touchscreen, Touch, Plus, Code)

Widest range from $99 (Code) to $309 (Plus with Apple Home Key). Key-free options for minimalists, keyed options for backup-key planners. The modular radio design means buying the right module matters more than the trim.

Kwikset Halo / Aura (Select, Touch, Keypad, Reach)

SmartKey rekeying is the killer feature: rekey yourself in seconds when tenants or keys change. Matter on Select, fingerprint on Touch. Best for landlords and anyone who rekeys often — see the rekey guide.

How to choose in one pass

Run the fit walkthrough, price batteries with the cost estimator, and confirm signal with the signal checker. The family that survives all three is the answer.