Schlage vs Kwikset Smart Keyless Lock (2020 Comparison)

In the wake of modern home security systems, two names have struck out: Schlage vs Kwikset. Both have competed over the years to produce the best smart home locks. And ultimately, both of them have their strengths and weaknesses.

However, I’m here to help you decide which product wins the race for you. That is a comprehensive comparison of Schlage Camelot BE469 and the Kwikset SmartCode 913. I’ve gone over the differences and mentioned a few similarities.

Products reviewed in this article (in the appearance of Our rating):

So let’s see the full Schlage vs Kwikset comparison!

Schlage vs Kwikset – Comparison Table

	Schlage	Kwikset
Protocol Used	Z-wave	Z-wave
Wi-Fi Adaptor Available	Yes	No
Home Kit Compatibility	Yes	No
ANSI Rating	1	2
UL Listing	No	Yes
Fire Rating	Unknown	20 minutes
Access Codes	30	16
Auto-Lock	Yes	Yes
Expected Battery Life	3-4 weeks	Three weeks

Schlage Vs Kwikset Which One Is Better?

When I reviewed the Schlage and the Kwikset, I noticed some major differences. While both are deadbolt plus keyless entry locks, their features and technologies vary drastically. For instance, I found that the Kwikset cannot connect to your phone, at least not directly.

Aside from that, there were minor differences in security assets. Particularly, the Kwikset stood out for its use of smart re-keying technology. But the Schlage shined with its ANSI ranking and 30 access codes.

However, I found that both suffice as home security systems. They connect to your existing home automation hubs, and both use Z-wave protocols. Both of these are good choices for security. But there are some extras that you may want to consider.

See for yourself which smart deadbolt is better for you. You’ll find that they both fit for various scenarios.

Communication Protocols

Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot

The Schlage Camelot uses a Z-wave protocol to connect to Z-wave enabled home assistants and hubs. They are unable to connect to your phone but connect to Z-wave hubs like SmartThings, Wink Hub, and Iris. And from there, your Schlage smart lock can connect to Alexa and other assistants, including your phone.

Even though Schlage has its smart lock app, the app isn’t compatible with this model, unless you get the Wi-Fi Adapter.

If you want Wi-Fi connectivity, you’ll have to purchase the Schlage Sense Wi-Fi Adapter separately. You can also use your Apple Home Kit to connect directly to iOS devices.

Kwikset SmartCode 913

This Kwikset smart lock also uses Z-wave connectivity. That means you can only connect to Z-wave compatible hubs such as SmartThings and Wink Hub. But this allows you to connect to dozens of other hubs and devices.

However, only a handful of Kwikset locks are compatible with their app, and this one isn’t. You can’t use this lock with the Wi-Fi at all. They don’t currently offer a Wi-Fi adapter, at least not for the SmartCode model.

Not only that, but the Kwikset does not even feature Home Kit compatibility. It’s simply a lock for use with your smart home hubs.

Winner – Schlage

While both use the Z-wave protocol, it is evident that Schlage allows for Home Kit connectivity. And if you want Wi-Fi, you can simply purchase the Sense Wi-Fi Adapter. The same cannot be said for the Kwikset 913.

Certifications

Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot

The Schlage has an ANSI 1 certification, the highest ANSI any device can achieve. ANSI rankings for deadbolts go from 1 to 3. They indicate the strength and longevity of the lock and latch.

However, the Schlage is not UL listed. A UL listing would mean that the lock meets all safety requirements. That includes things like voltage compatibility, security issues, and design flaws. It doesn’t mean that Schlage hasn’t checked those things themselves. It simply means that UL wasn’t the one doing the testing.

The lack of a UL listing isn’t all that bad, though, considering the product is ranked the highest by ANSI.

Kwikset SmartCode 913

The Kwikset SmartCode 913 features an ANSI 2 certification. Its ANSI ranking isn’t as high as the Schlage, so there may be more durability issues. Many people tend to brute force their easy through a deadbolt, so durability is considered crucial.

However, the Kwikset 913 is both UL certified and has a 20-minute fire rating. It means that the wires used in the system are compatible with the expected voltage input. So the circuitry is less likely to burn.

The fire rating is based on a standard fire test. But if the temperature goes above the one used during testing, the duration may be reduced.

Winner – Tie

Both the Schlage and the Kwikset have their certifications and ratings. The Schlage is ANSI 1 rated, but not UL listed, and the fire rating is unknown. Whereas the Kwikset has a lower ANSI rating but is UL listed. And it can withstand a fire for 20 minutes.

Access Codes

Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot

With the Schlage Smart Lock, you can add up to 30 personalized codes. That is a useful feature as it allows you to create separate codes for each individual. Particularly, hotels and apartment complexes can make use of these.

Regular homeowners can use it too, but only if you have a lot of frequent visitors. An example would be letting in a pet or baby sitter. The availability of 30 codes means it will be a while before you need to erase codes to make room for new ones.

Kwikset SmartCode 913

The Kwikset 913 only has 16 personalized codes. These are still useful for homeowners to let in friends and sitters. But for anyone who runs a high-end hotel, you’ll be needing more codes.

It also means that you’ll need to erase the codes set for previous owners constantly. However, since a hotel room is only owned by one or two people, you can just erase the database. It also gives you adequate space to add codes for other people who may need to enter, such as security.

What I found was that the Kwikset can still be used for people who rent their houses frequently. Once the tenants leave, simply change the code and give it to the new tenants.

Winner – Schlage

While Schlage offers more access codes, it’s not like the Kwikset doesn’t offer enough. It’s just that the Schlage lock can be used in a wider perspective, by multiple people. On the other hand, the Kwikset 913 lock doesn’t have the same adjustability. It’s still a good choice for homeowners if you won’t be having that many people are frequently visiting.

Security Features

Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot

Lastly, we look at the method of use. Schlage offers two methods: deadbolt and keyless. In the keyless entry, you simply type in your dedicated code, and the door will unlock. Or you can use a key to unlock the deadbolt traditionally.

The traditional method is good as it makes up for any technical issues you might experience. The keypad is a touchscreen so that you can see it in the dark as well. This smart lock allows you to customize the alarm with up to 3 different modes.

The alarm senses any vibrations at the door and can tell if someone is trying to brute force their way through the lock. It’s an innovative way to stay safe.

Kwikset SmartCode 913

The Kwikset also features keyless entry and a deadbolt. However, what intrigued me here was the re-keying method. You need to use your Smart Key Learn Tool (included in the package). It allows you to safely add a new key to the lock, without calling a locksmith service.

Much like the Schlage, the Kwikset also features an auto-lock along with an alarm. It features a traditional keypad with backlighting to be able to see in the dark.

The interior part features a thumb turn that lets you lock or unlock the door from the inside. A simple “lock” button is also featured, but it’s on the outside. The auto-lock will automatically lock the door after 30 seconds.

Winner – Kwikset

While both have some amazing security features, the Kwikset wins this one for its smart re-keying technology. However, both provide adequate safety and alarm systems. I can safely say that both the Schlage vs Kwikset locks provide top-notch security.

Pros and Cons

Schlage

Pros

• Three customized alarm modes.
• Automatically locks after 30 seconds.
• Compatible with Schlage’s Wi-Fi Adaptor.
• Connects to iOS devices directly through Home Kit.
• Can connect to Alexa, but indirectly.
• Harder to the brute force due to ANSI 1 rating.
• The long battery life of 3-4 weeks.
• Made from steel with a satin nickel finish – rustproof.

Cons

• Not UL listed, and fire rating is unknown.
• No smart re-keying method.
• It does not come with accessories.

Kwikset

Pros

• Auto-lock and alarm feature included.
• Backlit keyed with the one-touch lock button.
• UL listed (meets safety requirements).
• It can survive a fire for 20 minutes.
• Smart re-keying technology with Smart Key Learn Tool.
• Connects to SmartThings and other Z-wave hubs.
• The battery may last up to 3 weeks.
• It comes with multiple accessories.
• Made from traditional polished brass.

Cons

• Not compatible with Home Kit or Wi-Fi.
• Low ANSI rating.
• Only 16 personalized access codes.

Final Thoughts

After analyzing the data, I think it’s safe to assume that the Schlage is a more dominant product. Don’t get me wrong here. Both the locks had some amazing security features. And that’s not why I chose the Schlage.

The Schlage Smart lock provides a broader spectrum of connectivity. And it can be connected to the Wi-Fi for use with your smartphones, through the separately sold Wi-Fi adaptor. Also, the Schlage has the highest ANSI rating so that the deadbolt can withstand the course of time and nature.

However, when you consider security, I think both offer the same level. It’s just the extra features that make me incline more towards the Schlage.

So that’s Schlage vs Kwikset for you! Read the comparison and make the ultimate decision today.

You can read more about smart locks from our page: The Best Wireless Door Lock