According to the source review from The Verge, Schlage’s Sense Pro smart lock stands out for its ultra-wideband (UWB) technology that enables hands-free auto-unlocking. This feature distinguishes it from other smart locks relying on geofencing, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi by providing faster and more reliable door access without requiring physical interaction with the lock.
- Hands-free unlocking via ultra-wideband technology
- Seamless Apple Home Key support with iPhone and Apple Watch
- No physical keyhole; touchscreen keypad appears on tap
Product angle
The Schlage Sense Pro smart lock brings significant advancements in residential access control, mainly featuring ultra-wideband (UWB) technology that allows hands-free auto-unlocking. The Verge’s review highlights this as a notably faster and more reliable method compared to existing auto-unlock systems based on Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or geofencing. By detecting precise approach distance, speed, and direction, the lock automatically opens as an authorized user arrives at the door without any need for manual input or physical keys.
Additionally, the Sense Pro supports Apple Home Key, enabling unlocking with iPhones and Apple Watches for both tap-to-unlock and automatic modes. The design is sleek and unobtrusive, lacking a visible keyhole, with a touchscreen keypad that only appears upon tapping, blending high-tech features with contemporary aesthetic appeal. This combination makes it Schlage’s most sophisticated lock to date, designed to fit modern smart homes seamlessly.
Best for / avoid if
The Sense Pro is best suited for users comfortable with smart lock technologies and who primarily use Apple devices, as current hands-free and tap-to-unlock functionalities are limited to iPhone and Apple Watch users. Families or households that have shifted away from physical keys for convenience and remote access management will particularly appreciate the ability to remotely control the lock and issue digital keys to visitors.
Conversely, the lock may be a poor fit for those who require straightforward physical key access due to the absence of a keyway, or for users reliant on Android smartphones, as full support for Samsung and Google devices with hands-free unlocking is not yet available. For individuals who prefer simpler, more traditional smart locks or who desire immediate Android compatibility, waiting for broader device support or considering different models may be advisable.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The Sense Pro is priced at $399, positioning it in the premium segment of the smart lock market. This cost reflects its innovative use of UWB technology, sleek design, and integration with Apple’s smart home ecosystem. While the investment may be justified for users seeking highly reliable hands-free unlocking and modern connectivity features, budget-conscious buyers might explore alternative smart locks offering traditional keyholes or broader platform compatibility.
A notable alternative on the market includes Aqara’s U400, another residential deadbolt supporting UWB with hands-free unlocking via Apple Home Key. Buyers should also consider well-established Bluetooth- and Wi-Fi-based smart locks from brands like August or Yale, which offer extensive cross-platform support but may not match the Sense Pro’s advanced auto-unlock technology. Comparing features, compatibility, and price points will help buyers identify the best lock for their specific needs.