If you bore easily and don't like details, skip this review - there are plenty of useless one and two sentence reviews you can read.
I read reviews prior to purchasing...and I HATE when people provide inaccurate information. If you aren't sure of something, I don't know why you'd review it.
I chose this particular Schlage pin-pad lock for a few reasons. The first is it replaced an earlier stand-alone Schlage pin-pad lock that lasted for 10 years. It was still functioning, but the numbers became less responsive and mushy. I could've simply changed our codes, but it was time for a technology upgrade. I like this model because of the non-mechanical touch-sense buttons that this unit offered - no buttons to wear-out. The keypad consists of raised, solid metal symbols that electrically sense when they're touched - much more durable since there's nothing mechanical to wear out.
Installation was very easy as long as you have a small degree of mechanical aptitude. Knowing how to change out a lock set to me is homeowner 101. But if you really lack such basic mechanical skills, go ahead and pay a handyman $100 to install it. The physical installation should not take you more than 20 minutes, including removing the old one. But before installing it I suggest unpacking the unit, putting the included Duracell batteries in it, then temporarily connecting the indoor and outdoor assemblies with the wire harness. Next, download the Schlage Home App, register your account and follow the prompts to gain connectivity to the unit. It walks you through step by step. I would then configure your door settings based on preference (name the door, auto lock time, keypad beeps, notifications, etc.). Lastly, enter your codes and save them to the lock. At this point, you can begin physically installing the lock set. No sense in doing so until you know you have connectivity. Note...You do not NEED to administer this via the App and Wi-Fi, but it makes it so much easier.
Now to clarify what was conflicting among various reviews...The backup key will absolutely unlock and re-lock the door if the batteries were to completely die. The key does not actually operate the latch bolt...it simply turns the mechanism that controls whether the outside lever retracts the latch bolt or not. I tested the above with the batteries removed and was able to unlock the door and then put it back into locked position. I think some people are confused because turning the key doesn't retract the latch - it just allows the lever to retract the latch.
Another nice feature is the unit will send you low battery messages when they are low. The App also displays the current battery percentage. My older version had no connectivity and would indicate low battery via a series of beeps. Like many devices such as smoke detectors, I changed the battery once a year not knowing the actual status. Because this unit is also Wi-Fi connected, the estimated battery life is 6 months...but having the status displayed and being warned of low battery helps assure when they actually need to be changed.
The App also allows you to customize codes and receive notifications for when the code is used. This is helpful for knowing when kids come home, etc. You can set notifications based on user, so I don't get notified when I or my wife uses it assuming everyone has their own code. Codes can be from 4 to 8 digits in length. The App also keeps an event history that you can review.
I am very happy with the build quality and functionality of the unit. Schlage is known to produce very good quality residential door locks and components. This was a great improvement.
NOTE: I purchased this item on Amazon for full price and have no affiliation to the seller. I try to write helpful, unbiased and insightful reviews because I also read reviews prior to making my own buying decisions. I notice many reviews lack helpful information, are not well written or give poor reviews based on not following directions, failing to read the product details prior to purchasing, inexperience or lack of skill. Writing useful reviews helps pay it forward.
| Brand | SCHLAGE |
|---|---|
| Special Feature | Touchscreen,Wifi |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 3 x 3 x 5.88 inches |
| Material | Nickel |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Security |
| Style | Camelot |
| Color | Satin Nickel |
| Included Components | Installation Hardware, Installation Instructions |
| Controller Type | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Item Weight | 4.25 Pounds |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Connectivity Protocol | Wi-Fi |
| Manufacturer | Schlage |
| Part Number | FE789WBCAM619ACC |
| Item Weight | 4.25 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 3 x 3 x 5.88 inches |
| Item model number | FE789WBCAM619ACC |
| Size | Camelot |
| Pattern | Accent |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Number Of Pieces | 1 |
| Special Features | Touchscreen,Wifi |
| Batteries Included? | Yes |
| Batteries Required? | Yes |
| Battery Cell Type | Alkaline |
| Warranty Description | Backed by a limited lifetime mechanical and finish warranty, and a limited three-year electronics warranty. See Schlage warranty for full details. Warranty valid only on "Ships from and sold by Amazon or Buildcom" purchases. |
