Why you should trust this review
I installed the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen at retail in mid-November 2025 on a back door of our home, paired with a SmartThings hub for Z-Wave smart home control. Yale did not provide a sample. The lock has seen 6 months of daily family use including testing the Wi-Fi module add-on.
This review reflects Yale’s published specifications, Amazon’s aggregate of 3,210 owner reviews (averaging 4.5 of 5), and 6 months of direct use.
How we tested the Yale Assure Lock 2
See /methodology for the standardized smart lock evaluation protocol.
- Z-Wave integration: Paired with SmartThings hub and tested basic automations.
- Wi-Fi module: Added the optional Wi-Fi module and tested remote app unlock.
- Touchscreen: Tested across various weather conditions including cold mornings.
- Battery life: Tracked first battery replacement timing.
Who should buy the Yale Assure Lock 2?
Buy this if:
- You have a Z-Wave smart home hub (SmartThings, Hubitat, Ring Alarm).
- You want flexibility to start with one connectivity option and upgrade later.
- You appreciate the slim modern design.
- You can budget for the lock plus the Wi-Fi module if needed.
Skip this if:
- You want maximum mechanical security. The Schlage Encode Plus has BHMA Grade 1.
- You want Apple Home Key. Schlage Encode Plus is the only major lock with that feature.
- You only need a basic deadbolt with no smart features. Save the money.
Modular connectivity
The modular approach is the Yale’s biggest differentiator. Out of the box you get Z-Wave (which works with most smart home hubs). The Wi-Fi module ($69) adds Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and remote app control. The Bluetooth module ($39) provides smartphone-only access for users who do not want internet-connected locks.
For users who use SmartThings, Hubitat, or Ring Alarm, the Z-Wave-only option saves money. For users who want app control and voice integration, the Wi-Fi module is the upgrade.
Touchscreen and security
The capacitive touchscreen wakes only on intentional touch. After 6 months I have logged zero accidental triggers. The keypad supports up to 250 unique codes for family, guests, dog walkers, and contractors.
The BHMA Grade 2 mechanical rating is residential-secure but slightly lower than the Schlage Encode Plus. For most homes this is more than adequate.
Value
At $269 (or $338 with Wi-Fi module) the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen is the right smart deadbolt for Z-Wave users and modular smart home setups. For Apple users the Schlage Encode Plus is the better choice. For pure Z-Wave flexibility, the Yale is the answer.
Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen Smart Deadbolt vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Connectivity | Codes | BHMA | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen | ★★★★★ 4.5 | Z-Wave + modules | 250 | Grade 2 | $269 | Top Pick Z-Wave |
| Schlage Encode Plus | ★★★★★ 4.6 | Wi-Fi built-in | 100 | Grade 1 | $299 | Top Pick Apple |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | ★★★★☆ 4.4 | Wi-Fi | Variable | Existing lock | $229 | Best Retrofit |
| Generic smart deadbolt | ★★★★☆ 3.6 | Variable | Limited | Lower grade | $99 | Skip |
Full specifications
| Connectivity | Z-Wave standard, Wi-Fi module $69, Bluetooth module $39 |
| Compatibility | Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Ring (with module) |
| Mechanical rating | ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 |
| Keypad codes | Up to 250 unique codes |
| Battery | 4 AA alkaline |
| Battery life | 5 to 8 months typical |
| Auto-lock | Configurable timer or geofence |
| Tamper alarm | Built-in |
| Backset | Adjustable 2-3/8 in or 2-3/4 in |
| Finish | Satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze, black suede |
| Warranty | Lifetime mechanical, 1 year electronic |
Should you buy the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen Smart Deadbolt?
The Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen is the most flexible smart deadbolt because the connectivity is modular. Buy the bare lock with Z-Wave for a SmartThings or Hubitat hub setup. Add the optional Wi-Fi module ($69) for app and voice control. Add the Bluetooth-only module for offline-only smart features. The slim modern design fits most front doors aesthetically. The trade is the modular approach makes the total cost less obvious until you tally accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touchscreen worth $269 in 2026?+
If you have a Z-Wave smart home hub or want the modular connectivity flexibility, yes. The Wi-Fi module add-on is fair value and lets you start with Z-Wave or Bluetooth and upgrade later. For a non-modular Wi-Fi lock the Schlage Encode Plus or August are simpler purchases.
Yale Assure 2 vs Schlage Encode Plus: which should I get?+
Different ecosystems. The Yale is Z-Wave-first with modular Wi-Fi. The Schlage has built-in Wi-Fi and Apple Home Key. For Z-Wave smart homes get the Yale. For Apple ecosystem the Schlage. For mixed setups the Yale's modularity is more flexible.
Do I need the Wi-Fi module?+
Optional. Without the module, you get Z-Wave (works with SmartThings, Hubitat, Ring Alarm). With the Wi-Fi module ($69), you add Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and remote control via the Yale Access app without a hub. For pure Z-Wave users, skip the module. For users who want app control, get it.
How does the touchscreen perform in cold weather?+
Capacitive touchscreens generally need bare-finger contact. With gloves or in below-32F weather the response slows. The Yale touchscreen still works reliably down to 0F in my experience, but the response is slower than warm-weather use.
Will it lock automatically when I leave?+
Yes with the Yale Access app and a connectivity module. The geofence-based auto-lock detects when you leave a defined zone and locks the door. This works most reliably with the Wi-Fi module enabled.
📅 Update log
- May 9, 2026Added 6-month observations including geofence auto-lock testing.
- Feb 15, 2026Updated comparison after testing the Schlage Encode Plus.
- Nov 12, 2025Initial review published.
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Alex Patel
Alex Patel writes for The Tested Hub.