Encode by Maison Alhambra is a solid, well-regarded Explorer alternative — 7/10 overall, $40 versus $85, a 53% saving. It wears well too — 7/10 for longevity, better than most clones at this price.
AI Scores
AI Verdict
Encode captures Explorer's ambroxan-forward woody-aromatic DNA reasonably well, sharing the bergamot opening and vetiver-ambroxan dry-down. However, Encode leans drier and more peppery-leathery versus Explorer's warmer, rounder sandalwood-patchouli base. The aquatic freshness and cardamom softness of Explorer are largely absent, making Encode feel slightly harsher. Longevity is competitive, often matching Explorer's 6–8 hour performance. At $20–$60 versus Explorer's $80–$120, the value proposition is strong for casual wear, though it lacks Explorer's polished smoothness and mass-appeal versatility.
Fragrance Notes
Encode vs Explorer: The Notes
3 of Explorer's 8 notes show up again in Encode — a 38% overlap on paper. The common ground is Bergamot, Vetiver and Ambroxan, which carries the recognisable core of the scent.
The differences are real, though — Aquatic Notes, Cardamom and Cedarwood from the original are absent, replaced in Encode's pyramid by Sage, Pepper and Leather. Published pyramids are a starting point — the AI verdict below weighs how these translate on skin.
Similar Clones by Note Profile
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Encode a good dupe for Explorer?
Encode by Maison Alhambra scores 6/10 for similarity to Explorer. With an overall score of 7/10, it is a solid alternative.
What is Encode a dupe of?
Encode by Maison Alhambra is a dupe of Explorer — see the full original profile and all its ranked alternatives on our Explorer page. It scores 6/10 for similarity.
Where can I buy Encode?
Encode (around $40) has a live, verified buy link on this page for shoppers in India and the US — use the buy button above rather than searching manually.
How similar is Encode to Explorer?
Encode has a similarity score of 6/10 compared to Explorer, with a longevity score of 7/10 and value score of 9/10.
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Encode
7.0/10 overall