What Are Magnetic Locks?
Magnetic locks, or maglocks, use electromagnetic force to secure a door. When the lock is powered, an electromagnet on the door frame attracts a metal plate on the door, keeping it securely closed.
Advantages of Magnetic Lock:
- High Holding Force:
Maglocks provide a strong, reliable locking mechanism, withholding forces often exceeding 600 pounds.
- Fail-Safe Operation:
In the event of a power failure, the lock automatically releases, allowing for easy exit during emergencies.
- Seamless Integration:
Magnetic locks integrate easily with access control systems like keypads, RFID readers, and intercoms.
Ideal Use Cases:
- High-Traffic Areas: Maglocks are perfect for locations with frequent door use, such as office buildings or retail stores.
- Emergency Exits: Their fail-safe design ensures compliance with safety codes for evacuation routes.
- Controlled Environments: Maglocks are ideal for securing server rooms, laboratories, or other high-security areas.
What Are Electric Strikes?
Electric strikes are installed in the door frame and work with traditional locksets. They allow the door to remain locked until an electric signal releases the strike, permitting it to open.
Advantages of Electric Strike:
- Fail-Safe or Fail-Secure Options:
Electric strikes can be configured to remain locked or unlocked during power failures, depending on your needs.
- Compatibility with Existing Locks:
These strikes work with mechanical locksets, making them an excellent choice for retrofitting existing doors.
- Cost-Effective:
Electric strikes are often more affordable than magnetic locks, especially for smaller-scale applications.
Ideal Use Cases:
- Residential Buildings: Perfect for apartment or condo entrances where traditional key locks are commonly used.
- Restricted Areas: Electric strikes work well for doors requiring a mix of mechanical and electronic locking mechanisms.
- Budget-Conscious Businesses: An excellent choice for small businesses looking for cost-effective security solutions.
| Feature | Magnetic Lock | Electric Strike |
| Power Dependence | Requires constant power to stay locked | Can be fail-secure or fail-safe |
| Locking Mechanism | Uses electromagnetic force | Works with mechanical locksets |
| Installation | Easy to install but requires precise alignment | May require retrofitting existing locks |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | More affordable |
| Fail-Safe Capability | Unlocks during power failure | Configurable as fail-safe or fail-secure |
Choosing the Right Option for Your Business
The choice between magnetic locks and electric strikes depends on your business’s specific needs:
Choose Magnetic Lock If:
- You prioritize high holding force and seamless integration with access control systems.
- Your business requires fail-safe functionality for emergency exits.
- You operate in a high-traffic or high-security environment.
Choose Electric Strike If:
- You need a cost-effective solution for retrofitting existing locks.
- Fail-secure capability is critical for your security strategy.
- Your property includes residential units or mixed-use spaces.
