Access control for apartments: electric strike plate or magnetic lock?
Access control is crucial for apartment complexes. Residents want convenience, managers want security, and installers seek reliability. But which solution is best suited to your building: an electric strike or an electromagnetic lock?
Intercom lock for apartments: electric strike plate or magnetic lock?
Access control is crucial for apartment complexes. Residents want convenience, managers want security, and installers seek reliability. But which solution is best suited to your building: an electric strike or an electromagnetic lock?
In this blog, we explain the differences, show the pros and cons of both systems, and help you choose based on your door type, intercom, and usage.
What does an electric strike do?
An electric strike plate replaces the traditional strike plate in the door frame.
When power is applied (for example via the intercom or an access controller), the mechanism tilts, releasing the lock's latch.
The door opens — without anyone having to turn the key.
Advantages of a strike plate:
- Compact, invisible mounting in the frame
- Low power consumption
- Works with existing mechanical locks
- Ideal for apartment front doors and interior doors
Disadvantages:
- Usually less holding power than a magnetic lock
- Mechanical part that can show wear after years
Popular models:
- YLI YS-131-NO-S – compact, 12V DC, fail-secure
- CDVI T290SIR12 – with recessed night lock, with reversible stainless steel front plate.
What does an electromagnetic lock do?
A magnetic lock consists of an electromagnet (on the frame) and a metal plate (on the door).
When power is applied, the magnet pulls the door firmly closed—up to 500 kg of holding force . As soon as the power is released, the magnet releases, allowing the door to open.
Advantages of a magnetic lock:
- Very high holding force (up to 500 kg)
- No moving parts = extremely durable
- Quiet and wear-resistant
- Ideal for glass doors, gates and communal entrances
Disadvantages:
- Always need tension to stay closed (fail-safe)
- Requires precise mounting with brackets
Recommended models:
- YLI YM-280N – universal lock for interior and exterior doors
- YLI YM-500N – heavy-duty version with 500 kg holding force
Fail-safe or fail-secure?
For apartments this is an important choice.
-
Fail-safe: the lock opens in case of power failure .
→ Safe in emergency situations or fire. -
Fail-secure: the lock remains closed in the event of a power failure .
→ Better against burglary or unwanted access.
Rule of thumb:
- For shared doors (entrances, fire exits) → fail-safe
- For private doors or offices → fail-secure
Which solution is better for apartments?
That depends on the situation.
| Door type | Recommended lock | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Main entrance (with intercom) | Electric strike plate (fail-secure) | Compact, works with existing day bolt |
| Glass door / portal | Magnetic lock (280-500kg) | No mechanical damage, quiet in use |
| Gate or fence | Magnetic lock (waterproof model) | High holding power and weather resistant |
| Residents' interior door | Strike plate 12V DC | Easy to connect to indoor station |
Connecting to an intercom system
Both strike plates and magnetic locks work with virtually all Dahua , Hikvision , Akuvox and Safire intercoms.
You connect them to the NO/NC relay output of the outdoor station or via an access controller .
Use a 12V power supply (min. 1A) and pay attention to the polarity (for magnetic locks usually +V and GND).
For added security, you can set a time delay so the lock only receives power for 2–3 seconds after a call.
Practical example
A homeowners' association chooses a Dahua VTO4202F intercom at the main entrance.
The installer installs a YS-131-NO-S striking plate on 12V DC.
When a resident presses “Open” in the app or internal station, the strike plate becomes energised and the door clicks open.
In the event of a power failure, the door remains closed (fail-secure), preventing unauthorized persons from entering.
Combine magnetic lock and intercom
In luxury apartments or office complexes you increasingly see a magnetic lock in combination with an access controller .
For example:
- The resident opens via RFID card or facial recognition
- The visitor calls via the intercom
- The administrator can unlock doors remotely via app or PC
This creates a hybrid system that is safe and user-friendly.
In summary
An electric strike plate is ideal for standard doors with a latch bolt — compact, quiet and reliable.
A magnetic lock offers maximum strength and durability, especially for glass or heavy doors.
The perfect solution therefore depends on your door type, security level and desired functionality.
Discover all electric strikes and magnetic locks at UMA-TECH — including brackets, power supplies, and accessories, available directly from stock.
