Top 5 Electric Locks for Interior and Exterior Doors (2025 Update)

Electric locks are becoming increasingly common—not only in businesses and apartments, but also in homes with intercom or access control systems. Where once only heavy magnetic locks were used on gates or glass doors, there are now compact, quiet, and smart solutions for almost any door.

In this article, we'll list the five most popular electric locks available today . Ideal for those who want to open their door automatically via an intercom, keypad, card reader, or app .

1. YLI YM-280N – Electromagnetic lock 280 KG – 12/24V DC

✔ For interior and exterior doors
✔ 280 kg holding force
✔ Universally mountable

The YLI YM-280N has been the standard in access control for years. With a holding force of 280 kg , this magnetic lock offers sufficient pulling power for wooden, metal, and even lightweight glass doors. Thanks to its aluminum housing, the lock is highly resistant to corrosion, and the jumper on the circuit board allows you to easily switch between 12 V and 24 V power.

Tip: Combine with the YLI MBK-280ZL bracket set for glass or outdoor mounting.

2. YLI YM-500N – Electromagnetic lock 500 KG – Heavy Duty

✔ Extremely powerful magnet
✔ Suitable for gates, server rooms and fire doors
✔ Fail-safe security

The YM-500N is the heavier version of the 280 N, with an impressive holding force of 500 kg . Perfect for situations where absolute safety is required—think emergency exits, warehouse doors, or server rooms.

The magnet is fail-safe : in the event of a power failure, the lock opens. This is important for safety requirements in public buildings. After all, you don't want people trapped inside if a fire breaks out.

Technical advice: use a 12 V / 5 A power supply if multiple magnets are connected in parallel.

3. YLI YML-650A – Electric mechanical mortise lock – NO/NC – 12/24V DC/AC

✔ Mechanical locking lock with electric operation
✔ NO/NC connection: works with any access system
✔ Suitable for wooden, metal and security doors

The YLI YML-650A is a powerful electric mortise lock that can be connected to both NO (normally open) and NC (normally closed) doors. This makes it compatible with virtually any intercom or access control system. The lock combines mechanical strength with electrical control: the door remains physically locked but opens automatically as soon as the system is powered.

Thanks to its 12/24V DC/AC dual voltage, the YML-650A works seamlessly with most power supplies. The lock also features a stainless steel bolt, making it suitable for intensive use in homes, offices, and technical installations.

Pairs well with:

• Access control with intercom or card reader
• Interior and exterior doors
• Doors where a strong mechanical lock is required

4. YLI YM-180H – Mini Magnetic Lock – 180 KG – Outdoor Use

✔ Compact size (about 17 cm long)
✔ Low power consumption
✔ Perfect for cabinets, sheds, or garden gates

The YM-180H offers 180 kg of holding force in a compact design. This makes it popular for use in cabinets, interior entrances, or display cases . Despite its compact size, it is robust enough for everyday use.

5. YLI YS-131NC – Electric strike plate with 500KG holding force

✔ Fits in virtually any existing deadbolt recess.
✔ 12 V or 24 V DC version available (note: not adjustable)

The YS-131NC is the ideal strike plate for installers who want flexibility.

Combine the lock with an access controller or intercom relay output and you have fully automatic door opening without any adjustments to the door.

What should you pay attention to when choosing an electric lock?

• Holding power:
  For interior doors, 180 kg is often sufficient. For exterior or security doors, choose 280 kg or more.
• Supply voltage:
  Almost all models operate on 12 V DC , some also on 24 V DC .
• Fail-safe vs. fail-secure:
  Fail-safe = open in case of power failure (fire safe).
  Fail-secure = closed in case of power failure (safety against burglary).
• Mounting position:
  Magnetic locks often require a ZL bracket or U-bracket . For strike plates, simply shorten the frame profile.

Installation tip

Do you want to expand an existing intercom with an electric door opener?
Then use a relay output or NO/NC contact from the indoor station or door controller. Many systems, such as the Dahua VTO , Akuvox , and Hikvision DS-KD series, have standard connections for 12V lock power.

In summary

Electric locks are the link between convenience and security. Whether you want to automate a home, office, or access gate, there's always a suitable solution.

At UMA-TECH you will find a complete range of electric strikes , magnetic locks , power supplies and brackets , available directly from stock.

👉View all electric locks and strike plates here