If you’re setting up a security system for a business, school, apartment building, or government facility, one of your first big decisions is this:
Should you use an electric door strike or a magnetic door lock (maglock)?
This choice affects not just how the door works, but how easy it is to install, how much power it uses, and what happens when the power goes out. In 2025, access control systems are smarter than ever — but the basics still come down to the right lock for your needs.
This guide will help you understand both options and how they compare in real-world use.
(Click the image to view a larger version)
What Is an Electric Door Strike?
An electric door strike is a kind of lock you install in the door frame. It works with the door’s existing handle or knob. When powered, the strike controls whether the latch from the door can catch in the frame and lock the door.
How It Works
With these devices, you can temporarily turn off the locking mechanism from a distance — using a button, keycard, or access system — while still using your regular door handle. That means the door stays secure but can still be opened remotely when needed.
What Happens During a Power Outage?
You can choose how the lock behaves when the power goes out:
- Fail-secure: The door stays locked. Good for high-security areas.
- Fail-safe: The door unlocks. Better for emergency exits.
Product Example – VIS-EL104-FSESA Electric Strike
The VIS-EL104-FSESA is a good example of a strong electric door strike. It works on both wood and metal doors and holds up to 770 pounds of force. It’s designed for indoor use.
Key Specs:
- Voltage: 12VDC or 24VDC (Adjustable with wiring)
- Current Draw: 12VDC - 280mA // 24VDC - 140mA
- Holding Strength: 770 pounds (350 kg)
- Operation: Fail Safe and Fail Secure Adjustable
🔗 Check out our full Electric Door Strike Collection.
Wiring and Power Tips for Electric Strikes
Electric strikes use low-voltage wiring, usually 12 or 24 volts DC. You’ll need a power supply, and sometimes a backup if the door needs to stay secure during outages.
Good to Know:
- Use 18-gauge wire for most runs under 100 feet.
- Some new models support Power over Ethernet (PoE+), which lets you power and control them through a network cable — helpful for smart buildings.
What Is a Magnetic Door Lock (Maglock)?
A maglock uses a powerful magnet in the door frame and a metal plate on the door. When power flows to the magnet, it pulls the plate tightly, keeping the door closed.
How It Works
When the door is closed, the electromagnet turns on and locks the door instantly. You can unlock it using a keypad, button, card, or phone — just like a door strike. But here's the catch: maglocks only stay locked when they have power.
That means they are fail-safe by design. If the power cuts off, the magnet turns off and the door unlocks. This is often required by law for fire safety reasons.
Product Example – VIS-ML600LED-BL Maglock
The VIS-ML600LED-BL is a popular indoor maglock that holds up to 600 pounds of force.
Key Specs:
- Voltage: 12/24 VDC
- Current Draw: 12V / 500mA ; 24V / 250mA (±5%) (with LED)
- Holding Strength: Up to 600 lbs (272 kg)
- LED Indicator: Shows lock status
Installing Electric Strikes
Installing a door strike takes more time than a maglock because it fits inside the door frame. In this video we show you step by step how to install one:
Wiring Diagram for a Door Strike to a Power Supply and a Wireless Receiver
Components:
-
Power Supply – Provides DC voltage (typically 12V or 24V).
-
Electric Strike (NC type) – Unlocks the door when power is interrupted.
- Wireless Receiver – Controls the power flow based on wireless commands (like from a remote).
Wiring Breakdown:
Power Supply:
- + (Positive) Terminal connects to the + terminal of the Electric Strike.
- – (Negative) Terminal connects to the – terminal of the Wireless Receiver.
Wireless Receiver:
- COM (Common) terminal (yellow wire) is wired to the - of the Power Supply.
- NC (Normally Closed) terminal is wired (white wire) to the – of the Electric Strike.
How It Works:
- When the receiver is idle, the NC (Normally Closed) relay contact is connected to COM. This completes the circuit, allowing current to flow to the electric strike, keeping the strike locked.
- When the receiver is triggered (e.g., by a remote), the relay opens the NC connection, cutting power to the strike.
- Since the strike is normally closed, it unlocks when power is cut — allowing the door to be opened.
Installing Magnetic Door Locks
Maglocks are surface-mounted, so they don’t go inside the door. You:
- Mount the magnet to the door frame
- Attach the metal plate to the door
- Make sure both parts line up flat
They work great on glass doors, metal frames, and places where hiding the lock isn’t a priority. Just remember: they need power all the time, so add a battery or UPS for emergencies.
Where Each Lock Works Best
Different buildings and businesses need different things. Here's where each lock fits best.
Offices and Commercial Buildings
Use electric strikes when you want clean looks and secure entry without showing the lock. These work great with existing handles and panic bars.
Why?
- Hidden in the door frame
- Works with card readers or keypads
- Stays locked when power goes out (fail-secure)
Apartments and Residential Buildings
Use maglocks when safety and easy exit are most important. These are common on doors to shared gyms, mailrooms, and parking entrances.
Why?
- Always unlocks during power loss (safer in emergencies)
- Makes a strong clicking sound — residents feel secure
- Works with buzzers, cards, or phone apps
Government and High-Security Areas
Choose electric strikes when you need the door to stay locked, even if the power goes out. This is useful for storing sensitive items or records.
Why?
- You decide how it works during a power loss
- Hidden and tamper-resistant
- Can pair with backup batteries or manual overrides
Schools and Hospitals
Use maglocks to meet safety codes that require fast exits. These locks unlock if the fire alarm triggers or power goes down.
Why?
- Works with emergency exit systems
- Easy to install on many types of doors
- Safe for places with kids or patients
What’s New in 2025: Trends You Should Know
Security tech keeps evolving. Here are the top features to look for this year.
Wireless Access and Mobile Controls
-
Bluetooth Locks: Use your phone to unlock doors.
-
Cloud Access: Check who entered and when — from anywhere.
- Temporary Access: Give one-time entry to visitors or cleaners.
Smart Building Integration
-
PoE+ (Power over Ethernet): One cable powers and controls the lock.
-
IoT Devices: Connect locks to lighting, cameras, and alarms.
- Energy Saving: Monitor and reduce power use across your building.
Solar and Backup Systems
- Outdoor locks now use solar panels and batteries for power.
- Buildings add UPS (uninterruptible power supplies) to keep locks running during outages.
Costs: How Much Will It Really Cost You?
You’ll pay for the lock, the power system, and the installer’s time. Let’s break it down.
Troubleshooting Tips
Common Problems with Electric Strikes
-
Misalignment: If the latch and strike don’t line up, the door won’t lock right.
-
Power Issues: Weak or loose wires can stop the strike from working.
- Clicking sound but no release? Double-check your voltage and wire size.
Common Maglock Fixes
-
Door won’t hold? Clean the metal plate and magnet.
-
Weak hold? Make sure the plate fully touches the magnet.
- No power? Test your power supply and backup battery.
FAQs – Quick Answers
Q: What’s the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure?
Fail-safe means the door unlocks when power is lost (like maglocks).
Fail-secure means the door stays locked (like most electric strikes).
Q: How strong should my lock be?
- 600–1,200 pounds is enough for most commercial doors.
- For secure rooms or windy locations, go higher — 1,500+ pounds.
Q: Can these locks work with keypads, cards, or phones?
Yes. Both types work with most access systems. Some newer models also support smartphone apps, Bluetooth, or cloud controls.
Q: What if the power goes out?
- For electric strikes, the door may stay locked or unlocked based on your setup.
- Maglocks always unlock when the power is off.
- You can add a UPS or solar battery for backup.
Final Decision Guide – Which Lock Should You Choose?
Choose an Electric Door Strike If:
- You want the lock hidden in the door frame
- You need the door to stay locked without power
- You’re upgrading an existing handle or knob
- You want lower energy use over time
Choose an Electromagnetic Lock If:
- You need quick and safe exit during emergencies
- You want to install it fast with minimal changes
- You’re securing glass or aluminum doors
- You prefer a visible lock that deters break-ins
Talk to a Security Pro Before You Buy
Still unsure? Choosing the right lock depends on your door type, building codes, power setup, and how the door is used every day.
You can contact our team at FPC Security for help picking the right system. We’ll recommend locks, brackets, power supplies, and mag lock kits that match your exact situation.
💬 Let’s secure your space the smart way.
Contact us here for free expert help.
