Electric Strike vs Maglock Wiring Comparison
Electric strikes and maglocks are both used for controlled door release, but they behave very differently. A strike usually releases the latch side of the door, while a maglock holds the door closed with magnetic force and usually requires extra attention to safe egress and emergency release.
Practical summary: This comparison is written for CCTV, intercom, alarm and access-control planning. Always confirm the actual device manual, local requirements and site conditions before finalising materials.
Comparison table
| Item | Option 1 | Option 2 |
|---|---|---|
| How it secures | Releases or secures the latch/keeper | Magnetically holds the door closed |
| Fail mode | Can be fail-secure or fail-safe depending on model | Typically fail-safe: power loss releases the door |
| Power behaviour | Often powered only during unlock, depending on model | Usually continuously powered while locked |
| Egress considerations | Depends on door hardware and local requirements | Usually needs careful break-glass / REX / fire release planning |
| Common use | Timber/aluminium doors, many commercial entry doors | Glass doors, controlled internal doors, selected commercial doors |
| Wiring complexity | Often simpler, but latch alignment matters | Often more safety-release wiring and power planning |
Which should you choose?
Choose an electric strike when
- The existing latch and door frame suit a strike.
- You need a fail-secure option.
- You want a neat controlled release without continuous lock power.
Choose a maglock when
- The door type suits magnetic locking.
- Fail-safe release is required or preferred.
- You can properly design break-glass, REX and fire release paths.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a product or cable type before confirming the actual device specification.
- Ignoring power draw, voltage drop, PoE class, or fail-safe/fail-secure behaviour.
- Copying a generic wiring diagram without checking the exact terminal names.
- Failing to document the final as-built wiring and port allocation.
Relevant product examples
For electric strikes, maglocks, REX buttons, break-glass devices and related access hardware, SecurityWholesalers is a relevant reference.