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Upgrading your access control system means deciding between two proven electronic locking technologies: electric strikes and maglocks (magnetic locks).
Both secure commercial doors electronically — but they differ in how they operate, how they fail during power loss, and how they comply with fire and building codes.

In this 2025 guide, we break down the differences, advantages, and ideal use cases for each so you can select the right solution for your facility.

What Is an Electric Strike?

An electric strike is an electromechanical device installed in the door frame that replaces a standard strike plate. It works together with a latchbolt lock (like a cylindrical or mortise lock).
When power is applied, the strike releases its latch keeper, allowing the door to open. When power is cut, the latch resets and the door locks again.

Electric strikes can be configured as:

• Fail-secure: Door stays locked when power is lost (common for exterior doors).
  
  
• Fail-safe: Door unlocks when power is lost (used for emergency egress routes).
  
  

Because they retain mechanical operation with a key or lever, strikes are widely considered code-friendly and energy-efficient — power is only used during release.

Common Uses:
Commercial offices, hospitals, schools, government buildings, and access-controlled entry doors.

What Is a Maglock?

A maglock (magnetic lock) uses an electromagnet mounted on the door frame and an armature plate on the door. When power is supplied, the magnet energizes and pulls the armature with significant holding force — often 600 lb to 1,200 lb or more.

When power is cut (by access signal, fire alarm, or power outage), the magnetic field disappears, and the door unlocks. Maglocks are fail-safe by design, meaning they always release without power.

Common Uses:
Glass storefronts, server rooms, labs, interior controlled spaces, and aluminum-frame doors where mechanical locks are hard to fit.

Electric Strike vs Maglock: Key Technical Differences

Feature	Electric Strike	Maglock
Locking Type	Mechanical latch released by electricity	Purely magnetic force
Mounting	Frame-mounted (replaces strike plate)	Surface-mounted (header or frame)
Power Requirement	Momentary (only to release)	Continuous (to stay locked)
Fail Mode Options	Fail-secure or fail-safe	Always fail-safe
Fire & Egress Compliance	Easy to meet with lever latch	Requires REX sensor & emergency release
Holding Force	1,200–1,500 lb typical	600–1,200 lb typical
Key Override	Yes, mechanical backup	No, power-dependent
Best Application	Controlled entry, perimeter doors	Glass or aluminum interior doors

Electric Strike: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Meets most NFPA 101 and IBC egress codes easily
  
  
• Works with mechanical locksets (key override always possible)
  
  
• Power-efficient — draws current only during unlocking
  
  
• Versatile for fail-secure or fail-safe setups
  
  

Cons:

• Requires precise door alignment and compatible latchbolt
  
  
• Slightly more labor-intensive to install in steel frames
  
  

Maglock: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Clean look and fast surface-mount installation
  
  
• Works with glass, aluminum, and frameless doors
  
  
• High holding force with minimal wear (no moving parts)
  
  
• Pairs easily with keypads, card readers, or motion sensors
  
  

Cons:

• Requires continuous power — higher energy use
  
  
• Needs extra release devices for code compliance (REX, push-to-exit, fire relay)
  
  
• No mechanical key override — fully dependent on electricity
  
  

Which Is Right for Your Building?

Choose an electric strike if you need to secure swinging doors with latch hardware while complying with life safety and fire codes. Ideal for schools, hospitals, offices, and exterior entryways.

Opt for a maglock if you’re working with glass or aluminum doors, want a clean, modern look, or need a quick surface-mounted installation for interior access points.

In general, electric strikes are best for perimeter or code-regulated doors, while maglocks are ideal for specialty applications where mechanical locks can’t be used.

Code Compliance and Safety Notes

In the U.S., both systems are regulated by the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, IBC (International Building Code), and local fire marshal standards.

• Maglocks must include a Request-to-Exit (REX) device or motion sensor that automatically releases the lock when someone approaches the door from inside.
  
  
• Electric strikes, paired with lever-handled locks, already allow mechanical egress, making them easier to approve during inspections.
  
  

Always verify fail-safe or fail-secure mode requirements with your authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) before installation.

Why Buy from National Lock Supply

At NationalLockSupply.com, you’ll find a complete selection of electric strikes, maglocks, power supplies, and accessories from the industry’s most trusted brands — HES, Schlage, SDC, and RCI.

• In-stock availability: Most models ship the same business day.
  
  
• Contractor pricing: Volume discounts and project quotes available.
  
  
• U.S.-based support: Experts ready to confirm compatibility with your door and access control system.
  
  
• Trusted brands only: All locks are UL-listed and backed by manufacturer warranties.
  
  

Whether you’re retrofitting a single office door or designing a full building access system, National Lock Supply delivers performance, compliance, and value — every time.