Introduction
Imagine coming home with both arms full of groceries. Before you even fumble for your keys, you hear a quiet click and the door swings open—your phone unlocked it for you. That small moment of relief captures what smart locks are all about: less hassle and more peace of mind.
But not all smart locks work the same way. Two main types dominate the market: electronic smart locks and magnetic smart locks. Both secure doors and can tie into access systems, but they differ in how they work, how they’re installed, and where they shine.
In this guide, we’ll explore their features, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and share real-world examples so you can decide which is the better fit for your home or workplace.
Electronic Smart Locks
Think of an electronic smart lock as a regular deadbolt with a clever brain inside. It still has a physical bolt that slides into the frame, but you unlock it with technology instead of a metal key.
Types of Electronic Smart Locks
- Keypad locks
Tap in a code to unlock. Great for families, short-term rentals, or guests—codes can be changed in seconds. - Bluetooth locks
Your phone acts as the key when you’re nearby. No Wi-Fi needed, so they’re great if your internet isn’t reliable. - Wi-Fi locks
Connect directly to your home network so you can lock or unlock the door from anywhere—even while on vacation. - Fingerprint locks
Just press your finger and go. Perfect for kids or anyone who tends to misplace keys or forget codes.
Features That Make Life Easier
- Remote access control
Lock or unlock from your phone and send temporary codes to guests. Get notifications if someone unlocks the door. - Auto-locking
Set it to lock automatically after a certain time or when the door is closed. No more wondering if you forgot. - Integration with smart home systems
Pair it with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. You can even set lights to turn on the moment you open the door. - Strong security
Look for anti-tampering features such as alarms for forced entry and encryption standards like AES or TLS to keep communication between your lock and phone private. - Backup power options
Most models run on batteries but include emergency power pads or a hidden keyhole for those rare times batteries die.
Installation and Maintenance
- Door compatibility
Check the thickness of your door and the type of deadbolt you have. Most electronic locks fit standard doors, but it’s worth double-checking. - Power requirements
Usually run on AA batteries or built-in rechargeable ones. Expect to change or recharge them every few months, depending on use. - Maintenance tips
- Keep spare batteries handy and set a reminder to check them every few months.
- If the bolt rubs or sticks, adjust the strike plate so the motor isn’t forced to push too hard.
- For Wi-Fi models, reset the connection if the network drops.
- Keep spare batteries handy and set a reminder to check them every few months.
Where They Work Best
Electronic locks are ideal for homes, apartments, vacation rentals, and small offices. They’re designed for convenience: multiple ways to unlock (codes, phone, fingerprint) and the option to keep a physical key as a backup. They’re also great for anyone who wants to integrate door security with other smart-home gadgets.
Magnetic Smart Locks
Magnetic smart locks—often called maglocks—work differently. Instead of a bolt, they use a powerful electromagnet on the door frame and a metal plate on the door. When power flows to the magnet, it clamps the plate tightly, keeping the door shut. When power cuts off, the door releases.
Types of Magnetic Smart Locks
- Single-door maglocks
Designed for a single swing door. - Double-door maglocks
Secure a pair of doors that meet in the middle. - Sliding-door maglocks
Ideal for glass or sliding doors where traditional deadbolts aren’t practical.
Key Features
- Holding force strength
Measured in pounds or kilograms. Higher ratings mean the magnet can resist more force—important for heavy or frequently used doors. - Fail-safe design
Most maglocks unlock automatically if power fails, allowing people to exit safely during an emergency. - Access control integration
Often paired with card readers, keypads, or biometric scanners. The access system controls the power to the magnet. - Security setup
Works best with extras like door sensors, exit buttons, or motion detectors so you know exactly when and how the door opens. - Power supply considerations
Requires a steady low-voltage power supply. Many systems include a backup battery in case of outages. - Emergency release options
Fire alarm tie-ins, break-glass panels, or motion sensors let people exit quickly when needed.
Installation and Maintenance
- Mounting methods
Usually surface-mounted using brackets such as L, ZL, or U for glass doors. - Wiring requirements
Low-voltage wiring from the power supply or access controller to the magnet. Clean cable management is essential. - Maintenance tips
- Check that the magnet and plate line up perfectly. Even a small gap can weaken the holding force.
- Inspect the power supply and fuses regularly.
- Adjust door closers so doors meet the magnet smoothly without slamming.
- Check that the magnet and plate line up perfectly. Even a small gap can weaken the holding force.
Where They Work Best
Maglocks are the go-to choice for commercial spaces, schools, hospitals, and offices, especially where safe exit during a power outage is crucial. They’re also perfect for glass or sliding doors that can’t use a deadbolt.
Electronic vs Magnetic Smart Locks: A Direct Comparison
Security
- Electronic locks: Usually fail secure, meaning they stay locked when power is lost. You can still use a physical key.
- Maglocks: Typically fail safe, unlocking when power fails so people can exit safely.
Quick tip: If you want your door to stay locked during a blackout, an electronic lock is the safer bet. If emergency exit is the priority, choose a maglock.
Installation
- Electronic locks: Often a straightforward DIY project with basic tools.
- Maglocks: Require wiring, a power supply, and mounting brackets. A professional installer is recommended.
Cost
- Electronic locks: Range from budget-friendly to premium depending on features like fingerprint scanners or Wi-Fi.
- Maglocks: Usually cost more overall once you include brackets, power supplies, and professional installation.
Energy Use
- Electronic locks: Use battery power only when moving the bolt or listening for signals.
- Maglocks: Need constant power while locked, which means higher ongoing energy costs.
Reliability and Durability
- Electronic locks: Contain moving parts like motors and gears. Regular battery checks and alignment help them last.
- Maglocks: Have no moving parts in the lock itself and handle heavy traffic well, as long as the power supply is reliable.
User Convenience
- Electronic locks: Offer multiple access methods—codes, smartphone apps, fingerprint readers—making daily life simple.
- Maglocks: Depend on the access control system you pair with them, such as keycards or badges. Perfect for workplaces, but less tailored to home life.
Brands to Explore
- Electronic locks: August, Yale, Schlage, Kwikset, Level, Eufy, Ultraloq
- Maglocks: Securitron, Dormakaba, Allegion, Adams Rite, Hikvision
Market Trends and New Technologies
- Matter and Thread support is making it easier for electronic locks to work with different smart home platforms.
- Improved biometrics mean fingerprint sensors are faster and more accurate than ever.
- Mobile credentials let you use your phone or watch as a key in commercial spaces.
- Smarter power supplies for maglocks now include health monitoring and built-in battery backups.
- PoE (Power over Ethernet) access controllers are emerging, allowing maglocks and readers to get power and data through a single network cable.
How to Choose the Right Lock
- Check your door type: Is it wood, metal, or glass? Single or double?
- Know local fire codes: Some areas require doors to unlock automatically during power outages.
- Define your security goals: Do you need audit logs, strong encryption, or tamper alarms?
- Pick your access method: Keypad, phone, fingerprint, or keycard.
- Match your ecosystem: Make sure the lock works with your smart home or building access system.
- Plan for power: Batteries with backup for electronic locks; a stable power supply and backup for maglocks.
- Set a budget: Include hardware, brackets, power supplies, and possible professional installation.
- Test on one door first: It’s the easiest way to spot issues before a full rollout.
Real-Life Scenarios
- Family home: A Wi-Fi electronic lock with auto-locking and temporary guest codes lets parents track when kids or cleaners enter—without ever handing out keys.
- Co-working office: A double-door maglock with card readers and battery backup handles heavy traffic while meeting fire safety requirements.
- Research lab: Maglocks secure the main glass entrance for safe emergency exit, while interior rooms use electronic fingerprint locks for added security and audit trails.
Conclusion
Choosing between an electronic smart lock and a magnetic smart lock isn’t about which one is “better.” It’s about what fits your space and your daily routine.
Electronic smart locks bring everyday convenience to homes and small offices, with options like remote control, fingerprints, and auto-locking.
Magnetic smart locks are built for busy commercial settings and special doors, providing strong security while allowing quick exit in emergencies.
Ready to upgrade? Use the checklist above and start planning. Whether you’re securing your family home or managing a high-traffic office, the right smart lock will give you peace of mind and make life a little easier.