Skip to content
    EIG PRO
    component

    Mag Lock vs Electric Strike

    Two methods of electrically controlling a door: a magnet that holds the door closed, vs a strike that releases the latch.

    What is Mag Lock vs Electric Strike?

    Mag locks (magnetic locks) hold a door via a strong electromagnet — fail-safe but require integration with fire alarm release. Electric strikes replace the standard door strike and release the latch — fail-secure or fail-safe options. EIG PRO chooses based on door hardware, code requirements, and egress. In a coordinated design, Mag Lock vs Electric Strike is selected by required performance, environment, pathway capacity, listed use, compatibility, and the project specification. Product names alone do not establish compliance: the complete channel, supports, terminations, grounding where applicable, and installation workmanship all affect the result. Submittals should identify the exact product and rating before procurement, while field installation should follow the approved details and manufacturer instructions. During closeout, the contractor should verify locations, labels, terminations, and test requirements, then record deviations on as-built documents. Owners should retain product data and results with the room, rack, port, or device schedule. This approach makes Mag Lock vs Electric Strike maintainable after turnover and prevents an undocumented component choice from becoming a future troubleshooting problem.

    Frequently asked questions

    Confirm the project specification, applicable codes and standards, approved products, pathway and power needs, testing, labeling, documentation, and responsibility for ongoing operation. Requirements vary by building, jurisdiction, and owner standard, so this article is a planning reference rather than a substitute for the contract documents.

    Coordinate it during design and submittals, before pathways and finishes make changes expensive. Verify the installed condition again during testing and closeout, then include the result in the owner’s records.

    Published references

    Use the current project documents and adopted code. These links identify the standards owner, regulator, or manufacturer behind this article.

    Where EIG PRO uses this

    Service

    security

    Industry

    commercial

    Industry

    multifamily

    Industry

    education

    Related terms

    Access Control

    Electronic systems that grant or deny entry to doors, gates, elevators, and amenity spaces.

    REX (Request to Exit)

    A device — typically a motion sensor or push button — that signals the access control system to allow free egress.

    Have a project that needs this?

    EIG PRO designs and installs across Texas.