Access Control Systems

We regularly survey BuyerZone users to ask how their purchases went. We've used their responses to provide a sampling of actual prices paid for access control systems.

The biggest single factor that will impact your total costs is how many doors you need to protect, so take some time to consider the use of each door in your security system. Access to storage, HR records, and sensitive computer equipment is often limited to just a small number of employees - simply giving them keys can provide the security you need at a drastically lower cost. Often, the best choice is to use access control only for one or two main doors, and use basic keys for others.

Another way to reduce costs is to use existing hardware: most door-locking hardware is compatible with multiple access control systems. Have the brands and model numbers of existing equipment on hand when you talk to potential suppliers so you can ask about compatibility.

Before committing to a purchase, be sure to get all the costs you'll be liable for in writing. These can include monthly maintenance fees, per-card charges for changes or new employees, and other ongoing costs.

Access control system prices

"Identcard Access Control - $15,000." [500 plus unique users, 6 - 10 doors] -- Industrial manufacturing, Sparta, Tennessee

"$5,000 full package for two doors." [26 - 50 users] -- Financial services provider, Carlsbad, California

"$2,950 for a card access system with door latch and 200 cards." [200 users, 6 - 10 doors] -- Real estate management, Indianapolis, Indiana

"$3,000 - 3 doors, monitored service." [500 plus users, 6 - 10 doors] -- Manufacturing plant, Buffalo, New York

"Basic key access pad for $525 and a $29 monthly maintenance fee." [1-25 users, 1 door] -- Business service provider, San Diego, California

"$1,000 single door entry system w/ 25 proximity tags, 10 key proximity reader, battery backup, configuration software and mag lock." -- Church, Ozark, Missouri

"Approx. $5,000 -- NStar control panel, 2 Omni10 proximity readers, standby battery, 50 keytags, 2 electric strikes, 2 door closers, 2 latch protectors, LEM1DLS Master Station with built in door release, LE-DA outside door station." -- Health care products manufacturer, Houston, Texas

"$1,325 for all hardware and installation, $3 per proximity card, $11.10/month maintenance." [100-499 users, 1-2 doors] -- Child services provider, Romeoville, Illinois

"$1,000 install, $100/mo - existing magnetic door previously fitted with card system." [51 - 99 users] -- Telecommunications services, New York, New York

Want more information on choosing an access control system? Read our Access Control System Buyer's Guide.

Information was provided by BuyerZone users. Quotes have been edited for clarity only.