Quick answer
Fobs and cards are the most common choice for businesses and strata buildings because they’re cheap to add and easy to cancel. PIN codes suit side doors and homes where nobody wants to carry anything. Face recognition gives hands-free entry and stops people sharing access. Many sites combine two methods on the same door.
The four main options
Fob or card
Tap to enter. Cheap per user, quick to cancel, but fobs can be lent or lost.
PIN code
Nothing to carry and easy to change, but codes can be shared or watched over a shoulder.
Mobile phone
Your phone is the key. Great for temporary visitor passes and remote unlock.
Face recognition
Hands-free and can’t be lent to someone else. Higher cost per door.
How they compare
| Method | Security | Convenience | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fob or card | Good | High | Offices, strata, staff entries |
| PIN code | Moderate | High | Side doors, homes, storerooms |
| Mobile phone | Good | High | Modern offices, visitors, tradies |
| Face recognition | Very good | Very high | Busy entries, secure rooms |
| Fob plus PIN | Very good | Moderate | Server rooms, medication, cash |
Questions to ask yourself
How many people need access?
For a handful of people, PIN codes may be enough. For dozens of staff or residents, fobs or face recognition are easier to manage and track.
How often do people come and go?
High staff turnover, contractors and tenants changing all favour a system where access can be added and removed instantly, such as fobs, phones or face recognition.
Does it matter who exactly came in?
Fobs and codes can be shared. If you need to know exactly who entered, such as for medication rooms or cash areas, use face recognition or fob plus PIN.
Are there privacy considerations?
Face recognition stores face data for each user. Tell staff how it is used and stored, limit admin access, and consider offering a fob as an alternative for anyone who prefers it.
Combining methods
Many readers accept more than one credential. A common setup is fobs for staff, PIN codes for cleaners on a schedule and phone access for visitors, all on the same door. Access control can also link to your alarm and cameras, so the alarm disarms when an authorised person enters and every entry is saved with video.
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