The Best Access Control Systems of 2022

Below, review and compare the best access control systems in 2022 and find the best solution for your building.

Access control systems safeguard the physical security of office buildings, commercial facilities, and multifamily communities alike.

From the in-depth reviews below, easily compare the best access control systems that are providing future-proof and forward-thinking solutions in building security.

Table of contents
Also, read

Swiftlane Access Control

Swiftlane is a dynamic cloud-based access control system that integrates mobile unlock, face recognition, video intercom and visitor management for a secure, touchless access control experience. The SwiftReader is a compact solution used to secure any building, from small office spaces to high-rise residential buildings. 

Most notably, Swiftlane was awarded the best new access control system by the Security Industry Association in 2020.

In 2021, Swiftlane was recognized several times in the Architizer A+ Product Awards.

Swiftlane Features 

  • Touchless Access Control: Swiftlane provides touchless entry to doors using face recognition and mobile access technology. A person can just walk up the door, look at the reader and the door unlocks. 
  • Remote Management: Swiftlane’s cloud based access control is built to be managed from anywhere. The system is built to provide instant ability to add or revoke access, and connect with other systems like HR, employee identify and login providers, to automate the process of adding or removing users. This allows higher security and leaked access to people. 
  • Integrated Video Intercom: Most access control systems require installing and managing a separate intercom system for handling guests, which results in higher installation, training and operational costs. Swiftlane, however, has a built-in video intercom system for secure visitor management. 
  • Cloud-Based Management: Instead of operating over on-premise software, Swiftlane operates completely and securely from the cloud. The cloud-based dashboard and admin management provides the highest discretion for the end user along with the highest level of security.  

ADT Access Control

ADT is best-known for home security solutions, but their access control system, which is marketed by ADT Commercial, can fulfill basic security needs for small scale operations.

ADT Access Control Features

  • Sensor-based central station monitoring 
  • Manned alarm monitoring and emergency response services
  • Remote capabilities include lock/unlock, video monitoring, password management and system arm/disarm. 

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane’s mobile and biometric access credentials surpass the standard security parameters by operating from the cloud. Swiftlane Access Control plays a preventative role in security, as opposed to a reactive approach based in emergency response services. Additionally, our cloud-based platform allows admins to easily manage users from the dashboard instead of having to navigate through the vendor. 

READ THE FULL REVIEW: ADT Access Control Review

Alcatraz AI

Alcatraz is a face reader that can sit alongside a proximity reader to provide additional face recognition access. It requires setting up an access control system and overlaying the Alcatraz hardware onto it. Alcatraz AI’s face identification is based on deep neural networks that train automatically on badges and switch to facial authentication when ready. The “Rock,” Alcatraz AI’s artificial intelligence based face authentication system, contains a PoE camera, a built-in GPU and badge reader. It can be installed at the entry and connects with automatic door locks like a reader.

Alcatraz AI Access Control Features

  • Video output to a visitor management system via local network or cloud
  • Tailgating detection and email alert (additional license required)
  • Current badge enrollment 

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane’s all-in-one biometric access control system hosts proprietary face recognition software, two-factor authentication access control and visitor management, while Alcatraz AI requires both a separate access control and video intercom system with Alcatraz integration compatibility. Swiftlane’s Face Recognition Access Control also offers mobile capabilities as an alternative or supplement to facial recognition. 

READ THE FULL REVIEW: Alcatraz AI Review

Brivo OnAir Access Control

Brivo OnAir, the company’s latest access control system, is a mobile- and browser-based system that comes with the convenience and cost-effectiveness of a modern cloud-based solution. Brivo Onair allows users to control access and monitor the building using a single integrated platform. Managers can allow or revoke authorization, create schedules, monitor real-time or recorded video footage, and view reports through the Brivo Mobile Pass App or a browser based dashboard. 

Brivo OnAir Access Control Features 

  • Mobile and Siri voice command door unlock
  • Eagle Eye Video Surveillance integration allows user to view live or recorded footage through the app or browser
  • Facility safety features for contact tracing, personnel controls and health checks
  • Remote management permissions
  • Automate and facilitate visitor access

The Swiftlane Difference 

Brivo is built on OEM hardware which relies on HID’s mobile unlock. Swiftlane, by contrast, operates on proprietary hardware which includes all-in-one access control and built-in video intercom. Swiftlane credentials also support all door controllers, and vice versa.

READ THE FULL REVIEW: Brivo Access Control Review

Genetec Access Control

Genetec offers cloud-based software that works with a wide range of industry-leading access control and monitoring hardware including readers, controllers, electronic locks and IP cameras. Genetec Synergis is an IP-based system in which security is provided by recognizing devices based on their IP address. 

Genetec Synergis Access Control Features

  • IP security system integration for real-time and event-driven video monitoring
  • Global cardholder management 
  • Unified intrusion monitoring, video surveillance and access control through Synergis IX
  • Real-time event and custom reporting
  • Individual and group tracking via employee photos

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane Cloud-Based Access Control provides top notch security that is cost-effective and intuitive for a business of any size and need. Large scale configuration and expensive hardware do not stand in the way of a high quality building security access control system. 

READ THE FULL REVIEW: Genetec Synergis Access Control Review

ISONAS Access Control

Founded in 1999, ISONAS is the first company to design and manufacture a convenient IP to door access control system. The Company’s combo Reader-Controller eliminates the need to connect each door to both a reader and a controller or a system hub. ISONAS also manufactures IP bridges, proximity badges and fobs, weatherproofing kits, cables and connectors. The Reader-Controller combo installs on existing Cat-5 networks, so you can automate any door without laying down unnecessary cables.

ISONAS Access Control Features

  • ISONAS Pure Access software offers on-premise or cloud-based access control 
  • Reader-Controllers and readers for card, badge, FOB and PIN-based entry
  • Mobile credentials and proximity unlock
  • Legacy system integration and third-party video management integration

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane Access Control uses a separate controller to operate doors which bypasses risk of tampering that combo readers are so commonly susceptible to. A single, state-of-the-art Access Point offers mobile, face recognition and/or video intercom credentials to users. While Swiftlane offers the option for integration, it is not necessary with the all-in-one solution. 

READ THE FULL REVIEW: ISONAS Access Control Review

Openpath Access Control

Openpath is a provider of key card and mobile access control systems. Openpath’s proprietary system provides access control panels and readers, as well as mobile apps for accessing buildings.

Openpath Access Control Features

  • Touchless, wave to unlock access technology
  • Visitor management integration
  • Remote door unlock via the mobile app
  • Mobile unlock via bluetooth low energy, or cellular and WiFi
  • Cloud-based system

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane Mobile Access Control takes proactive measures to overcome the potential challenges posed by mobile access credentials. The Swiftlane app only reads user location when the app is open; does not require turning off battery optimization functions, which avoids battery drain; and requires the user to press a button on the app, showing clear intent that an authorized user is accessing the door. Swiftlane Video Intercom comes integrated into the access control system for an all-in-one, built-in visitor management system.

READ THE FULL REVIEW: Openpath Access Control Review

S2 Access Control

S2 is among the pioneers of web-based physical access control and security systems. Today, Lenel S2 positions itself as a unified security platform comprising access control, video surveillance, video security, and more. 

S2 Access Control Features

  • Unified security solution through S2 NetBox
  • Supports legacy access control methods and many different integrations
  • Video monitoring
  • S2 Magic Monitor is a unified display interface that joins access control, video surveillance, live internet feeds, security events and alarms, credentials and access level management
  • Mobile video management 

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane is a cloud-based access control system that operates without the need for an on-site server, which requires heavy operational overhead. The cloud-based system allows you to manage users through identity providers without integration, as well as perform functions remotely.

READ THE FULL REVIEW: S2 Access Control Review

Tyco Software House

Software House’s C-CURE is one of the industry’s most comprehensive access control and security platforms. It is used by more than 170 of the Fortune 500 companies to manage access control as well as many other mainstream security systems such as video surveillance, intrusion and fire alarms, visitor management, and more. C-CURE 9000, the latest version of Software House’s access control and event management solution, can integrate with over 300 third-party business and security technologies.

Tyco Software House Access Control Features

  • Unified card management and centralized management of key cards and badges
  • C-CURE Go is a fully-featured access control app for iOS and Android devices, which works with the Go Reader (see the latest version, C-CURE 9000 Version 2.90, for a full list of features)

The Swiftlane Difference

Swiftlane’s cloud-based Access Control system puts control back in the hands of the user by allowing admins to manage permissions and credentials. As such, by operating from the cloud instead of a network, Swiftlane has eliminated the subsequent operational burden, such as an in-person management team, on-site software updates, maintenance, training, etc. Long installs and restrictive hardware have become a deterrent for the modern user. The Swiftlane difference strives to provide a modern, high-end experience that goes hand-in-hand with the most secure technology available. 

READ THE FULL REVIEW: Tyco Software House Access Control Review

Still have questions?

Tell us about your building and a Swiftlane specialist will help you find the best solution.

PDF: SwiftReader X Video Intercom Overview

Access a PDF overview of SwiftReader X from Swiftlane. A modern upgrade to apartment and condo building entrances. Get a complete overview of the features of Swiftlane’s Video Intercom solution.

VIEW PDF