When it comes to electric strikes, HES, Seco-Larm, and RCI are among the leading manufacturers in the industry. Each brand has its own unique features, strengths, and weaknesses, making it challenging to definitively declare one as the best. To assess their performance comprehensively, it’s essential to consider various factors such as product quality, reliability, innovation, customer satisfaction, and market reputation.

HES Electric Strikes

HES (Assa Abloy) has established itself as a prominent player in the electric strike market, known for its high-quality products and innovative solutions. The company offers a wide range of electric strikes catering to different security needs and applications. HES electric strikes are renowned for their durability, smooth operation, and compatibility with various access control systems. Their products often feature advanced technology such as monitoring capabilities, adjustable settings, and fail-secure/fail-safe options, providing flexibility and security customization to users.

One of HES’s notable products is the 8500 Series Electric Strike, which boasts a robust construction and is suitable for high-traffic commercial environments. It offers adjustable latch and strike positioning, enabling precise alignment with the door and frame for optimal performance. Additionally, HES electric strikes are known for their easy installation, which saves time and effort for technicians and integrators.

Other features include:

  • Convenience: With electric strikes, there’s no need for keys. Access can be granted remotely through keypads, card readers, biometric scanners, or other access control devices. This convenience is particularly beneficial in environments where multiple people require access or in emergency situations.
  • Flexibility: Electric strikes are compatible with various types of doors and locking mechanisms, including wood, metal, and glass doors. They can be installed in both new and existing door frames, providing flexibility in implementation.
  • Integration: HES electric strikes can be integrated with other security systems, such as alarms and surveillance cameras, creating a comprehensive security solution. They can also integrate with building management systems for centralized control and monitoring.
  • Scalability: Electric strike systems can easily scale to accommodate the changing needs of a facility. Additional doors can be equipped with electric strikes as required, and access control permissions can be adjusted accordingly.

Seco-Larm Electric Strikes

Seco-Larm is another reputable brand in the electric strike market, recognized for its reliability and cost-effectiveness. While perhaps not as widely recognized as HES, Seco-Larm products are favored by many installers and security professionals for their solid performance and value proposition. Seco-Larm electric strikes are designed to provide secure access control solutions without breaking the bank, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious projects.

Seco-Larm’s SESDQ series electric strikes are notable for their simplicity and effectiveness. They feature a durable stainless steel construction and are available in both fail-secure and fail-safe configurations to suit different security requirements. While lacking some of the advanced features found in higher-end products, Seco-Larm electric strikes deliver reliable operation and straightforward installation, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

Additional features:

  • Voltage compatibility: They may support various voltage levels to suit different access control systems.
  • Adjustable jaw: Some models have an adjustable jaw to accommodate various latch sizes and door alignments.
  • Stainless steel construction: Many Seco-Larm electric strikes are made of durable stainless steel for long-lasting performance and resistance to tampering.
  • Low-profile design: Slim designs allow for installation in tight spaces or on narrow door frames.

RCI Electric Strikes

RCI (Rutherford Controls International) is another major player in the electric strike market, offering a comprehensive lineup of products designed to meet the needs of various security applications. RCI electric strikes are known for their durability, versatility, and compatibility with different access control systems. The company focuses on providing innovative solutions that prioritize security and convenience for end-users.

One of RCI’s flagship products is the 0162 series electric strike, which features a low-profile design and adjustable latch positioning for easy installation and alignment. It offers enhanced security features such as field-selectable fail-safe/fail-secure modes and dual voltage options, ensuring compatibility with different door and frame configurations. RCI electric strikes are also known for their quiet operation and smooth performance, contributing to a positive user experience.

Additional features include:

  • Installation: The electric strike is installed in the door frame, opposite the door latch or lock. When the door is closed, the latch or lock bolt enters the strike plate.
  • Integration with Access Control Systems: Electric strikes are often integrated with access control systems, which can include keypads, card readers, biometric scanners, or other authentication methods. When a valid credential is presented to the access control system, it sends a signal to the electric strike to release the door.
  • Security: Electric strikes enhance security by allowing doors to remain locked until access is granted electronically. They are commonly used in commercial buildings, offices, and other facilities where controlled access is necessary.

Overall, HES electric strikes offer improved security, convenience, and flexibility compared to traditional mechanical strikes, making them a preferred choice for modern access control systems. HES stands out for its premium quality and advanced features, making it a top choice for high-security applications. Seco-Larm excels in providing reliable performance at an affordable price point, appealing to cost-conscious customers. RCI is a well-known manufacturer of electric strikes, offering a range of products with different features and specifications to meet various security needs. Their products are designed to be reliable, durable, and compatible with different access control systems, making it a solid choice for a wide range of security projects.

Ultimately, installers and end-users should carefully evaluate their needs and priorities to select the electric strike manufacturer that best aligns with their requirements. Determining the “best” electric strike manufacturer among HES, Seco-Larm, and RCI depends on various factors such as specific project requirements, budget constraints, and personal preferences, however, HES is an industry leader for a few good reasons.