Takeaways
- Gate keypads are a great way to manage access to a gated property without having to hand out physical credentials, like keys or fobs.
- However, when you’re looking for a keypad, remember that there are several things you need to keep in mind before you make your final decision.
- Factors like integrations with other software and hardware as well as cloud-based capabilities will make the difference between simplifying and complicating the access experience for your tenants.
When you manage tenants who have chosen to live or work in a gated property, you already know that security is one of their highest priorities. Your job is to ensure security without hindering their access to the property. And one solution to achieve that is with keypad access control.
In this post, we explain what a gate keypad is and how it works. Then, we go over some of the criteria you should use to choose a gate keypad. Most importantly, you’ll discover the best gate keypads to use for your property.
This post covers:
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Video Intercoms
Open doors, gates & garages from anywhere.
Access Control
Fob, key cards, PINs, and mobile apps.
Security Cameras
Visibility throughout your property.
Vehicle Access
Hands-free access for gates & garages.
Package Room
Receive, store, and manage deliveries.
Smart Locks
Connect to all major brands and models.
Elevator Controls
Unlock key-fobbed elevators for anyone.
Front Desk Station
See all your doors and cameras in one place.
Top 4 gate code boxes to buy
So, you want to invest in a gate keypad. With hundreds of options on the market, how do you find the best one for your property?
Here are the best gate keypads for residential communities:
- ButterflyMX keypad
- LiftMaster wireless keypad model KPW250
- Doorking entry pad model no. 1515-080
- Secura Key card reader with keypad
1. ButterflyMX keypad
The ButterflyMX Keypad for gates offers:
- Cloud-based software for remote management and real-time updates.
- Seamless integrations with other ButterflyMX products and third-party property management systems.
- Delivery access solutions to streamline package and service deliveries.
- Multiple entry options, including gate key cards and fobs, PIN codes, and smartphone swipe-to-open.
ButterflyMX’s unique unified access control solution empowers you to manage access for every kind of space. While keypads are an excellent way to control access at your gate, you may want to augment your keypad system with another entry solution that allows visitors to request access.
When you invest in a ButterflyMX Keypad, you ensure that it integrates seamlessly with every product from ButterflyMX. So, you can also invest in the transformative ButterflyMX Video Intercom, giving guests the ability to video call a tenant and request property access.
Further, you can also consider the ButterflyMX Vehicle Access Reader, which scans Windshield Tags in residents’ cars to seamlessly grant access.
And ButterflyMX doesn’t just offer powerful access control hardware — its software integrates with other property management services to save time for staff, freeing them up to focus on the resident experience.
2. LiftMaster wireless keypad model KPW 250
LiftMaster is an access control company that works primarily with outdoor gates. One of their most popular gate code box options is the model KPW 250.
The LiftMaster wireless keypad model KPW250 has:
- A 250 permanent PIN capacity and 10 temporary PIN capacity
- Internal antenna that’s protected from vandalism and harsh weather
- A gate keypad cover made from zinc-alloy
- Removal of certain PINs to prevent security breaches
- Easy installation and mounting on a gate keypad post or wall.
- Prices range from $199.00 to $236.97, making it an affordable choice for gate access control
- Users highlight its robust build, ease of programming, and reliable performance in harsh environments
3. Doorking entry pad model no. 1515-080
Doorking offers several gated community access solutions and gate code boxes. Among the most recommended is their model no. 1515-080.
The Doorking keypad model no. 1515-080 offers:
- Compatibility with the Doorking Google Play App
- Ability to program codes via the keypad or the app
- 400 PIN capacity
- Lighted keypad for visibility at night
- NFC-enabled smartphone integration for programming and access.
- Solar compatibility with low power consumption
- Prices range from $272.98 to $399.95, depending on the retailer
- Users appreciate its ease of programming, robust build quality, and reliable performance in various environments
4. Secura Key card reader with keypad
Secura Key (sometimes stylized as “Securakey”) stands out as a gate keypad and is a major digital key supplier in the RFID industry. The company prides itself on ease of installation and the ability to withstand any kind of weather condition.
Their SK-KPM and SK-KPS digital keypads:
- Reads Secura Key eTag cards
- Offers DES encryption for data security
- Is vandal-resistant and designed to withstand severe weather conditions, making it an ideal outdoor gate keypad
- Have a Wiegand output
- Supports up to 600 users with PINs or random numbered cards
- Prices range from $301.99 to $364.98, depending on the retailer
- Customers value its ease of programming, reliable performance, and robust weatherproof design for outdoor gate keypad installations
- Must be integrated with a larger access control system, as they cannot operate as standalone hardware
What is a gate keypad?
A gate keypad is a security device that opens a motorized gate when users input the correct PIN code. Users input this code by tapping the numbers on the keypad’s face. They’re often installed on a gate keypad post or mounted as part of a gate keypad mount near the gate. Since gated entrances are generally outside, most gate code boxes are approved for outdoor use. Look for an outdoor keypad with an IP65 rating to ensure it’s protected from all types of weather.
Gate keypads are a popular entry system among property managers and owners who want to restrict access to a given area but provide authorized tenants a simple way in. Keypads can be found on gates that manage access for apartments, HOA communities, commercial offices, or industrial complexes.
A gate keypad access control system includes:
- Electric gate keypad. The keypad device will be installed on or near the gate it controls. Some gate keypads can also integrate with other access control hardware on the property, like video intercoms.
- Gate release. The gate release is motorized, allowing your type of security gate to open after receiving the correct signals from the keypad.
Watch how to use the ButterflyMX for your gates:
How does a gate keypad work?
A gate keypad works by verifying that a resident has entered an authorized PIN and then sending an electric signal to the gate keypad lock, which opens and allows the resident to enter the property.
While punching in a PIN code is easy for residents, your staff will also have to manage the gate code box system. Staff can manage access permissions, update tenant directories, and assign PIN codes as necessary.
The way staff manages a keypad entry system differs depending on the kind of technology powering your keypad. For example, you can configure a modern cloud-based keypad from any laptop or smartphone. In contrast, older legacy keypads require you to go onsite or download software to manage the system. Alternatively, a universal wireless gate keypad uses internet or radio frequencies to communicate.
Gate keypad wiring
A keypad entry system for gates can use different wiring methods to send signals to the gate release. Wireless gate keypads can use the internet, cell networks, or radio frequencies called spectrum to perform this communication.
In contrast, a wired gate keypad communicates with the gate release over a wired connection. So, you’ll have to physically connect the keypad device to the gate opener.
It’s important to note, however, that even wireless gate keypads still require wiring for an internet connection and power supply.
Choosing the best gate keypad to control access
Now that you know what a gate keypad is and how it works, you might wonder which code box will best fulfill your needs.
The best gate keypads offer these features:
- Cloud-based
- Integrations with other access control systems
- Accommodations for delivery couriers
- Audit log
Cloud-based
Cloud-based keypad systems can be managed from anywhere you have an internet connection. This allows property staff to more easily add or remove tenants and update permissions for existing tenants.
And using the cloud, residents have more control over how they interact with keypads. Residents can update their PIN codes themselves, as well as easily send Visitor Passes to visitors to make sure access is a breeze for all involved.
Integrations with other access control systems
There’s a good chance that you want to control your wireless access control system at other entryways on your property beyond just the gated entrances. After a resident uses the gate keypad entry system to enter the property, they still have to get into the building itself. Your gated community might also need to manage access to secured areas like rooftop terraces, gyms, or parking garages.
For both residents and property managers, it’s better to have one interconnected experience rather than several disjointed access systems. The best gate keypads integrate with other access control systems and devices.
Pro tip: Consider integrating your keypad with a robust video intercom so that residents can launch two-way video calls with guests and service providers. This enables seamless video access control at your property.
Accommodations for delivery couriers
Whether you manage a residential or commercial property, you’ll have to deal with a constant stream of delivery couriers. Tenants are constantly ordering food and packages online.
Deliveries are only growing, so you would do well to purchase a keypad with Delivery Pass functionality to help tenants receive their packages more easily. Tenants can create and send a single-use Delivery Pass directly to couriers so they can access your gated property effortlessly.
Audit log
Finally, choose a gate keypad with an audit log.
Audit logs are a feature that records who uses an entry point in your property. Ensure the keypad’s audit log features detailed information, such as the user, time of day, entrance, and the credentials used. In turn, you’ll have a more effective way of narrowing down suspects if a security breach occurs.
Gate keypad FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about gate keypads:
- Why is my gate keypad not working?
- Can I open my electric gate with my phone?
- Can you make an existing gate automatic?
Why is my gate keypad not working?
There are several reasons your gate keypad might not be working:
- Power issues. Ensure the keypad is receiving power. Check the power supply or battery if it’s a wireless model.
- Damaged wiring. Inspect the wiring for wear, corrosion, or disconnection.
- Software or hardware malfunction. Some keypads require occasional firmware updates or may need a factory reset to resolve glitches.
- Incorrect PIN entry or user lockout. Too many incorrect PIN attempts might temporarily lock the system.
- Weather-related damage. Harsh weather conditions may impact outdoor keypads that aren’t weather-resistant.
Can I open my electric gate with my phone?
Yes, many modern gate access systems allow you to open your gate with a smartphone.
For example:
- Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity. Some keypads or access control systems pair with mobile apps via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
- Access control apps. Systems like ButterflyMX offer smartphone-based access through an app that lets you swipe-to-open or grant remote access to guests.
- NFC or QR code scanning. Some systems support NFC or QR code scanning for quick gate entry.
Can you make an existing gate automatic?
Yes, you can retrofit an existing gate to make it automatic by adding the following components:
- Gate operator. Install a motorized gate operator to automate the opening and closing mechanism.
- Access control system. Pair your gate with a keypad, remote, or smartphone-based system for secure access.
- Power source. Ensure there’s a reliable power supply or opt for solar-powered systems if electricity isn’t readily available.
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