Best Electric Strikes for Deadbolts: Secure, Adaptable Locks for Modern Doors
Looking for an electric strike that works with deadbolt and latchbolt configurations? This guide showcases top electric strikes designed for cylindrical, mortise, and deadbolt locks. It helps buyers choose based on door type, fail-safe vs fail-secure needs, and installation requirements. Ideal for facility managers, building security teams, and DIY installers seeking reliable access control upgrades.
Summary table of selected products:
| Product | Brand | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| HES 1500C Complete Pac Electric Strike | HES Hardware | Cylindrical or mortise locks without a deadbolt | Interchangeable faceplates for multiple lock types |
| Seco-Larm SD-996C-NUVQ | Seco-Larm | Wide range of lock fits with vertical adjustment | Multiple ANSI faceplates; configurable fail-safe/secure |
| HES 1600-CS-630 Complete Pac Electric Strike Kit | HES | Latchbolt and deadbolt with many faceplates | Endurance 1,000,000 cycles; field replaceable components |
| Adams Rite 7100-540-628 | Adams Rite | Replaces common Adams Rite/ASSA ABLOY units | Fail Secure 24VAC; flat/square face options |
| HES 9600-630 Series Fire Rated | HES | Rim exit devices with fire rating | Surface mounted; Grade 1 security |
HES 1500C Complete Pac Electric Strike
The HES 1500C is a versatile electric strike designed for cylindrical or mortise locks and suitable for 4-7/8” strike plates. It ships with a Complete Pac faceplate kit that includes 1J, 1K, 1KD, and 1KM, covering a wide range of lock configurations. Best for facility upgrades where multiple door types exist and a single strike kit must support various locksets. Limitations include the need for proper alignment with the lock’s deadlatch position to ensure consistent operation.
Seco-Larm SD-996C-NUVQ Electric Door Strike
The SD-996C-NUVQ provides vertical adjustment and includes five stainless ANSI faceplates with a trim plate to hide gaps. It supports fail-safe or fail-secure configurations, making it adaptable for both interior and exterior doors. This model suits projects needing precise alignment with varied latch positions and straightforward cosmetic finishing during installation. Caution: Verify fit with your specific deadbolts and ensure compatibility with the door frame before purchasing.
HES 1600-CS-630 Complete Pac Electric Strike Kit
This kit supports both latchbolt and deadbolt locks with eight included faceplates and a satin stainless steel finish. It offers dual voltage (12/24 VDC/VAC), a high endurance rating, and field-replaceable components. Best for applications that demand long service life and flexible field installation. Choose this if you need a robust upgrade with multiple faceplates to match door hardware; avoid if you require a more compact unit for narrow frames.
2026 Upgraded ANSI Standard Electric Door Strike
This model from YJMKOI provides an upgraded ANSI standard electric strike for door access control systems, suitable for cylindrical and mechanical locks. It offers fail-safe or fail-secure modes and is designed to handle typical 12V DC operation. Best for projects converting ordinary locks into electronic access systems. Limitation includes a need for careful mode selection to match security policies in place.
Adams Rite 7100-540-628 Electric Strike
The Adams Rite 7100-540-628 is designed to replace older Adams Rite and ASSA ABLOY units with a fail-secure 24VAC configuration. It supports flat face or square corner applications, making it suitable for updates to existing Adams Rite installations. Best for users upgrading legacy hardware. Limitations include reliance on 24VAC power and specific latch configurations.
HES 9600-630 Fire Rated Electric Strike
This fire-rated, surface-mounted strike is designed for rim exit devices. It is fully compatible with HES 9600 series and offers static strength up to 1,500 lbs and dynamic strength of 70 ft-lbs. Best for high-security exterior or interior doors requiring compliance with fire ratings. Limitation: Fire-rated strikes may require specific mounting hardware and clearances on certain door frames.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Lock compatibility: Confirm whether the strike supports cylindrical, mortise, or deadbolt locks in your doors.
- Fail-safe vs fail-secure: Decide based on whether doors should unlock during a power loss or remain locked for security.
- Voltage and wiring: Check if the unit is dual voltage (12/24 V) or requires a particular power source and controller.
- Faceplates and finish: Ensure the strike includes appropriate faceplates and a finish that matches the door hardware and frame.
- Endurance and maintenance: Consider strike endurance (cycles) and whether field-replaceable components reduce downtime.
- Fire rating and standards: For exterior or high-traffic applications, ensure compliance with fire-rated requirements and relevant standards.
- Installation fit: Evaluate frame type, strike depth, and whether the strike mounts on the surface or requires mortising.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an electric strike for a deadbolt?
An electric strike is an electromechanical device installed in a door frame that electronically controls whether the door strikes remain secured or open, often used with deadbolt and latchbolt configurations.
- What is the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure?
Fail-safe unlocks when power is lost, whereas fail-secure keeps the door locked during a power outage, requiring power to open.
- Which material finish is best for exterior doors?
Satin stainless steel or corrosion-resistant finishes are common for exterior doors due to exposure to weather.
- Do I need a professional to install an electric strike?
Many installations require precise alignment and electrical wiring; professional installation is recommended for critical security doors.
- Can electric strikes replace all deadbolts and latches?
Not always; verify lock compatibility and ensure the strike supports the door’s latch or deadbolt configuration.
- Are electric strikes compatible with access control systems?
Yes, many models integrate with access control systems through standard door controllers and power supplies.