Choose the Best Access Control System | How Verkada Stacks Up Against Top Competitors

For any CIO, COO, or business owner, selecting the right access control system is crucial for safeguarding your organization’s premises, assets, and personnel. Access control systems do far more than secure doors—they help manage visitor flows, ensure compliance, and integrate with other security tools like video surveillance.

This blog compares Verkada’s access control solutions to the top four systems on the market, focusing on functionality, compliance, scalability, and why choosing U.S.-manufactured solutions is vital. Additionally, we’ll discuss pricing, specifications, cloud management capabilities, and evaluate which systems are best suited for small and large businesses.

1. Verkada Access Control Solutions

Verkada stands out with its innovative cloud-managed access control system, designed for businesses of all sizes.

Key Features & Functionality:

• Cloud-Native Platform: Manage doors, users, and credentials from a unified, web-based platform.
• Seamless Video Integration: Verkada’s access control integrates directly with Verkada’s camera systems, offering real-time monitoring and event-based video verification.
• Emergency Lockdown: Quickly secure premises with one-click lockdown capabilities during emergencies.
• Mobile Access: Employees can unlock doors via their smartphones using the Verkada Pass App with Bluetooth-enabled access.
• Scalability: From one-door installations to enterprise-grade deployments, Verkada grows with your business.

Products:

• Verkada AC12 Door Controller:
  • Designed for small businesses managing a single door.
  • Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) reduces cabling complexity.
  • MSRP: $699
• Verkada AC62 Enterprise Door Controller:
  • Supports up to 16 doors, making it ideal for large facilities.
  • Supports third-party readers and peripherals.
  • MSRP: $5,299

Compliance:

Verkada complies with modern security protocols, including SOC 2 for data protection, and offers automatic firmware updates to protect against vulnerabilities.

Cloud Management:

Verkada’s cloud-native platform eliminates the need for on-premise servers, reducing IT overhead. Administrators can control access, manage users, and monitor door events from anywhere.

Best For:

• Small Businesses: Single-door setups for streamlined security.
• Large Enterprises: Scalability across campuses and multi-site operations.

Rating: 9.5/10

2. LenelS2 Access Control

LenelS2 is a long-standing leader in access control, known for its robust hardware and extensive features.

Key Features & Functionality:

• On-Premise and Hybrid Options: LenelS2 systems can operate on-site or integrate with hybrid cloud solutions.
• Third-Party Integration: Works with various security tools, from alarms to video systems.
• Customizable Security: Advanced settings allow granular control over permissions, schedules, and event reporting.

Products:

• NetBox: Supports small to medium deployments with flexible hardware options.
  • MSRP: Starts at $2,000 for small systems.
• OnGuard Enterprise: Enterprise-grade solution for complex, multi-site facilities.
  • MSRP: Pricing varies but can exceed $10,000 for larger systems.

Compliance:

LenelS2 meets industry certifications such as FICAM, NIST, and ISO 27001.

Cloud Management:

While primarily on-premise, LenelS2 does offer hybrid cloud options with limited remote accessibility.

Best For:

• Small to Medium Businesses: NetBox is ideal for mid-sized deployments.
• Large Enterprises: OnGuard handles complex environments.

Rating: 8.5/10

3. Honeywell Pro-Watch Access Control

Honeywell’s Pro-Watch offers robust enterprise-level access control with a focus on integration and scalability.

Key Features & Functionality:

• End-to-End Integration: Connects seamlessly with Honeywell video surveillance, intrusion detection, and building systems.
• Multi-Site Management: Pro-Watch can manage multiple facilities under a single system.
• Flexible Credential Management: Supports traditional cards, biometrics, and mobile access.

Products:

• Pro-Watch 5.0: Enterprise-level access control platform.
  • MSRP: Starts at $3,500, scaling based on size and complexity.

Compliance:

Pro-Watch complies with FIPS 201 and other government-mandated regulations.

Cloud Management:

Honeywell offers limited cloud functionality, with most solutions requiring on-premise servers.

Best For:

• Large Enterprises: Best suited for complex facilities requiring end-to-end security.

Rating: 8/10

4. Johnson Controls (Tyco) C•CURE 9000

Johnson Controls’ C•CURE 9000 is a flexible access control platform offering advanced security and integrations.

Key Features & Functionality:

• Unified Security: Integrates with video surveillance, fire alarms, and building management systems.
• Mobile Access: Users can unlock doors via the C•CURE Go App.
• Custom Reporting: Detailed event reports and audit logs.

Products:

• C•CURE 9000: Scalable access control software for enterprises.
  • MSRP: Starts at $5,000, depending on configurations.

Compliance:

C•CURE meets standards like FIPS 201, GDPR, and other global certifications.

Cloud Management:

Primarily an on-premise solution with limited cloud integration capabilities.

Best For:

• Large Enterprises: Ideal for organizations requiring unified security management.

Rating: 8/10

5. Brivo Access Control

Brivo is a cloud-first access control solution, popular for its simplicity and scalability.

Key Features & Functionality:

• Cloud-Native Platform: Full remote management via the Brivo Dashboard.
• Easy Deployment: Minimal hardware requirements simplify installation.
• Mobile Credentials: Employees can use smartphones as access badges.

Products:

• Brivo Access: Cloud-based access control software.
  • MSRP: Starts at $1,200 for smaller setups.

Compliance:

Brivo complies with SOC 2 Type II standards for cloud data security.

Cloud Management:

Brivo excels in cloud management, offering real-time monitoring and control.

Best For:

• Small to Medium Businesses: Cost-effective, scalable cloud access control.

Rating: 9/10

Why Choosing U.S.-Manufactured Systems is Essential

When it comes to access control, data security and reliability are paramount. Systems manufactured in the U.S. offer:

1. Stronger Data Protection: U.S. companies must comply with federal regulations, ensuring higher data security standards.
2. Reliability and Quality: U.S. manufacturers like Verkada focus on rigorous quality control.
3. Faster Support: Domestic manufacturers provide faster response times and support, reducing downtime.

Choosing the Right Access Control System

When comparing these solutions, Verkada stands out as a modern, cloud-native access control system that combines ease of use, scalability, and advanced features like seamless video integration.

Summary Ratings:

For CIOs, COOs, and business owners, choosing Verkada ensures a future-proof, reliable, and fully integrated access control system that keeps your business secure while providing unmatched convenience.

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