Speed gates (a subset of swing and flap barriers) are built for fast, high-volume pedestrian flow in corporate lobbies. They combine a premium look with credential-based access.

Why offices choose speed gates

• Fast transit: wings retract in under a second for smooth morning peaks.
• Appearance: glass and steel fit modern lobbies.
• Tracking: paired with RFID or biometric readers for per-person audit trails.

Speed gate vs standard swing barrier

Both use a leaf, but a swing barrier is often broader and accessibility-focused, while a speed gate is tuned for rapid credential validation and tailgating alarms.

Integration

Speed gates connect to the building access system via Wiegand or RS485 and log each passage. Tailgating detection uses infrared or pressure mats to flag a second person following without a credential.

For a full selection framework, see our turnstile guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a speed gate and a swing barrier?

Both use a leaf, but a speed gate is tuned for rapid credential validation and tailgating alarms, while a swing barrier is broader and accessibility-focused.

How fast do speed gates open?

Speed gate wings typically retract in under one second to keep morning peaks moving.

How do speed gates detect tailgating?

They use infrared beams or pressure mats to flag a second person passing without a valid credential.