The Future of Access Control: Key Cards vs. Mobile Credentials

As technology continues to evolve, so does the way we control access to buildings and secure areas. Key cards and fobs have been the standard in commercial access control, but mobile credentials are quickly emerging as a powerful, flexible alternative. So, what does the future hold for secure entry systems? Let’s explore the pros, cons, and trends shaping the next generation of access control.

Key Cards: A Familiar Standard 

Key cards have been a mainstay in access control for decades. They're affordable, easy to distribute, and widely supported by most access systems. 

Pros: 

• Cost-effective to produce and replace 

• Simple to issue and deactivate 

• Compatible with most existing hardware 

  
  

Cons: 

• Easy to lose, forget, or lend to others 

• Require physical management (printing replacements, decommissioning) 

• Can be cloned or tampered with if not encrypted  

Mobile Credentials: The Digital Evolution 

Mobile credential systems use smartphones to authenticate entry, typically through web-based apps. Users receive access rights digitally—no physical card required. 

Pros: 

• Convenient. People rarely forget their phones 

• Enhanced security with password protection or biometrics (such as Face ID or fingerprint scan) 

• Remote credential management (grant, revoke, or schedule access at your discretion) 

• Less physical infrastructure needed (for example, badge printers) 

  
  

Cons: 

• Additional costs for mobile-capable systems 

• Requires user smartphones and possibly app installation 

• Potential resistance from less tech-savvy users 

Key Cards vs. Mobile: What’s Right for Your Facility? 

	Key Cards	Mobile Credentials
Convenience	Moderate	High
Security	Good (with encryption)	Excellent (biometrics, remote access)
Cost	Lower upfront	Higher initial investment
Scalability	Limited	Highly scalable
User Experience	Familiar	Modern: app- or browser-based

The Future: Hybrid Solutions and Smart Access 

In many cases, the future isn’t about choosing one over the other; it’s about offering both. Hybrid systems that support key cards and mobile access give businesses the flexibility to accommodate different users, budgets, and security needs. 

Emerging trends include: 

• Cloud-based access control management from a PC or mobile device 

• Integration with video surveillance and building automation 

• Temporary mobile access for visitors or vendors 

How L.W. Bills Can Help 

At L.W. Bills, we stay on the cutting edge of building security technology. Whether you're looking to modernize your existing key card system or explore mobile access options, we can engineer a solution that meets your needs today and scales for tomorrow. 

Ready to upgrade your access control? Contact us for a consultation.