Access control systems have become integral to modern security infrastructures, enhancing safety and streamlining the day-to-day operations of properties big and small. Regardless of vertical, size, or location, every organization stands to benefit from investing in an access solution tailored to its priorities. Among the many options available, ProdataKey (PDK) and Paxton are prominent players in the access control market, each with distinct features and capabilities.
ProdataKey Overview
ProdataKey is a cutting-edge access control platform designed to provide seamless security for modern businesses and organizations. PDK solutions are entirely cloud-based, offering robust management capabilities, automatic updates, and unmatched scalability. Since its inception, the company has prioritized mobile-first features. With the ProdataKey mobile app, users can conveniently manage permissions, monitor activities, and get access anywhere worldwide. PDK has earned a reputation for its powerful technologies and commitment to partners, becoming one of the most trusted names in the industry.
Paxton Overview
Founded over three decades ago, Paxton is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative security solutions for various industries and applications. Known for its user-friendly systems and comprehensive technologies, Paxton offers a range of products, including access control, wireless locksets, video intercom, and video surveillance. Paxton10 is the company’s web-based solution, connecting access control and video management into one online interface. The system is scalable to support up to 1000 doors across multiple sites and allows convenient remote access.
Web-based vs. Cloud-based: What’s the difference?
The Paxton10 access control platform is a web-based system that delivers an easy-to-use interface allowing multi-site, remote access to the software on any web-connected device. Web-based systems simplify installations, eliminate costly server PCs, and deliver intuitive software features like customized dashboards, reporting, and custom rules. The software, which has no licensing fees, is hosted on a local Paxton10 server, and a single server can support multiple doors across locations.
On the other hand, ProdataKey is a fully cloud-based system, so the software and data are hosted in the cloud. While both web and cloud-based systems allow users to access the system remotely, the cloud offers more advanced features and flexibility. PDK systems sync automatically with the latest software, ensuring systems are always up to date with the latest features and reducing the burden on IT teams.
PDK systems are also backward and forward-compatible, making them incredibly easy to scale even over time. Web-based systems may have firmware incompatibility issues if servers and access controllers are bought months or years apart. Moreover, cloud-hosting has a subscription-based pricing model, allowing integrators to grow their business with recurring monthly revenue streams. This type of pricing model benefits not only dealers but end-users as well. They can count on their security provider to maintain a constant level of service.
Hardware Comparison
With Paxton10’s single-door controller architecture, its access and surveillance systems are straightforward to design. Systems require one server and a single controller for each door. The Paxton10 Video Controller can support Paxton PRO, CORE, or third-party IP cameras. Paxton10 also provides various reader options, including keypads, vandal-resistant, and mullion readers, all with built-in BLE technology for convenient, secure access.
ProdataKey provides a comprehensive lineup of access controllers, readers, credentials, and peripherals that integrate seamlessly with its cloud-based platform. Its various products make PDK systems simple to install, optimize costs, and are customizable to fit client needs. PDK offers control panel options ranging from single-door to up to 24. Multi-door controllers are a much more cost-effective option for large properties that span across buildings or have many access points. Systems are highly scalable, catering to businesses of all sizes.
Mobile Experience Review
Paxton10 gives users remote access into the system management software either through a web-browser or the Paxton Connect app. System administrators can remotely unlock doors, manage multiple sites, generate reports, and view live events from anywhere. Users have a separate app, Paxton Connect, to use as a mobile access credential, replacing physical keycards, fobs, or tokens. Paxton Connect is also available on smartwatch devices. Moreover, there is a Paxton Installer app that provides product specs, technical information, and other resources.
The ProdataKey mobile app is the one-stop-hub for integrators, end-users, and system administrators. Integrators use the mobile app to conveniently configure devices, access comprehensive system health insights, and more. While end-users can use the app as a BLE access credential, to remotely unlock doors, set up custom permissions, and all other management functions. The ProdataKey interface is known for its intuitiveness and features, requiring little to no training.
Reviewing ProdataKey vs Paxton highlights the different approaches of these two well-known players in the access control market. While Paxton offers a web-based platform with user-friendly interfaces and video management, ProdataKey stands out with its fully cloud-based solutions, emphasizing mobile-use, scalability, and advanced features. Ultimately, each platform offers its own unique advantages, though PDK offers a comprehensive solution with unmatched flexibility for any application.
