Why Are Card Keys the Norm in the Hotel Industry?

When a guest checks into your hotel, they probably receive a card key at the front desk. This credit-card-like piece of plastic contains identifying information that allows the guest access to their specific hotel room and shared amenities. But card keys aren’t the only access control system available to the hotel industry by any means, so why are they the norm? Learn some interesting information and advice below.

All the Different Types of Access Control Systems

Hotels have a responsibility to ensure guest safety, and a variety of access control systems cater to this need. These are the most common options:

• Traditional metal keys
• Digital keypad locks
• Biometric systems
• Key cards

Traditional metal keys, though reliable, lack the adaptability and control of modern systems. Digital keypad locks eliminate the need for physical keys but may pose challenges in terms of simplicity. Biometric systems, including fingerprint and facial recognition, offer high security but come with greater costs and maintenance requirements. Among these options, card keys are the most balanced solution, offering both advanced functionality and user convenience. Below, we dive into why.

Why Card Keys Are the Best for Hotels

Card keys are the norm in the hotel industry for several reasons.

They’re Reprogrammable

Firstly, card keys can be programmed and reprogrammed, letting hotels reuse the same card for any number of guests. The process is also very quick, streamlining check-in and check-out. Furthermore, the reprogramming feature allows hotel staff to perform emergency deactivation on card keys should they become lost or stolen.

They’re Easy To Keep Track Of

Card keys fit perfectly in wallets, making it easy for guests to keep track of them. This reduces the chance of lost keys, likely saving your hotel on replacement costs.

They’re Affordable

A lot of rooms require a lot of keys, and a lot of keys require a lot of money. There’s no way around a large upfront investment to ensure your guests’ safety, but you can choose economical options, such as card keys. Their low production cost compared with other high-tech systems makes them a financially viable solution for hotels of all sizes.

Different Types of Hotel Card Keys

The most common types of card keys include magnetic stripe cards, RFID (radio frequency identification) cards, NFC cards, and hole cards.

Magnetic Stripe Cards

Magnetic stripe cards are cost-effective and easy to program but are prone to wear and demagnetization.

RFID Cards

RFID cards offer greater durability and security, as they can be read without direct contact and are not affected by magnetic fields.

NFC Cards

NFC (near field communication) cards use short-range wireless communication to interact with a hotel’s lock system. Additionally, they can integrate with mobile devices, allowing guests to use digital versions of their key cards.

Hole Cards

Hole cards feature a series of holes punched in specific patterns that correspond to the locking mechanism of the door. While not as technologically advanced as other options, hole cards offer reliability and ease of use.