While money isn't king, we all check price tags. We compare quality to cost, expectations versus worth, and the consequences (or lack thereof) of cutting corners. What are a few things you absolutely shouldn't cut corners on? To name a few: surgeons, sushi, and safety. You don't want a surgeon with shaky hands or a sushi chef who uses expired ingredients — so why skimp on the physical security and access control protecting your facility?
Whether you're installing turnstiles for the first time or retrofitting an old installation, pay attention to the details behind turnstile cost. Don't trade what looks like upfront savings for long-term quality, safety, and capability. Without further ado, here are three things to consider when purchasing turnstiles.
1. Why Look Beyond the Upfront Turnstile Price?
When comparing turnstile brands, don't take the quote or invoice at total face value. Numerous factors weigh into long-term costs and savings beyond the per-lane price. Functionality like the tailgate detection and Sidegate Detection® found in Fastlane turnstiles can deliver real cost savings by reducing the number of posted security guards required at entrances and secure areas. In fact, one Class-A high-rise generated a 262% ROI with $779,000 in savings after just 5 years — paying back its initial investment in only 20 months.
Beyond the technology and compatibility, you future-proof your security investment with Smarter Security: we offer a product warranty of up to 5 years and place no limit on the age of lane we're willing to repair, given parts availability. For more on what that support looks like, visit our installation services page or explore our full technical services offering.
Fastlane turnstiles also last longer than the competition, generating years of savings simply by continuously working. With approved preventative maintenance and regular use, 5,000,000 cycles of operation are expected before electromechanical subassemblies may require replacing. A perfect example of this longevity? Facilities hit by flooding and hurricanes. When the water receded, our turnstiles didn't need replacing or extensive repairs.
2. How Do Compliance and Sustainability Affect Turnstile Cost?
For sustainability-minded organizations, Fastlane turnstiles are eco-conscious by design — kinder to the planet and your wallet. Our turnstiles are accredited to ISO 14001:2015, making them eligible to contribute to a LEED scorecard for energy conservation.
Fastlane turnstiles are energy efficient at only 60 watts per lane and are recyclable at the end of their long life cycles, generating long-term savings on utility bills. All Fastlane turnstiles operate on low voltage and remarkably low current, with externally mounted power supplies. Aside from connecting the power supply box itself to a 110 VAC supply, licensed electricians aren't required for lane installation — trimming both installation and maintenance costs.
Building codes are evolving too. Requirements emerging in California, New York, and Canada — and growing in popularity everywhere — call for a simple dip-switch setting: if you're on the secure side of a lane, you aren't required to badge out. The brakes release when you touch the barrier with your fingertips, providing a swift, safe exit in an emergency.
[IMAGE 2 — Mid-body] Suggested: Power supply / low-voltage installation detail, or a LEED-certified building lobby installation Alt text: Energy-efficient Fastlane turnstiles operating at 60 watts per lane in a sustainable building lobby
3. How Does Future-Proofing Generate Turnstile ROI?
When weighing different brands, models, and footprints, assess the unexpected savings — or costs — that come with each alternative. Fastlane is one of the most efficient turnstiles on the market, allowing up to 60 people per minute to pass with industry-leading tailgate detection and exclusive Sidegate Detection®.
Smarter Security offers SmarterMount, a customized and affordable post-mount option for integrating scanners, biometrics, and access control with your turnstile. The end-cap accessory can be easily swapped as your security strategy evolves — no drilling into the turnstile and physically altering the lane with every change. Another popular cost-saver: Fastlane floor protectors, which prevent coring into facility flooring and provide flexibility to reconfigure lanes without damage.
A final and major cost-savings difference is our range of lane widths. We offer standard, extended, and ADA lanes, plus a wider lane at 47.25" on models like the Fastlane Glassgate 155 — allowing better traffic flow and passage of large objects. These models optimize space utilization by eliminating the need for a separate gate entirely.
Don't Be a Stranger — Contact Us!
Questions about our quote process, sustainability, ROI, technical services, or whether we're the right fit for your space? Contact us and a member of our team will get back to you shortly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turnstile Cost
How much do turnstiles cost?
Turnstile pricing varies widely based on model, barrier type, lane width, number of lanes, and integrated technologies like biometric readers. Rather than comparing per-lane quotes alone, evaluate total cost of ownership — including guard labor savings, energy use, maintenance, and lifespan — which is where quality turnstiles deliver their real value.
Do turnstiles pay for themselves?
They can. One Class-A high-rise using Fastlane turnstiles paid back its $215,000 initial investment in 20 months and generated a 262% return on investment with $779,000 in savings over 5 years, primarily through reduced security staffing costs.
How long do Fastlane turnstiles last?
With approved preventative maintenance and regular use, Fastlane turnstiles are expected to deliver 5,000,000 cycles of operation before electromechanical subassemblies may require replacing — and units have continued operating even after exposure to flooding.
Do turnstiles require a licensed electrician to install?
Generally, no. Fastlane turnstiles operate on low voltage with externally mounted power supplies. Aside from connecting the power supply box to a 110 VAC supply, licensed electricians are not required for lane installation, which reduces installation costs.
Are turnstiles energy efficient?
Yes. Fastlane turnstiles consume only 60 watts per lane, are accredited to ISO 14001:2015, and can contribute to LEED scorecards for energy conservation — plus they're recyclable at the end of their life cycle.
References
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- Smarter Security. Proof Is in the Numbers: Security Yields ROI — Case Study
- International Organization for Standardization. ISO 14001 Environmental Management
- U.S. Green Building Council. LEED Rating System