The short answer
Most electric gates are opened by one or more of: a handheld remote fob, a keypad, an audio or video intercom, an underground vehicle loop that senses a car leaving, or a smartphone app. Remote fobs and keypads are the cheapest and most common, typically adding a few tens to a few hundred pounds. Video intercoms and smartphone control cost more but let you see and admit visitors. Many homeowners combine two or three methods — for example a fob for the household, a keypad for trusted visitors, and an intercom for everyone else.
Choosing how you’ll open and control your gate matters as much as the gate itself, because it shapes the day-to-day experience and the cost. The good news is that access control is modular: you can start with a simple fob and keypad and add an intercom or app later. This guide explains the main options, roughly what each adds to the bill, and how to think about which combination suits your household, deliveries and visitors. Access devices are usually quoted as part of the wider installation — see our cost guide for the full picture.
Access control at a glance
- Remote fob: simplest, cheapest, for the household
- Keypad: code entry, good for trusted visitors
- Audio intercom: speak to callers
- Video intercom: see and speak to callers
- Vehicle loop: auto-open on exit
- Smartphone app: control and admit remotely
The main access control methods
Each method solves a slightly different problem. A remote fob is the everyday tool for the people who live there — press a button as you approach. A keypad lets people without a fob enter a code, which is handy for regular visitors, cleaners or family, and codes can be changed if needed. An intercom handles strangers: an audio unit lets you speak to a caller and release the gate from inside, while a video intercom also shows you who is there. An underground vehicle (induction) loop senses a car approaching from inside and opens the gate automatically so you can drive out without pressing anything. A smartphone app connects the gate to your phone over Wi-Fi or mobile data, so you can open it or admit a delivery driver even when you’re not home.
| Method | Best for | Typical added cost |
|---|---|---|
| Remote fob (each) | Household members | £20–£60 |
| Wired/wireless keypad | Trusted visitors, code entry | £60–£250 |
| Audio intercom | Speaking to callers | £150–£400 |
| Video intercom | Seeing and admitting callers | £300–£800+ |
| Vehicle exit loop | Auto-open when leaving | £150–£400 |
| Smartphone app / GSM module | Remote control and admitting deliveries | £150–£500+ |
Costs are typical illustrations for the access device added to an installation, not quotes. Final prices depend on brand, wiring and integration.
How to choose a combination
Think about who needs to get in and how. A typical family home works well with fobs for the household, a keypad for regular visitors, and a video intercom for callers and deliveries. If you often need to let couriers in while you’re out, a smartphone app or a video intercom that rings your phone is worth the extra. If your driveway is long or busy, a vehicle exit loop saves you reaching for a fob every time you leave. The right mix is a balance of convenience, security and budget — and because access control is modular, you don’t have to decide everything on day one. A good installer will talk through your routine and recommend a setup, and you can compare those recommendations across a couple of quotes.
Don’t let convenience override safety
It’s easy to focus on the gadgets and forget that the gate is still machinery. Whatever access method opens the gate, the safety devices — photocells, safety edges and force limitation — must always be active and working. An automatic opening triggered by a vehicle loop or an app is no different in the eyes of the safety regulations: the gate must not be able to crush or trap anyone as it moves. Make sure access features are added by the same competent installer who fits and tests the safety system, so the two work together. Our safety regulations guide explains what “safe” means in detail.
Compare electric gate quotes
Different installers favour different access systems. Use our service to get matched with an automated gate installer who can specify the right combination for your property.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to open an electric gate?
A handheld remote fob is the simplest and most common method — press a button as you approach. Most installations include one or two fobs as standard, with extra fobs typically costing £20–£60 each. Many homeowners add a keypad or intercom alongside fobs for visitors and deliveries.
Can I open my electric gate from my phone?
Yes. A smartphone app, usually via a Wi-Fi or mobile (GSM) module, lets you open the gate and admit visitors remotely. This typically adds £150–£500 or more depending on the system. It is popular for letting in deliveries when you are out, often paired with a video intercom.
What is a vehicle loop on a gate?
An underground induction loop set into the driveway that senses a vehicle and opens the gate automatically — usually so you can drive out without pressing anything. It typically adds £150–£400. It is most useful on longer or busier driveways where reaching for a fob each time is inconvenient.
Does access control affect gate safety?
No — safety devices must work regardless of how the gate is opened. Whether triggered by a fob, app or vehicle loop, the gate must still meet the safety regulations with active photocells, safety edges and force limitation. Have access features fitted by the same competent installer who installs and tests the safety system.
Sources & further reading
- DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) — powered gate guidance for homeowners
- Gate Safe — advice on safe automated gate installation
- BS EN 12453 / BS EN 13241 — safety in use of power-operated gates
- Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 — duties for automated gates
This is general information, not advice for your specific property. Access device costs vary with brand, wiring and integration. Always get a written quote from a competent installer.