Choosing a UniFi Access Reader
UniFi Access Readers are the user-facing part of your Access Control system, enabling secure door entry. They connect to the UniFi Access Control Hub, which controls the unlocking relay. All Access Readers are UL 294-compliant, ensuring security, durability, and reliability. This article will help you choose the ideal readers for your deployment. For a full UniFi Access overview, click here.
Reader Overview
UniFi offers four types of readers, each designed for specific access control needs:
- Reader Pro
- Intercom
- Compact Reader
- Hub-Integrated Reader
A UniFi Access Reader is compatible with all UniFi Access Control Hubs. You can mix and match readers within the same deployment to create a flexible, secure access control system.
Reader Comparison
The table below provides a comparison of all Access Readers.
| Reader Type |
Reader Pro |
Intercom | Compact Reader | Hub-Integrated Reader | |||
| Reader Model |
Access Ultra | ||||||
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|
|
|
|
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| Door Unlock Methods | |||||||
| NFC Card | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile App | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile Touch Pass | ✓ | — | — | ✓ | ✓ | — | — |
| Facial Recognition | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — |
| PIN Code |
✓ (Software Keypad) |
✓ (Software Keypad) |
✓ (Physical & Software Keypad) |
— |
✓ (Physical Keypad) |
— | — |
| QR Code | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — |
| Hand-Wave | — | — | — | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Entry Request Methods | |||||||
| Doorbell Ring |
✓ (Software) |
✓ (Software) |
✓ (Physical) |
— | — | — | — |
| Directory Calling | — | — | ✓ | — | — | — | — |
| Real-Time Door Monitoring | |||||||
| Live Video Streaming | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓1 | ✓1 | ✓1 | ✓1 |
| Two-Way Audio | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — |
| Intercom Viewer Pairing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — |
| Mounting | |||||||
| Outdoor Ready | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wall Mounting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Junction Box Mounting | ✓ | ✓ | — | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mullion Mounting | ✓ | ✓ | — | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ |
- Requires pairing with a UniFi Protect camera.
- For a full list of product specifications, visit techspecs.ui.com.
Reader Architecture
UniFi has several models of readers. The key criteria in determining which should be used in an application consist of:
- Unlock Methods: Some readers provide comprehensive door unlock methods to accommodate diverse user preferences and security needs, including NFC card, Mobile Unlock, Face Unlock, Touch Pass, PIN code, and QR code.
- Entry Request Methods: Readers with built-in features like doorbell ringing and directory calling simplify entry requests.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Readers with real-time monitoring capabilities enhance security and surveillance, offering features like live view streaming, two-way audio communication, and pairing with Intercom Viewer for improved control.
Reader Pro
High-performance touch readers packed with premium features like doorbell ringing, two-way audio, live view, and more. G3 Readers also have unique support for Mobile Touch Pass.
Models: G3 Reader Pro (UA-G3-Pro) and G2 Reader Pro (UA-G2-Pro)
Intercom
Compact Readers
Cost-effective readers ideal for external entry points that don't require advanced unlock methods or real-time monitoring. They are also perfect for internal doors following initial credential verification at the primary entrance(s).
Models: G3 Reader (UA-G3), Reader Flex (UA-G3-Flex), and G2 Reader (UA-G2)
Hub-Integrated Reader
An affordable solution for basic security needs, such as meeting rooms, offering essential unlock methods and a limited number of I/Os in the hub.
Model: Access Ultra (UA-Ultra)
FAQs
What is the power method for UniFi Access Readers?
UniFi Access Readers connect to Access Control Hubs using Power over Ethernet (PoE) for a streamlined and reliable power source.
Are UniFi Access Readers ADA-compliant?
Yes. UniFi Access Readers meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility standards. When mounted at 48 inches (120 cm), Reader Pro and Intercom's cameras can capture the faces of individuals up to 6 feet (183 cm) tall, including wheelchair users.
Do UniFi Access Readers need to be directly connected to an Access Control Hub for functionality?
Yes. All UniFi Access Readers require wiring to an Access Control Hub for full functionality.
However, starting from Access 2.3.10, the Access application can adopt Access Readers (ensure the latest version is installed) without direct wiring to a hub, allowing it to register NFC cards and access live view. However, door unlocking is not available.
How do I change the language on the Access Reader?
Navigate to Access application > Settings > Language and select your preferred language. This setting applies globally to the Access application and all readers with a screen (i.e., Reader Pro and Intercom).
Can reader use a voice greeting when the door is unlocked?
Yes. To configure a voice greeting on a reader, navigate to Access application > Devices > Readers > select a reader > Settings > Greeting > Voice Greeting and select a message.