Retractable Turnstiles

These fastlane optical turnstiles utilize the sleek design of our glass swing gate turnstiles with retractable barriers to offer a seamless entry experience. The retractable speed gates can support high traffic volumes without compromising on safety, perfect for modern spaces seeking reliable and efficient access management.

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What Is a Retractable Turnstile?

A retractable turnstile (often called a sliding turnstile or flap barrier) is a high-performance optical speed gate designed with acrylic or tempered glass panels that slide horizontally into the cabinet housing. Instead of swinging outward like traditional gates, the retractable barriers completely tuck away upon authorization. This sliding motion combined with infrared sensors allows for incredibly fast throughput while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic. Because the barriers retract seamlessly, they are highly effective at deterring tailgating while providing clear, unobstructed pathways for authorized personnel. When outfitted with brushless motors, retractable turnstiles can accommodate wider 900 mm lanes for ADA compliance, making them an excellent choice for bustling commercial buildings, transit stations, and corporate lobbies.

Retractable Turnstile Comparison — 2M Technology Models

Model Authentication Motor Options Flaps Traffic Rate Best Application
2MRST-1 Face recognition + card + fingerprint Brush, Brushless Single, Double Sided 35 persons/min Premium Corporate Lobbies
2MRST-5 Face recognition + card + fingerprint Brush, Brushless Single, Double Sided 35 persons/min Government Facilities & Campuses
2MRST-9 Face recognition + card + fingerprint Brush, Brushless Single, Double Sided 35 persons/min High-Volume Commercial Buildings

Retractable Turnstile vs. Other Turnstile Types

  • Retractable turnstile vs. full-height turnstile — Retractable turnstiles allow tailgating by a person who crouches under the barrier panels. Full-height turnstiles prevent this completely — used where absolute access control is required (prisons, high-security facilities). Retractable turnstiles are appropriate where some human supervision exists.
  • Retractable turnstile vs. tripod turnstile — Retractable barriers open fully for ADA/wheelchair access and allow faster throughput in premium environments. Tripod turnstiles are more cost-effective and more durable in industrial settings.
  • Retractable turnstile vs. lane drop-arm turnstile — While both retractable and lane drop-arm models rely on advanced optical sensor technology, retractable turnstiles offer a much stronger physical barrier. Drop-arm turnstiles leave open space underneath the single horizontal bar, creating a vulnerability where an intruder might attempt to crawl through. The flaps on retractable turnstiles extend much closer to the ground to completely block the width of the lane and eliminate those gaps.

Installation and Integration

All 2M Technology retractable turnstile models connect to standard Wiegand and OSDP access control panels. Each retractable turnstile ships with mounting hardware, power supply, and API documentation for integration with HR, visitor management, and time-attendance systems. Field installation takes 2–4 hours per lane. See the Security Industry Association (SIA) for access control integration standards.

2M Technology pairs retractable turnstile gates with boom gate barriers for vehicle access and integrates with enterprise access control systems — contact us for a site plan and quote.

Get a Quote for Retractable Turnstiles in DFW

2M Technology designs, supplies, and installs access control retractable turnstile systems for corporate campuses, industrial facilities, schools, and event venues across Dallas-Fort Worth and Texas. Contact us to request a free quote tailored to your lane count, installation type, and credential system options.