People in UK prefer swing gate turnstile or speed gate turnstile?

The preference in the UK isn't uniform and depends heavily on the specific application and context.

However, as a general observation, speed gates (also known as optical turnstiles or security portals) are increasingly the preferred choice for modern commercial, corporate, and transport applications, while swing gates (physical barrier turnstiles) remain dominant in high-security, high-footfall, or budget-conscious environments.

Key Factors Influencing Choice in the UK:

1. Security vs. Flow: Swing gates prioritise security and enforcement; speed gates prioritise flow and user experience for trusted populations (like employees).

2. Aesthetics: Corporate environments strongly favour the clean, glass-and-metal look of speed gates.

3. Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) Compliance: Speed gate lanes can be easily designed to be DDA-compliant (minimum 900mm width). Swing gates require separate, wider accessible gates, which can be a security loophole if not monitored.

4. Cost: Swing gates generally have a lower initial purchase cost. Speed gates are a higher investment but offer a return in terms of perceived value and user efficiency.

5. Footfall Volume & Crowd Psychology: For managing unpredictable, large public crowds (e.g., a rush-hour Tube station), the physical barrier of a swing gate is still seen as essential.

Summary of Preference:

• For public transport, major events, and high-security industrial sites: The preference leans strongly towards Swing Gate Turnstiles.

• For offices, corporate buildings, universities, and airports (staff areas): The preference has decisively shifted towards Speed Gates.

• The Trend: The overall market trend in the UK is towards speed gates for any new build or refurbishment where the primary user group is a known cohort (employees, students, authorised personnel). They represent the modern standard for integrated, aesthetically pleasing access control.

Therefore, you cannot say one is universally preferred, but you can confidently say that speed gates are the preferred choice for the majority of new commercial and corporate installations in the UK today.