L
Latch

Comparison

Latch vs GymMaster

Both are built for NZ gyms. But they solve different problems. Here's an honest comparison for small gym owners who want to run 24/7 with no staff.

FeatureLatch← usGymMaster
Monthly price (NZD)$200 flat$79–$300+
Hardware included
Setup cost$0$1,500–$3,000+
Setup time~2 hrs, DIYDays + installer
Door access built-in
Payments built-in
Auto revoke on non-payment
Phone unlock (no app download)
Class scheduling
PT / staff management
Reporting & analyticsBasicAdvanced
Unlock audit log
NZD pricing
NZ-based support
No lock-in contract

GymMaster pricing from their public website. Access hardware costs estimated from NZ security company quotes. Correct as of early 2026.

The fundamental difference

GymMaster is a gym management platform — class schedules, PT bookings, staff management, reporting. It does a lot. Door access is an add-on that requires separate hardware installed by a security company.

Latch does two things only: collect membership payments and unlock the door when someone has paid. No class scheduling, no PT management. If your gym is one room with one door and you want it to run without you being there — that's what Latch is built for.

Why "access control add-on" is harder than it sounds

GymMaster's access module uses RFID hardware — a reader mounted at your door, a controller box, wiring back to a power source. A NZ security company needs to install it. That's typically a $1,500–$3,000 job before you pay GymMaster's monthly fee.

Then members need a fob or card to unlock. Someone has to hand out fobs, collect them back when members leave, replace lost ones. Latch has no hardware to hand out — members unlock via their phone browser.

When to choose GymMaster

GymMaster is the right choice if your gym runs structured classes, has multiple staff or trainers, needs PT session booking, or requires detailed membership and revenue reporting. It's a mature platform with a large NZ user base. The extra cost and complexity is justified if you need those features.

The verdict

Which one is right for you?

Choose Latch if…

  • You want 24/7 access with no staff on-site
  • You want hardware included with no installer visit
  • You want members to unlock via phone, not a fob
  • Your gym has no class schedule — just open floor
  • You want one flat monthly fee covering everything

Choose GymMaster if…

  • You run structured classes with timetables
  • You have personal trainers who need booking management
  • You need detailed financial and member reporting
  • You have multiple staff managing the gym
  • You're comfortable with a professional hardware install

Common questions

Does GymMaster include door access control?+
GymMaster has an access control module, but it requires separate hardware — a reader, controller, and wiring installed by a NZ security company. Budget an extra $1,500–$3,000+ for that. The access system and payment system are configured to talk to each other, but they're separate products.
Can GymMaster unlock the door from a phone?+
GymMaster's access system uses RFID fobs or cards as the unlock mechanism. Members need a physical fob. There is no browser-based phone unlock — members need hardware.
Which is cheaper long-term?+
For a small gym (under 60 members), Latch is almost always cheaper when you factor in GymMaster's hardware installation cost. Over 3 years: Latch = $7,200. GymMaster starter + access hardware install = roughly $5,000–$10,000+ depending on your setup.
Can I use both?+
Technically yes — use GymMaster for class scheduling and admin, Latch for door access and payments. But you'd be paying for two systems and managing member data in two places. For most small gyms this creates more admin, not less.
Who should choose GymMaster over Latch?+
If your gym has class timetables, PT bookings, multiple staff, or detailed reporting needs, GymMaster is a better fit. It's a full gym management platform. Latch is deliberately narrow: payments + door access, nothing else.

Think Latch is the right fit?

Set up in an afternoon, first month free. Hardware ships to you pre-configured. No lock-in contract.

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