Both are biometrics, but they read different things. A fingerprint sensor reads the surface of the skin. A palm-vein sensor reads haemoglobin beneath it, using near-infrared light.
When fingerprints fail
Dry winter air, cement dust on a building site, a cleaner’s cracked hands, a thin glove, or simply wet fingers after rain. Surface sensors need a clean, readable ridge pattern; when the surface is compromised, the user tries three times and then uses the key — which defeats the purpose.
When palm vein wins
Palm vein tolerates dry skin, small cuts, dust and moisture better, and it is harder to spoof because the pattern is internal. It costs more and the module is larger, which is why it belongs on flagship models rather than the whole range.
Practical recommendation
For a villa gate or a coastal site, palm vein on the main door. For interior doors and volume projects, a good 508 DPI semiconductor fingerprint sensor is the sensible choice.
Takeaway
Choose the biometric for the hands that will actually use the door, not for the spec sheet.