Choosing the best intercom for controlling access to your home

Updated: 02/19/2021 18:49:02

Expert: Evgeny Mikhailovich Obolensky

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

When choosing an intercom or video intercom, you should first determine the planned use - whether it will be used only as a means of communication and security, or whether it will be part of a home security system. The functionality of the device depends on this.

What to look for when choosing an intercom or video intercom

When choosing an intercom, you should pay attention to the following characteristics of the device:

1. Connection type
   – wired or wireless. The first option is better suited for installation in apartments. It allows you to do without drilling cable channels in the walls - you just need to install two modules, a receiver and a transmitter. But their range of action is limited. For private homes, it is better to use wired intercoms, which ensure stable communication between the indoor and outdoor modules regardless of the weather;
2. Communication type
   – voice or video intercom. The first option provides the most basic protection against unauthorized entry. The second is more reliable: you can not only hear, but also see the visitor. This is necessary if couriers, delivery people and similar specialists often call your home or office;
3. Availability of GSM module
   . Allows you to track visitors, even if the owners are not at home (or in the office). In some cases it may well be useful;
4. Availability of recording and motion detector
   . These two functions turn the intercom into a full-fledged security system. They allow you to track visitors, even if the owner is not at home - and carefully consider their intentions;
5. Type – private or multi-apartment
   . The first is designed to protect one home. The second is for organizing access control in an apartment building.

It is worth considering that multi-apartment intercoms are usually installed by representatives of management companies or other organizations that monitor the condition of the house.

Main selection criteria

The first thing you should decide on is the type of data transfer. It can be analog, i.e. video and sound will be transmitted via analog cable, or digital, in which the signal is transmitted via a network cable, or wirelessly, such as via the Internet. Analogue is compatible with all systems that are installed today at entrances and is easy to use. Digital is best used in a private home or in small luxury apartment buildings with modern equipment.

The second is the ability to record video and conversation, which will actually become a replacement for video surveillance.

Another important parameter is the function of transferring data to other devices. This feature will help you transfer video from the video intercom to your phone or other devices in real time. Using this technology, it will be possible to open the door without even going to the intercom itself, for example from a smartphone. And also keep an eye on the apartment when no one is home.

Intercom or video intercom which company to choose

Among the manufacturers of intercoms and video intercoms are:

1. Commax. They produce budget intercoms;
2. Falcon Eye. A manufacturer of security systems for private homes, which also produces other equipment, including video intercoms;
3. Kenwei. Produces a wide variety of electronics. Intercoms are not the main product, but there are still such devices in the line;
4. Kocom. Manufacturer of security systems with intercom functionality;
5. Slinex. Produces easy-to-install and use intercoms for private homes;
6. Tantos. Manufacturer of intercoms, which, thanks to their expanded functionality, can be “scaled” to an almost full-fledged security system;
7. Tantos. Manufacturer of security systems with remote control functions.
8. Visit. One of the largest manufacturers of intercoms. Based in the Russian Federation. It produces mainly multi-apartment intercoms combined with a door opening or locking system. But devices for private homes are also available;

There are quite a lot of companies involved in the production of intercoms and video intercoms. Therefore, you should choose a device not only based on pricing and functionality, but also based on consumer reviews.

Choosing the best intercom for controlling access to your home

Despite the fact that intercoms have become very common, many users still do not know what criteria they should use to select this practical device. Let's try to figure out what you should pay attention to when choosing and buying an intercom, so that you don't regret a hasty decision later.

Design

It’s clear that you want to choose an intercom that fits perfectly into your interior. However, it is better to choose the appearance of the intercom after you have decided on the necessary set of its functional characteristics. In other words, when choosing an intercom, it is advisable to look for a design that matches the desired capabilities of the intercom device, and not vice versa. Fortunately, in any price range the choice is quite wide in taste and color.

Speaks and shows intercom

First of all, decide on the basic functionality of the intercom. Is it enough for you to just hear the visitor, or do you also need the opportunity to see him? Simple voice intercoms, which only allow the visitor to hear, are much simpler and cheaper than models with video. If the guideline is the most economical option, then the choice is clearly an audio intercom, such as Commax DP-4VHP Price from 961 to 1,815 rubles, Kocom KDP-601A, Kenwei KW-110 SET, portable model Slinex RD-20, etc.

However, for all its price advantages, the purely voice model has an important drawback: the user cannot see the interlocutor. In turn, the quality of voice communication of audio intercoms, especially cheap ones, does not always allow one to accurately identify even a familiar visitor by voice

. And such voice communication turns out to be very “deceptive”. If there are trusting children or elderly people in the house, or simply want to equip the house with a modern device, it is better to prefer a video intercom that shows the image of the interlocutor.

Analog or digital

Most intercoms on the market are analog. There's nothing wrong with that. At the same time, there are digital IP intercoms that can be connected to a local network. The disadvantage of IP solutions is that when the network does not work for some reason, the intercom does not work either, and this is a significant disadvantage. The advantage of such systems is the ability to send notifications from the intercom via the Internet anywhere in the world to the same mobile gadget of the owner, transfer images from the camera there, and even two-way voice communication

. That is, while on a business trip, you can see who it is who is ringing the doorbell to your wife. And even exchange a few words with him. IP intercoms are available in different price segments - from inexpensive ARNY AVD-720M Wi-Fi, Dahua DH-VTH1560B Price from 8,613 to 16,790 rubles. to very functionally sophisticated and significantly lightening the wallet BAS-IP systems: BAS-IP AP-07 v3, BAS-IP AL-09, BAS-IP AQ-10 v3 Price from 47,069 to 54,358 rubles. and etc.

To be fair, we note that analogue intercoms also provide the possibility of remote communication via a wired telephone line, but this is slightly inconsistent with the trends of the times.

Tube, to be or not to be

The handset in the intercom looks somewhat old-fashioned and in the most modern models, installing a handset is not practiced - the hands-free mode is used. Audio intercoms without a handset are actually much more convenient to use than handset ones. At the same time, if the intercom is installed in a place where increased security conditions are observed (security institution, security service, company departments with increased security requirements, etc.) - here the use of an intercom with a handset may be relevant so that through the speakerphone Confidential information was not disclosed accidentally or intentionally. In the latter case, you can purchase a handset intercom or a hands-free intercom model, which provides for the optional connection of a handset.

Color or black and white

There is no point in choosing a black and white intercom. These relatives of black and white TVs are devices from the past and are perceived as dinosaurs, and they don’t really benefit in price. But since there is demand, there is also a good offer: Kocom KVM-301EV, Atis AD-4HP2, Viatec V-4HP, Kenwei KW-4LT, etc.

The cost of a color video intercom greatly depends on: the size and resolution of the display used, case materials, and technical capabilities of the model.

Video intercom screen size – large or small

A small intercom screen around 3.5-4.5 inches is relevant for solutions when the selection criterion is low price. These are models Commax CDV-35A, ARNY AVD-410M, Nous NV4U, Kocom KCV-A374, Slinex MS-04, etc.

The recommended option is an intercom with a 7-10 inch screen. Such screens, as a rule, have not just a larger image area, but also a higher resolution (800x480, 1024x768 and higher). Video intercoms with large screens are presented in a very wide range and price range (depending on functionality): Kocom KCV-504, ARNY AVD-710M NEW, Kenwei KW-128C, Atis AD-806RO/AT305C, NeoLight Alpha, etc.

In addition, modern intercom models also offer LCD touch screens (or install touch buttons) with the most intuitive controls and a convenient graphical interface. If possible, give preference to them, because the convenience and ease of using an intercom is not the least important thing. Especially for children and the elderly. Among the available models with touch controls are Slinex XS-07M, ARNY AVD-NG1091, NeoLight Largo, etc. When choosing an intercom with a high-resolution screen, remember that the calling panel camera (if used) must be of adequate quality - at least provide resolution 600-800 TVL for analog devices. If you are going to use an intercom with multiple cameras, make sure that the model supports quad mode (or similar) - and then you will be able to see the image from all cameras on the screen at the same time, which is very convenient.

Recording visitors

Many intercoms allow you to record visitors. For example, a vigilant intercom will take a photo of everyone who approached the calling panel while the owners of the house were away. The internal memory of the intercom usually does not hold too much data (about 40-150 photos), so many models support the installation of memory cards (usually SD cards with a capacity of up to 32 GB), which are used to take photos or even video recordings of visitors. Intercoms with memory card support: DIOS DS-107, Slinex XS-07M, Commax CDV-70UM Price from 24,260 to 27,372 rubles, Slinex SL-07IP Price from 11,745 to 16,100 rubles. and etc.

Compatibility

Sometimes it is necessary to purchase a separate intercom for an apartment, but there is a desire to integrate it with the intercom system of an apartment building in order to open the door at the entrance using the device. In this case, you need to be very careful - not every model is suitable, and you need to look for an option compatible with the general house system, usually from the same manufacturer. But separately sold calling panels are usually compatible with any intercom. By the way, sometimes the intercom is equipped with an calling panel, and if one is enough for you, then you won’t have to spend money on additional devices.

Possibility of parallel connection of several intercoms

This feature is relevant for a large private house or apartment. In this case, when you hear the doorbell, you won’t have to run headlong to the only intercom panel at the door. To talk with a visitor, you can use any of the nearest parallel-connected intercom panels. Often, even in not very expensive models, up to 2 to 4 intercoms can be connected in parallel. Parallel connection allows you to implement another interesting feature - intercom.

Intercom communication

If the intercom function is supported, then intercoms connected in parallel can be used by household members or service personnel as intercom devices for internal communication within the house. Owners of large multi-room cottages and apartments, especially those with service, will find the intercom function very useful. Intercom intercoms: Commax CDV-35A, NeoLight Delta, ARNY AVD-709, Kocom KCV-504, etc.

Connecting additional cameras and calling panels

More expensive color intercom models have the ability to connect additional cameras. For what? Well, for example, if you want to see the situation from the intercom not only near the door, but also on the staircase, near the elevator, or even look after the car in the parking lot. Additional cameras can be connected to intercoms: Slinex XR-07, NeoLight Gamma, Kenwei S701, Atis AD-806RO/AT305C, etc.

Video intercoms that support the connection of additional cameras are not much more expensive, but they provide a fairly useful opportunity to expand the “horizon” of video monitoring and improve the level of security where necessary.

The option of connecting additional calling panels is relevant if there are several entrances in the yard, house or apartment. In this case, the call can be made by the visitor as conveniently as possible - from the calling panel at any entrance. Additional calling panels can be connected to intercoms: Viatec V-4HP, Tantos LILU Price from 4,100 to 9,702 rubles, NeoLight Kappa, Nous NV8, etc.

Additional functionality

Modern intercoms implement various additional features that expand the functionality of the intercom beyond the usual framework. For example, some video intercoms can serve as an electronic calendar, photo frame and audio player - NeoLight Alpha Plus. Others are to control home automation like a real “Smart Home”: adjust lights, curtains and blinds, maintain the microclimate by controlling the air conditioner, etc. – BAS-IP AL-09. If you need something more than just an intercom system, pay attention to the additional capabilities of the devices.

We hope our recommendations will help you choose an intercom that best suits your needs.

Rating of the best video intercoms

Falcon Eye FE-74R

Rating: 4.9

Wired video intercom with a 7-inch display and advanced functionality. Supports three asynchronous connection channels via coaxial cable and a standard 4-pin bus. Control is performed using touch buttons on the front panel. Equipped with a recorder function, it can record video manually or automatically. There is no built-in storage, but there is a slot for MicroSD cards.

The intercom is not equipped with a separate handset. The speaker and microphone are located in the device body itself. Wall mount, powered by 13.5 V, adapter included. You can also use the included remote control for setup.

Advantages

• Easy to set up;
• Recorder mode;
• Compatible with most calling panels;

Flaws

• No built-in memory;
• The package may not include a calling panel, please check before purchasing.

Falcon Eye FE-70I

Rating: 4.8

Multifunctional video intercom monitor with support for 6 communication channels – 2 for calling panels and 4 for video cameras. External modules are connected via a standard 4-pin bus. Supports photo and video recording, including motion detection mode. Data is stored on a MicroSD memory card (purchased separately).

A simple and intuitive user interface allows you to work with the device without prior training. The main advantage of a video intercom is its compatibility with addressable intercoms, including multi-apartment ones. It is compatible with Vizit interfaces - intercoms that are used in city houses.

Advantages

• Compatible with Vizit;
• Recorder mode;
• Compatible with most calling panels;

Flaws

• No built-in memory;
• No calling panel included.

The best intercom for the office

Falcon Eye FE-71TM

Rating: 4.9

Office video intercom with 7-inch touch screen and handset for voice communication. It is equipped with four inputs – 2 for the calling panel and 2 more for video cameras. There is also a recorder mode; photos and videos are recorded onto an installed MicroSD memory card. A motion detector is also available.

The main advantage of a video intercom is its wide compatibility with calling panels from a wide variety of manufacturers. It supports standard 4-pin external modules, as well as dial pads with Vizit (coordinate) and XL (digital) interfaces.

Advantages

• Compatible with almost all models of calling panels;
• A tube;
• DVR with support for synchronous recording;

Flaws

• No internet connection;
• The calling panel is not included in the delivery package;
• No connection to phone;

The best classic intercom

Vizit BVD-SM101R

Rating: 4.9

An intercom for apartment buildings with support for duplex voice communication, a maximum number of subscribers of 100 nodes, a memory for 600 branded RFID keys, control of electromagnetic locks with a resistance of 10 Ohms and the ability to work with a concierge remote control.

Since the main functional module is installed outdoors, the intercom is housed in a waterproof housing and remains operational in a wide temperature range. To open the door, you can use individual and general codes, a personal RFID key or a button on the intercom inside the apartment.

Advantages

• Durable, reliable, vandal-proof housing;
• Compatible with concierge remote control and electromagnetic locks;
• Memory for 100 numbers and 600 keys;

Flaws

• Voice only;
• Difficult to install (a separate switching unit is used).

The best wireless video intercoms

Falcon Eye FE-35WI

Rating: 4.9

Wireless video intercom kit, which includes an internal monitor and an external calling panel.

The monitor is equipped with a 3.5-inch liquid crystal display, mechanical control buttons, a mode of operation as a recorder (photos and videos are recorded on a MicroSD memory card) and the ability to connect up to three calling panels.

The calling panel is equipped with a 0.3 megapixel camera with a viewing angle of 45 degrees, infrared sensor illumination for better visibility in the dark, a waterproof metal case and connectors for connecting a lock. Can be powered by a battery or a separate 5 V power supply. Communication with the monitor is carried out via a radio channel.

Advantages

• Simple, ready-to-install kit;
• Recorder and motion detection modes;
• Infrared illumination of the camera sensor;

Flaws

• There is no Internet connection for remote control and monitoring;
• Low video camera resolution.

The best inexpensive video intercom

Commax CDV-35A

Rating: 4.7

Ultra-budget indoor monitor for video intercom. Equipped with a handset for easy communication, a 3.5-inch LCD display, touch buttons for control (including opening the lock) and a wall mount. You can connect two external calling panels to the monitor with a standard 4-pin connection.

Advantages

• Low price;
• Easy to install;
• Ease of use thanks to the handset;

Flaws

• No DVR;
• The set includes only the monitor, without the calling panel;
• No Internet access;

The best intercom for a private home

Slinex SL-10IP

Rating: 4.9

A multifunctional video intercom for a private home, on the basis of which you can build a full-fledged security system. You can connect up to four external devices to it - two calling panels (with a camera, a button and a locking mechanism) and two additional video cameras. The devices operate in synchronous mode - you can view video from four sensors.

The DVR function is also present. Photos and videos are recorded onto a separately installed MicroSD memory card.

The indoor monitor can connect to Wi-Fi. This provides remote control and event viewing. There are also special mobile applications for receiving Push notifications about visitors.

Advantages

• Attractive design, glass and metal body;
• Expanded functionality;
• Large 10-inch screen;

Flaws

• Minor cropping of images from connected cameras;
• No calling panel included.

Digital video intercom

Digital video intercoms transmit audio and video either over a network cable or without any wires at all. They have high quality sound and pictures, and can connect to the Internet and smart home systems.

Digital video intercom in a private house.

At the same time, digital devices are quite expensive, difficult to set up, and most importantly, they are not always compatible with ordinary calling panels in apartment buildings.

The best place to install a digital video intercom is a private house or apartment in an elite high-rise building, where there are digital cameras and a modern calling panel that supports digital signal transmission.

Digital video intercoms

Transmits sound and picture over a network or Wi-Fi
Buy

Which intercom or video intercom to buy

When choosing an intercom or video intercom, you should be guided by the following criteria:

1. Is this an intercom for an apartment building? Only a classic option like Vizit;
2. Don't want to worry about laying cables? Wireless models;
3. Need remote control? Intercoms with Wi-Fi, Ethernet or GSM;
4. Do you need to connect a large number of cameras? Intercoms with multiple connectors.
5. Other characteristics, such as a handset or a recorder, should be taken into account depending on your needs.

Choosing an electronic video intercom lock

There are two types of electronic locks. Each individual model is equipped with a specific lock depending on its functions.

Electromagnetic lock - consists of a metal plate and a core. Closing occurs through the magnetic field of the coil. This lock will continue to work even after a power outage thanks to a backup power source. This lock is opened with a special key or button from the inside.

Electromechanical lock - has crossbars in its design, which allows you to open the door using a simple key. It will work even without power.

When choosing a video intercom option and components for a private home, it is better to choose an electromechanical lock. Due to its high reliability, even in the absence of an additional power source, the degree of security will be many times higher compared to electromagnetic locks, which, in turn, are installed in high-rise buildings. Sometimes, in order to decide which lock to choose for a video intercom, for a specific case, it is still better to consult a specialist.