Who's there: choosing the best video intercoms for an apartment

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.

Types of intercom for home

Manufacturers of security systems provide customers with a wide selection of required equipment. By type, electronic security guards are divided into:

• audio;
• monochrome;
• colored.

In the first case, the internal panel with the handset is not equipped with a screen for video contact with the guest outside the door. In this intercom the visitor can only be heard. Most often, such models are produced with a handset for communication and a button that unlocks the front door. The external panel is equipped with a call key and a reader for a magnetic key of a contact or contactless version.

Monochrome copies are equipped with a black and white screen, which allows you to see the doorbell ringer and a small area behind him. This set also includes 1 video camera.

Devices with color screens show the owner a bright picture, but are inferior in clarity to monochrome models. The sets are also equipped with a CCTV camera.

When considering locks that block entrance doors, you need to know that they come in:

• magnetic;
• mechanical.

Electromagnetic locks operate using a coil and a metal core. The door is locked due to the magnetic field that is created inside. If the lights go out unexpectedly, the system automatically switches to backup power.

The electromechanical lock operates using crossbars. It can be opened with the iron key included in the kit. The system will function if the backup power generator also fails.

Based on the connection system, security devices are divided into wired and wireless. In a wired intercom, communication between the external and internal units occurs via wire. In the second model, there is no connecting cable, and the indoor unit can be carried around the house like a tablet and not be tied to a place.

In addition, the indoor unit can be with or without a tube. In the first case, the dialogue with the person standing behind the door takes place hidden, and those around you do not hear what is being said. If the panel is without a handset, then the speaker’s hands are free, but communication takes place using a speakerphone, and the topic of conversation is available to everyone nearby. The volume of the devices in both cases is adjustable, which can provide the desired privacy.

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.

Video description

Video example of installing an intercom in a private house:

• Falcon Eye FE-KIT.

Inexpensive intercom model for a private home. Characterized by the following technical equipment:

1. Color monitor 320 x 240 pixels.
2. Handsfree support.
3. Dimensions – 12x17x2 cm.
4. Push-button control.

The equipment is quite simple and reliable - it allows you to quickly identify a visitor and open the door from a distance.

• KIVOS KDB 301 Duos.

Mid-price video intercom model with the following set of parameters:

1. Call panel and two portable monitors.
2. Screen diagonal 8.9 cm.
3. Memory card for 100 photos.
4. Wireless communication range – up to 100 m.
5. Operating temperature range – from -10 to +50 degrees.
6. IR illumination.

When you press the call key, the device automatically takes and saves a photo of the visitor.

• Tantos Neo GSM.

Intercom for remote control of visitors. A special module saves and transmits the image to the mobile device of the home owner when he is not at home. Among the useful functions, the ability to connect a memory card for video recording stands out. The signal volume automatically adjusts to the time of day or night.

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.

Feature Set

Modern video intercoms incorporate the latest technologies. Today, with their help, you can not only open the door and communicate with the visitor, but also implement a number of other tasks. For maximum user safety and comfort, manufacturers provide video intercoms with additional options. The most useful and popular functions:

• motion sensor: allows you to detect a person within the range of the video camera;
• photo and video recording: automatically turns on during a call, when the motion sensor is activated or according to a programmed schedule;
• controlling the device from a gadget: allows the owner of the apartment to communicate with the guest through the smartphone screen;
• infrared illumination: provides high-quality shooting in low light and at night;
• connection of external cameras and sensors: expands the viewing area, allows you to monitor the situation in the parking lot and other local areas.

The functionality of modern devices is regularly updated. IP video intercoms can become the foundation for a smart home. Programming the system allows you to configure the inclusion of devices, climate control equipment and electricity.

On the website, everyone will be able to choose a suitable video intercom for their apartment, which will allow them to solve their problems.

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.

Connection diagram for video intercom with electromechanical lock

When deciding to independently connect a video intercom for a private house with an electromechanical lock, you need to be prepared to spend from 1 to 3 hours on this. Exactly how much time it will take to complete all the necessary work depends on how much experience you have in this type of work, as well as on the type of lock being installed. Installation of overhead mechanisms is quite simple, but with built-in ones you will have to try.

Standard connection diagram for an electromechanical lock with a video intercom

The most common solution is to use a T-shaped corner for this purpose, which serves as a connecting element between the profile and the frame. To do this, you need to prepare all the tools and apply the appropriate markings, noting the places where the fasteners will be located. Then, in the marked places, holes are made for screws of the appropriate diameter.

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This is followed by the installation of a hole through which the cable will be laid, passing through the door and leading to the external panel. All these same operations must be repeated from the outside of the door. After this, the cable is routed to the installation box, inside of which there is a call button and a key reader.

Important! If during the installation of the cable there are places where it bends, then it is necessary to place it in a specially designated channel to prevent damage.

With the help of an electromechanical lock, it is not necessary to communicate with the visitor in order to let him into the premises

After this, all that remains is to secure the mating part of the device and connect all the elements. In fact, connecting the calling panel to the video intercom is very simple if you use twisted pair cable as wiring, since the system initially has several pairs of wires twisted together. If you need to connect devices to each other over a long distance, then a combined cable is used for this purpose, which is capable of simultaneously transmitting electrical power, as well as audio and video signals.

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;

Kenwei KW-E705FC

This model can be considered as the best video intercom for a private home. The reason is the possibility of organizing a distributed network for answering calls. The system can include up to four monitors inside the house, a pair of calling panels and a pair of cameras on the perimeter.

The device is equipped with a large 7-inch color display and is controlled by buttons. To communicate with the visitor, both hands-free functionality and a classic intercom are offered.

Important! It is possible to expand the capabilities by purchasing additional modules, for example, for accessing the Internet.

• system of distributed call reception points;
• registrar functionality;
• negotiations inside the house between monitors;
• redirection and other scenarios.

• minimum basic functionality;
• To expand the capabilities you need to buy additional modules;
• calling panel is not included;
• Doesn't work with memory cards.

Kenwei KW-E705FC on Yandex Market

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.

How to connect a video intercom: installation rules

To install a video intercom in a private home, they most often invite specialists who quickly and efficiently carry out all the necessary work, and then, after testing the result, provide the owners with a completely finished system for use.

But there are also those who, having become familiar with the cost of installing a video intercom, undertake to solve the problem on their own. Of course, this requires a special tool, as well as experience, but anyone can try. Moreover, now you can easily find a lot of instructions and recommendations on how to connect a video intercom yourself. Let's consider the main stages of this procedure:

1. Choosing a suitable location for the call panel. As a rule, the most convenient location is on the right side of the visitor at a height of about 150-165 cm from the ground. Thus, a person of any height, and even a child, can use the device.
2. Installation of the panel and additional cameras, if provided.
3. Installation of internal components of the system. If the block and tubes will be installed separately, this needs to be thought through and implemented at this stage.
4. After this, all that remains is to connect all installed devices using power supplies.

The absence of an electronic or mechanical lock simplifies the installation of a video intercom

If the panel must be installed on a fence, then in this case a special connection diagram is used. In this case, the cable is laid underground. At the same time, it is protected using a special shell. In addition, installation of an uninterruptible power supply is provided.

It goes without saying that these recommendations apply only to wired models. If we are talking about wireless video intercoms for a private home, which are much more expensive to buy, then this issue automatically loses its relevance.

Helpful advice! In order to protect the panel and electric lock, it is recommended to purchase a special protective cabinet whose protection class corresponds to IP65.

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.