Video intercom for an apartment: TOP 10 best models and what to look for when choosing

The best intercoms with call forwarding

Tantos Neo GSM

16 000

It is already difficult to imagine a situation when an unexpected guest arrives without first asking if you are at home. Unless he knows the owner's phone number. It is for such cases that an intercom with a cellular communication module is ideal.Installing a SIM card in Neo GSM gives this device the capabilities of a landline phone that performs automatic dialing to the specified numbers if no one responds “from the inside” to the call panel signal. Actually, the inhabitants of the apartment can also use its services for their own purposes or call an alarm service by pressing a single button on the screen. By the way, for connections at a shareware rate, a mobile phone can even be used as a kind of wireless remote control. When installing additional blocks, extended functionality becomes available. In particular, sending a command from the phone to open the gate. With traditional functions, Neo GSM is also in perfect order. The model supports the connection of two outdoor panels, a pair of video cameras, can integrate with most common house systems, easily combines with similar devices and allows you to save individual pictures or videos on various events on a memory card. A rather valuable feature of this intercom is the ability to bind the volume of the call signal to the time of day.

Main advantages:

6 numbers for call forwarding; recording by call, motion detection signal and manually; the possibility of expanding the functionality; voice messages for visitors and households; do not disturb mode; 4 periods for call volume

Cons: there are complaints about reliability.

9.6
/ 10

Rating

Reviews

Inexpensive Internet has not yet reached our area, so a video intercom with a cellular communication module is the best option for those who need to keep their home under personal control, even while away.

Kenwei KW-SA20C-PH-HR 20 300 Another good video intercom with call forwarding, ideal for areas with poor cell coverage and the ability to connect to a wired telephone line. Remote control of the door lock is supported by it, for this the owner must enter a secret code at the end of the conversation. Incoming calls are also supported. The big advantage of the model can be considered a screen with a diagonal of 10.2″ and a relatively high resolution. If desired, the video signal can be output to an external display device, and the audio path can be duplicated by a more powerful speaker. Kenwei designers even provided a connector for connecting a simple doorbell button. It is not clear why. With a standard installation, the model will be able to "make friends" with a pair of outdoor panels and four additional cameras (PAL / NTSC format). It is possible to combine four monitors with support for internal calls. Based on the KW-SA20C, it is possible to implement some of the ideas of the Smart Home concept. For example, intelligent lighting control. True, this will require the installation of additional automation. This model is not designed to store information. The PH-W80-HR modification (with built-in memory) is intended for photo recording, and the PH-W200-HR modification (with a card slot) is intended for video recording. Main advantages: call forwarding via a wired communication line; big screen; bright illumination of touch keys; good potential for building complex systems. Minuses: there are compatibility problems with some models of access intercoms; high quality food requirements.

9.5 / 10 Rating Reviews We have our own house. In order not to run out into the yard in vain, especially in winter, we bought such an intercom. And when we leave on business, we switch the telephone line to him.Indeed, convenient.

Choosing a video intercom and its manufacturer

These are the main issues faced by people who decide to turn their attention to such an element of household use as a video intercom, which allows you to significantly secure your home. Today on the market there are high-quality digital video intercoms from such manufacturers: Commax, FALCON, LASKOMEX, RAIKMAN, Kenwei, FILMAN, PROEL, MARSHAL, KEYMAN, Kocom, etc.

You can also find analog coordinate video intercoms from Visit, ELTIS, CYFRAL, METAKOM

Today, high-quality digital video intercoms from such manufacturers are on the market: Commax, FALCON, LASKOMEX, RAIKMAN, Kenwei, FILMAN, PROEL, MARSHAL, KEYMAN, Kocom, etc. You can also find analog coordinate video intercoms from Visit, ELTIS, CYFRAL, METAKOM.

Which video intercom is better to choose from the above, can only be shown by the practice of using devices of a particular company. In our region, equipment from such well-known manufacturers as Commax, Kocom, Kenwei is considered to be proven in terms of quality and uninterrupted operation. Video intercoms of these brands are quite reliable, have a variety of technical data, good recommendations from consumers, and a wide range of prices.

All three of these brands are constantly competing with each other, introducing new multifunctional models with excellent performance.

Which video intercom is better for you to decide. This decision will need to be made taking into account several factors:

what functions would you like to see in this equipment (the number of outdoor panels, the required viewing angle and range, the presence of additional cameras, IR illumination, heat and motion sensors, connections to a computer network and mobile communication channels);
you need to decide on the installation location of individual elements (door panels, monitor, additional cameras);
taking into account your wishes, choose the appropriate brand of video intercom, the color and quality of the screen, its diagonal dimensions, the general appearance of the video audio monitor - the size and color of the case, the presence of an audio tube, etc.;
having selected the necessary device and determined the type of intercom already installed, it is necessary to take into account the compatibility of systems, pay attention to adapted video intercoms.

After all this, you will need to decide on the installation of equipment. It is better to entrust this business to professionals. Installation must be carried out without fail with a complete adjustment of the equipment and a guarantee of quality. It is also necessary to definitely decide on a company that will continue to service, check and repair the device. It is advisable to conclude a contract for all types of work related to the subsequent operation. The company servicing your device should be - not some kind of "sharashka office", but a completely serious and well-recommended enterprise.

Which video intercom is better to buy

A modern video surveillance system is not a rarity, a luxury item or only a special need. Most private houses, apartments, porches are equipped with inexpensive or premium video intercoms for informative two-way communication between the host and the guest. Which nominee can be considered the best from the submitted TOP list? There is no definite answer, but there are the following comparison results:

• A simple classic model at a low price - Vizit-M327;
• The best inexpensive model for a house or apartment is PST-VDI32;
• The best premium tablet model - Hikvision DS-KH8300-T;
• The most convenient multifunctional device is Tornet TR-31 IP;
• The most technologically advanced intercom - Tantos Amelie;
• The best option for office, administrative premises - Commax CDV-70N.

Which kit to choose to buy, and then install to spy on guests, is decided individually, taking into account the budget, needs, preferences. The presented rating serves as a reliable assistant in making a decision.

Video intercoms for a private house: equipment and principle of operation

A standard video intercom designed for use in a private house consists of the following elements:

• the base unit, which is located indoors and is equipped with a display;
• a panel that is installed outside and which includes a video camera;
• an electronic lock that is triggered by a key card.

One of the types of video intercoms

The base unit is usually mounted on the wall in the hallway or in any other room from which you want to have a view. Many people prefer to install the device in the kitchen, arguing that it is more convenient. Control can be carried out in two different ways: standard buttons or using the touch panel.

As for such components as a video camera and a panel, you need to understand that these are two separate elements that are simply located in one housing. But often, in order to increase the existing view, they connect additional cameras located in other places, for example, behind the gate or just on the site.

The base unit of the video intercom is most often installed on the wall in the hallway.

As for the call panel, there is a special system on its surface that is responsible for reading the digital code that each key card is equipped with. Nearby is a call button and a speaker for guests at home

It is extremely important that the camera lens, as well as the entire outdoor unit, have an anti-vandal coating.

Varieties of electronic locks for video intercoms

Before you buy a video intercom kit, you need to pay attention to what type of electronic lock is provided in this case. There are only two options:. electromagnetic lock, which consists of a metal plate and a core

In this case, the locking of the door is carried out using the magnetic field of the coil. Opening is carried out only as a result of pressing the corresponding button or a signal from the key. The operation of such a system does not stop due to the backup power system even if the power supply to the device was interrupted;

electromagnetic lock, which consists of a metal plate and a core. In this case, the locking of the door is carried out using the magnetic field of the coil. Opening is carried out only as a result of pressing the corresponding button or a signal from the key. The operation of such a system does not stop due to the backup power system even if the power supply to the device was interrupted;

The video intercom door unit is designed to monitor entrance area

electromechanical lock - a slightly different design, which is equipped with crossbars. This design allows you to open the door with a conventional key.At the same time, the lock functions perfectly not only in the absence of power, but even if the operation of the uninterruptible power supply was disrupted.

It is worth noting that when it comes to installing a video intercom in a private house, users often prefer models with an electromechanical lock. Due to the absence of the need to install an additional power supply, as well as a higher level of reliability, this option takes a leading position. Electromagnetic systems are more often purchased for installation in apartment buildings, where the issue of an increased level of security is not so acute, and the door is opened many times more often.

Video intercom installation technology in a private house

Installation of a video intercom system in a private house, especially a wired type, is better, of course, to be entrusted to the masters. With wireless systems, everything is much simpler, here the services of specialists are not at all necessary. However, if you have little experience, the necessary tools and materials, you can install a wired video intercom on your own.

Required tools and materials

To install a video intercom you will need:

• drill, puncher, screwdriver, grinder;
• knife, screwdrivers, hammer, wire cutters, pliers, cleaning tool;
• cable, wire;
• plugs, sockets, circuit breaker;
• drills, cutting wheels, self-tapping screws of various lengths, dowels;
• cable channel and plastic pipe - for laying the connecting cable;
• tape, gloves.

Installation work

The process of installing and connecting a wired video intercom is recommended to be carried out before finishing in the hallway, hall and near the front door. This will allow you to hide the connecting wire in the wall or install a hidden power supply:

1. Installation of call panels.First, the installation site is selected: a gate, a fence or a wall of the house. Then marking is made and mounting holes and a mortgage for the cable are drilled. Next, the call panel is attached using self-tapping screws. The height of the panel is 150–170 cm from the ground.

   The call panel is installed at a height of 150-170 cm from the ground

2. Installation of an electromechanical lock.

   The electromechanical lock can also be opened with an ordinary key

3. Monitor installation. It is installed anywhere in the house so that there is a 220V socket nearby.

   The house can have several subscriber panels for the convenience of using a video intercom

4. Cable laying and connection of all call panels with subscriber units. Between the gate and the house, the cable is installed in the ground at a depth of about 75 cm and placed in a plastic insulating pipe. Wiring around the room can be done in two ways: open and closed. In the first case, when you do not want to spoil the interior, the cable is laid in plastic boxes. If the house is under renovation, it is recommended to hide all connecting lines in a strobe. A shielded four-core cable is required, since between the panels it is necessary to ensure the transmission of audio and video signals, power (12 V) and ground. The farther the call panel is from the monitor, the larger the cable should be used, as this affects the signal quality. Main types of cables: UTP, RG, RK-75, KVK, ShVEP.

   The brand and cross-section of the cable depends on the distance between the panels

5. Connecting the device to a power source. The power supply, as a rule, comes with a video intercom, because its power depends on the specific model.It is possible to power the video intercom from a common shield through a separate circuit breaker, which will look more aesthetically pleasing, since no wires will hang from the subscriber panel.
6. Checking the health of the device.

If the installation was carried out by specialists, then be sure to make sure that the contract specifies the warranty period for the work. After a while, you may need to reconfigure if you feel that the video intercom is not working properly.

All connections between monitors and call panels are made using a four-wire cable

Installing a video intercom in a private house in modern realities is necessary. This device provides not only convenience of living, but also significantly increases safety. In some cases, it can even replace a video surveillance system. A variety of models of video intercoms provides a wide choice, and the price directly depends on the characteristics of the device. However, even the model with the most budget price has all the necessary features.

How to choose

Before buying a video surveillance system, you need to decide what exactly you need: what features are welcome and which ones will be superfluous. Any additional parameter is an increase in the price of equipment.

The following are the capabilities of modern tracking devices, they are also selection criteria:

• Video shooting in the daytime or under artificial lighting.
• Evening and night shooting, which, thanks to infrared sensors, monitors in poor visibility conditions.
• Panoramic and directional shooting.
• Motion sensor that turns on the camera. Simply put, the camera is in a “sleep” state, thereby saving electricity, and as soon as the sensor detects movement, the equipment immediately “wakes up”.
• Shooting on any memory card.
• Remote transfer of footage to a computer, etc.
• Synchronized operation with sensors, alarms, switches, etc.

If you are the owner of a small house, then there is a reason to choose equipment with basic characteristics without overpaying for unnecessary features. But if you have a large plot, and even filled with values, then you should not save on the system.

Vizit

Visit is a domestic company that has adequately proven itself in the production of equipment for home security. Multi-channel access and individual video intercoms are the No. 1 direction for this brand. A modern video intercom visit for an apartment consists of a monitor with a handset, a panel with a call and a microphone, video surveillance cameras. Often a single multi-channel system is installed on the entrance, but it is possible to connect a new videophone to it through the built-in interface module.

VIZIT M406 (monitor)

• Price: 9207 rubles.
• Characteristics: a solid intercom with a 5.6-inch screen and a handset can work with two call panels. One of the channels can be connected to an access video system. The ability to adjust the volume of the signal and audio communication will allow you to take into account your individual preferences. Lighting control will allow a good view of the visitor at any time of the day. The electric lock of the apartment is opened by pressing a button.
• Pros: low price with sufficient reliability, simplicity and functionality.
• Cons: Only the most necessary options, which is typical for intercom equipment in this price category.

Commax

Established almost fifty years ago, Komaks (Kommax) today is one of the most famous manufacturers of equipment for security and video surveillance. Seven out of ten sales of intercoms in Russia last year belong to TM Commax. The equipment of this company is reliable, affordable, modern and very beautiful. The company produces video intercoms and accessories of different price categories, satisfies the consumer with any income level and unlimited requirements.

Commax CDV-70P (linked)

• Price: 7760 rubles
• Characteristics: The video on-door speakerphone supporting basic functions is equipped with the seven-inch screen. The maximum number of cameras - five, outdoor panels - four (3 + 1 driveway). Beautiful polyphonic melodies, clear images on the monitor and unparalleled design - all this makes the operation of the device very pleasant.
• Pros: exclusive design, reliability, ease of management and configuration, low price.
• Cons: the minimum set of functions, typical for devices in this price category.

Commax CDV-72BE

• Price: 22500 rubles.
• Product specifications: The video intercom has a seven-inch monitor, voice tube. It has the function of saving photos of visitors to the apartment (automatic and manual mode), which can be increased. An image from four cameras is simultaneously displayed on the screen, it is possible to create a video communication and surveillance system by adding two more screens. The number of call panels is four. Intercom works.
• Pros: 64 saved photo frames, the ability to create a complex video surveillance system, Intercom.
• Cons: setting up a complex system will require a specialist, one call melody.

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How to choose the right intercom kit for a private house

In order to buy a video intercom for a private home, you first need to figure out what characteristics of this device are decisive, and what level of functionality you need. So, if there is a need to provide an overview of the territory with several entrances, it is necessary that the possibility of connecting additional cameras be provided. For large areas, this is ideal.

Classic electromechanical padlock

Another important aspect that determines the functionality of the device is the monitor.

When choosing, first of all pay attention to its size. Naturally, the larger the screen diagonal, the better and clearer you can see the interlocutor

For those who have vision problems, monitors with a diagonal of 7 inches are recommended.

You can also buy a color video intercom or black and white. On the one hand, black-and-white models cost much less and in most cases do their job quite well - to determine the identity of the guest. But when it comes to the level of security, the advantage is undoubtedly with the colored ones, since only they allow you to accurately determine the color of an intruder's car or clothes.

The tubeless color video intercom monitor is one of the most affordable and productive options for a video surveillance system.

Which video intercom to buy: wireless or wired?

The presence of the wireless communication function significantly affects the comfort of using the device. And although many do without it, nevertheless, in some cases, this addition can be very useful:

• when it comes to installation in a two- or three-story house.In this case, the wireless unit can be presented as a tablet. It can be easily carried with you, which will save you from having to run around the floors;
• in cases where there is a need to install several call panels at once and at the same time reduce the total number of mounted systems. For example, in this way you can make a video intercom for 4 calling panels, spending a minimum amount of effort;
• in the event that installation is required at the gate of the site. Thanks to modern technologies, video intercoms are able to provide communication at a distance of up to 100 m.

The main disadvantage of such a solution is that it is definitely not possible to install a video intercom of this type cheaply. To buy a high-quality wireless video intercom for a private home, you will need to shell out a decent amount. In addition, the quality of their work largely depends on weather conditions, as well as distances and the presence of obstacles that can interfere with the direct passage of the signal.

A modern wireless intercom is a set of devices that can become reliable protection for your home.

Taking into account all the above reasons, experts do not recommend the purchase of such models for small houses, where you can easily get by with a wired device. Of course, if the building is located at a distance of 20 m or more from the fence, then there is a reason to purchase a wireless video intercom, but otherwise it is quite possible to do without it.

Video intercom with electric lock

The same type of video intercom that communicates not with the entrance door (or not only with it), but also with an individual one - for example, the door of a private house, a “pocket” or a separate apartment. When you press the opening button, the electric lock “clicks” and the door opens by itself.

Video intercom electric lock on the gate of a private cottage.

In this case, the video intercom simultaneously performs the function of a doorbell and eliminates the need to manually open the door. Very necessary functionality in a multi-room apartment, cottage or on a common door for several apartments.

Remotely opens the door at the push of a button

Video intercoms for an apartment

When deciding which video intercom is better to choose for an apartment, you should carefully study our rating: we have collected only the best options. How are they different from home appliances? Video intercoms for apartments are often equipped with an interphone function so that residents can contact neighbors or the concierge. The call panel, if it is included, is more compact, and the camera is often more inconspicuous.

Additional options include - the ability to control the device through the remote control and built-in motion sensor

Are you often away from home? Pay attention to the last option to always know who passed by your front door

5Commax CDV-70H2

Price

8

Functional

6

Quality

9

The overall score is calculated as an average of the sum of the main parameters.

7.7 Evaluation

pros

• Touch control
• Availability of an interphone

Minuses

Modest functionality

The South Korean-made model has all the necessary options for reliable protection of a house or apartment. The display on TFT matrix has a diagonal of 7 inches and a standard resolution of 800x480 pixels. The control is completely touch, however, the set of functions is modest: only the possibility of a speakerphone and an interphone.

Unlike other models in this rating, the device is presented not only in a standard white color, but also in a stylish blue tint - the video intercom will decorate any home.

4FALCON EYE FE-70I

Price

7

Functional

8

Quality

9

The overall score is calculated as an average of the sum of the main parameters.

8.0Score

pros

• Touch control
• Ability to connect a flash drive
• Multiple camera support

Minuses

No call panel included

The set consists of a 7-inch display, to which you can connect any suitable call panel. The monitor is fully touch: the interface is made in the style of Apple, which means that the control will be clear to any user.

The device can receive a signal simultaneously from two calling panels and four cameras. In order not to get confused in a large amount of information, you can manually adjust the number of screens displayed, enable picture-in-picture, or simply write the data to a USB flash drive to view later.

3Tantos NEO Slim

Price

8

Functional

9

Quality

8

The overall score is calculated as an average of the sum of the main parameters.

8.3 Evaluation

pros

• big screen
• Ability to set different ringtones

Minuses

The camera needs to be purchased separately

The Tantos NEO Slim monitor is one of the best IP video intercoms for a private house, for an apartment and for multi-family buildings. The device can receive a signal from several cameras and outdoor panels. For convenience, in the settings, the user has the opportunity to set the melody he likes (or several different ones).

The display dimensions are optimal: every detail will be visible on the 7-inch screen. All control is carried out using the touch panel. There, you can set up the speakerphone, turn on the “picture in picture”, and transfer the recordings to the memory card.

2Falcon Eye FE-74R

Price

9

Functional

9

Quality

10

The overall score is calculated as an average of the sum of the main parameters.

9.3 Evaluation

pros

• There is a control panel
• 8" color display

Minuses

Small amount of built-in memory, you have to buy microSD

The Falcon Eye FE-74R security system is simple and reliable to operate. The monitor has a diagonal of 8 inches: enough to see the entrance area in detail. The device is equipped with three buttons, with which you can answer the call, open the door or simply connect to the camera. A remote control is provided.

The model pleases with ample opportunities: you can manually adjust the parameters of the image or conversation, connect a memory card. Unlike many more budget gadgets, the Falcon Eye video intercom is equipped with a motion sensor.

1Tantos Selina M

Price

8

Functional

10

Quality

10

The overall score is calculated as an average of the sum of the main parameters.

9.3 Evaluation

pros

• Additional cameras, monitors and panels can be connected
• Touch control

Minuses

All accessories sold separately

The device rightfully took first place in the ranking of video intercoms for a private house and apartment. It can be used simply as a device to protect the apartment from uninvited guests, and to communicate with neighbors: for this, Tantos Selina M has an interphone (maximum 4 monitors).

However, the device copes with its main task perfectly. You can connect up to two cameras, up to two call panels. All information that comes from the cameras is not only displayed on the screen, but also recorded on a flash card. The video intercom supports the microSDHC standard and 32 GB capacity.

Rating of the best video intercoms

Falcon Eye FE-74R

Rating: 4.9

Wired video intercom with 7-inch display and advanced functionality. Supports three asynchronous connection channels via coaxial cable and a standard 4-pin bus. Management is made by touch buttons on the front panel. Equipped with a recorder function, can record video in manual or automatic mode. There is no built-in storage, but there is a microSD card slot.

The intercom is not equipped with a separate handset. The speaker and microphone are located in the body of the device. 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 outdoor panels;

• No built-in memory;
• The package may not include a call panel, check before buying.

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 in motion detection mode. Data is stored on a MicroSD memory card (sold 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 compatibility with addressable intercoms, including multi-apartment ones. It is compatible with Vizit interfaces - intercoms that are used in urban homes.

Advantages

• Compatibility with Vizit;
• Recorder mode;
• Compatible with most outdoor panels;

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

Tantos NEO Slim

Rating: 4.8

Large video intercom monitor with 7 inch touch screen. Compatible with a huge number of outdoor panels from Russian manufacturers. The bus is standard, 4-pin. 4 external devices can be connected to the monitor - two calling panels and two video cameras.

Relay TS-NC05 can be connected to the machine, which is used to open doors and gates. The device can record photos and store them on a MicroSD memory card, and also works in motion detection mode. An answering machine feature is also included.

Advantages

• Compact, attractive design;
• Compatible with TS-NC05 relay;
• Compatible with most outdoor panels;

• Lack of a calling panel in the kit;
• The device is compatible with entrance intercoms only from Tantos.

Kocom KVR-A510

Rating: 4.7

Large, feature-packed 10" video intercom monitor with desktop or wall placement. Equipped with 9 inputs - 4 for connecting outdoor panels, 4 for connecting video cameras, 1 for connecting a motion sensor. The main feature of the device is the ability to connect to the Internet for remote monitoring or event notification.

The video intercom has a built-in video recorder mode. You can turn on the recording manually, automatically by motion detection, or remotely via the Internet.

Advantages

• Synchronous communication with video cameras;
• Recorder mode;
• Management via the Internet;

• A 10-inch screen may seem too big;
• CMS setup may be required;
• The package includes only the monitor;

Kenwei KW-E705FC

Rating: 4.6

7 inch video intercom monitor with handset. Supports connection of four external devices - two calling panels and two video cameras.You can connect three more additional screens to the monitor and set up targeted calls to them.

The main advantage of the monitor is scalability. By connecting additional modules to it, you can significantly expand the functionality of the device. For example, thanks to the device for accessing the Internet, the monitor will be able to communicate with the network. A splitter will allow you to increase the number of connected call panels.

Advantages

• Scalability;
• Setting up work scenarios;
• Possibility of internal address calls between monitors;
• Recorder mode;

Conclusion

Before you purchase a video intercom, you should decide on priority tasks. All devices of this type serve to visualize the visitor, negotiate with him and allow him to enter the territory of the house. Additional features are intercom, automatic video surveillance, Do Not Disturb mode, motion detection.

The devices differ in design features. The number of connectors, the presence of a battery, a slot for a memory card. And here the question turns into the field of finance. Budget devices have a minimum of features, in the arsenal of expensive ones there are options that turn the intercom into a multifunctional station.

According to the results of the study, three devices can be distinguished from the compiled rating, as an example of the best ones for a particular case:

Of course, the proposed list does not reflect the whole variety of models. It is for informational purposes and is designed to help potential buyers make a selection according to the parameters and decide which video intercom is better to buy for an apartment, and which one for a private house.

We hope that our review of video intercom systems will be useful.