Ultimate 2 Way Video Intercom System Buyer’s Guide

 

 

Imagine a world where you can effortlessly manage and communicate with visitors and tenants, regardless of where you are. With a 2-way video intercom system, that’s all possible.

This post outlines a 2-way video intercom system and its added security layer. We also give you insight into the best 2-way intercom on the market.

In this post, discover:

• What is a 2-way video intercom system?
• Benefits of 2-way video intercom systems
• Best 2-way video intercoms
• What is the best video door intercom system?

 

What is a 2-way video intercom system?

A two-way video intercom system allows visitors and tenants to communicate via audio and video. Those inside the building can allow the person on the other side to see them. Conversely, they can opt for one-way video communication by using audio only.

A 2-way intercom is useful as an access control system as it eliminates the need for security personnel to monitor entrances. Furthermore, some smart video intercom systems empower tenants to grant entry to visitors from anywhere via their smartphones.

 

How much is a 2-way video intercom system?

The average wireless video intercom system costs anywhere from $1,000 to $7,000.

However, other cost factors to consider include:

• Installation fees
• Type of video intercom system
• Brand or company
• Software and management program
• Maintenance costs

You’ll also need to factor in the dealer and installer you buy from. They’ll ultimately set the price. Then, you can negotiate or settle on purchasing and installation costs through them.

 

 

Benefits of 2-way video intercom systems

A 2-way intercom system with video offers convenience and security. But what are the other benefits?

Benefits of a 2-way video intercom include:

1. Remote visitor management
2. Access control security
3. Convenience

 

1. Remote visitor management

With a 2-way video door entry system, building managers can easily:

• Grant access to visitors
• Monitor building entry activity
• Access audit logs from anywhere

Furthermore, they can grant, revoke, or change access privileges through the property management portal.

 

2. Access control security

With smart intercoms, it’s easy to manage who has access with credentials such as biometric identification, PINs, and apps. Likewise, tenants will feel safer knowing their building is secure from unauthorized guests.

Managing a property with so many moving parts can leave some people feeling vulnerable without adequate access and security. As the property manager or owner, you can ease their minds by being proactive and investing in a 2-way video intercom system.

 

Learn more about video intercoms and how ButterflyMX works:

 

3. Convenience

A phone video intercom enhances convenience by eliminating keys, fobs, and cards. In addition to an optional physical keycard or fob, you can easily access a smart video intercom entrance with a touchscreen interface.

Firstly, a touchless intercom system with video reduces the need for keys for self-guided tours or maintenance calls.

Secondly, managers and staff will have fewer instances of lost keys, thus reducing the need for rekeying or re-issuing keys to tenants.

 

Best 2-way video intercoms

The best 2-way video intercoms on the market are:

1. ButterflyMX. The ButterflyMX video intercom has a touchscreen interface, mobile app, and remote access control capabilities. It’s also a wireless system, so installation is quick, and the intercom is easy to retrofit in existing buildings.
2. Aiphone. Since 1970, Aiphone has been providing communication and entry solutions for buildings. To meet modern demand, Aiphone has released multiple video intercom models. However, Aiphone video intercoms only provide two-way audio, not two-way video calling.
3. Openpath. Relatively new to the video intercom game, Openpath was founded in 2016. It’s best known for commercial and office access control systems. While the Openpath video intercom allows for two-way audio calls, it doesn’t allow for two-way video. As a result, tenants can see visitors, but visitors can’t see tenants.

 

What is the best video door intercom system?

ButterflyMX’s system is installed in over 15,000 buildings and touts over 40,000 five-star ratings. It’s designed with people in mind, making for a user-friendly experience.

The best features of the ButterflyMX two-way video intercom include:

• User-friendly mobile app that tenants and staff can use to video chat with visitors and grant access remotely.
• Integration capabilities with smart locks to create a unified access experience from the front entrance to every apartment unit door.
• Cloud-based property manager dashboard to easily edit access permissions remotely.
• Tenant directory that visitors can use to call tenants to video chat and request access.
• Time- and date-stamped photos are stored in the cloud for management to review anytime.

However, this is not a comprehensive list of everything ButterflyMX offers.

 

More ButterflyMX access control products

ButterflyMX’s video intercom system is one of the company’s most popular products. But it’s not the only solution that can improve access to your property. Many of ButterflyMX’s products work in tandem to create an even better experience.

More access control products include:

• Keypads and card readers. Tenants, managers, and staff can use the ButterflyMX smartphone app to access building entrances and amenities. ButterflyMX keypads also make it easy for visitors to use temporary PINs issued directly to their phones.
• Smart locks. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, smart locks might suit you. ButterflyMX makes integrating with WiFi smart locks easy and includes benefits such as smartphone access and virtual keys.
• Vehicle access system. If you have a gated vehicle entrance at your property, you’ll want to invest in ButterflyMX’s vehicle reader and windshield tag system. All you have to do is install the vehicle reader at the entrance and hand out windshield stickers to each tenant. Then, tenants enjoy hands-free property access.