Linear Intercom Review | Linear Telephone Entry System Cost & Alternatives

 

Disclaimer: ButterflyMX provides these blog posts to help our customers and potential customers make the right business decisions. Our blog posts are based on the information available to us at the time of writing.

 

 

This Linear intercom review covers Nice/Linear telephone-entry systems for multifamily properties, condominiums, gated communities, and commercial buildings. These systems combine visitor calling with door or gate control and, on EntryPro models, optional card access.

The key buying questions are straightforward: Which model fits the property, what does the hardware cost, what wiring is required, and will a telephone-based workflow meet resident needs? This guide compares the AE-100, EP-402, EP-436, and EP-736, along with their features, limits, installation needs, and alternatives.

 

This guide will answer:

• What is the Linear intercom system?
• How do Linear AE-100 and EntryPro models compare?
• Linear intercom review: What features are included?
• How much does a Linear intercom cost?
• What does Linear installation require?
• How scalable and secure is Linear EntryPro?
• What are the pros and cons of Linear intercoms?
• Is Linear the right intercom for your property?
• Linear vs. ButterflyMX
• Frequently asked questions
• Final verdict on Linear intercoms

 

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What is the Linear intercom system?

Linear is Nice/Linear’s family of audio telephone-entry and access-control products. The commercial telephone-entry lineup includes the AE-100 and the EntryPro EP-402, EP-436, and EP-736.

A visitor selects a resident from the directory and places a telephone call. The resident can speak with the visitor and press 9 to activate a connected door or gate. The panel uses a relay—an electrical switch—to control equipment such as a door strike, magnetic lock, or gate operator.

Linear is now part of Nice North America. Nice acquired Nortek Security & Control in 2021, and the company adopted the Nice North America name in 2022.

 

Who is Linear designed for?

Linear is designed for multifamily buildings, condominiums, gated communities, mixed-use properties, and small-to-midsize commercial sites. The product family spans a one-door panel and larger systems that can support many doors, readers, and administrators.

The workflow is built around conventional audio calling and relay-based door or gate control. Properties that want app-based video calls, digital guest passes, or broader access workflows should compare other platforms.

 

How do Linear AE-100 and EntryPro models compare?

The AE-100 is Linear’s one-door option, the EP-402 is a two-door EntryPro model, and the EP-436 and EP-736 are networked systems for larger deployments. The gap between 125 AE-100 directory listings and 10,000 EntryPro users makes model selection an important early decision.

Model	Doors	User or directory capacity	Display	Management	Notable differences
AE-100	1	125 directory listings or codes	Directory display with multilingual prompts	Manual panel programming	Phone-line entry, no EntryPro RFID option, optional battery backup
EP-402	2 on board	1,000 users	EntryPro interface	Web browser	Entry point into the networked EntryPro family
EP-436	36 standard; 64 with a separate upgrade	10,000 users	4.3-inch display	Web browser	Up to 128 readers and an optional internal RFID reader
EP-736	36 standard; 64 with a separate upgrade	10,000 users	7-inch color touchscreen	Web browser	Larger display with the same core EntryPro scale

The AE-100 product page describes its one-door, 125-listing design. The EntryPro datasheet covers the EP-402 and EP-436 capacity limits, while the EP-436 product page details its display and expansion options. Third-party listings distinguish the EP-736 with a 7-inch touchscreen.

 

Which Linear model fits each property size?

The AE-100 may fit a smaller property with one entrance and no more than 125 directory records. Manual programming can become burdensome when resident information changes often.

The EP-402 provides a middle option with two doors and 1,000 users. The EP-436 and EP-736 suit larger, multi-entrance deployments because they support 10,000 users, 36 doors by default, and up to 64 doors and 128 readers with an upgrade.

Don’t choose by resident count alone. Door count, card-reader needs, administrator access, display size, and future expansion also matter. If a property needs to coordinate pedestrian entrances, vehicle access, elevators, and other systems, platform scope is another useful comparison point. ButterflyMX, for example, combines video intercoms, access control, vehicle access control, and elevator controls in one property-access platform.

 

Linear intercom review: What features are included?

Linear intercom features center on telephone-based visitor calling, door and gate relay control, and browser-based administration on EntryPro models. Larger EntryPro systems add card-reader compatibility, event notifications, schedules, and access logs.

• Telephone entry: Visitors call residents through the directory, and residents press 9 during the call to release an entrance.
• Browser management: EP-402, EP-436, and EP-736 administrators can use a web browser instead of a dedicated management PC.
• RFID and proximity readers: EP-436 and EP-736 support an optional internal radio-frequency identification reader and compatible long-range proximity readers.
• Door and gate control: Relay outputs can connect to electric strikes, magnetic locks, gates, and barrier operators.
• Notifications and schedules: EntryPro supports email or SMS event notifications, time schedules, holiday groups, and log archiving.
• Outdoor use: Weather-resistant stainless-steel faceplates and several mounting styles support exterior installations.
• Accessibility: Applicable models include a TTY connection for hearing-impaired users.

The EP-436 documentation describes browser management, optional RFID access, a sunlight-readable display, VoIP-adapter compatibility, and weather-resistant construction. The EntryPro datasheet also details schedules, alerts, log management, and administrative limits.

EntryPro uses physical cards or fobs for credential-based access. Properties evaluating digital credentials may compare ButterflyMX, which supports mobile access, wallet-based credentials, and access control alongside its intercom products.

 

Does Linear support mobile access, video, or visitor passes?

No. Linear does not provide a native resident mobile app or integrated two-way video calling, and the available product information does not document a one-time PIN or digital visitor-pass workflow.

The optional CCM-1A is a separate color camera for visual monitoring. It does not turn the entry panel into an interactive video intercom. Linear seller listings and accessory information distinguish the camera from the telephone-entry hardware.

That difference shapes the resident experience. Linear keeps entry decisions centered on a phone call. ButterflyMX video intercoms let residents use a mobile app to see and speak with visitors before granting access remotely, and ButterflyMX supports temporary visitor access.

 

How much does a Linear intercom cost?

Linear does not publish manufacturer MSRP for these models. Third-party hardware listings place the AE-100 at about $775–$820, the EP-436 at about $2,295–$2,465, and the EP-736 at about $3,195–$3,470. These are panel prices, not installed project totals.

Item	Third-party price or range	What it includes	Additional cost considerations
AE-100	$775–$820	Single-door telephone-entry hardware	Installation, telephone service, mounting, wiring, and optional backup power
EP-436	$2,295–$2,465	Networked EntryPro panel	Installation, readers, expansion hardware, and a 64-door license
EP-736	$3,195–$3,470	EntryPro panel with a 7-inch touchscreen	Installation, readers, expansion hardware, and a 64-door license
CCM-1A camera	About $287	Separate color camera accessory	Does not add two-way video calling
EP-EXN expansion node	About $611	Two-door expansion hardware	Wiring, installation, and any required licensing

The ranges align with third-party comparison coverage and reseller listings. For example, an EP-436 reseller listing supports the lower dealer range.

 

What affects the total cost of a Linear system?

The panel is only one part of the project. Labor, telephone or Voice over Internet Protocol infrastructure, network connections, power, mounting equipment, door hardware, card readers, cameras, expansion nodes, and licenses can all affect the final cost.

Expansion deserves special attention. EP-436 and EP-736 systems include 36-door capacity, but reaching 64 doors requires a separately sold license. Larger projects may also need EP-EXN expansion nodes and more readers, so buyers should request an itemized dealer quote instead of estimating a total from panel pricing alone.

 

What does Linear installation require?

Linear installation normally requires power, telephone or supported VoIP connectivity, relay wiring, and an appropriate mounting location. EntryPro also needs a local area network connection for browser administration.

Linear sells through an authorized dealer network, and professional installation is the typical approach for connecting the panel to power, telephone service, door hardware, and gate operators. Depending on the model, mounting options include surface, recessed, pedestal, and gooseneck installations.

Installation area	AE-100	EntryPro
Power	16VAC transformer	9–15VDC; supplied configuration uses a 12VDC power source
Backup power	Optional 1.2Ah internal or up to 7Ah external battery	Confirm project-specific backup requirements with the installer
Calling path	POTS telephone line	POTS line or supported third-party VoIP adapter
Administration network	Manual programming	LAN connection for browser management
Access hardware	Relay wiring to one door or gate	Relay and reader wiring based on the deployment

The AE-100 documentation specifies a 16VAC transformer, removable terminals, and optional internal or external batteries. The EntryPro datasheet specifies 9–15VDC power, network management, and an operating range of -22°F to 149°F for exposed gates and entrances.

 

Does Linear require a landline or internet connection?

Linear requires a telephone calling path. The AE-100 uses a traditional POTS line, or plain old telephone service, while supported EntryPro configurations can use a third-party Voice over Internet Protocol adapter.

A VoIP adapter lets telephone calls travel over an internet-based phone service. It adds hardware and configuration; it does not provide native app, Wi-Fi, or cellular calling. Properties that have removed landlines should confirm adapter compatibility and ongoing phone-service needs before purchase.

The network connection serves a separate purpose. EntryPro uses the local network for browser administration, database management, and logs, while the telephone or VoIP path handles resident calls.

 

How scalable and secure is Linear EntryPro?

Linear EntryPro supports larger access-control deployments with 10,000 users, 36 doors by default, and up to 64 doors and 128 readers after an upgrade. Its documented card, event, administrator, environmental, and warranty limits provide a clearer picture than door count alone.

Metric	Capacity or specification	Applies to	Why it matters
Users	1,000	EP-402	Defines the two-door model scale
Users	10,000	EP-436 and EP-736	Supports larger resident or employee databases
Doors and readers	36 doors standard; 64 doors and 128 readers with an upgrade	EP-436 and EP-736	Shows base capacity and expansion needs
Access cards	5,000 standard; up to 120,000	EntryPro	Matters for credential-heavy sites
Event history	50,000 transactions	EntryPro	Supports access audits and incident review
Administrators	25 concurrent; 160 defined accounts	EntryPro	Supports larger property and security teams
Operating temperature	-22°F to 149°F	EntryPro	Helps assess outdoor suitability
Warranty	Two years for hardware and software	EntryPro	Defines the documented coverage period

The official EntryPro technical specifications document these limits and manual or automatic log archiving. The same datasheet lists UL294 Series 6, Attack Class 2 and FCC certifications, plus 128-bit encryption for database and event information.

UL294 is a standard for access-control units. Attack Class 2 relates to resistance to physical attack. These details may matter to properties with formal security or compliance requirements, though buyers should evaluate the complete installed design rather than one panel alone.

 

What are the pros and cons of Linear intercoms?

Linear offers scalable access control, browser management, outdoor hardware, and documented security features. The main tradeoffs are telephone-service dependence and the lack of native mobile, integrated video, and temporary digital guest-access workflows.

 

Linear intercom pros

• Broad model range: Buyers can choose a one-door panel, a two-door model, or larger systems supporting up to 64 doors and 128 readers.
• High EntryPro capacity: EP-436 and EP-736 support 10,000 users, extensive card capacity, and a 50,000-event history.
• Browser-based administration: EntryPro does not require a dedicated management PC and supports data imports, schedules, and log archiving.
• Access-control flexibility: Optional RFID and proximity readers can complement telephone entry on larger EntryPro models.
• Outdoor and gate support: Weather-resistant panels, flexible mounting choices, and relay outputs support door and vehicle-gate applications.
• Documented security specifications: EntryPro includes UL294 and Attack Class 2 ratings plus encrypted database and event information.

 

Linear intercom cons

• Telephone infrastructure is required: Visitor calling needs a POTS line or a supported third-party VoIP adapter configuration.
• No native resident app: Residents answer calls by phone instead of managing entry through a Linear mobile app.
• No integrated video calls: The separate camera accessory provides monitoring, not a two-way video conversation.
• No documented temporary visitor pass: Guests generally rely on a live directory call rather than a time-limited digital credential.
• AE-100 administration is limited: Its one-door, 125-entry design and manual programming may not fit growing or frequently changing properties.
• Hardware prices understate project cost: Installation, infrastructure, accessories, expansion hardware, readers, and licenses may cost extra.

 

What do customers say about Linear?

Reported customer feedback is mixed. Some buyers praise reliable gate-control operation and durable hardware, while others describe the interface as dated or find AE-100 manual programming difficult.

Independent review coverage summarizing buyer and installer comments also reports security and support concerns about the separate Linear eMerge software. Those comments are anecdotal feedback about a broader software product, not specifications for every EntryPro panel.

 

Is Linear the right intercom for your property?

Linear may fit properties that want conventional audio telephone entry, relay control for doors or gates, and optional card access through EntryPro. It is less suited to buyers who prioritize app-based entry, visual visitor screening, or temporary digital visitor credentials.

Linear may belong on your shortlist if:

• Your property already has suitable telephone or supported VoIP infrastructure.
• Audio calling is enough for resident visitor screening.
• You need a weather-resistant panel for a door or vehicle gate.
• You want browser management and card-reader support on a larger EntryPro model.
• You can size the system accurately and budget for installation, licenses, readers, and expansion hardware.

Compare alternatives if:

• Residents need to see visitors during calls.
• Smartphone access is part of the desired resident experience.
• Your team needs temporary digital access for guests.
• You want to manage intercoms, pedestrian access, vehicle access, elevators, cameras, or other workflows through a broader platform.

 

What are the main Linear alternatives?

• ButterflyMX: Relevant for properties comparing Linear telephone entry with mobile video intercoms, temporary visitor access, access control, vehicle access, elevator controls, cameras, and other products in one platform.
• Swiftlane: A video-intercom alternative for buyers evaluating cloud- and mobile-oriented entry workflows.
• DoorKing: A closer category comparison for buyers who still want traditional telephone-entry and gate-access products.
• Viking Electronics: Another intercom option identified in independent comparison coverage.

The best shortlist depends on the desired workflow. A property replacing an older telephone-entry panel may focus on compatibility and wiring, while a new development may give more weight to mobile credentials, video, visitor access, and platform breadth.

 

Linear vs. ButterflyMX

Linear and ButterflyMX take different approaches to property entry. Linear centers on telephone-based audio calls, relay control, and optional EntryPro card readers. ButterflyMX uses video intercoms and mobile access as part of a broader property access and security platform.

Feature	Linear	ButterflyMX	Why it matters
Visitor communication	Visitors place an audio telephone call to a resident; there is no integrated two-way video call.	Residents can see and speak with visitors through the ButterflyMX mobile app before granting remote access.	Video provides visual context before a resident opens an entrance.
Resident mobile access	No native resident app; residents grant visitor entry during a telephone call.	Authorized users can use the mobile app to access supported doors, gates, and other entrances.	Buyers can choose between a traditional phone-call workflow and smartphone-based access.
Visitor credentials	No documented one-time PIN or digital guest-pass workflow.	Supports temporary visitor access in addition to visitor calls and remote entry.	Temporary access can reduce reliance on a live resident call.
Resident credentials	EntryPro supports optional RFID and compatible proximity card readers.	Supports mobile access, wallet-based credentials, and access control.	Credential choice affects issuance, convenience, and reliance on physical cards or fobs.
Gate and vehicle access	Relay outputs can activate connected gate and barrier operators.	Vehicle access control can be managed as part of the same broader platform used for pedestrian access.	Gated communities should compare both gate hardware control and credential management.
Camera workflow	An optional separate camera supports monitoring but does not add interactive video calling.	Offers video intercoms and security cameras within the property access and security platform.	Buyers should distinguish visual monitoring from a live video conversation.
Property access scope	Focuses on telephone entry, connected door or gate relays, and optional EntryPro card access.	Includes video intercoms, access control, elevator controls, package rooms, smart lock integrations, cameras, and vehicle access control.	A wider platform may help properties coordinate several entrances and access workflows.

Neither approach fits every property. Linear may make sense where conventional telephone entry and existing gate or door infrastructure remain priorities. ButterflyMX is relevant when mobile, video, temporary visitor access, and a wider property-access platform are central requirements.

 

Frequently asked questions

 

How much does a Linear intercom cost?

Third-party hardware prices are about $775–$820 for the AE-100, $2,295–$2,465 for the EP-436, and $3,195–$3,470 for the EP-736. These are not manufacturer MSRP or installed totals and exclude labor, infrastructure, accessories, and expansion licensing.

 

Does a Linear intercom require a landline?

Linear requires a telephone calling path: the AE-100 uses a traditional POTS line, while supported EntryPro configurations can use a third-party VoIP adapter. The adapter does not create native app, Wi-Fi, or cellular calling.

 

Does Linear have a mobile app?

No. Linear does not provide a native resident mobile app for these telephone-entry systems. Residents receive a standard telephone call and press 9 to release the connected entrance.

 

Does Linear support video calling?

No. Linear telephone-entry panels provide audio calling rather than integrated two-way video. The optional CCM-1A camera is a separate monitoring accessory.

 

What is the difference between AE-100, EP-402, EP-436, and EP-736?

The AE-100 supports one door and 125 listings, the EP-402 supports two doors and 1,000 users, and the EP-436 and EP-736 support 10,000 users and up to 64 doors after an upgrade. The EP-436 has a 4.3-inch display, while the EP-736 has a 7-inch touchscreen.

 

Can Linear intercoms use cards or key fobs?

EntryPro models support optional RFID and compatible proximity readers for cards or fobs. The AE-100 does not offer the EntryPro reader option.

 

Is Linear EntryPro cloud-based?

Linear EntryPro is browser- and network-managed rather than a fully hosted cloud platform. Property staff use its web interface for supported administrative tasks, schedules, records, and event logs.

 

Who owns Linear today?

Linear is part of Nice North America following Nice’s acquisition of Nortek Security & Control and the 2022 corporate rebrand.

 

What properties are a good fit for Linear?

Linear may fit multifamily, gated-community, condominium, and commercial properties that want audio telephone entry, relay-based door or gate control, and optional EntryPro card access. Properties that require native mobile access, integrated video calling, or temporary digital visitor passes should compare alternatives.

 

Final verdict on Linear intercoms

Linear can be a practical choice for properties that value conventional audio entry, gate or door relays, and scalable card access. The key tradeoff is its reliance on telephone service or a supported VoIP adapter instead of native mobile video and digital guest access.

Before buying, match the model to your door and user counts, confirm the calling infrastructure, and request an itemized quote that includes installation, accessories, readers, expansion hardware, and licenses.

If mobile access, video intercoms, temporary visitor access, and a broader property-access platform are on your shortlist, compare Linear with ButterflyMX. Explore ButterflyMX to see how its property access and security products can work together across your property.

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