A smart doorbell is a digital device connected to Wi-Fi and integrated with other smart devices like a smartphone or Android TV. You can see who is near the door, listen, and talk to the visitors from any part of the world. İt is fitted with a video camera, microphone, and speaker. İt is purchased with or without a complete security setup.

The first intercom system was established in the 1950s, but it began to be popularly used in the 1960s as an audio-only system. Later in the 1980s and 1990s, digital intercom doorbell systems were introduced, offering clearer audio and video display. Today’s intercom doorbell systems are equipped with smartphone integration with cloud-based management systems, with greater security.

How Do Intercom Doorbells Work

A video intercom system is connected with a video camera and a display screen. It is connected by wires throughout the house. When a visitor presses the button, a visual display is seen on the screen. This lets you know who is visiting the house when you are away, so you can communicate with them.

Doorbell Intercom uses modern cloud-based servers. When a visitor comes, it alerts both the resident and the visitor by video or audio communication.

What Are the Key Features of İntercom Doorbells

Here are the five key features of intercom doorbells:

Two-way Audio Communication 

An IP intercom device allows two-way audio or video communication, using an IP network. The combination of indoor and outdoor walkie-talkies allows you to communicate with the visitors. İt doesn't require physical wiring and is the fastest way to communicate over short to medium ranges. It functions on radio frequencies by exchanging audio signals across two or more locations. Wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and DECT(Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication)  are integrated to provide clear audio over short distances.

İt is commonly used in commercial and educational places like schools, universities , offices, hospitals, and more for its hassle-free wireless network.

Video Feed and Quality

High Quality/Full HD Resolution  cameras enable video feed and ensure the security of the premises. They provide a visual recording of visitors who enter or leave the building. 

These video observations can help reduce theft and other criminal activities. They are used as proof for the evidence of any crime scene.

İntegration with Home Security Systems

Home security systems ensure the security of the premises. Intercom Doorbells are built to be integrated with home security systems for improved communication and enhanced security by a single device.

Multi-unit Connectivity

With a single device, you can now connect the whole house and communicate with people in different rooms or floors offering a seamless communication.

Remote Access and Mobile App Control

İntercom devices have access to a mobile app connection, allowing communication between the visitors and residents. By its remote access, you can watch whoever is visiting your house when you are away.

How to Choose the Right İntercom Doorbell

There are four factors to look at before buying the right intercom doorbell. These features are:

Wired Vs Wireless Option

Old intercoms are wired as they require physical installation of wiring throughout the building. The wiring runs through walls and ceilings, making it a bit complicated.

Wireless Intercoms use Radio frequency or Wi-Fi Systems to ensure a seamless and hassle-free communication. It offers remote access, is more secure, and portable.

Video Vs Audio-only İntercoms

Video Intercoms have more functions than audio-only intercoms. Video Intercoms offer a graphic/video display with audio and are wireless. Audio-only Intercoms are audio signal transmission devices only that require wiring.  Audio-only Intercoms are more popular with their residential uses, while video intercoms are more popular with commercial or corporate premises.

Budget and İnstallation Complexity 

Cost and installation complexity affect intercom doorbell buying decisions. İf one of these is low in budget, the other is feasible to install. 

Wired Doorbell intercoms are labour-intensive and costly as they require the installation of wires for proper connections. Their performance is stable because they are less susceptible to RF interference.

Wired doorbell intercoms are costly, labour intensive and require professional help. Their performance is stable because they are less susceptible to RF interference.

A wireless doorbell intercom is affordable, simple, and faster to install as it uses Radio waves or Wi-Fi Systems. Network Issues related to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can affect its performance.