Alpha Communications Intercom: Review, Pricing and Comparison

Article updated: 11th September, 2024

Intercoms have evolved significantly from simple audio-only to advanced video communication systems. They have now become an essential part of building infrastructures. Finding the perfect intercom for your building can be complex, with numerous brands. Alpha Communication intercom systems, particularly AlphaTouch video intercom, have gained considerable attention lately. In this blog post, we have thoroughly analyzed all the video intercom models Alpha Communications offers. 

Read on to find out how each model caters to different types of properties, what the consensus of users is, what each intercom’s pricing models are, and a breakdown of the installation process. 

To form our review, we have carefully studied customer reviews of Alpha Communications video intercom systems from Reddit, Google Play Store, and Apple Store and compared them with other market players.

Table of Contents

• About Alpha Communications
• Wireless Intercoms
• Wired Intercoms
• User Experience and Customer Reviews
• Step-By-Step Installation Guide For Alpha Communications Intercom
• Alpha Communications Pricing
• Benefits and Potential Drawbacks
• Review and Comparison With Other Market Players
• How Swiftlane Compares With Alpha Communications Intercom
• Frequently Asked Questions

About Alpha Communications

Alpha Communications is a privately held American company known for its access control and communication systems. They manufacture and supply door entry intercoms, video intercoms, emergency calls, and specialty signaling products for residential and commercial properties. However, the following sections will focus on their video intercom systems. 

Alpha Communications offers video intercom solutions for multi-tenant residential and commercial properties. They come in wired and wireless options, and their AlphaTouch model has gained significant attention because it provides a two-way video calling system, a highly requested feature in the market today.

Alpha Communication offers different types of intercoms. Let’s examine each individually, but first, let’s quickly distinguish between wired and wireless intercoms.

Wireless Vs. Wired Intercom Systems 

Intercoms have two components: a master station and a substation. The connection between the two stations is established using WiFi, Bluetooth, or radio signals. 

This contrasts with wired intercom systems connecting the two stations via a physical cable. While the robust construction of wired systems provides secure, interference-free communication, the signal quality and bandwidth of wireless video intercom systems sometimes get spotty, as the end users review.

Wired intercoms are considered a better choice, particularly for buildings with existing wired setups. However, when the wiring is not in place, they can be cost-intensive because of their tedious installation process. If your old building has an existing two-wire setup, and you want to upgrade from wired audio to wired video intercoms, you will save costs without needing to rewire your building. 

On the other hand, wireless intercoms are affordable, low maintenance, and offer ease of installation and operation. Since the master station and substations don’t need a wire to establish a connection, their installation process is straightforward.  

Pro-tip for wireless intercoms: To improve the system performance, you may consider:

• Installing additional antennas or repeaters
• Using Cat 5/6 ethernet cables for internet connection (helps reduce crosstalk and ensures high-quality signal)
• Ensuring a minimum bandwidth of 10 Mbps

However, switching between wired and wireless intercom systems depends on your needs, existing infrastructure, and budget considerations.

Let’s examine Alpha Communications’ wireless, cloud-based video intercom system in the AlphaTouch series more closely.

Wireless Intercoms

AlphaTouch Series

The AlphaTouch series is a video intercom system featuring a fixed 7” screen size.

It offers residents the convenience of seeing and granting access to visitors, making it a stress-free choice for property managers and homeowners. 

The intercom’s master station has a camera that captures the visitor’s image or video. This feeds into the residents’ smartphone app when they call at the door entry. The system offers two-way video calling, with the smartphone as a substation. 

AlphaTouch Series is Best Suited for:

Multi-tenant residential complexes, commercial buildings, and student housing are ideal for first-time users and property managers who want to maintain audit logs with visitor images as part of their system. 

AlphaTouch Series: Key Features

• Two-way video and SIP calling: This feature supports multilingual communication, allowing residents to see and speak with visitors directly through the system.
• Durability: The robust external body and hardware make AlphaTouch vandal-resistant and weather-resistant.
• Cloud-based system: Utilizes touchscreen master stations and smartphones, enabling residents to manage visitor access remotely.
• Visitor management: The system can take snapshots of visitors, recording the date, time, and resident being called.
• Security: It implements the 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES-256), one of the most robust encryption standards for electronic data.
• Integration: Compatible with smartphones, Google Home, and Alexa.
• Access credentials: Supports key fobs, PIN codes, QR codes, and direct smartphone calls for entry.

AlphaTouch Pricing 

• Pricing details are not disclosed on the website. 
• Dealer listings: $2,886 with a $2.50 monthly subscription per apartment.

Benefits for Property Managers and Residents 

• Visitor management system: Simplifies visitor management for both property managers and residents.
• Ease of installation: With smartphone screens, you don’t need in-unit substations. This reduces the need for additional wiring inside the building.
• Cost-effective: Offers a low-cost, low-maintenance solution for your property access needs.

User Reviews

• Mixed feedback: While some users appreciate the ease of installation, technical support, and cost-effectiveness, others have expressed dissatisfaction. Users on the Mac App Store and Google Play Store reported minimal improvement in system performance after switching to AlphaTouch, with the app’s frequent breakdowns. 
• Community insights: Online communities like Reddit have featured discussions highlighting the positives (ease of installation and tech support) and the negatives (limited features and performance issues).

Alpha Communication also offers two wired video intercom systems: The G2+ and VK237.

Wired Intercoms

Alpha Communications’ wired intercoms have both video and audio capabilities. The video intercoms have a built-in camera on their master stations at the door entry. The in-unit substation can be video monitors where residents can see who is on the door. Visitors can’t see residents since there is no camera in the in-unit station. Residents can choose between handsets with a built-in screen and video monitors.

Simple audio intercoms can be an option for properties seeking simple, cost-effective communication solutions. In this setup, the wired master station connects with a telephone line substation mounted inside the building units. The intercoms act like voice-entry intercoms, where residents and visitors can only talk and hear each other. 

Let’s examine them in the following sections. 

G2+ Series: Two-Wired Video Intercom System

Alpha Communications has positioned the G2+ series as its most budget-friendly video intercom option for mid-sized properties. 

G2+ Series is Best Suited for: 

Small to mid-sized residential properties looking for a cost-effective and easily manageable intercom solution.

Key Features

• Connectivity: The wired design using IP Plus technology from Golmar ensures a reliable, low-interference connection between the master station and in-unit video screens, providing a stable and secure communication network.
• Capacity: It supports 4,096 video monitors and 4-door entry stations with multi-relay outputs. You can also install audio-only intercom handset stations, making it a versatile building solution.
• Integration: It integrates with modern property management systems, making it a robust choice for properties requiring enhanced security solutions.
• Durability: Their door stations are available in NEXA Aluminum or INOX stainless steel finishes, ensuring the system can withstand high-traffic environments. This durability translates to a longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements for the property owner.

With the G2+ two-wired video intercom system, you get a master station with push buttons and in-unit video screens, as the design of the master station does not allow a built-in monitor.

You can choose between the two video intercom monitor options ART4/G2 (4.3″) and ART7W/GPCM for in-unit substations.

Pricing

Pricing details are not disclosed on their website. You need to contact them to get the correct pricing. Some dealers list the EPG2N/DAS digital panels at $1348 and ART4/G2 at $238. We encourage you to talk with them about the details before purchasing.

G2+ Series: G+ TCP/IP Color Video Intercom System

The G2+ TCP/IP color video intercom system is a scalable wired solution for large properties. It needs in-unit substations, such as video monitors and telephone handset stations.

You can choose ART7/G/48 video intercom monitors for a video intercom in-unit substation. You can mount them on the wall and connect them to a PoE via Cat5/Cat 6 cable. The installation of this system is complex as it requires network setup and ethernet infrastructure across the building to connect the master station with the in-unit substations. 

G+ TCP/IP Color is Best Suited For:

Large properties such as commercial and residential ones, where security and integration with property management systems are a priority, and scalable network infrastructure is required. 

Key Features

• Connectivity: This model offers advanced connectivity and scalability between stations, making it an excellent choice for large buildings.
• Capacity: It supports 799 in-unit video monitors, 19 entry stations, and nine concierge citations. You can also install audio-only intercom handset stations.
• Integration: It integrates with modern property management systems, making it a robust choice for properties requiring enhanced security solutions.
• Durability: Door stations are available in NEXA Aluminum or INOX Stainless Steel finishes and can be flush or surface-mounted. 

Pricing

The pricing is not shared on their website. You need to contact them to get the correct pricing. Some dealers list the INOX 7403 digital panels at $2959, and ART7 series monitors at $463. We encourage you to talk with them about the details before purchasing.

VK237 Series 2-Wire Color Video Intercom System

The VK237WS Series is an economical 2-wire color video intercom kit. It is suitable for door entry applications that require a single master station at the entry and a remote intercom station as an in-unit. 

VK237 Series 2-Wire is Best Suited for: 

Small buildings prioritize affordability and basic functionality. You can expand your intercom by adding a second outdoor remote camera station and up to 3 indoor monitors.

Key Features

• Display: Features a 7” diagonal crystal-clear color display with soft-touch controls.
• Communication: Provides clear 2-way half-duplex audio communication with built-in electronic tone signaling.
• Night Vision: The door camera station includes infrared illuminators for night viewing.
• Mounting: Surface-mounted monitors with less than 1” profile from the mounting surface.

Pricing

The pricing is not disclosed on the website. However, Amazon has listed the VK237 Series for $724, and a dealer website sells the intercom kit for $344. 

Audio Intercom Systems

If you want to avoid investing in video monitors, the G2+ series has a few handset options as audio-only solutions. You can choose from various handsets, such as the T-ART/G2 mode or a wired in-unit handset. This model provides an affordable audio-only solution for buildings that need simple intercom solutions. Another option is the ART4THLITE/G2 handset, which has audio (for privacy) and video substation.

When choosing an intercom system, the experiences of current users are highly valuable and can help you make an informed decision. 

Let’s examine what customers say about Alpha Communications intercom, notably the AlphaTouch series and its accompanying smartphone application.

User Experience and Customer Reviews

The AlphaTouch app, a vital component of the intercom system, has received mixed feedback from users. Here is the summary of what they think about the product:

Positive Aspects

• Some users prefer AlphaTouch over other leading players due to lower costs.
• Several customers have praised the ease of installation.
• Users commend the IP65-rated vandal and weather-resistant make of the model.

Concerning Aspects

• App stability: According to reviews on both Google Play Store and Mac App Store in 2024, some residents have reported issues with frequent crashes.
• Login problems: Users have mentioned difficulties logging into the AlphaTouch intercom app.
• Reliability concerns: These issues have made some users question the system’s reliability, particularly for critical functions like door entry access management.

While Alpha Communications’ hardware seems well-received, the smartphone app’s software component concerns many users. Most of these users are residents or tenants of the buildings where the systems are installed.

As a potential buyer, you should weigh these factors carefully, considering how vital the app functionality is for your specific needs.

Despite these concerns, it’s essential to understand your specific requirements and how they align with Alpha Communications’ intercom range. 

Step-By-Step Installation Guide For Alpha Communications Intercom 

We will discuss installing the AlphaTouch model, a two-way intercom system that can be installed in multi-tenant buildings and apartments. Later in the section, we’ll cover some critical points for their G2+ series. 

Installing AlphaTouch Video Intercom 

When your AlphaTouch system arrives, it will come with all necessary components, such as the door panel and mounting hardware. Before proceeding with the process, the professional installers will check system prerequisites, which include: 

Stable connection: A stable internet connection is critical for systems like AlphaTouch that utilize cloud services. Ensure your building’s network supports the necessary connections, whether PoE for AlphaTouch or a 2-wire G2+ and VK237 series setup.

Professional installation: While each intercom series might have specific setup details, professional installers will handle the installation process, ensuring everything is connected correctly and operational. They’ll verify that the system integrates with your network and is ready for use.

User setup: After installation, residents must create accounts on the AlphaTouch app to use the intercom system for two-way visitor communication. For the wired video intercoms, installers help install the in-unit substations, such as video monitors and handsets.

Customer Experience 

Across different series, Alpha Communications customers have reported that the installation process is straightforward and minimally complicated, making these systems a reliable choice for various property types.

Alpha Communications Pricing

The Alpha Communication intercoms’ pricing should be mentioned on the website. You can get a quote by calling or filling out a form to get the estimates. However, upon researching, we found that dealers sell the components separately for all the Alpha Communication intercom models.

We found a dealer that lists the Alpha AT700AS 7.0″ Touchscreen Door Entry Station at $2315. However, the same model is available at $2886 at another dealer’s store. Also, Amazon.com lists the VK237WSDL Color Video Intercom Kit model at $724, while a dealer is selling the same model at $344. When buying from dealers, we encourage you to speak with them first to ensure the package components and warranty details. 

Benefits and Potential Drawbacks 

Just like any other product in the market, Alpha Communications Intercom has its set of benefits and disadvantages, as summarized here:

Pros 

• Easy to install:
  • Wireless options: Wireless systems reduce the need for extensive wiring, making installation straightforward and cost-effective.
  • Smartphone integration: With smartphone screens acting as in-unit substations in the AlphaTouch series, additional wiring inside the building is minimized
• Durable:
  • Vandal-resistant construction: Alpha Communication’s intercoms are robust, vandal-resistant hardware, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Weather resistance: The outdoor units are IP65-rated, making them weather-resistant and suitable for various environmental conditions.
• Cost-effective:
  • Low maintenance: Since fewer wires and more straightforward installations exist, maintenance costs are generally lower than those of wired systems.
  • Affordable subscription: The AlphaTouch series offers a low monthly subscription cost per apartment, making it an economical choice.
• Advanced security features:
  • Visitor management system: Property managers and residents can manage visitor access remotely, capture visitor snapshots, and maintain a call log.
  • Strong encryption: Implements AES-256 encryption, one of the strongest standards, ensuring electronic data security.
• Integration and remote management:
  • Cloud-based system: It enables remote access and management, allowing property managers to add or revoke tenant permissions, update directories, and monitor entry events without being on-site.
  • Compatibility with smart home devices: Alpha Communication intercoms can integrate with popular smart home systems like Google Home and Alexa, offering enhanced convenience and control.

Cons 

• App reliability issues: Users have reported frequent crashes and instability with the AlphaTouch app, which undermines the system’s reliability, particularly in critical situations like medical emergencies. Reviews also indicate that the app could be more user-friendly.
• Signal issues: Some users have reported low signal quality, which can affect the intercom’s performance, especially in environments with high wireless interference.
• Pricing transparency: Pricing details for most models are not readily available on the website, requiring potential buyers to contact the company directly, which can be inconvenient for those looking to make a quick purchase decision. Online dealers are selling video intercom components separately with varying prices, making it difficult for property managers to estimate the exact costs.   
• Limited installation flexibility: Wireless systems are easier to install, but wired options can be tedious and complex, particularly for retrofit applications where redoing walls and ceilings may be necessary.

Review and Comparison With Other Market Players

The market for video intercom systems is diverse, with several strong competitors offering various features that may appeal to different users. You can take a look at some alternatives to Alpha Communications Intercom and compare their strengths and potential drawbacks:

AlphaTouch Vs Aiphone

Aiphone offers a range of intercom solutions suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. 

• Strengths: Aiphone is known for its hardware durability, extensive product range, and seamless integration with smart home devices. 
• Drawbacks: Higher price point than AlphaTouch
• User experience: Both have received feedback about occasional app bugs and connectivity issues, but Aiphone’s customer support has been criticized for slower response times than AlphaTouch.

Read more about Aiphone with Aiphone Review.

AlphaTouch Vs Avigilon Alta

Avigilon Alta is a strong contender in the intercom market, particularly for properties that require advanced security and integration capabilities.

• Strengths: Avigilon is ideal for high-security properties, offering advanced security features and extensive integration options.
• Drawbacks: Higher costs may be prohibitive for smaller properties or budget-conscious buyers.
• User experience: Both systems have received mixed reviews. They have been reported to have similar smartphone app issues, such as technical glitches and occasional downtime.

AlphaTouch Vs LiftMaster

Another leading name in the category is LiftMaster. They’re primarily used in residential complexes and gated communities.

• Strengths: Robust construction and user-friendly design make LiftMaster a reliable choice for door entry systems.
• Drawbacks: It lacks advanced features like two-way video calling and requires a subscription for full access to features via the myQ app.
• User experience: LiftMaster is praised for its user-friendly design, but many users do not favor the myQ app’s high subscription cost owing to its recent reliability issues. 

Learn more about LiftMaster with LiftMaster Review.

How Swiftlane Compares With Alpha Communications Intercom

Swiftlane is another major player in the video intercom market. It is known for its mobile-first approach and advanced security features, including facial recognition.

Key Differences

• Mobile-first approach: Swiftlane is known for its mobile-first design, prioritizing ease of use via smartphones. This makes it appealing to tech-savvy users who prefer managing their intercom systems through mobile devices.
• Security features: Swiftlane offers advanced security options, including facial recognition, positioning itself as a strong contender in environments where security is crucial, such as apartments and multitenant buildings.
• Cost and accessibility: Swiftlane tends to be more affordable, making it a more viable option for a broader range of properties.
• Customers say Swiftlane has a higher user rating (4.8/5) for its hardware and software than AlphaTouch, which sits at (1.7/5).

Who Should Choose Swiftlane?

• Mobile-first users: If you want to manage your intercom system through a smartphone, Swiftlane’s design is well-suited for you.
• Budget-conscious buyers: For those seeking advanced security features at a lower cost, Swiftlane offers a more affordable solution than AlphaTouch and customized pricing for every budget.

Watch a Customer Testimonial for Swiftlane video intercoms.

Here is a comparison between the above-discussed leading brands:

	Swiftlane	GB2+ Video Intercom	AlphaTouch	Aiphone	Avigilon Alta	LiftMaster
Ethernet/Wireless Connectivity	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Cloud-based management	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Touchscreen outdoor hardware	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Mobile app support	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Touch screen directory	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-in facial recognition	Yes	No	No	No	No	No
Remote door relay	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Two-way video calling	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Temporary access options	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
User reviews (App stores)	4.8/5	Not available	1.7/5	3.2/5	4.0/5	myQ (3.6/5)

Wrapping Up

While Alpha Communications intercom provides a cost-effective and reliable solution for many, it’s worth exploring other market options such as Swiftlane, Aiphone, Avigilon Alta, and LiftMaster. 

Each video intercom option offers unique features that better suit your specific requirements. So, evaluate your options carefully, considering each system’s strengths and potential drawbacks, and make an informed decision for your building. 

For those looking to upgrade their intercom systems, connect with a security expert today to get a free customized quote for your specific property needs and find your perfect fit.

Get a free quote here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to install an intercom system?

The cost of installing an intercom system can vary widely depending on the type (wired or wireless), the complexity of the installation, and the property’s size. You can expect to pay between $1000 and $7000 on average. Advanced systems with features like video and mobile integration may cost more.

How do you release a door with an intercom?

Releasing a door with an intercom typically involves pressing a button on the intercom unit after verifying the visitor’s identity. Depending on the system, this can be done through the intercom’s built-in control panel or a smartphone app. Some systems also allow door release via voice commands or mobile apps.

Are wireless intercoms good?

Wireless intercoms are a convenient and flexible option, particularly for properties where running cables is difficult or expensive. They are easy to install and generally more affordable. However, they may be susceptible to interference and need to provide a different level of reliability than wired systems, especially in areas with high wireless signal traffic.

What is the lifespan of an intercom system?

An intercom system’s lifespan is typically between 10 and 20 years, depending on the quality of the hardware, the environment it’s installed in, and how well it’s maintained. Regular maintenance and timely updates can extend the system’s life.

How much does it cost to put an intercom system in a house?

The estimated cost for installing an intercom system in a house is generally between $1500 and $6000. The final price, however, depends on the type of system, the number of units, and whether it’s wired or wireless. Wireless systems are typically less expensive to install but may require additional investment in network enhancements to ensure reliable performance.