As foot traffic to buildings rises, building managers are turning to intercom system upgrades as an essential tool to keep tenants happy. Whether you’re managing access to a residential building, securing a commercial property, or even controlling vehicle access, having the right intercom system can make all the difference. But with so many options available—wired, wireless, IP-based, audio-only, video-equipped, and telephone entry systems—choosing the best intercom systems for your needs can be overwhelming.
This guide reviews the best intercom systems across different categories and use cases. We’ll explore the top models in several major intercom categories, highlighting their key features and what makes them stand out in their class. From wired intercoms known for reliability to cutting-edge IP and video systems offering remote access, we’ll help you find the best solution for your security and communication needs.
Whether you’re looking for a simple audio intercom for a front door, a legacy telephone entry system, a video system for a gated community, or an advanced IP entry system for commercial properties, this article will provide expert insights into the best intercoms today. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for you.
Table of Contents
- What is an Intercom System?
- Best Wired Intercom System
- Best Wireless Intercom System
- Best Audio Intercom System
- Best Touchscreen Intercom
- Best Video Intercom Systems
- Best Telephone Entry System
- Best IP Intercom Systems
- About Our Reviews
What is an Intercom System?
An intercom system is a communication device that allows audio and/or video interaction between different areas of a building or property, such as the front door and individual tenants, typically used for security and access control.
Top Features for Property Managers and Building Owners To Look For:
- Audio & Video Capability – Clear communication and, ideally, visual verification.
- Remote Access & Mobile Integration – Control via smartphone apps.
- Cloud-Based Management – Easy updates and remote system control.
- Access Control Integration – Works with keypads, keycards, or biometric entry.
- Multi-Tenant Support – Directory for apartments or offices.
- Security & Logging – Record calls and entry attempts.
- Durability & Weather Resistance – Essential for outdoor units.
- Ease of Installation & Maintenance – Wireless or wired options.
Best Wired Intercom System
Wired intercoms are the original communications tool for building entry, and they have been in use since the mid-20th century. In these systems, a front door intercom is hard-wired throughout the building to a substation in each tenant unit, such as apartments, condos, or offices. Wired intercoms are robust and reliable but more expensive to install or upgrade than modern wireless systems.
Best Wired Intercom: Bticino Linea 5000
The Manufacturer: Bticino is an Italian intercom manufacturer known for modular intercom systems with sleek designs that add style to a building’s front elevation. The company harkens back to 1936 as a manufacturer of electrical switches and products for homes.
The Model: The Bticino Linea “Cinque Mille” (Italian for 5000) is a modular video intercom that uses a two-wire system to connect the intercom to tenant substations throughout the building. With its modular design, buildings can integrate a key pad or an RFID card reader into the intercom for multiple forms of access control. It can provide an upgrade to digitize buildings that have existing 2-wire systems already in place or can be installed as part of new construction or renovations.
Key Features
Available in five sleek metal finishes, the intercom features IK65 weatherproofing and IK08 anti-vandalism and shock resistance. Tenant keys can include mobile devices via Bluetooth, PIN codes, and RFID fobs. The touchscreen features a full QWERTY keyboard for searching the built-in tenant directory, which makes finding a particular tenant among long lists easy.
The modular system can be paired with three purpose-built accessories:
- An inductive loop module that allows people with hearing aids to use audio door entry communication
- A push-button numeric keypad module
- A smart access RFID module.
Each module can be installed separately from the main intercom so that a guest can use the intercom while a tenant uses the RFID module with a key fob for entry.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| It’s modular – mix and match panel components and casings to suit different styles and access control needs. | The Home + Project app that pairs with the system suffers from poor reviews. |
| Includes a high-quality 5MP camera with a 119-degree horizontal field of view and a 151-degree vertical field of view. | Online pricing information is hard to find. |
| Offers remote management over the Internet. | The product is relatively new as of February 2025, so there are few user reviews. |
Best Wireless Intercom System
Wireless intercoms have become one of the most popular access control systems due to their easy installation. Wireless intercoms can connect to tenants via cellular networks, VoIP (using an ordinary modem), and Wi-Fi without running cables between the intercom and each unit. Depending on the system chosen, building tenants can receive calls on dedicated unit receivers that connect wirelessly, via ordinary landline telephones, or an app on their smartphone or tablet.
If you’re curious about wireless intercoms and how they compare to wired ones, you can read our dedicated guide on wireless intercoms and top market products.
Best Wireless Intercom System: Akuvox R29
The Manufacturer: Akuvox is a global provider of innovative intercom products that are popular with residential buildings.
The Model: The Akuvox R29 series includes five intercom models, each featuring a 7” color touchscreen, HD camera, and facial recognition entry. Variations include a base model that connects via Ethernet, models that can connect using Bluetooth or LTE cellular data, and one with an integrated temperature sensor. The fifth model, the R29CT, offers the unique fingerprint biometric access control capability, which is uncommon in most standalone intercom systems. You can also read a detailed Akuvox intercom review for an in-depth analysis.
Key Features:
- High-definition (HD) Camera with up to 1920×1080 video resolution
- Medium size 7” LCD touchscreen
- Time-stamped log of entries for security auditing
- Built-in fingerprint reader for fingerprint access control (R29CT model)
- Also offers facial recognition, PIN entry, keyfob/ID card access, and one-time QR codes.
- Intercom features a built-in voice that provides instructions to users
- IP65 weatherproof, IK06 anti-vandalism rating
Price range: ~$2,400 for base model
What people say: Reviews of the product highlight the multilingual user interface, which can operate in English, Spanish, French, and Chinese. While the intercom is considered high quality, users are not enamored with the app. With a 3.6-star rating on the Google Play store and 3.0-star rating on the Apple App Store, the user app gets middle-of-the-road reviews compared to other intercom systems.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| A high-resolution camera provides great video to tenants. | Akuvox Smartplus app gets average reviews. |
Attractive intercom design. | Lots of models can make decision-making more complicated than it needs to be. |
| Availability of a biometric fingerprint reader model for enhanced security. | IK06 anti-shock rating is relatively low; could be prone to damage or vandalism. |
Best Audio Intercom System
Audio intercoms are the original workhorses of building access control. Before inexpensive cameras and LCD screens made video intercoms ubiquitous, audio-only intercom systems were the industry standard. In the era of increased package deliveries, many property managers now prefer to invest in systems with video, because it helps deter package theft and improve security. Still, as a low-cost solution, various audio intercoms remain available, some for as low as $200.
Learn more about various types of audio intercoms, key considerations, and top products.
Best Audio Intercom: Linear EP-736
The Manufacturer: Linear, now operating under the Nice/Linear brand, has been a leader in access control and gate automation since 1961. The company offers a comprehensive range of products, including telephone entry systems, garage door operators, gate operators, radio controls, and surveillance solutions. Explore Linear intercoms in a detailed review for a focused comparison.
The Model: The Linear EP-736 offers a high-end touchscreen-operated design that is hard to find among audio-only intercoms. Most audio-only systems still use individual buttons for each tenant unit or a printed directory and keypad.
Key Features: A numeric key pad, four arrow keys, and a 7” full color touchscreen provide multiple options for entering PIN codes or searching for tenant listings. The device can be outfitted with an optional RFID reader for use with resident key fobs. The system can be managed via an ordinary web browser.
Price Range: Online pricing starts at $3,500.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| One of the few audio-only intercoms with a searchable touchscreen. | Audio-only system lacks visual verification of who is at the door. |
Includes web-based management, which is lso rare for audio-only intercoms. | High price point for an audio-only intercom. |
| Two-year manufacturer warranty. |
Best Touchscreen Intercom
Touchscreen intercoms are quickly becoming a favored choice for building entrances, thanks to the falling price of LCD panels and the availability of durable materials that resist vandalism and can function outdoors, even in extreme weather.
Touchscreens offer advantages over older push-button and keypad models. They can quickly scale to thousands of users with searchable directories of tenants. Some can provide 2-way video. The buttons on the screen can also adapt to each use case, just like a smartphone.
If you’re debating investment in a touchscreen intercom, read our 2025 buyer’s guide to touchscreen video intercoms and learn about advanced features and top models.
Best Touchscreen Intercom: Aiphone IXG Series IP Video Intercom
The Manufacturer: Aiphone is a global manufacturer known for its comprehensive range of intercom and security communication systems.
The Model: The Aiphone IXG Series is designed for multi-tenant buildings. The IXG-DM7-HID is their primary entrance intercom model, pictured above. While most intercoms connect to tenants’ smartphones, the IXG Series can also be linked to base stations mounted in each tenant unit. We like this model for its relatively reasonable pricing compared to many other touchscreen intercoms, but the tradeoff is a lower resolution screen and camera than some intercoms. You can also read detailed comparisons among top Aiphone intercoms separately.
Key Features:
- 720p video camera
- Medium size 7” LCD directory screen, 800×400 resolution
- Built-in HID reader for card and keyfob access
- IP65 weather and IK08 durability ratings
- Can connect to the tenant mobile app or wall-mounted, in-unit tenant stations that are sold separately
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) connectivity.
Price range: $1,300 to $1,800 from various online sellers for the main unit, which is on the lower end for touchscreen intercoms. Tenant unit intercoms are sold separately.
What People Say: The tenant app gets 4.0-stars on the Apple App Store but only a 3.5-star average on Google Play.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| Pricing for a full-color touchscreen intercom that can suit many budgets | Camera is not HD |
Option for tenants to use a mobile app or a dedicated wall-mounted substation in their unit (sold separately) | The screen is not high resolution. |
| Positive reviews for the tenant app on Apple devices. | Average reviews for the app on Android devices. |
Best Video Intercom Systems
Video intercoms solve the question: How do you know if the person at the door is really who they claim to be? In the era of increased food and package deliveries, many property managers consider video intercoms the new standard. They also help improve communications between tenants and visitors, and can leave a positive impression on clients or customers at commercial properties. Video intercoms are rapidly supplanting older audio-only intercoms and telephone call boxes.
If you’re looking for a ground-up guide to video intercom systems, check out our detailed blog post for industry insights and product reviews.
Best Video Intercom For Office/Commercial Use: 2N IP Style Intercom
The Manufacturer: 2N is a European company specializing in IP intercoms and access control solutions.
The Model: The 2N IP Style is a high-end intercom system featuring a large touchscreen display and advanced video capabilities. Compare different 2N models in this detailed 2N intercom review.
Key Features:
- Wide-angle 5MP camera with a 138° horizontal and 114° vertical viewing angle.
- 10.1 inches, screen size with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. Among the largest models available today.
- Forensic wide dynamic range (WDR) for clear images in varying lighting conditions.
- 2-way video
- Bluetooth 5.0 LE for mobile credentials.
- IK08 and IP65
- Customizable user interface with different display modes.
Price Range: $4,000+
What People Are Saying: Product reviews praise the device’s high-resolution 5MP camera and adaptive face zooming. The company’s product demonstration video shows that the intercom screen can play videos while the unit is in standby mode. This feature might be sought by commercial/retail buildings for outdoor advertising when the intercom is not being used.
Note: We would be wary of installing such a high-end system outdoors with an IK08 rating. It is best mounted inside an office lobby or elevator bank. IK10 is preferred for outdoor installations.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| One of the largest touchscreens on the market, with optional 2-way video – leaves an impression with clients and customers. | Not ideal for outdoor mountings due to IK08 rating. |
High definition wide angle camera produces high quality images. | High price point |
| Adapative face zooming adjusts for visitors who are standing far away. |
Best Video Intercom for Multi-Tenant Residential: Swiftlane Swiftreader
The Manufacturer: Swiftlane is a best-in-class provider of access control equipment based out of San Francisco. The company’s intercoms are known for their high accuracy and rapid facial recognition that unlocks the door for tenants. Its devices also feature two-way video calling, rare among most video intercoms. Integration with Siri, CarPlay, and other voice-activated assistants can also provide a hands-free way for drivers to open vehicle gates integrated with Swiftlane.
The Model: Swiftreader is the base model of touchscreen video intercoms (see below for a review of the flagship model, Swiftreader X). Its high-speed facial recognition provides convenience to tenants. Built-in anti-spoofing technology using simultaneous 2D and 3D imaging prevents tricking the system with a photo or video of someone’s face.
Key Features:
- Two-way full-color video
- Full-color touchscreen
- Connection options include Ethernet, cellular, and Wi-Fi
- Use facial recognition, PIN codes, RFID key fobs, and mobile devices
- Cloud-based management platform
- Highly rated user app (4.8 stars Apple App Store, 4.7 stars Google Play Store)
Price: ~$2,000, depending on the number of devices ordered
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| Provides two-way video, a rare option among video intercoms. | The IK07 anti-shock rating is not ideal for some outdoor urban environments. |
| 2-year manufacturer warranty and 24/7 live support. | Smaller touchscreen than Swiftlane’s larger Swiftreader X. |
| The app receives excellent reviews on both app stores. |
See also the Swiftreader X, Swiftlane’s flagship mode, under IP intercoms.
Best Video Intercom for Individual Homes: Eufy FamiLock S3 Max
Manufacturer: Eufy is a brand of smart home products made by Anker, a Chinese electronics company. Eufy makes many automated smart home products, including automatic robot vacuums, home security cameras, baby monitors, and door locks.
The Model: The Eufy FamiLock S3 Max is an excellent choice for single-family residences. It is battery-operated and easy to install on most doors, even for do-it-yourselfers. This smart lock combines a 2K video doorbell with advanced palm vein recognition technology, enhancing security and convenience.
Key Features: The FamiLock is unique among video intercoms for its touchless hand-reading biometric access control. Users can unlock their door with a simple wave of the hand in front of the intercom camera, which recognizes every family member based on their palm print, all without touching the device.
Features:
- Access methods: Keypad PIN, mobile app, physical keys, or hand wave.
- Smart home enabled: Apple Home and Amazon Alexa compatible
- Power source: Rechargeable batteries.
This product won the Consumer Electronics Show’s 2025 Innovation Award.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| Innovative palm vein technology works without touching anything | Only works for single-family homes and a small number of users. |
Uses a rechargeable battery – very easy to install compared to wire powered systems. | Requires periodic battery replacements. |
| Integration with popular smart home systems. |
Best Telephone Entry System
Telephone entry intercom systems, sometimes called “call boxes,” piggyback on the phone network to connect the intercom, via a dedicated landline, to tenants’ phones. Tenants can press a number, such as “9” on their phone, which sends a signal to the intercom to unlock the door. Newer systems have updated the approach and may use voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls to operate like traditional landline call boxes.
Best Telephone Entry System: Doorking 1837
The Manufacturer: Doorking is a leading provider of access control solutions, specializing in telephone entry systems, gate operators, and parking control products. It is known for its durable and reliable stainless steel-encased call boxes for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
The Model: Doorking 1837 Telephone Entry System. Read this detailed Doorking intercom review for insight into the Doorking product lineup and key considerations.
Key Features:
- Designed for large multi-tenant buildings, gated communities, and commercial facilities.
- Stores up to 3,000 phone numbers and 8,000 access codes.
- Provides built-in modem and TCP/IP connectivity for remote programming and management.
- Can control up to 16 entry points with the addition of access control boards.
- Offers a built-in LCD screen tenant directory.
- Compatible with card readers, keypads, and RFID cards or key fobs.
- Works with POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service), cellular, or VoIP communication methods.
- Optional third-party camera integration for added security.
The Doorking 1837 is a top choice for property managers who need a scalable and remotely manageable telephone entry solution.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| Durable and attractive steel enclosure | Built-in directory is not searchable (scroll buttons only) |
| Scales to thousands of tenants with a built-in directory and integration with up to 16 doors – great for large buildings. | Significantly more expensive than many comparable IP intercoms. |
| Offers remote management, which is rare among telephone entry systems. | Costly system, which lacks video or a touchscreen. |
Considering a Doorking telephone entry system? Read our full review of the Doorking lineup.
Best IP Intercom Systems
IP Intercom systems – the IP stands for Internet Protocol – are often popularly called “smart intercoms.” They have become the industry standard in building access control. These intercoms are hooked to the Internet, providing audio and video connections to tenants on their smartphones or tablets.
With internet connectivity, property managers can maintain, update, and service the intercom remotely, often via a cloud-based management platform that can host multiple intercom devices. Tenants and management alike can set up temporary PIN codes providing added convenience for guests, service workers, or deliveries.
Best IP Intercom: Swiftlane Swiftreader X
The Manufacturer: Swiftlane, a premier provider of access control equipment based in San Francisco, is renowned for its high accuracy and rapid facial recognition technology, which enable seamless tenant entry. Its advanced intercoms stand out with two-way video calling, a feature rarely found in most video intercom systems. Additionally, Swiftlane integrates with Siri, CarPlay, and other voice-activated assistants, offering drivers a convenient, hands-free way to open vehicle gates.
The Model: The Swiftreader X is the flagship IP intercom from Swiftlane. The company is known for its best-in-class facial recognition access control. Building tenants download the highly-rated Swiftlane app (4.8 stars Apple App Store, 4.7 stars Google Play store) to upload their face to the system. Then, they simply look at the building intercom to unlock the door, providing fast and convenient access. The device features a large 8” full-color touchscreen that enables two-way video.
Key Features
Two-Way Video: Two-way video is a rare feature among intercoms. It is highly sought for commercial applications as well as high-end residential buildings. Video helps reduce package theft and adds security to any building.
Multiple Entry Methods: Tenants and building staff can use facial recognition to enter, while tenants and guests can use key fobs, PIN codes, QR codes, and mobile devices for access. Integration with Siri and CarPlay provides a perfect solution for drivers to open vehicle gates.
Easy Installation: Swiftlane can be easily installed by Professionals using Power over Ethernet (PoE)—it requires no additional wiring.
Cloud-Based Management: Property Managers can use the cloud-based management platform to manage one or more Swiftreaders from any location.
Price: ~$2,500, but can vary depending on the order size.
| Strengths | Potential Drawbacks |
| Full-color two-way HD video improves communications versus most competitors. | Some tenants require education to minimize privacy concerns about facial recognition. |
| IP65 (high weatherproof rating) and IK10 (top anti-vandalism rating) make it ideal for outdoor mountings and urban environments. | Ongoing subscription required. |
| Highly-rated app |
About Our Reviews
To choose the best intercoms for each category, we looked at at least five different brands and models in greater depth. We look for a matrix of standout features, potential use cases (residential, commercial, etc.), and reviews by users and professionals on YouTube, reddit, and the Apple and Google Play app store where appropriate. We also factor in available price information when making our selections.
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