Comelit Intercom: Review, Pricing and Comparison

Article Updated: 7th September, 2024

We’ve thoroughly researched Comelit’s products and sifted through hundreds of reviews from Amazon, Reddit, YouTube, app stores, and other forums to help you answer that question. Our Comelit review covers key features, pricing, and comparisons with competitors so you can make the most informed choice for your apartment building or condo community. 

To learn more about Comelit intercoms compared to products from DoorBird, Siedle, Aiphone, and seven other brands, check out our round-up of the best apartment intercom systems for 2024.

Table of contents

• What is Comelit?
• Comelit 2-Wire versus IP: What’s the Difference?
• Comelit Intercom: Door Stations and Indoor Monitors
• Comelit Intercom Review
• Comelit App Review
• Alternatives to Comelit Intercom
• Final Thoughts: Is a Comelit Intercom System Right for You?
• FAQs
• More Reviews Like This

Related Topics:

• IP Door Access Control Systems
• The Best Apartment Intercom Systems 
• Video Intercom System – A Complete Guide 
• Compare Best Business & Office Intercom Systems

What is Comelit?

An Italian company established in 1956, Comelit is one of the oldest intercom system providers. The company provides indoor and outdoor intercom, home automation, and emergency systems for single-family homes, multi-tenant buildings, and commercial properties. 

Some of their door stations offer high-quality video, night vision, mobile app integration, remote access management, and a wide array of mix-and-match modules, but features vary by product. Most Comelit door stations can be connected via a single ethernet cable or the company’s 2-wire system. These outdoor entry panels are compatible with Comelit’s indoor monitors. 

Users who prioritize physical security over cutting-edge functionality and are transitioning from traditional audio-only intercoms often choose Comelit. Prices vary, starting at around $200 for indoor units and exceeding $8,400 for door stations and other outdoor units.

Comelit 2-Wire versus IP: What’s the Difference?

Comelit door stations connect to your building using either a 2-wire system (Simplebus) or an Ethernet cable (IP). Most newer models work with both methods, but older ones are limited to Simplebus. The 2-wire system is excellent for older buildings since it only requires two wires for power, audio, and video, making retrofitting reasonably easy. However, it’s limited to basic features. 

The IP (Internet Protocol) system is more advanced, using Ethernet cables for faster communication, high-quality video, real-time data transfer, and better integration with smart home devices. This allows property managers to control and update the system remotely from a dashboard, which isn’t possible with the Simplebus system.

Download this free guide if you’re considering upgrading a wired audio-only intercom system to an IP video intercom. 

Comelit Intercom: Door Stations and Indoor Monitors

Comelit intercoms offers a range of door stations (entry panels) and indoor monitors. Some Comelit door stations are designed for small buildings (homes, duplexes, and single-occupant offices), while others are explicitly designed for multi-tenant buildings. The indoor monitors are compatible with most entry panels, allowing users to see and communicate with visitors from inside their homes or offices. 

If you choose the IP system, you can bypass the need for indoor monitors and rely solely on Comelit’s mobile app to manage access. Unfortunately, the app has been criticized for being unreliable, difficult to use, and incredibly frustrating.

Door Stations (Entry Panels)

Comelit door stations (entry panels) include Ultra, 3one6, Bello, Quadra, Ciao, Visto, Vandalcom, Switch, and Emergency. Ultra, 3one6, Switch, and Vandalcom best suit multi-tenant apartment and commercial buildings. Bello, Quadra, Ciao, and Visto are best for single-family homes and small businesses. Emergency works well in hospitals, schools, parking garages, and public gathering spaces.

1. Ultra

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus) or IP, 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: Multi-tenant apartment and commercial buildings

Comelit Ultra is a modular video intercom with a wide-angle camera, dual speakers, and a customizable interface. It supports up to 15 users per apartment, with mix-and-match modules like audio-only, keypad, and touchscreen. While flexible, the customization options on Comelit’s website can be confusing. 

Pricing: Ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the number of modules and types of features (door station only).

2. 3one6 Sense and Touch

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus) or IP, 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: Multi-tenant apartment and commercial buildings

Comelit 3one6 is a durable entry panel range with Touch and Sense products. The Touch interface is customizable with personalized welcome screens and call-handling modes. Visitors can select from 16 languages and then scroll through a directory, search by typing in a name, or enter a PIN to contact a resident. 

Sense is a more streamlined version of the 3one6. With CapSense™ technology, its smooth stainless steel Braille and numeric keypad detects touch without mechanical buttons. There’s no touchscreen, but users can scroll through a digital directory, and residents can use a code or badge to access the building.

Pricing: Ranges from $5,500 to $6,000+ depending on features (door station only).

3. Bello

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus), 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: Single-family homes

Comelit Bello is an affordable, no-frills door station ideal for single-family homes. It’s water-resistant and made from recycled materials. However, Bello is limited to 120,000 button activations, making it unsuitable for multi-tenant buildings, which can easily exceed 100,000 activations in a year.

Shoppers can purchase the Bello door station a la carte or in one of four kits that pair the door station with indoor monitors. 

Pricing: Ranges from $350 to $500+ depending on features (door station only).

4. Quadra

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus) or IP, 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: Single-family homes, duplexes, and small office buildings

Comelit Quadra is another basic entry panel. Its compact, die-cast aluminum exterior houses a color camera with a wide viewing angle, a loudspeaker, and LED-backlit indicators. Its call button can be configured for 1 to 4 units using DIP switches, which is why it’s best suited to small office buildings, duplexes, and single-family homes. Users can scale their intercom system with additional door stations and indoor units. 

Pricing: Ranges from $350 to $700+ depending on features (door station only). Kits cost upwards of $1,000.

5. Ciao

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus), 2-way audio intercom

Suited to: Single-family homes and low-security multi-tenant buildings that do not need visual video confirmation

Comelit Ciao is a compact audio-only entrance panel with two versions: a 2-wire digital system supporting up to 72 users and a traditional 5-wire system accommodating up to 4 users. Made from durable die-cast aluminum, the Ciao panel is IK08-rated for impact resistance and IP54-certified. 

The 2-wire version is modular, so you can add more users and call buttons as needed. However, none of the Ciao door stations have video capabilities, so neither tenants nor property managers can visually confirm visitors before allowing access. 

Pricing: Ranges from $250 to $400+ depending on features (door station only).

6. Visto

Type of Intercom: Doorbell chime connection (wireless), 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom; connects via Wi-Fi or ethernet cable.

Suited to: Single-family homes and small businesses

Comelit Visto is an intelligent wireless video doorbell (like DoorBird, Nest, or Ring) that integrates with a home’s Wi-Fi to see, hear, and communicate with visitors through the Visto app on their smartphones. Unfortunately, Visto has very poor reviews on Google Play (average 2.5 stars) and the Apple App Store (average 1.3 stars). 

It offers high-quality video resolution, motion detection with push notifications, and night vision up to 5 meters. However, you’ll need to purchase extra indoor visto cams, outdoor visto cam/e, and cloud storage for full functionality. 

Pricing: Ranges from $300 for the doorbell camera to $850+ for the kit.

7. Vandalcom

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus) or IP, 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: High-security multi-unit buildings

Comelit Vandalcom is a robust, customizable entrance panel built from IK10-rated stainless steel to provide maximum security in high-risk environments. Vandalcom can accommodate up to 10 horizontal call buttons, a one-way video camera, and a high-quality speaker. 

Users can pick and choose from various modules, including audio/video units, electronic keypads, nameplates, Simplekey readers, and digital call modules. 

Pricing: Ranges from $1,300 to $3,000+ depending on features (door station only).

8. Switch

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus) or IP, 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: Multi-tenant apartment and commercial buildings

Comelit Switch is a versatile push-button video entry panel with a thin stainless steel faceplate certified IK08 for impact resistance. Switch can be configured with up to 80 pre-wired buttons across five columns. 

Its modular design supports additional features like access control, keypads, and RFID readers. Shoppers can choose from several front plate designs, including one equipped with magnetic induction for hearing aid users. 

Pricing: Contact Comelit for pricing information; only components are sold by third parties online.

9. Emergency and Help Point

Type of Intercom: 2-Wire (Simplebus) or IP, 2-way audio, and 1-way video intercom

Suited to: Commercial building garages and other public places

Available as Comelit Emergency or Comelit Help Point, this panel was designed to enable immediate communication in critical situations. It’s most commonly used in hospitals, parking garages, and public places. 

It has a single call button and is available in audio-only or audio-video configurations with Braille keys and LED indicators for call status. The panel is ADA-compliant, built to withstand vandalism with an IK08 rating, and designed to integrate with many other Comelit products.

Pricing: $1,000+ (door station only).

Indoor Monitors

Comelit intercoms offers several indoor monitors that residents can use to communicate with visitors who call their unit at the outdoor entry panel. Some (digital version) let residents see visitors with one-way video, while others (analog version) let them speak with visitors through a wall-mounted phone. 

Residents can use the Mini WiFi, Mini, Mini Handsfree, Maxi, Icona, or People indoor monitors instead of or in conjunction with Comelit’s mobile apps. Many just use indoor monitors because the app is frequently described as unreliable. 

Pricing: $200 to $800 per unit on average.

Comelit Intercom Review

Comelit intercoms offer must-have features like durable, IK-rated hardware, modular designs, and a range of customizable options for both 2-wire and IP systems. Some door stations (like Ultra and Switch) are particularly well-suited for multi-tenant environments, but none of Comelit’s intercoms offer two-way video communication. 

User feedback on Comelit intercom systems is mixed. Some reviews on Reddit, YouTube, and third-party sales sites praise Comelit products for their durability and aesthetic design. Many users also appreciate Comelit’s accessibility features and responsive tech support.

However, a challenging setup process often mars the user experience and the app’s poor performance. Comelit intercom systems can be complex to program because they frequently require specific PC software for configuration, which can be challenging for users unfamiliar with this type of setup. 

Where Comelit truly falls short is its multiple mobile apps, several of which have been widely criticized for needing to be updated, unreliable, and difficult to use. Some of Comelit intercom systems also lack the seamless smart home integration and advanced app functionalities offered by competitors like Swiftlane and Ring. However, some users enjoy the native integrations offered by Comelit SimpleHome. Users have also questioned the reliability of door stations like Quadra, which some reviewers note rings by itself in windy or rainy weather. 

As such, Comelit is less appealing for tech-savvy property managers seeking integrated solutions and security-conscious residents who prioritize ease of use and connectivity.

Pros

• Modular products
• Two installation options
• Durable hardware
• Can connect to Local Area Network (LAN) hub
• Multiple access options 
• Concierge compatibility for some systems 
• Excellent tech support

Cons

• Poorly designed apps that frequently disconnect from devices
• Not user-friendly
• PC-based software updates
• Manual file transfers required
• Installation can be complex
• No two-way video communication
• Few advanced features
• Accessories like additional cameras are needed for some systems.
• Users often rely on expensive and outdated indoor stations due to poorly performing apps.

Special Features

• Hearing loops
• Braille keypads

Comelit App Review

Free to download, Comelit’s apps allow users to manage their door entry systems through their phone or tablet as long as they have a stable connection. Comelit offers a general MyComelit app and device-specific apps for certain door stations like Visto. Users can answer calls, record videos under 10 seconds, release door or gate locks, and turn lights on or off. 

What Reviewers Have to Say

The Comelit app has an average rating of 2.6 stars on the Apple App Store, with frequent complaints about poor UI/UX design, connectivity issues, and lack of smart home integration. Google Play reviews are slightly better at 3.6 stars. While homeowners generally have a more favorable view of Comelit intercom systems, tenants often criticize the app for its unreliability and poor functionality.

• Poorly-designed user interface
• Outdated guides
• Difficulty integrating with other devices or smart home systems like Google Assistant
• App only works about 70% of the time. 
• Users believe Comelit artificially inflated its Apple App Store rating
• The app is too complex for a relatively simple system
• Often need to restart or re-download it during inconvenient or unsafe situations.
• App “constantly loses connection” with paired device

Comelit’s mobile apps have received mixed reviews, particularly for reliability. In contrast, Swiftlane’s app is known for its ease of use and wide variety of helpful features. Explore Swiftlane’s features here.

Alternatives to Comelit Intercom

Comelit’s Bello, Quadra, Ciao, and Visto door stations are most comparable to Ring and Nest’s products because they are designed specifically for single-family homes. However, Comelit is not known for integrating well with smart-home systems, which sets it apart when comparing Comelit vs Ring or Nest. Comelit’s mobile app is frequently panned—unlike Ring and Nest’s apps, which are well-reviewed. 

Comelit’s main competitors for its multi-tenant intercoms (Ultra, 3one6, and Switch) are LiftMaster and DoorBird because nearly all its door stations only offer one-way video. Their one-way video intercoms rarely offer advanced features like Bluetooth, facial recognition, and AI tools, but they are durable and reliable. 

As the above comparison chart shows, Comelit intercom is least comparable to advanced two-way video intercom systems like Swiftlane, 2N, Aiphone, and Latch. 

Comelit Intercom vs Swiftlane Video Intercom

As outlined above, Comelit intercom offers two applications of video intercom systems—both wired and IP-based. Users select the exterior device best suited to their needs and pair it with an interior intercom. The flexibility to create individualized “kits” is one reason users choose Comelit.

However, users must program Comelit intercom devices with PC software, and the app can be challenging to use. Swiftlane’s cloud-based management and responsive customer service could provide a smoother experience if advanced features, easy updates, and ongoing support are vital to you. Contact Swiftlane for more information.

Of course, one system is not ideal for every user. Read the side-by-side comparison chart above to determine which system suits your needs, and download this free guide to learn more about must-have intercom features.

Final Thoughts: Is a Comelit Intercom System Right for You?

Is Comelit one of the best intercom systems for multi-tenant buildings? Will Comelit intercoms work for you and your tenants? Comelit’s multi-tenant intercoms (Ultra, 3one6, Switch, and Vandalcom) are best suited to building owners who prize physical security over advanced features. 

Comelit intercom systems are durable and relatively straightforward, but their apps are often unreliable, and their intercoms need more of the features tenants and building owners need in 2024. Your next intercom system should be an excellent long-term investment—not an outdated device you’ll need to replace a few years later.

If you’d rather upgrade to a future-proof system with advanced security features, simple installation, easy updates, and a reliable mobile app, Swiftlane offers a cutting-edge solution that could meet your needs. But before you make a purchasing decision, download this free 40-point checklist to ensure your next intercom perfectly meets the needs of your building, management, and tenants.

FAQs

Is Comelit a good brand?

Comelit has been around for a long time, and many users praise the company’s ability to produce high-quality hardware that stands the test of time. Because Comelit is headquartered in Italy, European users tend to have more positive feelings about the brand, whereas American users struggle to use the app and install its devices. For optimal customer service and on-site tech support, consider a US-based company like Swiftlane. 

Is Comelit Intercom easy to install?

Reviewers have mixed opinions on installation. In Italy, users generally find the process positive, while U.S. users often report difficulties. For example, a 2024 Trustpilot reviewer praised the tech support but noted that the system was complicated to set up and didn’t work well with their phone. Other U.S. users also mention issues with the company’s availability and customer service.

Why are some Comelit products listed with names while others have numerical codes?

Names like Bello or Ultra are for branding, while numerical codes like 6741W specify exact models with distinct features.

How do you answer Comelit Intercom?

To answer a Comelit intercom, use the indoor monitor that came in your kit or the Comelit app on your smartphone. You might need to download the app designed specifically for your device (like Verso). When you receive a call, simply press the answer button on the device or app.

What should I do if my Comelit intercom system isn’t working?

First, check the power source and connections. If issues persist, reset or update the firmware. Refer to the user manual or contact support for detailed steps.

What are the installation requirements for a multi-tenant building?

How do you install Comelit? Installation requirements depend on whether you opt for Comelit’s 2-wire Simplebus or their IP system. Regardless, you’ll need a stable power source, wiring, and internet access. Installation can be on a wall or pedestal.

How many devices can you see simultaneously on the Comelit app? 

The number of devices viewable simultaneously depends on the specific system and app capabilities. Some reviewers note that they could only access one video stream at a time. Contact Comelit for more information.

Does Comelit intercom offer cloud-based access management? 

Yes, Comelit offers cloud-based access management for specific devices through its PAC Residential Cloud platform. 

Does Comelit have a monthly fee?

Optional fees may apply for services like cloud storage, but basic functionality usually has no monthly fee.

What comes in the Comelit box? 

The Comelit box typically includes a fob, the intercom unit, a power supply, a user manual, and necessary cables for installation and operation. You’ll also have access to the app. Depending on which option you choose, it might include mounting hardware. Comelit also offers a pedestal mounting option, which is sold separately. 

What is Comelit Simplehome?

Comelit SimpleHome is an integrated home automation system that lets users control lighting, climate, security, and multimedia devices from one interface, either through wall-mounted touchscreens or mobile apps. 

How do I get in touch with Comelit for tech support or troubleshooting?

Customers can contact Comelit USA at (626) 930-0388 or toll-free at (888) 692-9739 for help with their accounts, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (PST). You can also email tech@comelitusa.com. For troubleshooting, check out Comelit’s YouTube page.

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