If you’re reading this, you’re probably a landlord, property manager, or condo board member looking to purchase a new intercom system for your apartment or condo building. As experts in building intercom systems, we spent 30+ hours assembling a comprehensive list of apartment intercom systems. The best apartment intercom systems are always video intercoms because they respond to all tenant, owner, and property manager pain points.
Whether you need modern amenities to stay competitive in your local rental market or worry about the consequences of increasing property crime, an upgraded video intercom system could help. From pricing and features to comparative analyses, here’s everything you need to know before buying a new intercom.
Table of Contents
- Must-Have Features in Your Next Apartment Intercom System
- 11 Best Apartment Intercom Systems with Video
- Swiftlane Video Intercom
- Latch Video Intercom
- 2N® IP Verso Video Intercom
- LiftMaster CAPXLV Smart Video Intercom
- AlphaTouch Intercom
- Aiphone Video Intercom
- Akuvox SmartPlus Intercom
- Comelit Ultra Intercom
- DoorBird D2110V IP Video Intercom
- Mircom TX3-Touch Video Intercom
- Siedle Vario Video Intercom
- Summary: Which Apartment Intercom System is Right for Your Building?
- FAQs About Apartment Intercoms
Must-Have Features in Your Next Apartment Intercom System
Before diving in, let’s discuss how to assess each system’s value. What makes a great apartment intercom system?
A great apartment video intercom system lets you communicate with visitors through 2-way audio and 2-way video calls. It offers reliable security features like temporary PINs, video verification, remote access, offline connectivity, and integration with other smart building technology. The best apartment intercoms systems are easy to install and maintain.
As a property manager or building owner, you want a system that’s user-friendly for all tenants—not just the tech-savvy ones—so you’ll need an accessible mobile app and responsive tech support. Don’t forget to look for durability, vandal resistance, scalability, and minimal installation requirements.
ALSO READ: Top Buying Factors for an Apartment Intercom
11 Best Apartment Intercom Systems with Video
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at the best apartment intercom systems of 2024. Below, we’ll briefly compare eleven video apartment intercom systems by Swiftlane, LiftMaster, Aiphone, Akuvox, 2N, AlphaTouch, Comelit, DoorBird, Latch, Mircom, and Siedle. These reviews are based on our extensive research (countless verified user reviews, comments on forums, unboxing videos, and instructional manuals provided by the brands themselves).
- ★★★★★ Swiftlane: Offers the most comprehensive feature set with advanced, reliable technology.
- ★★★★☆ 2N, Latch, and LiftMaster: Strong contenders with robust integration and security features but lacking some features like full-screen call notifications and 2-way video.
- ★★★☆☆ Other Systems: Have strengths in specific areas (like budget-friendliness and integration with third-party systems) but generally lack the full suite of features needed for a top-tier, future-proof solution. Some are prohibitively expensive. If the company has a mobile app with generally poor reviews, we automatically downgraded them.
As you read our reviews and associated charts, bear in mind that any features marked with an “X” either do not come standard with the unit in question or are not specified in product descriptions provided by the manufacturer and third-party retailers. Please click the links below the descriptions to read comprehensive reviews of each brand.
Swiftlane Video Intercom
★★★★★
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 2-way video IP intercom with cellular backup
Named “best new access control and intercom system” by the Security Industry Association, Swiftlane is an advanced video intercom system that’s ideal for luxury apartment buildings, condos, and commercial applications.
Not all intercoms on this list support multiple access options in a single entrance panel, but Swiftlane keeps buildings extra secure with multi-factor authentication. Touchless access is available through facial recognition, voice control, and a user-friendly mobile app.
Request a demo of and a quote for the Swiftlane intercom.
Swiftlane enhances property value and NOI by improving tenant security, centralizing management, and automating updates. For example, upgrading to Swiftlane has allowed The Greene luxury apartment complex to collect 27% higher rent than the market average and lower their vacancy rate to 1.4%. It also saves owners up to $5,000 annually by eliminating package theft, telephone lines, and door rekeying.
Learn more about how Swiftlane lowers operating costs and boosts NOI.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Future-proof technology, accessible for all residents, user-friendly app, minimal wiring, retrofits with legacy systems, doesn’t need master stations, integrates with any property management system, excellent security features, superior customer support.
- Cons: Monthly subscription costs, bespoke system that’s not ideal for single-family homes.
- Special Features: Facial recognition, AI leasing bot, SOC 2 Certified for data security
Learn all about Swiftlane’s advanced, feature-rich intercom in this free download.
Swiftlane Pricing
How much does a Swiftlane intercom cost? Swiftlane video intercom systems are entirely bespoke to each building; reach out for a quote that’s customized to your property. Swiftlane subscription costs are comparable to those of a traditional telephone line intercom and depend on the number of units in the building.
LEARN MORE: Swiftlane Video Intercom Solution for Multifamily Buildings
Latch Video Intercom
★★★★☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 2-way video WiFi or IP intercom
Latch is best known for its smart lock line but has recently introduced its multi-tenant intercom system. It’s intercom is part of a larger, all-in-one building solution called LatchOS, which includes building and individual unit access and management.
Latch Intercom, one of the best apartment intercom systems, integrates video and audio communication, remote access control, and seamless connectivity with the company’s smart locks. This system allows residents to manage access from their smartphones and offers building managers efficient cloud-based oversight—with all properties managed through the same system.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: All-in-one building solution, customizable, multiple entry methods.
- Cons: Requires external camera, restrictive two-year service contract.
- Special Features: Many add-ons, Latch Delivery Assistant
Latch Pricing
The visitor entry intercom usually costs $3,999, but you’ll need to buy an external camera for video. Latch also charges a variable monthly software fee (between $5 and $12.50/month). You can also add concierge software for an additional monthly fee. Pricing will vary by number of units and contract length.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Latch Intercom System Review
2N® IP Verso Video Intercom
★★★★☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 1-way video IP intercom
2N® is a European-based access control company offering various door access and communication systems. 2N offers multi-tenant intercom systems that are best suited to apartment buildings. For example, the 2N® IP Verso is a customizable intercom that’s compatible with many different modules. While there are 29 different modules to choose from, the backbox only supports up to three daisy-chained modules per intercom.
The Verso supports up to 1,999 contacts, which you can scroll through as a directory if you opt for the touchscreen module. While the Verso comes with an HD camera, you also have the option to purchase a camera-free version. The Verso is compatible with five different indoor units but can also be used through the My2N App. While the app is well-reviewed on Apple devices, it has poor GooglePlay reviews.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Modular design, retrofits with legacy systems, doesn’t need indoor stations, integrates well with Axis products, can bulk manage with 2N Access Commander, supports open protocols, durable.
- Cons: Supports only three modules in one device, variable video quality, some call forwarding issues, poor app reviews on GooglePlay.
- Special Features: SIP support, WaveKey access control, induction loop module for hearing and visually-impaired visitors
2N Pricing
Shoppers can expect to pay $1,000 to 1,500 for the main unit in a 2N IP Intercom system, but accessories and additional modules are sold separately.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: 2N Intercom System Review
LiftMaster CAPXLV Smart Video Intercom
★★★★☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 1-way video IP or cellular intercom
LiftMaster has manufactured intercom entry systems for more than 50 years. Its CAPXL video intercom system has evolved from the legacy EL series telephone entry systems. The company kept pace with the burgeoning technology and, over the years, added a touchscreen interface, cloud compatibility, and video to its product.
LiftMaster’s CAPXLV is the result of all that research and development. This cloud-based system can be programmed remotely and supports up to 4 stations. Unlike many other intercom systems on this list, the CAPXLV can record and store short video clips of all attempted entries.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Excellent for gated communities, robust feature set, good integration with other LiftMaster products.
- Cons: Limited to LiftMaster ecosystem, lacks SIP/WebRTC connectivity, must be connected to internet to receive calls.
- Special Features: Video storage (local or in the cloud)
LiftMaster Pricing
No pricing information is available on LiftMaster’s website. Third-party websites range from $2,599 to around $3,873 for the LiftMaster CAPXLV entry station. Shoppers can contact LiftMaster’s dealers for a more accurate quote.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: LiftMaster Intercom Review
AlphaTouch Intercom
★★★☆☆
Type of Intercom (AlphaTouch): 2-way audio, 2-way video, IP intercom (PoE)
Alpha Communications manufactures two video intercom systems for apartments suitable for multifamily buildings: the GB2 2-Wire Color Video Intercom System and the AlphaTouch Cloud-Based PoE Video Intercom System. We are reviewing the AlphaTouch video intercom.
AlphaTouch is one of the best apartment intercom systems that allows visitors to make video calls to residents from an exterior touchscreen door entry station. Residents can receive video calls from visitors on smartphones and can unlock the door using the AlphaTouch mobile app.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Wired and cloud-based options, scalable, can schedule access, well-reviewed on Apple App Store.
- Cons: Extremely unreliable mobile app on Android (average 1.7 stars on GooglePlay Store), have to log in to the app to accept a call.
- Special Features: Maintenance alerts
AlphaTouch Pricing
Pricing varies based on the number of units and entry stations. The main door station costs anywhere from $2,300 to $3,000+ on third-party sites.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Alpha Communications Intercom Review
Aiphone Video Intercom
★★★☆☆
IXG Series*: 2-way audio, 2-way video IP intercom
JO Series: 2-way audio, 1-way video hybrid intercom (comes wired but can be upgraded to IP)
GT Series: 2-way audio, 2-way video IP intercom with wired and network-based components
Aiphone offers three series suited to apartment buildings: the IXG Series, JO Series, and GT Series. The IXG Series is a scalable solution that supports up to 9,999 devices. It allows visitors to call tenants via directory, with tenants receiving calls on in-unit stations or mobile devices.
The JO Series supports only two doors and two monitors, with mobile app capability for two-way audio and one-way video communication on up to 8 devices simultaneously. The GT Series suits multi-tenant buildings with more complex security needs and can accommodate up to 16 entrance stations, 4 video guard stations, and 500 tenant stations for a single building. For multi-building properties, it can accommodate as many as 5,000 tenant stations.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Durable hardware, high-quality video, simple installation, scalable.
- Cons: Limited scalability for some models, not as durable as some other systems (IP54, IK07), potential mobile app issues on Android.
- Special Features: Video Recording and Playback on IX Devices
Aiphone Pricing
The cost of Aiphone devices starts at around $400 for indoor and audio-only stations. Kits and outdoor stations exceed $4,000.
*IXG Series intercoms (specifically IXG-DM7-HID door stations) produced before 2021 do not have two-way video—only one-way video.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Aiphone Intercom System Review
Akuvox SmartPlus Intercom
★★★☆☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 2-way video IP or wireless intercom
Based in China, Akuvox products include door entry intercoms, indoor monitors, access control touchpads, Android video phones, and a smartphone app. Akuvox SmartPlus is a modern and user-friendly video intercom system designed to replace outdated two-wire intercom systems and RF-based access control systems.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Integrates with smart home tech, multiple access methods, lets you manage multiple properties through one interface.
- Cons: Inconsistent app performance, poor customer support in the US.
- Special Features: Wiegand port for backward integration
Akuvox Pricing
Akuvox devices can cost anywhere from $545 to $2,800+.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Akuvox Intercom Review
Comelit Ultra Intercom
★★★☆☆
Type of Intercom: Because there are so many module options, the Ultra can be IP or wired, audio-only or audio-video, and either touchscreen or mechanical.
Comelit Ultra is a modular 2-Wire and ViP (their term for IP or ethernet-connected) video intercom system with a wide-angle camera, dual speakers, and a customizable interface. Whether you choose a 2-wire or IP version of the Ultra, Comelit’s app supports up to 15 users per apartment.
Ultra modules include the audio-only module, audio-video module, hearing-aid friendly module, number keypad module, touchscreen module, call button module, and more. You can mix and match modules to create a customized Ultra entrance panel. While this offers a lot of flexibility, it can be very confusing to navigate, and the customization options are not well explained on Comelit’s website.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Durable, modular, good hardware options, multiple designs.
- Cons: Unreliable mobile app, challenging installation for some models, difficult to integrate with smart home systems, confusing product list, not very user-friendly.
- Special Features: Separate module for hearing-impaired users who wear aids.
Comelit Pricing
Basic kits start around $1,000, while more advanced setups can cost more than $7,000.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Comelit Intercom Review
DoorBird D2110V IP Video Intercom
★★★☆☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 1-way video IP intercom
DoorBird is a German-built doorbell system that offers several different types of intercom readers. Users can install a DoorBird Intercom in their home or business by disconnecting their current doorbell system and connecting its wires to the DoorBird device’s inputs. DoorBird devices are then connected to WiFi, configured, and operated from the mobile app.
While DoorBird is best known for its single-family home and one-unit commercial building intercoms, it also offers multi-tenant systems. However, these systems are limited and rarely support large buildings with more than a dozen units. For the purpose of this review, let’s take a closer look at DoorBird’s D2110V IP Video Intercom, which has ten call buttons for ten individual units. With an open API, this intercom integrates easily with third-party software and hardware so you can customize your access control system.
However, it only has 1-way video, which means that visitors cannot see who they are calling. This makes DoorBird less accessible for hearing-impaired visitors.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Simple installation, no subscription fees with basic models, extensive integration options, well-reviewed mobile app on GooglePlay and Apple App Store.
- Cons: Limited access control, security concerns with door relays, one-way video only, no built-in SIP or PBX, not ADA-compliant.
- Special Features: Open API, 4D motion sensor
DoorBird Pricing
Devices intended for single-family homes and single-tenant offices cost between $600 and $1,600 on the DoorBird site. However, shoppers can expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000 for multi-tenant IP video door stations. Pricing for multi-tenant intercoms like the D2110V is unavailable on the DoorBird site, but third-party sites price it around $2,500.
DoorBird does not charge for automatic cloud storage of entry photo logs taken during the last 50 motion sensor events. If you need 7-day HD storage, you can pay for a $53 annual subscription.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: DoorBird Intercom System Review
Mircom TX3-Touch Video Intercom
★★★☆☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 1-way video, wired intercom that operates on an IP-based network
Mircom’s TX3-Touch is a SIP-capable touch-screen telephone entry system that integrates with existing VoIP networks for multiple communication options. The system supports remote access management and remote programming with full TCP/IP capability. The TX3-Touch also has advanced security features like encrypted communications and tamper-resistant hardware. If users find the MiEntry app unreliable or glitchy, they can pair their TX3 series entry panels with wired in-unit devices from the TX3 InSuite line.
While unit capacity and features vary per model, the TX3-Touch-F22-F can store up to 2,000 names and allows for on-screen advertising. Some entry panels (like the F22-F) are more complicated to install than other intercoms on this list because they are flush-mounted—not surface-mounted.
However, this system is not ideal for all buildings. We must note that certain routers (like the D-Link DIR-615 and Greenwave G1100) may block Mircom’s SIP service, which would impact the system’s performance in those environments.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Customizable, vandal-resistant, SIP-based connectivity, large touchscreen (15-22”), smartphone credentials and event history, third-party software integrations.
- Cons: High total cost of ownership, complex installation, poorly reviewed mobile app.
- Special Features: The advertising module lets you display on-screen ads.
Mircom Pricing
Mircom doesn’t reveal the price of the TX3 Touch Series on its website, but resellers quote between $7,984 and $11,941, depending on the model.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Mircom Intercom Review
Siedle Vario Video Intercom
★★★☆☆
Type of Intercom: 2-way audio, 1-way video IP intercom
Made in Germany, Siedle’s Vario intercom is a modular system designed for apartment complexes and commercial buildings. Because Vario is modular, users can pick and choose from different components, including but not limited to a single call button, multiple call buttons, a status display, a loudspeaker, and a camera.
Users can choose either a flush-mounted, surface-mounted or freestanding unit and can easily install the main entrance panel with a ribbon cable and color-coded plugs. Vario is compatible with all Siedle Secure products (the company’s access control range).
Although Siedle Vario is considered one of the best apartment intercom systems, there are considerations to note. While Vario is fairly advanced in terms of features and functionality, US-based users should note that many of the company’s instructional videos are in German. Because it is a one-way video intercom, the Vario does not have a video interface for visitors and is thus not as accessible for those with hearing impairments.
Must-Have Features
- Pros: Excellent video and sound quality, diverse add-ons, can be made IP.
- Cons: Lacks third-party integration options, app is poorly reviewed, no pricing transparency, no video interface for visitors, many instructional videos are in German.
- Special Features: Multiple camera options, ringtones designed by a sound artist
Siedle Pricing
Pricing varies widely, as the company offers one price list for professionals and another for consumers.
READ THE FULL REVIEW: Siedle Intercom Review
Summary: Which Apartment Intercom System is Right for Your Building?
It’s clear that Swiftlane, 2N, and Latch offer the most advanced, adaptable, user-friendly video intercoms on the best apartment intercom systems list. However, every building owner, property manager, and tenant has unique needs and preferences.
Still, there are some features that no one should go without! Look for one of the best apartment intercom systems with all of the features outlined above for the most comprehensive approach to building security, tenant convenience, and property management.
Still not sure which intercom system makes the most sense for your building? Consult our 40-Point Intercom System Upgrade Checklist before making your choice or fill out a form to connect directly with a specialist that can help you find the right solution for you specific needs.
FAQs About Apartment Intercoms
What is an apartment intercom system?
Sometimes called an access control system, apartment entry system, or a call box, an apartment intercom system allows visitors to communicate with residents or management to gain entry to a building. Modern systems send notifications to residents’ phones or tablets, enabling them to see, hear, and interact with visitors before granting access.
What are the different types of intercoms?
Intercoms are categorized based on their communication style (audio, video, or centralized access) and connectivity (wired, hybrid, IP/ethernet, or wireless apartment intercom system).
How do video intercoms work in apartment buildings?
Video intercoms in apartment buildings allow visitors to contact residents by calling through an entry panel. Residents receive notifications or full-screen calls on their smartphones, tablets, or in-unit devices. From their app or device, they can see, hear, and communicate with the visitor before remotely unlocking the door.
Building management and property owners can monitor entry activity, manage access permissions, and view photos through a centralized system (most use cloud-based management tools).
Why are video intercoms better than traditional systems?
What’s better than an intercom? A video intercom! Video intercoms are superior to traditional systems because they visually confirm all visitors and attempted entries—preventing porch pirates and bad actors from entering your building.
They also offer remote access control, attract quality tenants with modern security features, and are more cost-effective and easier to maintain than outdated, landline-dependent systems. The best video intercom systems come with user-friendly mobile apps and dashboards designed for property managers.
How do I choose an intercom?
Prioritize apartment video intercom systems with strong security features like video verification, remote access control, and cloud storage. Consider ease of installation, compatibility with existing building systems, and user-friendly mobile app integration to make sure the system meets resident and management needs.
How much does a smart video intercom system cost?
Video intercom systems usually cost between $1,800 and $9,000+ for hardware and installation (with some outliers). The costs vary depending on the system type, add-ons, placement, and building needs. The installation and maintenance of an apartment intercom system will cost more for a traditional wired telephone entry system than for an IP or wireless video intercom system.
Can old intercom systems be upgraded to video intercoms?
Yes, most property managers and building owners replace traditional wired intercoms with IP or wireless video intercoms, which have advanced features and don’t require extensive in-unit wiring.
How are video intercoms different from CCTV?
Video intercoms allow real-time two-way communication and identity verification before granting access, while CCTV is used for surveillance and recording without interaction. You can integrate certain video intercoms with your building’s CCTV system.
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