Video vs. Audio Intercom Systems: Which Is Right for Your Condo?

Entry phone systems are one of the first things a resident and every one of their visitors interacts with, and one of the most visible signals of how well a building is run. Choosing between video and audio comes down to a few practical factors: budget, building type, and how much verification residents want before buzzing someone in.

How audio intercoms work

An audio intercom connects a visitor to a resident's suite by voice only, who releases the door remotely if they recognize the caller. It's mature, reliable technology with a lower up-front cost — a sound choice for many low-rise buildings.

How video intercoms work

A video intercom adds a camera at the entry panel, so the resident sees the visitor before deciding whether to grant access — on an in-suite monitor or a smartphone app. Condoplex's entryphone systems support VoIP and mobile calling, with missed-call video capture.

Where audio still makes sense

Lower install and maintenance cost matters for smaller buildings or associations on a tighter capital budget, especially where an on-site concierge already screens visitors in person.