Video Intercom vs Audio Intercom: Which Is Right for Your Building?

When it comes to door entry systems for residential buildings, the two most common options are audio intercoms and video intercoms. Both serve the same basic function — allowing residents to communicate with visitors at the entrance — but they differ significantly in what they offer. Here's a practical breakdown to help you decide.

Audio Intercoms: The Basics

Audio intercoms have been the standard for decades. They're reliable, relatively inexpensive, and straightforward to install. A visitor presses a button, the resident hears a voice through a handset or panel, and decides whether to buzz them in.

The limitation is obvious: you can hear who's there, but you can't see them. In a world where security expectations have risen, this is increasingly seen as a significant gap.

Best suited to: smaller buildings with low footfall, or situations where budget is the primary constraint.

Video Intercoms: The Modern Standard

Video intercoms add a camera to the equation. Residents can see a live image of the visitor before deciding whether to grant access. Most modern systems also connect to a free smartphone app, meaning residents can answer the door from anywhere — not just from inside their flat.

Key advantages over audio:

• Visual verification — residents can confirm who's at the door before granting access
• Remote access — answer the door from anywhere via the free smartphone app
• No ongoing costs — modern GSM systems require no subscription or monthly fees
• Deterrent effect — visible cameras discourage unwanted visitors

Best suited to: most residential buildings, particularly those with multiple flats or higher security requirements.

What About Cost?

Video intercom systems cost more than audio systems upfront, but the gap has narrowed considerably in recent years. When you factor in the added security, tenant satisfaction, and the fact that there are no ongoing subscription costs, the value case for video is strong.

Many buildings can also reuse existing cabling, which reduces installation costs significantly. A free site survey will confirm whether this is possible for your building.

Installation: What to Expect

Both system types are typically installed in a single day. Video intercom installations at Intercom Master take 4–6 hours on average, with minimal disruption to residents. All work comes with a 2-year installation warranty and a 5-year parts warranty.

The Verdict

For most residential buildings in 2026, a video intercom is the right choice. The security benefits are clear, the smartphone app adds genuine convenience for residents, and the absence of ongoing costs makes the total cost of ownership very competitive.

If you're still running an audio system, now is a good time to consider an upgrade.

Get a free quote for a video intercom upgrade — fixed pricing, no obligation, valid for 60 days.