Thinking About Upgrading Your Intercom?
An intercom is no longer just a convenient buzzer; instead, it’s the first line of defense for your property. Because there is a steady rise in deliveries and foot traffic, a reliable entry system has become a necessity for modern accountability.
The choice usually comes down to a classic audio intercom or a modern video system. To help you decide, here is how the two options compare for your building’s specific needs.
Quick Comparison: Audio vs. Video
| Feature | Audio-Only Intercom | Video Intercom Systems |
| Primary Benefit | Low cost & simple install | Visual verification & security |
| Visitor Experience | Voice only | Visual & mobile app options |
| Audit Trail | None (typically) | Video logs of all entries |
| Best For | Low-risk/Budget projects | Condos, Daycares, & Warehouses |
Audio Intercoms: Reliable Simplicity
Audio-only systems are straightforward: a visitor presses a button, you speak with them, and then you grant or deny access. These have remained a staple for decades primarily because they are durable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.
Best for:
- Small offices or low-traffic retail.
- Older buildings where running new data cables isn’t feasible.
- Properties with low security risks and tight budgets.
Field Note: We often see older buildings attempt to stick with audio to save on wiring costs. However, if your building has more than 10 units, audio-only can become a bottleneck for couriers who need fast, clear communication to complete a delivery.
The Case for Video Intercoms
In contrast, a video system allows tenants or staff to see exactly who is at the door before unlocking it. For this reason, buildings with frequent couriers or after-hours activity see a measurable boost in both security and liability protection.
What you gain:
- Visual Verification: First and foremost, you remove the guesswork from guest entry.
- Audit Trails: In addition, modern systems keep a visual log of who entered and when.
- Mobile Access: As a result, tenants can answer the door from their smartphones even when they aren’t on-site.
Technical Requirements: What Video Needs to Work
Video intercoms are more demanding than audio, but the infrastructure requirements are actually quite manageable.
- Cabling: Most systems require Cat5e or Cat6 cabling. If your building is already wired for data, installation is usually fast and clean.
- Power (PoE): Many units use Power over Ethernet (802.3af/at). This means a single cable handles power and data, so there is no need for a dedicated electrical outlet at the door.
- Internet Stability: You don’t need massive speed; however, you do need stability. Plan for 1–2 Mbps upload per active call to ensure clear HD video.
Security & Liability: Why Video is Winning
In many industries, video is becoming the standard. This is because audio-only systems are vulnerable to social engineering—someone can easily mimic a delivery driver. By switching to video, you solve the identification problem instantly. Furthermore, it provides essential evidence for insurance purposes.
Alternatively, you can take a hybrid approach. Many clients choose to install a robust video panel at the main entrance while keeping audio units at secondary doors to manage costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we use our existing analog wiring for a video upgrade?
While wired connections are best, there are retrofit kits and 2-wire video systems available that can reuse existing copper in some cases. However, a site assessment is required to ensure signal stability.
What happens if the building’s internet goes down?
Most modern video systems will still allow “local” door release from an internal monitor, but mobile app features and cloud logging will be temporarily unavailable until the connection is restored.
Is there a monthly subscription for these systems?
Typically, cloud-based systems have a small monthly fee for hosting video logs and maintaining mobile app connectivity. By contrast, traditional “local” systems have higher upfront costs but no monthly fees.
Our Recommendation
Overall, most modern buildings in the GTA are moving toward video for long-term security. If you are weighing these options against long-term labor costs or tenant turnover, we can help. We offer a quick assessment of your existing wiring to give you a clear recommendation on the best path forward.
