Intercom System Companies: Top 16 Game-Changers in 2023
In the realm of building security and communication, intercom system companies have emerged as pivotal players. The demand for advanced intercom solutions has skyrocketed, with manufacturers racing to meet the evolving needs of consumers. But which companies truly stand out in this competitive landscape?
Table of Contents
The Evolution of Intercom Systems
Intercom systems, once a simple means of voice communication between two fixed points, have undergone significant transformations over the years. Their evolution mirrors the broader technological advancements of our age, adapting and innovating to meet the changing demands of consumers and industries alike. Let’s delve deeper into this evolution, with a special focus on the emergence of IP intercoms.
Integration of Video
With the advent of compact video technology, intercom systems began to incorporate video features. This allowed users not only to hear but also to see the person at the other end, adding an extra layer of security and convenience. Video intercoms became especially popular in residential and commercial security applications.
Emergence of IP Intercoms
Video Door Phones
IP (Internet Protocol) intercoms marked a revolutionary shift in the intercom industry. Unlike traditional systems that relied on dedicated wiring or radio frequencies, IP intercoms use the internet or local network infrastructure to transmit audio and video signals. This brought about several advantages:
- Scalability: IP intercoms can easily be expanded without the need for extensive rewiring. As long as there’s network connectivity, adding new units is straightforward.
- Remote Access: Users can access their IP intercom system from anywhere in the world, provided they have an internet connection. This remote door access capability means homeowners can answer their doorbell or communicate with visitors even when they’re miles away.
- Integration with Other Systems: IP intercoms can be integrated with other smart home or security systems, offering a unified control platform. For instance, upon verifying a visitor’s identity, the intercom can send a signal to unlock the door or gate.
- High-Quality Audio and Video: Leveraging digital transmission, IP intercoms often deliver clearer audio and sharper video compared to their analog counterparts.
AI and Smart Features
The latest in the evolution of intercom systems is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Modern intercoms can recognize faces, detect suspicious activities, and even integrate with virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. These smart features enhance security and offer users a more interactive and intuitive experience.
Criteria for Evaluating Intercom System Companies
Intercom systems have become an integral part of both residential and commercial security. As the market for these systems grows, so does the number of companies offering them. But how does one differentiate between these companies and determine which one offers the best products and services? Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the criteria one should consider when evaluating intercom system companies:
1. Product Quality and Reliability
- Durability: The intercom system should be built to last, resistant to wear and tear, and able to withstand external factors like weather conditions if it’s an outdoor unit.
- Performance: The system should consistently provide clear audio (full duplex) and video (if applicable) without frequent disruptions or malfunctions.
- Safety Standards: Ensure that the products adhere to international safety and quality standards.
2. Technological Innovation
- Advanced Features: Companies that prioritize innovation will offer systems with the latest features, such as AI-driven analytics, facial recognition, or integration capabilities with other smart devices.
- Regular Updates: The company should provide regular software updates to keep the system’s performance optimized and integrate new features or security patches.
3. Customer Reviews and Testimonials
- Real-world Feedback: Customer reviews can offer insights into the product’s real-world performance, durability, and the company’s after-sales service.
- Case Studies: Some companies showcase detailed case studies, highlighting how their systems addressed specific challenges or needs for their clients.
4. Pricing and Value Proposition
- Cost-effectiveness: While the cheapest option isn’t always the best, the pricing should reflect the value and features the system offers.
- Transparent Pricing: Companies should provide clear pricing structures without hidden costs. This includes potential costs for installation, maintenance, or software updates.
5. After-sales Service and Support
- Customer Support: A responsive customer support team that can address queries, troubleshoot issues, or guide through installations is crucial.
- Warranty and Maintenance: Check the warranty period and what it covers. Some companies also offer maintenance packages or services to ensure the system’s longevity.
- Training: Especially for complex systems, the company should provide adequate training or resources to help users understand and utilize the system to its fullest potential.
6. Scalability and Integration
- Expansion Capabilities: As needs grow or change, the intercom system should be scalable, allowing for easy addition of more units or integration with other systems.
- Compatibility: The system should be compatible with other security or smart home devices, allowing for a cohesive and integrated security solution.
7. Company Reputation and Experience
- Industry Presence: Companies with a long-standing presence in the industry often bring a wealth of experience and expertise.
- Awards and Recognitions: Any industry awards or recognitions can indicate the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Top 16 Intercom System Manufacturers: A Detailed Review
| Company | Main Products | Awards | Headquarters | Established |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS-IP | Complex IP intercom system, LINK intercom software | Red Dot, Muse Award, European Design Award, NY Product Design Award, Intersec Award | UK | 2008 |
| Comelit | Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems | Red Dot, Good Design Award, Design Plus, ADI Design, Merlion Awards | Italy | 1956 |
| ButterflyMX | Building entry panels working with Apps | None | US | 2014 |
| Aiphone | Commercial and building intercom systems | iF Product Design | Japan | 1948 |
| Urmet | Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems | None | Italy | 1937 |
| Akuvox | Complex IP intercom systems | Red Dot, iF Design | China | 2012 |
| Latch | Building entry panel working with Apps | None | US | N/A |
| Came (BPT) | Villas intercom systems | None | Italy | 1953 |
| Bticino | Villas intercom systems | Red Dot, IF Design Award | Italy | 1936 |
| 2N Intercom | SIP intercom systems for commercial and apartment buildings | Red Dot | Czech | 1991 |
| Doorking | Building entry panels working with GSM | None | US | 1948 |
| Fermax | Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems | iF Label, Delta Selection, Intel Design award | Spain | 1949 |
| Paxton | SIP door entry panels | Good Design Award, iF Design Award, Red Dot | UK | 1985 |
| Doorbird | SIP door entry panels | iF Design Award | Germany | 2010 |
| Hikvision | Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems | Red Dot | China | 2001 |
| Videx | GSM building intercom systems | None | Italy | 1986 |
The intercom industry has seen a plethora of companies offering innovative solutions to cater to the diverse needs of consumers. Here, we delve deep into the top 16 intercom system manufacturers, shedding light on their history, main products, awards, and more.
1. BAS-IP
About: BAS-IP Ltd., established in 2008, has consistently been at the cutting edge of intercom system design, leveraging advanced IP video surveillance and IP telephony technologies. With its headquarters in the UK, the company has positioned itself as a premier intercom supplier on a global scale.
Main Products: Complex IP intercom system, LINK intercom software.
Awards: RED Dot, Muse Award, European Design Award, NY Product Design Award, Intersec Award.
Headquarters: UK
Established: 2008
Global Presence: Operating internationally, BAS-IP can ship its state-of-the-art products to almost any country, ensuring global access to top-tier intercom technology. Their products range from video and audio door entry intercoms to mobile applications for intercoms and IP-based public address systems.
Website: https://bas-ip.com/
2. Comelit
About: Comelit, a legacy brand originating in 1956, is headquartered in Italy. With decades of experience, they have been innovators in the intercom industry, offering both IP and 2 wire building intercom systems.
Main Products: Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems.
Awards: RED Dot, Good Design Award, Design Plus, ADI Design, Merlion Awards.
Headquarters: Italy
Established: 1956
Website: https://comelitgroup.com/en/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/comelit-intercom-system/
3. ButterflyMX
About: Founded in 2014, ButterflyMX, based in the US, emphasizes building entry panels that seamlessly integrate with apps, providing a modern touch to intercom systems.
Main Products: Building entry panels working with Apps.
Awards: None.
Headquarters: US
Established: 2014
Website: https://butterflymx.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/butterflymx-intercom-system-comparison/
4. Aiphone
About: Aiphone, a Japanese brand with roots tracing back to 1948, has been a leader in the realm of commercial and building intercom systems.
Main Products: Commercial and building intercom systems.
Awards: iF Product Design.
Headquarters: Japan
Established: 1948
Website: https://www.aiphone.net/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/aiphone-intercom-system-comparison/
5. Urmet
About: Urmet, established in 1937 in Italy, has been a consistent figure in the intercom market, offering both IP and 2 wire building intercom systems.
Main Products: Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems.
Awards: None.
Headquarters: Italy
Established: 1937
Website: https://www.urmet.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/urmet-intercom-system-comparison/
6. Akuvox
About: Akuvox, a Chinese innovator founded in 2012, specializes in IP intercom systems, offering some of the most advanced solutions in the market.
Main Products: Complex IP intercom systems.
Awards: Red Dot, iF Design.
Headquarters: China
Established: 2012
Website: https://akuvox.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/akuvox-intercom-review/
7. Latch
About: Latch offers building entry panels that work in conjunction with apps, emphasizing user convenience and security. While specific details about their establishment year are not available, their innovative approach to intercom solutions is noteworthy. Despite not having any awards to their name yet, Latch’s unique offerings make them stand out.
Main Products: Building entry panel working with Apps
Awards: None
Headquarters: US
Established: Information not available
Website: https://www.latch.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/latch-intercom/
8. Came (formerly BPT)
About: Came, previously known as BPT, has been in the intercom industry since 1953. Their specialization in villa intercom systems showcases their commitment to catering to niche markets with tailored solutions. While they haven’t received any awards, their long-standing presence in the market speaks volumes about their reliability.
Main Products: Villas intercom systems
Awards: None
Headquarters: Italy
Established: 1953
Website: https://www.came.com/us/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/bpt-intercom-system/
9. Bticino
About: Bticino, with its roots dating back to 1936, offers specialized villa intercom systems. Their dedication to design and functionality has been recognized with awards like the Red Dot and IF Design Award. As one of the pioneers in the industry, Bticino continues to offer top-notch intercom solutions.
Main Products: Villas intercom systems
Awards: Red Dot, IF Design Award
Headquarters: Italy
Established: 1936
Website: https://www.bticino.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/bticino-intercom-system/
10. 2N Intercom
About: 2N Intercom, based in the Czech Republic, emphasizes SIP intercom systems tailored for commercial spaces and apartment buildings. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them the Red Dot award. With a focus on modern solutions, 2N Intercom is a top choice for many businesses and residences.
Main Products: SIP intercom systems for commercial and apartment buildings
Awards: Red Dot
Headquarters: Czech
Established: 1991
Website: https://www.2n.com/en_GB/products/intercoms
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/2n-intercom-system/
11. Doorking
About: Doorking, established in 1948, offers telephone entry panels that work with GSM. Their long history in the industry is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. While they haven’t bagged any awards, their vast experience makes them a reliable choice for many.
Main Products: Building entry panels working with GSM
Awards: None
Headquarters: US
Established: 1948
Website: https://www.doorking.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/doorking-intercom-system-comparison/
12. Fermax
About: Fermax, a Spanish brand with roots in 1949, offers both complex IP and 2-wire building intercom systems. Their dedication to quality has been recognized with awards like the IF Label, Delta Selection, and Intel Design award. With a rich history and commitment to innovation, Fermax is a top choice for many.
Main Products: Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems
Awards: IF Label, Delta Selection, Intel Design award
Headquarters: Spain
Established: 1949
Website: https://www.fermax.com/intl-en
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/fermax-intercom-system-comparison/
13. Paxton
About: Paxton, a UK-based company established in 1985, specializes in SIP door entry panels. Their commitment to quality and innovation has been recognized with several awards, including the Good Design Award, iF Design Award, and Red Dot. With a focus on integrating the latest technologies into their products, Paxton ensures that their intercom systems meet the evolving needs of modern buildings.
Main Products: SIP door entry panels
Awards: Good Design Award, iF Design Award, Red Dot
Headquarters: UK
Established: 1985
Website: https://www.paxton-access.com/us
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/paxton-entry-intercom-system/
14. Doorbird
About: Doorbird, based in Germany and founded in 2010, offers SIP door entry panels that seamlessly integrate with modern infrastructures. Their dedication to design and functionality has been recognized with the iF Design Award. As a relatively newer player in the industry, Doorbird has quickly established itself as a reliable and innovative provider of intercom solutions.
Main Products: SIP door entry panels
Awards: iF Design Award
Headquarters: Germany
Established: 2010
Website: https://www.doorbird.com/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/doorbird-intercom-system/
15. Hikvision
About: Hikvision, a Chinese brand established in 2001, is a global leader in the security and surveillance industry. Their intercom systems, which include both complex IP and 2-wire building solutions, are known for their reliability and advanced features. Hikvision’s commitment to innovation and quality has been recognized with the Red Dot award, among other accolades.
Main Products: Complex IP and 2 wire building intercom systems
Awards: Red Dot
Headquarters: China
Established: 2001
Website: https://www.hikvision.com/en/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/hikvision-intercom-system/
16. Videx
About: Videx, founded in 1986, specializes in GSM building intercom systems. Their focus on this niche showcases their commitment to offering tailored solutions to meet specific needs. While they haven’t received any awards, their expertise in GSM intercom systems makes them a preferred choice for many.
Main Products: GSM building intercom systems
Awards: None
Headquarters: Italy
Established: 1986
Website: https://www.videx.it/en/
Comparison with BAS-IP: https://bas-ip.com/articles/videx-intercom-system/
The Importance of Choosing the Right Intercom System for Your Building
Choosing the right intercom system is not just about communication; it’s about enhancing security, increasing property value, and ensuring a seamless experience for residents and visitors. Here’s a deep dive into why making the right choice matters:
1. Enhanced Security
- Restricted Access: A good intercom system ensures that only authorized individuals can enter the building, reducing the risk of unwanted intrusions.
- Visual Verification: Modern intercoms come with video capabilities, allowing residents or security personnel to visually verify the identity of a visitor before granting access.
- Emergency Communication: In case of emergencies, such as fires or security breaches, an intercom system can serve as a lifeline, facilitating quick communication and evacuation procedures.
2. Increased Property Value
- Modern Amenities: Prospective buyers or tenants often look for modern amenities in a property. An advanced intercom system can significantly boost the property’s appeal.
- Safety Perceived Value: A building equipped with a state-of-the-art intercom system is often perceived as safer, increasing its market value.
3. Convenience and Comfort
- Easy Communication: Intercom systems allow residents to communicate easily with the front desk, security, or other apartments.
- Package Deliveries: With the rise of online shopping, managing deliveries has become a daily task. An intercom system can notify residents of package arrivals or allow them to grant temporary access to delivery personnel.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Many modern intercoms can integrate with smart home systems, allowing residents to control various aspects of their home, from lighting to temperature, through the intercom interface.
4. Cost Savings
- Reduced Security Personnel: With an efficient intercom system in place, there might be less need for round-the-clock security personnel, leading to cost savings.
- Energy Efficiency: Some advanced intercom systems come with energy-saving features, reducing electricity consumption and costs.
5. Future-Proofing
- Scalability: As the building’s needs grow, a good intercom system can be expanded or upgraded without the need for a complete overhaul.
- Integration with Future Technologies: Choosing a system that is compatible with emerging technologies ensures that the building remains up-to-date with the latest advancements.
Conclusion
In the digital age, where technology intertwines with our daily lives, the importance of security and convenience cannot be overstated. Intercom systems, often overlooked, play a pivotal role in shaping the safety and functionality of both residential and commercial spaces.
Choosing the right intercom system is not merely a matter of purchasing a communication device. It’s an investment in a building’s security infrastructure, its residents’ peace of mind, and the overall user experience. The right system acts as the first line of defense against potential security threats, ensuring that only authorized individuals gain access. Moreover, with the rise of smart homes and integrated technologies, modern intercom systems offer more than just voice or video communication. They can seamlessly integrate with other smart devices, enhancing the overall living or working experience.
Furthermore, as we’ve explored the top manufacturers in the industry, it’s evident that innovation is at the forefront. Companies are continuously pushing the boundaries, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and offering solutions that cater to diverse needs. From SIP door panels that integrate with mobile apps to complex IP systems that offer unparalleled security features, the choices are vast and varied.
For property managers, homeowners, and business owners, understanding the nuances of these systems is crucial. It’s not just about the initial investment but the long-term benefits—both tangible and intangible—that they bring. A well-chosen intercom system can increase property value, reduce long-term security costs, and most importantly, offer peace of mind.
In essence, as buildings evolve, becoming smarter and more integrated, the humble intercom system stands as a testament to how even the simplest of devices can adapt, innovate, and remain indispensable in our modern world.
FAQs
Why are intercom system companies focusing on IP-based solutions?
With the rise of digital technology and the internet, IP-based solutions offer more flexibility, scalability, and integration capabilities. Intercom system manufacturers recognize the benefits of IP solutions, such as remote access, integration with other smart devices, and enhanced security features.
How do intercom system manufacturers ensure the security of their products?
Intercom system producers prioritize security by implementing advanced encryption methods, regular software updates to patch vulnerabilities, and multi-factor authentication features. Many also offer cloud-based solutions with secure data storage and backup facilities.
Are there significant differences between intercom system companies in terms of product quality?
Yes, like any industry, there are variations in product quality among intercom system manufacturers. Factors such as build quality, software reliability, customer support, and additional features can vary. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable company known for its high-quality products and services.
What innovations are intercom system companies currently working on?
Intercom system manufacturers are continuously innovating, with a focus on AI integration for facial recognition, voice command features, integration with other smart home devices, and developing energy-efficient, eco-friendly products.
Can I integrate products from different intercom system producers?
No, typically each manufacturer uses its own proprietary protocol for their intercom systems. This means that products from different intercom system manufacturers may not be compatible with each other. It’s essential to stick to one manufacturer’s ecosystem to ensure seamless integration and functionality. If integration with other systems or devices is a priority, it’s crucial to research and choose a manufacturer that offers the compatibility and features you need.