The Best Commercial Intercom Systems on the Market

Intercom systems have evolved over the years, adapting to the changing needs of businesses. Today, there are multiple intercom types tailored to different commercial needs, each offering unique features and benefits.

Business intercoms are designed specifically for the unique needs of businesses. These intercoms often come with features that facilitate smooth communication within an office or between different departments. Whether it's connecting the main office to a warehouse or allowing communication between different floors, a business intercom system ensures that messages are relayed quickly and efficiently. They are often integrated with other office systems, ensuring seamless operations and enhanced security.

Example of how office intercoms are used: A large e-commerce company with a multi-story office building integrated a business intercom system to connect their customer service department on the ground floor with their inventory management team on the top floor. This reduced the response time for inventory checks and improved overall customer satisfaction.

An audio intercom system is a basic, but effective, communication between a person outside a building and someone at a reception desk inside a building. These systems only allow for audio verification before granting entry. They are useful for commercial properties and multifamily communities where security is a top priority because knowing who is at the other side of the door is crucial. With audio intercoms, businesses can ensure that only authorized individuals gain access by talking to a person before granting access, thereby enhancing the overall security of the premises.

The use of an audio intercom is simple, the visitor presses a button to notify someone inside the building they are waiting at the entrance. From inside the building a person holds down a button and asks whom they are speaking with and why they need to get into the building. The visitor then holds down a button and says who they are and why they need to get into the building. If the person should be granted access, a door release button is pushed and the visitor can enter the building

A video intercom system takes security and communication to the next level. Incorporating video capabilities, these systems allow for visual verification before granting entry. This is especially useful for commercial properties where security is a top priority. With video intercoms, businesses can ensure that only authorized individuals gain access, thereby enhancing the overall security of the premises. The added video feature also provides a record of all entries and exits, which can be crucial for investigations or audits.

Example of how video intercoms improve security: A high-end jewelry store in a bustling city center used a video intercom system to vet customers before allowing them entry. This added layer of security ensured that only genuine customers were granted access, reducing potential threats.

Comparison:

Video Intercoms:
Pros: Visual verification, enhanced security.
Cons: Higher cost, more complex installation.

Audio-Only Intercoms:
Pros: Lower cost, simpler installation.
Cons: Lack of visual verification, potentially less secure.

Wireless intercoms, on the other hand, offer flexibility and ease of installation. They use radio frequencies or Wi-Fi connections to communicate between stations. This means they can be installed without the need for extensive wiring, making them ideal for businesses that require a more flexible setup or those that are housed in older buildings where additional wiring might be challenging.

Comparison:

Wired Intercoms:
Pros: More stable and secure, less susceptible to interference.
Cons: More complex installation, less flexibility in placement.

Wireless Intercoms:
Pros: Easier installation, more flexibility in placement.
Cons: Potential interference from other devices, not good with poor Wi-Fi signal, possible security concerns.

How these can be integrated and chosen: A historical commercial property opted for a wireless intercom system to avoid extensive wiring, preserving the building's aesthetics.

1. Video Capabilities: As mentioned, video intercoms offer visual verification, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter the premises.
2. Wireless Connectivity: Wireless intercom systems provide flexibility in installation and can be integrated seamlessly without extensive wiring. Wireless systems may also be integrated with video; improving the control of access to your facility and providing more information.
3. Access Control: This feature allows businesses to control who can access different parts of the building. With access control, you can ensure that sensitive areas are off-limits to unauthorized personnel.
4. Multiple Stations: Having multiple stations ensures that communication can happen across various parts of the commercial property. Whether it's the base station in the main office or secondary stations in other parts of the building, seamless communication is guaranteed.
5. Easy Installation: A good intercom system should be easy to install. Whether you're opting for a wireless intercom or a wired one, the installation process should be straightforward and hassle-free.
6. Durability: Given that these systems are used frequently, durability is a key feature. The door stations, in particular, should be robust enough to withstand daily use.
7. Cloud-Based Systems: A modern intercom system for business will offer cloud-based solutions, allowing for remote access and management. This is especially useful for businesses with multiple locations or those that require remote monitoring.
8. Mobile App Access Control: With the rise of smartphones, many intercom systems now offer mobile app integration. This allows for easy access control and monitoring directly from a mobile device.
9. Contactless or Touchless Entry Systems: In the age of pandemics, contactless entry systems have become increasingly popular. They offer a safe and hygienic way to grant access without physical contact.
10. Integration with Other Security Systems: The best intercom systems can be integrated with other security systems, offering a comprehensive solution for businesses. Integration with other security cameras may prove vital for businesses, as a comprehensive security camera system may be higher-quality and encompass a larger area, giving you more awareness.