The doorbell rang, you are far away, yet you want to know who is ringing at your door. In the past, you had to go directly to the door, but nowadays, thanks to the intercom and videophone, we have the ability to know the identity of the person well before opening the door. However, these two devices sound the same, so how can we differentiate them?
Focus on the Intercom
The intercom is a device that has revolutionized the world of welcoming guests. It was invented around the 1950s. For both individuals and companies, this device is a true source of security. It replaces the good old doorbell of your house, the doorman who stood at the bottom of your apartment, and the act of knocking on the door.
The intercom is connected by two devices: one is housed outside, and the other is inside the house in the form of a wall phone to answer. They can be connected wirelessly or with wires. The device can also be used to unlock the door. Nowadays, intercoms are equipped with infrared devices. Additionally, the intercom can be used to send a message to the entrance if you’re not home.
The Videophone, Key Points
The videophone operates on the same principle as the intercom. The difference lies in the fact that you can see the person ringing at your door. Moreover, it is also called a video intercom. Indeed, with a classic model, you can’t really tell if it’s truly the person who is ringing at the door. This is one of the major criticisms of the intercom, thus jeopardizing the safety of the home.
With a videophone, you will see in advance who is ringing the doorbell (the visitor). Thanks to the camera, you can record the images of all the people who knock on your door. You can find here our best selections of videophones. Your security is therefore significantly enhanced.
Videophones can be embedded directly into your gate and open it automatically. They have the possibility of being connected. However, a scandal has already broken out over people being able to connect to the wifi linked to the videophone to unlock the door.
Intercom or Videophone: Which to Choose?
The intercom has gone through several generations and updates to reach the stage it is at today. It has many advantages; its audio allows you to recognize the voice of the person at the door. Only later was it able to ensure your security at the entrance of a building.
In the case of an audio intercom, it is called a door phone that acts like a telephone. Its price ranges from 60 to over 1,000 euros. As for the videophone, it is more effective; its biggest advantage is that no one can impersonate someone at the bottom of a building. Your security is therefore at an extreme level.
However, attention must be paid to surveillance regulations even if they are not very strict. The cost of a complete videophone installation can reach over 3,000 euros (including its accessories). Furthermore, manufacturers have already made efforts to improve the quality of images offered on the videophone.
There is even a model that can detect metals that your visitor might be carrying. In conclusion, the most sensible choice is the videophone. The latter is an update of the intercom. Some models now have facial and voice recognition systems. To ensure the security of your surroundings, your company, or your building, it is preferable to opt for a videophone.
