Video Intercoms Entry Door Phones For Apartments

Best Video IP Intercoms & Door Entry Phones for Apartments in Nairobi, Kenya – Secure & Smart Access Control

Video Intercoms Entry Door Phones For Apartments In Nairobi Kenya. What is an apartment intercom system? An apartment intercom system allows visitors to gain entry to a building. A visitor can approach the entry system at the main building entrance, select a tenant, and place a call. This sends a buzzer signal to the resident inside the apartment. The resident can pick up the call using an audio phone call or a video call via a video intercom mobile app. They can communicate with the visitor and then remotely release and buzz the door open.

What is an apartment call box?

An apartment call box is the same as an apartment intercom system. It is commonly called a “callbox” because it traditionally connects a visitor to a building resident through a phone call over a telephone system.

What are video intercom systems?

Video intercoms allow you to communicate with visitors through a video call instead of a traditional audio call. The video call works like a FaceTime or WhatsApp video call, using a video intercom app. Generally, these intercoms can also remotely release the door. You can also check out our guide to the best video intercoms for apartments.

How does an intercom work?

An intercom system works by sending a notification from one device to another, which can be picked up as an audio or video call.

Wired intercoms transmit data signals between devices through local wires.
Wireless intercoms work through telephone lines or internet-based servers to initiate a call, notify the recipient, and establish an audio or video connection.

How does an intercom work in apartments?

Apartment intercom buzzers work by chiming a buzzer in the apartment and enabling an audio call between the visitor and resident. They use wired communication techniques like the SIP protocol to exchange signals and audio between the two ends. If the resident presses the unlock button, another signal is sent to the main intercom unit to unlock the door.

Types of Apartment Intercom Systems In Nairobi Kenya

Apartment intercom systems come in several forms, each with unique capabilities to meet the needs of different multifamily buildings.

1. Wired Apartment Intercoms

Wired intercoms require running a cable from the main entry panel to each apartment unit receiver. They were very popular for smaller condo and apartment buildings and could support audio or video capabilities.

Pros:

No recurring costs once installed
May include video or audio functionality

Cons:

High upfront installation costs due to wiring
Must be home to receive calls (no remote access)
No ability to generate delivery PINs
Difficult to program (often requires a security company for updates).

2. Wireless Intercom Systems

Wireless intercom systems have revolutionized modern access control. Instead of requiring a wall-mounted station inside the apartment, wireless intercoms allow tenants to receive visitor calls on their mobile phones or other compatible devices. Tenants are no longer tied to a wired intercom—they can receive calls and grant access from anywhere.

There are two primary types:

Telephone entry systems.
Video intercom systems.

3. Telephone Entry System

Telephone entry systems like Doorking and Linear have been popular over the last decade. These systems allow programming phone numbers into the callbox and connecting it to a traditional phone line or cellular/VOIP system.

Pros:

Reliable and widely used for 20+ years
Supports audio calls to smartphones and landlines

Cons:

No video, making it easier for package thieves to impersonate delivery drivers
Complex programming requiring technical training

4. Video Intercom Systems for Apartments

Video intercoms enable video calls between visitors and residents. Smart intercom systems also support VoIP telephone calls for older or non-tech-savvy residents. Most buildings are now upgrading to modern video intercoms, which used to be expensive but are now becoming more affordable than telephone entry systems while offering advanced features.

Why video intercoms are getting cheaper than callboxes:

Use building internet instead of telephone lines
Telecom companies are raising phone line prices
Web-based programming (no need for security company visits)
Lower maintenance with automatic software updates

Benefits of Apartment Intercom Systems

Apartment intercoms provide convenience, security, and operational efficiency for multifamily buildings.

Key Benefits:

✅ Secure Delivery Management – Couriers can be granted access via intercom calls or remote unlocking.
✅ Visitor Access Control – Only authorized visitors gain entry, improving building security.
✅ Tenant Convenience – Enhances resident satisfaction and retention.
✅ Reduced Operational Overhead – Supports front desk staff and maintenance teams.
✅ Business Continuity – Enables self-guided apartment tours with remote unlocking.

Top 10 Apartment Intercom Features to Consider

Door Release Function – Allows remote unlocking for visitors.
Integration – Works with access control, property management, and visitor management software.
Hardware – Wired (reliable) vs. wireless (flexible).
Front Desk vs. Multi-Tenant Intercom – Single-button vs. full tenant directory.
Video Intercom – One-way (visitor visible) or two-way (both parties see each other).
Managing Multiple Access Points – Centralized control for multiple doors/buildings.
Installation Costs – Wired systems cost more upfront; wireless is easier to install.
Ongoing Service Fees – Cloud-based systems may have subscriptions.
Design & Aesthetics – Modern, intuitive hardware improves tenant experience.
Access Control – Mobile credentials, PINs, or facial recognition for secure entry.

18 Problems Apartment Intercom Should Solve

Contactless, Self-Guided Tours – Enable scheduled tours with single-use PINs.
Stop Package Theft – Video verification and secure delivery PINs.
Prevent Break-Ins – Secure all building access points.
Flexible Remote Access – Tenants can buzz visitors in from anywhere.
No More Shared Visitor PINs – Unique codes for each guest.
Seamless Access for Family & Friends – Easy PIN generation via app.
Complete Common Area Security – One system for all doors (gym, garage, etc.).
Eliminate Lockouts – Remote unlocking by admins.
Tenant Peace of Mind – Full control over visitor access.
Easy Tenant Turnover – Instant credential revocation.
Amenity Management – Secure access to shared spaces.
Secure Food Delivery – Video verification or delivery PINs.
Reduce Overhead – Cloud-based management saves time.
Intuitive Interface – Minimal training needed.
No External IT Support – Automatic updates and troubleshooting.
Vendor & Contractor Access – Scheduled or one-time PINs.
Actionable Data Insights – Access logs and security analytics.
Scalable Security – Manage multiple properties from one dashboard.