
Intercoms differ by what they carry (audio only or video) and how they connect: 2-wire and 4-wire systems run on dedicated cable, IP intercoms run on the network and can ring phones, Wi-Fi units connect wirelessly to the router, and GSM intercoms call mobile numbers over the cellular network.
Key takeaways
- Audio: low cost, voice only.
- Video: see visitors before opening.
- 2-wire: reuses old intercom cable.
- IP/SIP: scalable, phone app, apartments and offices.
- GSM: gates with no cable to the house.
01The main types
| Type | Connection | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Audio intercom | 2/4-wire | Budget homes, internal calls |
| Analogue video (4-wire) | 4-wire cable | Single homes |
| 2-wire video | Two wires | Replacing old systems without recabling |
| IP / SIP video | Network cable (PoE) | Apartments, offices, phone answering |
| Wi-Fi video | Wireless to router | Homes where cabling is hard |
| GSM intercom | Mobile network | Gates far from the house |
02Choosing
See intercom system prices, apartment intercoms and gate intercoms.
03Frequently asked questions
Which intercom is best for an apartment block?
IP intercom systems scale best and let residents answer on their phones.
Can I reuse my old intercom cables?
Often yes, with a 2-wire system designed for existing cabling.


