Video calls, video eyes and intercoms

Everything you need to know about video peepholes, intercoms and video doorbells: how to choose your ideal option

Today, home or office security is not just door locks, but also smart gadgets that help control who comes and what is happening around. Video peepholes, intercoms and video doorbells have become real helpers for those who want to be aware of what is happening at their door. Each of these devices has its own characteristics, and in this article I will tell you what they are, where they are used, what are their benefits and how not to get confused when choosing.

What are video eyes, intercoms and video doorbells?

These devices are like brothers from the same family, but with different personalities. Video peepholes are compact cameras that are built into the door instead of a regular peephole. They can be simple, with a small screen inside, or advanced - with a connection to your phone so that you can see the guest even when you are far from home. There are models with night vision or motion sensors - for those who want maximum control.

Intercoms are a classic, but in a modern design. There are audio intercoms - just to talk to a guest, and video intercoms - to also see him. They are divided into wired ones, which work reliably in high-rise buildings, and wireless ones - convenient for private homes. Some models come with memory - they record visitors even if you are not at home.

Video doorbells are the little “brothers” that combine a doorbell and a camera. They are often wireless, mounted on the door and work via Wi-Fi. There are simple ones with a basic camera, and there are “smart” ones with a voice assistant, cloud storage, or facial recognition. It all depends on how “advanced” the device is that you need.

Where and for what are they used?

These gadgets are like the eyes and ears of your home. Video peepholes are ideal for apartments: small, inconspicuous, but they allow you to check who is behind the door without leaving the room. They are often installed in families with children or the elderly, so as not to take risks by opening the door to strangers. Intercoms are a choice for entrances, offices or private houses. They are convenient when you need to quickly let a courier in or talk to a neighbor without going downstairs. Video doorbells are popular in cottages or country houses: put them near the gate - and you can see who has come, even from the couch or from another city.

Their main goal is safety and comfort. But there is also a bonus: for example, recording visitors can come in handy if something suspicious happens near your door.

What is their benefit?

The first thing that comes to mind is peace of mind. With such devices, you always know who is ringing the doorbell, and you can decide whether to open it or not. For parents, this is a way to protect children from unwanted guests, and for businesses, it is a way to control access to the office. They save time: you don't have to run to the door every time someone comes - everything is visible on the screen or in your phone. And it is also protection against minor troubles: the courier left a package, and you didn't hear the call? The recording of the video call will show you where to look for it.

For those who are often (not at home), modern models with Wi-Fi are a real salvation. You can talk to a guest or even “pretend” that you are at home, scaring off uninvited visitors. Plus, you save on security – why pay more if a small gadget can handle it?

Tips for choosing

Choosing a video doorbell, intercom, or video doorbell is like choosing shoes: they need to be comfortable and affordable. Here are some tips from my experience:

1. Determine where you will install it. For an apartment, a video doorbell or a simple intercom will suffice. For a house or office, it is better to get a video doorbell or a bell with a wide viewing angle - so that you can see not only the door, but also the yard.
2. Think about connectivity. If Wi-Fi is weak, go with a wired option – it’s more reliable. And if the signal is good, a wireless device with an app on your phone will add flexibility.
3. Check out the features. Night vision is a must-have if guests come in the evening. The motion sensor is a lifesaver if you want to know about everyone who is lurking near the door. And recording is for those who like to keep everything under control.
4. Don't chase the price. A cheap device can break quickly or give a bad picture. It's better to invest in the middle segment - the quality will pay off.
5. Consider installation. A video doorbell is easy to install yourself, but a doorphone in the entrance may require a professional. Video doorbells are usually simple, but check to see if there is a battery or if you need to pull a wire.

Why is it worth trying?

Video peepholes, intercoms and video doorbells are not just fashionable things, but real help in life. They give you control, security and a little peace in our hectic world. I myself once doubted whether I needed a video doorbell, but after the first week I realized: it's like a second set of eyes, only better. Choose wisely - and your home will become a real fortress!