Choosing the Right Home Intercom System: Wired vs. Wireless Options Explained

Home intercom systems come in two basic forms, wired and wireless. Wired systems are usually used for new construction homes since running wire in exiting walls is expensive. If you have an old system already in the walls, then a retrofit system that works with your current wire is probably what you need. You will need to look at the cable running to the system to see how many individual "conductors" or wires are in the cable and then choose a system that works with that cable.

Most wireless systems are short range of under 1000 feet, which is sufficient for most homes. If what you require is a gate intercom system then we recommend you check our systems here instead: gate intercom systems

Below are some of the most popular choices:

MURS Wireless Intercoms

If you require long-distance intercoms, then MURS intercoms are likely your best bet. MURS stands for Multi-Use Radio System, a set of frequencies designated by the Federal Communications Commission for license-free 2-way radio communications. Utilizing business-band 2-way radio VHF frequencies, MURS intercoms offer the longest range among all wireless intercom options.

A range of MURS devices exists that function well in both indoor and outdoor environments. Handheld radios enable mobile communication whereas base station wireless intercoms suit fixed positions. Integrating both types of MURS devices creates robust communication solutions without any compatibility issues. MURS devices provide more than traditional intercom options by incorporating features like motion detectors and wireless PA units as well as customer service callboxes and outdoor-rated wireless callboxes.

Among MURS base station intercoms, the MURS Multi-Mile – DA1006 stands out as the most cost-effective option. With a range of up to four miles, it provides robust communication capabilities, and the option for externally mounted antennas allows for extended range, particularly in challenging environments.

The MURS Commercial base station is an industrial-grade unit that includes the capability to activate an electric door strike or gate controller when paired with our wireless callboxes.

You can get more info about MURS radios here: MURS Radio Guide

Hosmart Full-Duplex Wireless Intercom System Model - HY616

The Hosmart Full-Duplex Wireless Intercom System Model HY616 stands out as our best choice for digital wireless intercom technology. The device's full-duplex feature enables seamless simultaneous conversations without requiring button presses. This system uses DECT 6.0 technology to operate similarly to a cordless phone while providing encrypted communication channels to maintain privacy from intrusive listeners like nosy neighbors.

The HY616 provides a much more intuitive communication experience compared to older walkie-talkie-style intercoms which allowed only one-way communication at a time when using push-to-talk buttons. Users can initiate a private conversation with a specific room by pressing the Call button and entering the unit's designated number before answering.

Power options for these intercoms are versatile. The AC adapter comes with the product while users have alternative power options including standard USB battery packs or computer connections and removable 18650 rechargeable batteries. The 18650 rechargeable batteries have an estimated lifespan of one week under typical usage conditions before they need recharging or replacement.

The intercom reaches up to 1000 feet in ideal conditions but its range decreases when obstacles interfere. Intercom systems maintain dependable connections across sensible ranges.

An exceptional feature, alongside full-duplex capability, is the multi-channel functionality. With six available channels, users can customize settings to their preferences, with the option for pre-programmed default channels ensuring seamless transitions between conversations.

For the Hosmart intercom, click this link: Hosmart Intercom

Wuloo FM Wireless Intercom

If you need a slightly lower cost intercom that gives you more channels for more rooms, then this Wuloo may work for you. This intercom can handle up to ten rooms.

It has 10 channels and 3 digital codes, promising enhanced anti-interference capabilities and compatibility with similar intercoms sharing the same digital channel code. Its features encompass Monitor, Talk, VOX (Voice-Activated Operation), Group Calling functions, along with adjustable volume settings. Moreover, its compatibility with Power Banks (5V 1A) enhances portability.

The intercom system claims to deliver clear sound quality within a one-mile radius but doubts about this capability arise because it depends on FM frequencies. Interference-prone densely populated areas lead to some users experiencing inadequate coverage which becomes annoying during nighttime hours. This unit includes a channel switch function to reduce interference from adjacent units but struggles to function effectively in areas with high levels of congestion.

A commonly voiced concern revolves around the subpar sound quality of the intercom. Comparable to that of walkie-talkies, the audio may lack clarity and fidelity. Individuals with hearing impairments may find this particularly unsuitable.

That said this intercom has some nice features. First it has voice activation (VOX)mode for handsfree transmitting, but like VOX on all intercoms, you must be sitting right in front of it. The voice quality is not as good on this unit as some of the other intercoms.

It does have monitor mode that lets you listen in to a single room for up to 10 hours before it turns off.

Unlike the Hosmart full duplex intercom, this one is push-to-talk.

To get more info on the Wuloo intercom feature, just click the link here: Wuloo FM Intercom

Wireless Callbox Outdoor Intercoms

For a robust outdoor intercom system capable of enduring harsh conditions, look no further than our wireless callbox intercoms. Utilizing advanced two-way radio technology, these devices boast unparalleled durability and long-range capabilities, making them the optimal choice for various environments.

Operating on either license-free MURS frequencies or licensed UHF frequencies compatible with your existing 2-way radios, our callbox intercoms offer versatility and reliability.

Select between two unique physical designs that fulfill your requirements. We provide an inexpensive solution that includes a gasket-sealed high-impact polycarbonate housing which ensures compact design and straightforward installation. Choose our bigger model which combines a vandal-resistant stainless steel front with a fiberglass back to deliver maximum durability for tough environments. D-sized batteries or a 12-volt DC power supply can operate both variants.

Ideal for security gates and doors, our callbox intercoms seamlessly integrate with door and gate openers, enhancing access control and security measures.

Users can easily communicate with these callboxes through either handheld radios or desktop base station intercom systems. Users can operate both communication methods together which enables flexible setup configurations. Our callboxes allow unlimited device connections to provide scalable solutions that match your specific needs. Discover what our wireless callbox intercom range has to offer today. Select one of our call box choices here: wireless callbox.

Amazon Echo Devices

Unlock the full potential of your Amazon account with a feature many overlook: the wireless intercom function built into Amazon's Echo devices. While most know Echo for its music streaming, weather updates, and smart home controls, its intercom capabilities are often underestimated.

Enabled by the "Drop In" feature, Echo devices allow seamless hands-free calling between rooms or even to contacts outside the house. Simply instruct Alexa to initiate a call, like "Alexa, call Mom," and it will connect you instantly, freeing your hands for other tasks. Need to order food? Just ask Alexa to call your favorite restaurant, and it's done.

But the convenience doesn't stop there. You can communicate between Echo devices within your home effortlessly. Say you have one in the bedroom and another in the kitchen; with a simple command like "Alexa, drop in kitchen," you establish a direct line between the two, enhancing communication throughout your space. Need to make a household announcement? "Alexa, announce time to go" will broadcast your message to all connected units.

Echo devices deliver better sound quality than standard intercom systems because they come equipped with sophisticated microphones and superior speakers. The Echo Dot stands as Amazon's affordable product choice that combines impressive audio performance with a compact build to serve as a budget-friendly substitute for standard intercoms.

The Echo Show presents video features for users who want more than audio because it enables direct visual communication between different rooms. You can use the smartphone app to "drop in" on rooms remotely which delivers peace of mind when you're at your workplace or when you're away from your home.

The Echo intercoms provide exceptional convenience and flexibility which transform how you communicate inside your home and in other locations.

Click these links to see the products:

Echo Dot

Echo Show

2-Way Radios

Our Dual Talk Buttons MURS Two-Way Radio represents a superb option. Its small dimensions along with an easy-to-use drop-in charger and bundled headset combined with strong construction makes it the perfect accessory. The device effortlessly connects to every other MURS radio we sell online which enables unlimited connections at the same time. See the product here: Dual-Talk 2-Way Radio

If you have an existing intercom system that needs to be replaced, then you will need a retrofit intercom system. If you are building a house and running new wire you can install any system. We will cover the retrofit system here.

This is a good choice (and one of the few choices left) for replacing an old intercom system mounted in your home. It uses your existing wiring (assuming the wires are still good).

Since your room stations will be a different size than these Intrasonic stations, you need to choose a kit that has either horizontal or vertical adapter trim plates. If your room stations are wider than they are tall, choose a horizontal kit. The vertical kit is for stations that are more tall than wide.

You will also need to measure your current master station and make sure the trim plate included in the kit is large enough to cover the hole in your wall.

Once you have all the system components, you will replace all components of your current system, including the power supply.

The system provides a nice upgrade since it has Bluetooth, which allows you to stream music from your smartphone.