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.

There are various types of MURS devices suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Handheld radios provide mobility while maintaining communication capabilities, while base station wireless intercoms are ideal for stationary setups. These two types can be seamlessly integrated for comprehensive communication solutions. Additionally, MURS devices extend beyond traditional intercoms, offering options such as motion detectors, wireless PA units, 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

Our top pick for digital wireless intercoms is the Hosmart Full-Duplex Wireless Intercom System Model HY616. Its standout feature is its full-duplex capability, allowing seamless, simultaneous conversation without the need to press any buttons. Operating much like a cordless telephone, it employs DECT 6.0 technology, ensuring encrypted communication channels to safeguard privacy from prying ears, such as nosy neighbors.

In contrast to older walkie-talkie-style intercoms, where communication was one-way at a time with push-to-talk functionality, the HY616 offers a more intuitive experience. To call a specific room, users simply press the Call button followed by the unit's designated number, initiating a private conversation upon answer.

Power options for these intercoms are versatile. Alongside the provided AC adapter, users can utilize standard USB battery packs, computer connections, or opt for the removable 18650 rechargeable batteries. These batteries, commonly used in flashlights and certain Tesla electric cars, boast an approximate week-long lifespan under normal usage before requiring recharging or replacement.

While boasting a range of up to 1000 feet in optimal conditions, the presence of obstacles may diminish this range. Nonetheless, the intercoms offer reliable connectivity within reasonable distances.

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.

While the intercom system claims a range of up to a mile with clear sound quality, skepticism is warranted, especially given its reliance on FM frequencies. Users' experiences vary, with some reporting inadequate coverage, particularly in densely populated areas prone to interference, which can be irritating in the middle of the night. The unit offers a channel switch feature to mitigate potential issues with neighboring units, yet challenges may persist in highly congested environments.

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.

Choose from two distinct physical designs to suit your needs. Our cost-effective option features a gasket-sealed, high-impact polycarbonate housing, offering compactness and ease of installation. Alternatively, opt for our larger model crafted with a vandal-proof stainless steel front and fiberglass back, ensuring maximum resilience in demanding settings. Both variants can be powered either by D-sized batteries or a 12-volt DC supply.

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

Communication with these callboxes is effortless, whether using a handheld radio or a desktop base station intercom. Additionally, simultaneous use of both options is possible, providing flexibility in communication setups. There is no limit to the number of devices that can connect with our callboxes, offering a scalable solution tailored to your requirements. Explore our range of wireless callbox intercoms today. View our call box options here: callboxes 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.

What's more, Echo devices offer superior sound quality compared to traditional intercom systems, thanks to their advanced microphones and high-quality speakers. The Echo Dot, Amazon's most budget-friendly option, delivers impressive audio in a compact design, making it a cost-effective alternative to basic intercoms.

For those seeking more than just audio, there's the Echo Show, boasting video capabilities that allow for face-to-face communication between rooms. And with the accompanying smartphone app, you can even "drop in" on rooms remotely, ensuring peace of mind whether you're at work or away from home.

Discover the convenience and versatility of Echo intercoms today, revolutionizing communication within your home and beyond.

Click these links to see the products:

Echo Dot

Echo Show

2-Way Radios

Opting for handheld walkie talkies proves advantageous, especially when mobility is essential within a property. For extended communication range, we recommend utilizing radios operating within the MURS frequencies, which offer greater coverage compared to the more commonly used FRS and GMRS radios found in retail outlets like Wal-Mart.

Our Dual Talk Buttons MURS Two-Way Radio stands out as an excellent choice. Its compact size, convenient drop-in charger, included headset, and robust build make it an ideal companion. Moreover, it seamlessly integrates with all other MURS devices available on our website, allowing for unlimited simultaneous connections. 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.