We live in an unpredictable world, and the sense of security we crave in our homes is becoming increasingly vulnerable. As many home security experts highlight, relying on chance is an option no longer; proactive measures must be taken to safeguard our families. Thankfully, video door phones are at the forefront of home security innovation.

A video door entry system is essentially a modern doorbell. It provides a visual layer of protection and control, so visitors can be verified before opening the door, the doorbell can be answered from anywhere, and even be remotely unlocked. Let’s find out how video door phones allow you to take control of your home’s security and serve as a proactive defense for your family.

Video Door Phones are More Than Just a Doorbell

While they might seem like a simple upgrade to your existing doorbell, video door phones are, in fact, advanced intercom devices. But unlike traditional audio-only intercoms, a robust video door entry system provides:

• Two-Way Audio & One-Way Video Communication: Speak with visitors at your doorstep through a built-in microphone and speaker, just like a traditional intercom. However, you can also see who is at your door via a camera, giving you visual confirmation before initiating further interaction or granting entry.
• Enhanced Access Control: Higher-end models, especially a smart video door phone with lock, offer advanced control features. You can see and speak to visitors and remotely unlock your door at the touch of a button directly from your indoor panel or smartphone app!
• Integration Potential: Smart video entry systems can seamlessly link to other security devices, such as access control systems and intrusion alarms, and home automation platforms (e.g., Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT) for interconnected home security.

Components of a Video Door Entry System

A video door phone system typically comprises two essential components, working in tandem to provide audiovisual communication and access control:

The Outdoor Station

Positioned at your entrance, the outdoor station acts as the visitor’s point of contact and your visual and auditory link to the outside. It houses several key elements:

• Camera: A wide-angle lens camera captures video of the visitor and the surrounding area and transmits it to your indoor panel or smartphone.
• Speaker and Mic: Enables two-way audio communication, allowing you to speak to and hear visitors.
• Doorbell Button: The familiar doorbell button visitors press to initiate a call.
• Optional Keypad or Fingerprint Reader: Some advanced outdoor stations, particularly those designed as a video door phone with lock, include a keypad for code entry or a fingerprint reader for biometric access directly at the door.
• Weatherproof, Tamper-Resistant Housing: The outdoor station is designed to withstand the elements and resist tampering, ensuring reliable operation in outdoor conditions.

The Indoor Panel/Monitor

Installed inside your home, the indoor panel serves as your command centre for communicating with visitors and managing door access. It typically features:

• Display Screen: A screen displaying the video feed from the outdoor station’s camera so you can visually identify visitors.
• Speaker and Mic: Enables two-way audio communication from inside your home.
• Control Buttons: Buttons or touch screen controls to answer calls and remotely unlock the door.

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Why Video Door Phones Are Essential for Family Safety

Your family’s safety is paramount, and knowing they are secure in their home is priceless. A video door phone that combines audiovisual communication with enhanced access control acts as your first line of defense:

• See Who’s There, Always: The most crucial benefit is seeing who is at your doorstep, whether it is a familiar face, a delivery person, or someone unfamiliar. You avoid opening your door unthinkingly, ensuring you and your family are never caught off guard.
• Deter Unwanted Visitors: The mere presence of a video entry station, knowing that visitors are being recorded and visually monitored, can discourage opportunistic criminals, porch pirates, or unwanted solicitors from approaching your door.
• Answer Your Door from Anywhere: Whether at work, running errands, or on vacation, a Wi-Fi-enabled video doorbell lets you see and speak to visitors via your smartphone as if you were home. Invaluable for managing package deliveries, checking on family members, or maintaining awareness of your home’s surroundings!

Choosing a Video Door Phone System

Choosing the right video door system for your family is a crucial decision. With a wide array of options available, here are the essentials to consider to make an informed choice:

• HD Camera: Opt for a model that supports at least a 720p video feed (ideally 1080p or higher) with a wide-angle lens offering 120° FOV. It makes identifying potential details at your doorstep easier, even when zoomed in digitally.
• Quality Microphone: Good audio communication is equally essential, so look for units with noise cancellation features, which help to minimise background noise from traffic, wind, and other sounds in noisy outdoor environments.
• Infrared Night Vision: This provides detailed video footage even in low-light or completely dark conditions.
• Robust Construction: The outdoor unit should use durable, tamper-resistant materials and be designed to withstand dust, rain, and temperature extremes. Ideally, choose an IP65 or higher rating system and a built-in tamper alarm.
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Look for a smart Wi-Fi-enabled video door phone with lock functionality for full remote access, app control, real-time alerts, and smart home integration.
• Storage: If you want to keep local recordings of who visits your home, pick a model with an SD card slot. Some brands offer cloud recording, but that often requires a subscription and might raise concerns among the privacy-conscious.

Overall, video door phones offer invaluable peace of mind for working parents concerned about children at home alone or individuals who live independently. Knowing they can visually screen visitors, communicate with anyone at the door, and control access remotely provides a sense of reassurance, even when physically separated from loved ones.

Strengthen Your Home’s Defenses with Onetouch’s Video Door Phones!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can video door phones integrate with other smart home devices?

Many can integrate with smart displays, lighting, and even smart locks via platforms like Alexa, Google Home, or HomeKit. This allows for automated routines, such as lights turning on when motion is detected at the door.

2. What are the post-purchase costs of owning a video door entry system?

Potential ongoing costs include cloud storage subscriptions (optional for some) and occasional battery replacements for wireless models. Wired models may increase electricity consumption marginally, but generally, running costs are minimal after purchase.

3. What kind of maintenance do video doorbells typically require?

Minimal maintenance is needed. Check for lens cleanliness regularly and ensure weather seals are intact. If supported, keep the firmware updated via the app for optimal security.

4. Does Onetouch offer video entry stations for different home types and needs?

Onetouch offers basic and advanced models, including wireless and wired options, as you can check out here. We cater to apartments, houses, and smart home enthusiasts!