Latch’s intercom system is just one component of LatchOS, a complete building operating system run by Latch. Their sleek and simple hardware supports building aesthetic along with security. Before purchasing, however, it’s important to have a complete overview, weigh the pros and cons, and explore other options to ensure it will best meet you and your tenant’s needs.
In this review, you’ll find an in-depth look at Latch’s intercom system, including:
- Comparison of Latch and Swiftlane Video Intercom, including a side-by-side feature comparison
- Latch Intercom overview
- Latch pricing
- Advantages and disadvantages
Table of contents
Related Topics:
- Best Video Intercom Systems
- Apartment Intercom Buyer’s Guide
- Best Apartment Intercom Systems
- Apartment Intercom System with Door Release
Latch vs. Swiftlane – which is better for your building?
Compare the main differences between Swiftlane Video Intercom and Latch.
Video Intercom
Swiftlane, unlike Latch, comes with a built-in video intercom system. Video intercom offers both one-way and two-way intercom calling, so it’s always possible to visually verify who is at the door even if the intercom call recipient chooses to leave the camera off on their end.
Latch Intercom does not come with a built-in camera for video intercom calling. This needs to be purchased and installed separately for the video intercom function.
Tenant Directory
Both Swiftlane and Latch have a touchscreen directory for tenants. The Latch touchscreen displays only 3 to 4 tenants at a single time and does not have a search function. The small display makes it very cumbersome for visitors of buildings with more than 20 units.
Compared to that, Swiftlane can show up to 12 tenants on the screen at once plus has search functionality to look up tenants quickly. This can easily scale to 300+ unit buildings.
Side-By-Side Feature Comparison
Latch Intercom Overview
Key Features
- Latch Hardware: Latch is an all-in-one access solution that provides hardware for main entrances and individual units.
- Visitor Access: Grant access to visitors with remote unlock through the Latch app. Issue temporary codes for guests, deliveries, building staff, etc.
- User Customization: Residents can choose how their name is displayed on screen and whether or not to share their video and photo.
- Delivery Management: Latch Delivery Assistant grants access to approved delivery providers through a simple intercom call.
Latch Pricing
The visitor entry intercom is priced at $2,999. Latch charges $2 monthly per unit as software fee. Pricing may vary by number of units and contract length.
An external camera needs to be purchased separately and integrated for video capability.
Latch Review
Advantages
- All-in-one, integrated intercom, access control, and building management system
- Prioritization of privacy by ability to restrict video streaming and choose custom display names
- Multiple entry methods including mobile app, NFC, passcodes, and keys
- Comes with optional energy saving tools, visitor access, deliveries, and sound-based access
Disadvantages
- Needs an external camera for video calling
- Latch Intercom is a part of a larger, full-building solution, which requires a two-year service contract and can be restrictive to individual needs and customizations
Start Improving Your Building Security
Contact a Swiftlane specialist about learn more about alternatives to Latch intercom, and find the best access and intercom solution for your building.
