Established in 1970, Aiphone is one of the most respected brands of security communication systems. The Aiphone intercom system has various series designed to meet the needs of different users. Before integrating Aiphone into your building, read the 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 Aiphone intercom systems, including:
- Comparison of Aiphone and Swiftlane Video Intercom, including a side-by-side feature comparison
- Aiphone intercom series (IX, IXG, JO, and GT) overview
- Cost of Aiphone
- Advantages and disadvantages
Table of contents
- Aiphone IX Series (Peer-to-Peer Intercom)
- Aiphone IXG Series (Multi-Tenant Video Intercom)
- Aiphone JO Series (Video Intercom With Mobile App Capability)
- Aiphone GT Series (Multi-Tenant Security Intercom)
Also, read
- Best Video Intercom Systems
- Best Telephone Entry Systems
- Best Apartment Intercom Systems
- Apartment Intercom Buyer’s Guide
Aiphone vs. Swiftlane Video Intercom – which is better for your building?
Cloud-Based Management
Aiphone, while reliable, is a cumbersome intercom system that builds its foundation on outdated technology and processes. To operate, Aiphone requires a Windows Client that can only be managed on compatible, local hardware devices. This means that software and system upgrades are manual, which requires ongoing overhead.
Swiftlane is a cloud-based intercom system with an intuitive admin dashboard that can be managed from anywhere. It does not require local hardware to operate software because the software runs in the cloud. The cloud-based operation also does not require manual updates. With automatic, over-the-air updates, the system is always installed with the current version of the software.
Installation
Installation of the Aiphone intercom system requires significant overhead as monitors need to be wired and configured to each receiving station.
Swiftlane is a wireless intercom system in that it does not require any invasive wiring throughout the facility to make intercom calls to tenants. Hardware installation is fast and simple so that buildings and tenants can start using the intercom system the same day.
Access Control
Aiphone does not offer a complete access control solution. Swiftlane, however, is a complete common area security solution that offers intercom and built-in access control for tenants and as a means of temporary visitor access such as deliveries, contractors, cleaning staff, maintenance, etc.
Side-By-Side Feature Comparison
Aiphone Intercom System (IX, IXG, JO, and GT Series Reviews)
Aiphone IX Series (Peer to Peer Intercom)
Features
- Capacity: 5000+ door stations and 5000+ master stations
- Software: The IX-MV master station is the system’s hub that connects with video door stations using VoIP protocols.
- Hardware: The master station connects directly to your network using CAT-5e/6 cable and can communicate with any other IX Series station using its IP address.
- SIP Compatibility: The SIP-enabled models in the IX series can dial outside to a direct phone line.
- Access Control and Emergencies: Master stations serve a dual role as a point of command for controlling physical access and making emergency announcements.
- Compatibility: The IX Series can work with legacy systems such as key cards as well as with modern IP cameras, video management systems, NVRs, and Android and iOS mobile devices.
- PC Programmability: IX-Soft PC Master Station Software installs on a Windows-based computer and turns it into a feature-rich video intercom master station. Video feed from door stations and CCTV cameras can be viewed and recorded.
- Receptionist Mode: The system has a Receptionist Mode to assist visitors in the lobby when the front desk staff is not around.
- Interactive Map: The interface allows administrators to easily select video stations by clicking or dragging on an interactive map.
- Fault Detection: The IX-Soft features system-wide line supervision and device checks to ensure that all stations are online and that every button, station speaker, camera, and microphone is working properly.
- CCTV Integration: The IX Series offers plug & play integration with popular third-party CCTV cameras.
- IX Mobile: Available for both Android and iOS. It allows users to receive calls, with two-way audio and live video and also enables them to lock and unlock doors remotely.
Aiphone IX Series Pricing
- Aiphone IX-MV Master Station (baseline model): $1636
- Aiphone IX-DA IP Video Door Station (surface mount): $1098
- The software has a one-time per PC license fee that Aiphone doesn’t reveal on its website
Advantages
- No recurring annual licensing fees for video intercom features
- No server required
- Scalable from a single to 5000+ door stations
Disadvantages
- You’ll need to combine multiple components to achieve the functionality that comes built-in with modern video intercom systems
- Aiphone has discontinued IX Mobile from Jan 1, 2021, so mobile functionality is no longer available
Aiphone IXG Series (Multi-Tenant Video Intercom)
Features
- Capacity: 9,999 devices and apps including physical stations, gateways, and lift control adaptors
- Hardware: PoE stations. Touchscreen entrance with a digital keypad for station calling or search directory.
- Remote Functionality: Cloud-based app. Updates can be made remotely.
- Compatibility: IX series
Aiphone IXG Series Pricing
The price of Aiphone IXG Series Video intercom system is not available on Aiphone’s website. The following prices have been collected from the websites of Aiphone distributors and may vary from dealer to dealer.
- IXG-DM7-HID Video Entrance Station with HID Reader: ~$2400
- IXG-MK IP Video Guard Station: ~$1081 to $1780
- IXG-2C7 IP Video Tenant Station: ~$420 to $700
- IXGW-GW Mobile App Gateway Adapter: ~$700 to $1200
- IXGW-LC Aiphone IXG Series Elevator/Lift Control Adapter: ~$300 to $500
Advantages
- Extensive storage and device capacity
- Remote functionality, including updates and door unlock capability
Disadvantages
- One-way video intercom restricts visitor engagement at the door
- Hardwired in-unit stations are time-consuming and expensive to deploy, particularly with buildings that host many tenants
Aiphone JO Series (Video Intercom With Mobile App Capability)
Features
- Capacity: Up to 2 doors, 2 monitors, and 8 mobile devices
- IP Video Doorbell: Users can answer calls, see the person at the door, and unlock remotely from a hardwired internal master station or from a mobile app while they’re on the go.
- Hardware: The master station installs on two wires and has a 7” touchscreen display for answering calls and unlocking the door. The on-site monitor can communicate with visitors even if the internet is down or slow. The door station sends a chime with an image to the interior master station, which can relay it automatically to configured iOS and Android mobile devices.
- Recording and Storage: Aiphone JO Series master station stores up to 10 recordings on built-in memory, which can be expanded by using a Micro SD card. You can watch all visitor recordings within the app even if you miss a call.
Aiphone JO Series Pricing
- JO-1MDW master station with mobile app functionality: ~$704
- Single JO-DV video door station: $389
- There’s no storage or software cost
Advantages
- Compact and reliable outdoor and master stations
- Configured with mobile devices
Disadvantages
- Restricted scalability with only 2 doors, monitors, and 8 mobile device connections
- Limited visitor engagement at the door without two-way video
Aiphone GT Series (Multi-Tenant Security Intercom)
Features
- Capacity: 5 entrance stations, 2 video guard stations, and 48 tenant stations
- Hardware: Door stations have a digital directory or individual call buttons for different apartments. Built-in PTZ cameras that can be monitored from a guard station.
- Security: The guard station can receive and forward calls to tenants and offer an additional layer of security and privacy.
- Programming: On-site, software-based programming. Directory revisions can be made on-site via NFC.
- Scalability: Ability to connect multiple sites over the same network for centralized security
Aiphone GT Series Pricing
Aiphone GT video entry system kit price: From ~$,1011 for a single family 7” video intercom system set (GT-1V7) to ~$5,622 for a 16 apartment multi-tenant system set (GT-1C7).
Advantages
- NFC and VPN-based directory revisions
- Freakishly reliable hardware with high-quality audio and video
- Can be scaled from a single unit to multiple buildings
Disadvantages
- Needs wires running throughout the building and a dedicated power supply for installation
- The GT mobile app needs improvement. You cannot answer the door when the phone is locked and the video and audio don’t work at times.
Start Improving Your Building Security
Contact a Swiftlane specialist about learn more about alternatives to Aiphone intercom, and find the best access and intercom solution for your building.