Two technologies, one same function
Both the WiFi and traditional video intercoms serve the same purpose: see who is at your door and open it without going down. The difference lies in how they do it and what additional possibilities they offer. Understanding these differences will help you choose the most suitable system for your home.
Traditional video intercom: reliable and proven
The traditional video intercom works through wiring (2-wire or 4+N wire) that connects the outdoor panel with the indoor monitor. It does not need internet or WiFi to operate: it is a standalone, robust, and very reliable system.
Advantages of the traditional video intercom:
- Does not depend on internet or WiFi network
- Higher reliability and durability
- Standard installation, widely known by installers
- Lower initial cost for basic installations
- Works even during internet outages
Limitations:
- You can only answer the call from the monitor installed at home
- Does not allow remote door release from mobile
- No smartphone notifications
WiFi video intercom: connectivity and remote control
The WiFi video intercom adds wireless connectivity to the traditional system. Besides working as a classic video intercom, it connects to your WiFi network and lets you manage it from your mobile via an app.
Advantages of the WiFi video intercom:
- Remote door release from mobile
- Instant notifications when someone calls
- Camera viewing from anywhere
- Multiple users can manage access
- Compatible with existing 2-wire installations (no rewiring needed)
Limitations:
- Requires a stable WiFi network at the installation point
- Depends on internet for remote functions
- Price slightly higher than the equivalent traditional model
Direct comparison
| Feature | Traditional | WiFi |
|---|---|---|
| Door release from mobile | No | Yes |
| Smartphone notifications | No | Yes |
| Requires internet | No | For remote functions |
| Reliability without internet | Total | Works locally |
| Price | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Compatible with 2-wire wiring | Yes | Yes (344884) |
What type of installation does each system require?
The traditional video intercom requires specific wiring between the outdoor panel and the monitor. 2-wire systems are the most common in modern homes and allow voice, video, and door release signals to be transmitted over a single pair of wires. 4+N wire systems are older and common in older buildings.
The WiFi video door phone, like the BTicino Classe 300EOS Black (ref. 344884), installs exactly like a traditional 2-wire one, using the existing cabling. WiFi connectivity is added without additional work, making it the ideal option to modernize an installation without remodeling.
Is the WiFi video door phone secure?
Security is a common concern when it comes to connected devices. Professional-grade WiFi monitors like the Classe 300EOS use communication encryption and user credential access, ensuring that only authorized people can view the camera or remotely open the door.
Additionally, since it also works locally (without internet), the system is not exposed if the connection goes down.
Integration with home automation and voice assistants
One of the key advantages of the latest generation WiFi monitors is their compatibility with home automation ecosystems. The BTicino 344884 is compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing, for example, call notifications on an Echo Show or checking the camera image by voice.
This integration opens the door to advanced scenarios: automating opening based on schedules, combining the video door phone with smart locks, or integrating it into a broader connected home system.
How much does a professional WiFi video door phone cost?
The price varies depending on the model and features. The WiFi Monitor Classe 300EOS Black with Alexa (BTicino 344884) is priced at €443.96 in our store, a high-end monitor with a touchscreen, premium black design, and full compatibility with existing 2-wire installations.
For basic installations, there are more affordable options, although with fewer features. The investment in a quality WiFi monitor quickly pays off in comfort, security, and durability.
Which one to choose?
If you value maximum reliability and don't need remote control, the traditional video door phone is sufficient. If you want to open the door from your mobile, receive notifications, and have integration with Alexa, the WiFi monitor like the BTicino Classe 300EOS Black 344884 is the right choice, and it can be installed over your existing 2-wire cabling without additional work.