GSM Intercoms Comparison: AES or Videx?

As a trade installer, you’ll no doubt be aware that GSM intercoms are one of the most popular solutions to accompany any gate automation for access control. You’ll also know that these can be used alongside CCTV, but video functionality is only available from certain brands to allow the customer to see who is at the property. Our product specialist, Charlotte Briggs, discusses how they work, and compares two of our most popular products.

How GSM intercoms work

“GSM intercoms provide a solution to customers who want to allow access to their property even when they are not there”, says Charlotte, product specialist at Rolling Center. “The speaker module holds the SIM card, and once programmed it will call the list of programmed numbers to gain entry. Once the call is answered the customer can press a single button to allow access. “

A key benefit to your customer is security, says Charlotte: “When a person presses the intercom, a call will be made to the occupant’s phone rather than a fixed handset meaning that the intercom can be answered wherever the occupant is. This provides greater security as it always appears like someone is inside the property.”

And whilst the outcome with a GSM intercom is to open the gate to the property, there are many different brands, additional functions/features and price points to reflect this.

Below we have compared two of the most popular GSM intercom brands - AES vs Videx:

Brand: AES

Product: AES Cellcom Lite GSM 4G

Features:

• Simple and affordable GSM intercom

• App programmable for the installer

• Marine-grade sleek black finish with backlit keypad

• 2-Year manufacturer warranty

• New developed app available for customers only to use for functions

• 25 permanent keypad codes

• 3 dial-out numbers

• 1 relay

• Comes supplied with an optional Vodafone 12-month SIM contract

Drawbacks:

• Less features on the app in comparison to other ranges/brands. Reflected in the price. No timed access, event log, temporary access codes

• Only 1 relay, cant be used in conjunction with a pedestrian gate for a 2nd relay

• Single-button only GSM – can not be expanded for multiple call buttons in the Lite range

Shop AES intercoms >

Brand: Videx

Product: Videx GSM4KCR-1S/4G

Features

• Available in stainless steel, gun metal grey and brushed matte steel finish

• App programmable for the installer

• New developed app available for customers only to use functions

• 1000 dial to open numbers

• Modular kits can be expanded up to 50 call buttons

• Built-in proximity reader to the speaker module

• Event log can be downloaded showing up to 4000 stored events, via the RS485 bus using PC Software

• Multiple relays can then be used to control a pedestrian gate or add a push-to-exit button

• 4 dial-out numbers

• 10 different access levels when programming via the app

Drawbacks:

• The design aesthetics aren’t as sleek as other brands

• The additional features are reflected in the price point, which can be out of range for some customers

Shop Videx intercoms >

Things to take into consideration as a trade installer

• Does your customer really need all the features?

• Really assess what your customer is using the GSM for, do they just require an audio connection or do they want video as well?

• Is it just to be able to open the gate for a delivery at home, or do they require timed access for a commercial site?

Charlotte’s Verdict:

“Both products offer a fantastic solution for both residential and commercial use cases. The Videx GSM is ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who are looking to enhance their home’s security. Commercial properties and multi-dwelling entrances would benefit too, with its enhanced features, such as timed access, event logs and a built-in proximity reader. For a single-dwelling residence, the AES lite has the functions required for a customer who may come and go just a few times a day. Why pay for features not required?! The AES lite is an excellent choice for customers on a budget.”

Final Thoughts

Once you have asked the key questions and have all the information, you can compare the functionality against your customer’s requirements and make your recommendation from there.

A GSM intercom is a great choice for your customers’ gate access needs, whether for industrial, commercial or residential settings. Browse Rolling Center’s selection of competitively priced GSM intercoms today.

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