In this review, you’ll find an in-depth look at the differences between Latch Intercom and Swiftlane Video Intercom. Also included is a comprehensive review of Latch Intercom, including key features, pricing, and pros and cons.
For more reviews and comparisons of apartment intercom systems, visit the best video intercom systems guide.
Latch is most notably known for its line of smart locks, but has just introduced its intercom system in the past few years. Latch Intercom is part of a larger, all-in-one building solution, LatchOS, which includes building and individual unit access and management. The Latch experience is a comprehensive solution to the way we interact with buildings and physical space.
While innovative in this way, Latch Intercom does have its setbacks. The intercom system is completely dependent on LatchOS. Remote unlock for visitors require Latch locks to function, and Latch Delivery Assistant is the only access solution for delivery management. This can be restricting to buildings with unique requirements, needs, or simply for those that would prefer other options.
Nevertheless, to navigate which system will be right for your video intercom needs, we have reviewed Latch Intercom and compared it to Swiftlane Video Intercom to give you a comprehensive look at all available access control and visitor management options.
Two-Way Video Intercom Calling
No, requires separate camera to be installed
Yes
Mobile Access
Remote API access
Bluetooth nearby and remote API access
Remote Unlock
Mobile app unlock
Mobile app, browser, or unlock door remotely by pressing 9 when using a traditional telephone
Incoming Intercom Calls
Receive through mobile app
Receive through mobile app, browser, or traditional telephone lines
Temporary Access
Yes, issue temporary PIN codes
Yes, issue temporary PIN codes
Door Lock Compatibility
Door unlock and release is only compatible with Latch locks
Compatible with any electrified door lock and designed to work with any existing infrastructure
Courier Access
Not available, delivery providers must call Latch Delivery Assistant for access
Swiftlane Door Controller integrates with any postal lock box through door controller hardware
Package Room Access
Not available, delivery providers must call Latch Delivery Assistant for access
Yes, grant access to multiple doors and rooms with the ability to set different timing for each door
Vandal Protection
Gorilla Glass Protection
IK07 rated for high vandal protection, installed with custom security screws, reinforced with strong display protection. Complete vandal and theft protection insurance available.
Wiring and Installation Compatibility
POE+ capable switch. Ensure your building is POE+ compatible, and will not require additional purchases.
Simple, and widely pre-existing POE injector or POE switch
Low Maintenance
Requires battery change
Yes
Pricing
$3000, without including the cost of a separate camera
<$1500
Two-Way Video Intercom Calling
Latch
No, requires separate camera to be installed
Swiftlane
Bluetooth nearby and remote API access
Swiftlane
Mobile app, browser, or unlock door remotely by pressing 9 when using a traditional telephone
Latch
Receive through mobile app
Swiftlane
Receive through mobile app, browser, or traditional telephone lines
Latch
Yes, issue temporary PIN codes
Swiftlane
Yes, issue temporary PIN codes
Latch
Door unlock and release is only compatible with Latch locks
Swiftlane
Compatible with any electrified door lock and designed to work with any existing infrastructure
Latch
Not available, delivery providers must call Latch Delivery Assistant for access
Swiftlane
Swiftlane Door Controller integrates with any postal lock box through door controller hardware
Latch
Not available, delivery providers must call Latch Delivery Assistant for access
Swiftlane
Yes, grant access to multiple doors and rooms with the ability to set different timing for each door
Latch
Gorilla Glass Protection
Swiftlane
IK07 rated for high vandal protection, installed with custom security screws, reinforced with strong display protection. Complete vandal and theft protection insurance available.
Wiring and Installation Compatibility
Latch
POE+ capable switch. Ensure your building is POE+ compatible, and will not require additional purchases.
Swiftlane
Simple, and widely pre-existing POE injector or POE switch
Latch
Requires battery change
Latch
$3000, without including the cost of a separate camera
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.
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.
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
