Security cameras
What is two-way audio on a camera?
Two-way audio means the camera has both a microphone and a speaker: from the phone app you can hear what is happening and talk through it. It is useful for answering whoever is at the door, speaking to your pet or warning off an intruder.
How you use it
You open the live view in the app and hold down the microphone button to talk. On some cameras it works like a walkie-talkie (one side at a time) and on others like a phone call (both at once).
Since everything travels over the internet, there can be a short delay between what you say and what is heard at the camera. It depends on the quality of your connection and of the WiFi at home.
How it differs from one-way audio
A camera with one-way audio only has a microphone: you can listen, but you cannot answer. If the spec sheet just says "audio" or "built-in microphone", it is worth confirming it also has a speaker.
What to check before you buy
- Confirm the sheet says "two-way" or "bidirectional".
- A strong WiFi signal where the camera goes improves the audio.
Products with Two-way audio in our store
This is how it appears on their spec sheet. Open each one to see all its specifications.
Guides to help you choose
Frequently asked questions
Yes, as long as the camera and your phone both have internet. You do not need to be on the same WiFi network.