Home and apartment security is a growing concern across the United States. According to statistics from the FBI Crime Data, over 813,000 residential burglaries were reported in 2023, with about 230,285 occurring during the day when many people least expect it. As break-in methods become more sophisticated, traditional security measures like locks and keycards may no longer be enough to prevent unauthorized entry. This calls for smarter access control solutions that enhance security while making entry easier for residents and property managers.
One company leading the way in modern building access technology is ButterflyMX. Specializing in video intercom systems and mobile-based access control, ButterflyMX helps secure apartment buildings, gated communities, and commercial spaces by replacing outdated key systems with smartphone-based credentials. Their cloud-based platform allows residents to grant access remotely while property managers can monitor entries in real time. The system even integrates with visitor management and security tools, making it a comprehensive solution for secure access control.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about ButterflyMX, from how their systems work to their best features, pricing, customer reviews, and competitors. Whether you’re a property owner, a resident, a business manager, or someone just looking for a modern access control solution, this guide will help you understand what makes ButterflyMX unique and whether it’s the right choice for your residential or commercial security needs.
About ButterflyMX
ButterflyMX is a company that specializes in smart access control solutions for residential and commercial buildings. Founded in 2014, the company set out to modernize traditional intercom systems by introducing smartphone-based access technology. Instead of relying on physical keys or keycards, ButterflyMX allows residents, property managers, and visitors to unlock doors and gates using their mobile devices. This innovation has made building access more convenient while improving security and reducing the need for expensive wiring and hardware installations.
The company offers a range of products designed to simplify property access. Its video intercom system enables users to see and speak with visitors before granting entry, and this adds an extra layer of security. ButterflyMX also integrates with various property management tools. This allows administrators to monitor access logs, manage permissions, and streamline operations from a single platform. With cloud-based technology, users can control entry remotely. This makes it ideal for apartment complexes, gated communities, office buildings, and student housing.
What’s more, ButterflyMX has grown significantly over the years, with its solutions now being used in over 17,000 multifamily and commercial properties across the United States. Its focus on user-friendly technology and seamless integration has made it a popular choice among property owners and managers looking for a modern approach to access control. By eliminating outdated systems and replacing them with smart, mobile-based solutions, ButterflyMX continues to shape the future of building security and convenience.
How a Video Intercom System Works
A video intercom system is a modern way to control access to buildings by allowing residents and property managers to see and communicate with visitors before granting entry. Unlike traditional intercoms that rely on audio alone, video intercoms provide visual confirmation before access can be authorized. This makes apartment security even more reliable and convenient.
ButterflyMX has taken this concept further by creating a smart video intercom system that works with smartphones and cloud-based technology. When a visitor arrives at a building, they use the touchscreen intercom panel to request access. Residents receive a video call on their phone, allowing them to see and speak with the visitor before unlocking the door remotely. This eliminates the need for physical keys or keycards. Thereby, making entry seamless and secure.
In addition, ButterflyMX’s video intercom system supports virtual keys and delivery PINs. This allows residents to grant access to guests or service providers without needing to be physically present. Property managers can monitor entry logs, manage permissions, and integrate the system with other security tools, ensuring full control over building access. With easy installation and cloud-based management, ButterflyMX’s video intercom system is designed to simplify access control while improving security for apartments, offices, and gated communities.
ButterflyMX Reviews – The Good and the Bad
ButterflyMX has received mixed reviews from users, with many praising its convenience and modern technology, while others have raised concerns about pricing and reliability. Below, we break down the positive and negative aspects based on customer feedback.
The Good – What Users Love
- Easy Mobile Access – Many users appreciate how ButterflyMX eliminates the need for physical keys and fobs, allowing them to unlock doors with their smartphones. This makes entry more convenient, especially for apartment residents and property managers.
- Video Intercom Feature – The ability to see and speak with visitors before granting access is a major advantage. Users find this feature helpful for security and package deliveries. Thus, ensuring they know who is at the door before letting them in.
- Seamless Integration – ButterflyMX works well with property management systems. It makes it easy for administrators to track entry logs, manage permissions, and streamline operations. Many property managers find this integration useful for maintaining security.
- Customer Support – Some users have praised ButterflyMX’s responsive customer service. Their representatives are helpful and quick to assist with installation and troubleshooting.
The Bad – Common Complaints
- Pricing Concerns – Some users feel that ButterflyMX is overpriced, especially for smaller properties. The cost of installation and subscription fees can be higher than expected. Unfortunately, this makes it less appealing for budget-conscious businesses.
- Reliability Issues – A few customers have reported technical problems, such as the intercom screen going black or the system failing to work properly. These issues can cause frustration, especially when deliveries or visitors are unable to gain access.
- Internet Dependency – Since ButterflyMX is cloud-based, it relies on a stable internet connection. If the internet goes down, users may lose access to remote unlocking features, which can be inconvenient.
- Limited Customization – Some users have mentioned that certain settings and features cannot be customized. This makes it difficult to adjust the system to fit specific needs.
ButterflyMX offers modern access control solutions that improve security and convenience, but it may not be the perfect fit for every property. While its smartphone-based entry and video intercom are highly praised, concerns about pricing and reliability should be considered before making a decision.
Unique Features of ButterflyMX Access Control
ButterflyMX offers smart access control solutions designed to make building entry seamless and secure. Whether for residents, property managers, or developers, its features focus on convenience, home automation, and security. Below are some of the standout features that set ButterflyMX apart.
Mobile-Based Access
One of the biggest advantages of ButterflyMX is its mobile-first approach to access control. Residents can open doors, gates, and garages using their smartphones. This eliminates the need for physical keys or fobs. With a simple swipe on the app, users can grant access to themselves or visitors, making entry quick and hassle-free.
Video Intercom & Visitor Management
Furthermore, ButterflyMX’s video intercom system allows residents to see and speak with visitors before granting access. This feature enhances security by ensuring that only authorized guests can enter the building. Residents can also send visitor passes, which provide temporary access that can be revoked at any time.
Voice-Controlled Entry
For added convenience, ButterflyMX integrates with Alexa and Siri. This allows users to unlock doors and gates with voice commands. This hands-free feature is especially useful when carrying groceries or when users prefer not to use their phones.
Elevator & Package Room Access
ButterflyMX extends its access control beyond doors and gates. If a building is equipped with elevator controls, residents can unlock key-fobbed elevators using the intercom or mobile app. Thus, creating a smooth entry experience from the sidewalk to the sofa. Additionally, its package room solution ensures secure deliveries, notifying tenants when a package has arrived.
Remote Management for Property Managers
Property managers benefit from a powerful online dashboard that allows them to monitor access logs, update permissions, and manage building security remotely. The system also integrates with property management software, automating access control based on tenant move-ins and move-outs.
Easy Installation & Integration
ButterflyMX is designed for fast and simple installation, requiring only three connections: internet, door strike, and power. It also integrates seamlessly with third-party security and property management systems, including Yardi, AppFolio, Salto KS, and Google Workspace. Thus, ensuring smooth operations across different platforms.
ButterflyMX’s smart access control system combines security, convenience, and automation, making it a top choice for modern residential and commercial properties.
Some Common Use Cases for ButterflyMX
ButterflyMX is designed to simplify and enhance access control in different types of properties. Its mobile-friendly and cloud-based system makes it a great fit for various use cases, helping residents, property managers, and businesses manage security more efficiently. Here are some of the most common ways ButterflyMX access control devices and solutions are used:
Apartment Complexes & Gated Communities
Many modern apartment buildings and gated communities use ButterflyMX access control devices to replace traditional keys and intercom systems. Residents can unlock doors and gates with their smartphones, making entry faster and more convenient. The video intercom feature lets residents see and speak with visitors before granting access, improving security and reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.
Office Buildings & Commercial Spaces
Businesses rely on secure access control to manage employee and visitor entry. ButterflyMX solutions helps office buildings grant access to workers and guests remotely. This reduces the need for physical keycards or security personnel at entry points. Property managers can monitor who enters and exits the building and integrate the system with other security tools for full visibility and control.
Student Housing & Dormitories
Managing access in student housing can be challenging, especially with frequent move-ins and move-outs. ButterflyMX makes it easy for universities and housing administrators to adjust access permissions instantly, ensuring only authorized students have entry. The package room feature is also useful for handling student deliveries and sending notifications when a package is ready for pickup.
Short-Term Rentals & Hospitality
Hotels, Airbnb rentals, and other temporary accommodations benefit from mobile-based access control, which allows guests to receive entry credentials digitally. With ButterflyMX, hosts can issue temporary access passes that expire at the end of a guest’s stay. This mitigates security risks and ensures smooth check-ins without any need for physical keys.
ButterflyMX’s smart access control system provides convenience, security, and flexibility across different industries. Whether for residential buildings, commercial offices, or student housing, its mobile-based technology simplifies property access while enhancing safety.
How Much Does ButterflyMX Cost?
ButterflyMX offers smart access control solutions with pricing that depends on the type of system, number of units, and features included. Unlike traditional access control systems that require large upfront costs, ButterflyMX operates on a hardware purchase plus annual software fee model.
Hardware Costs
The price of ButterflyMX’s video intercom systems varies based on the size and features of the device.
- 8-inch Video Intercom – Costs around $3,995 per unit.
- 12-inch Video Intercom – Costs around $5,995 per unit.
Annual Software Fees
Furthermore, ButterflyMX is free for residents, tenants, and visitors to use. However, property owners pay an annual software fee per apartment unit. This typically ranges between $30 and $42 per unit per year. The fee covers live video access, remote management, and software updates.
Installation Costs
Installation costs depend on building size, wiring needs, and labor. These fees can range from $200 to $1,500, depending on the complexity of the setup.
ButterflyMX’s pricing structure makes it affordable for large properties, but smaller buildings may find the ongoing software fees a bit costly. However, the convenience, security, and automation it provides often make it worth the investment.
About the Competitors
ButterflyMX is a leading name in smart access control, but it’s not the only option available. Several companies offer similar solutions, each with unique features catering to different security needs. Below are some of the top competitors in the video intercom and access control industry:
Brivo
Brivo specializes in cloud-based access control, offering businesses a secure way to manage entry permissions remotely. Unlike ButterflyMX, which focuses on video intercom systems for residential properties, Brivo is ideal for commercial spaces and enterprises that need automated access management, visitor tracking, and integrations with video surveillance.
Verkada
Verkada provides cloud-based security solutions, including video surveillance, access control, and AI-powered analytics. While ButterflyMX focuses on mobile-based entry and intercom systems, Verkada is preferred for advanced monitoring and enterprise-level security automation.
Hikvision
Hikvision is a global leader in video security, offering high-resolution security cameras, alarm systems, and AI-powered analytics. Unlike ButterflyMX, which specializes in intercom-based access, Hikvision provides a full security ecosystem for large commercial properties looking for comprehensive monitoring solutions.
AppFolio & Yardi
Both AppFolio and Yardi offer property management software with access control integrations. These platforms help property managers automate security permissions, similar to ButterflyMX’s remote management dashboard. Businesses that need a complete property management solution alongside access control may consider these alternatives.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing the best access control system depends on your specific needs. If you need a simple, mobile-based entry solution for residential buildings, ButterflyMX is a strong choice. If you require cloud-based security automation, Brivo may be a better fit. For AI-powered video surveillance, Verkada or Hikvision are excellent options, while property management integrations make Yardi and AppFolio competitive alternatives.
Final Thoughts – Our Recommendation for Building Access Security
Choosing the right access control system is important for ensuring security, convenience, and efficiency in residential and commercial buildings. ButterflyMX offers smart, mobile-based entry solutions that replace traditional key systems with a modern, app-driven approach. Its features, like video intercom, visitor passes, and voice-controlled entry, make it a great choice for apartment complexes, gated communities, and office spaces.
While ButterflyMX has some drawbacks, such as pricing concerns and internet dependency, its ease of use, remote management capabilities, and integration with property management tools make it a valuable investment in access security. By providing a seamless way to control entry, manage visitors, and enhance security, ButterflyMX remains a strong option for properties looking for a modern and efficient solution to building access.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some common complaints about ButterflyMX?
- Some users mention concerns about pricing, occasional technical issues, and the system’s reliance on a stable internet connection for smooth operation.
- Can they see you on ButterflyMX?
- Yes, ButterflyMX’s video intercom allows residents to see visitors before granting access. This adds an extra layer of security to entry management.
- Can ButterflyMX open my apartment door?
- Yes, residents can use the ButterflyMX mobile app to unlock doors, gates, garages, and even elevators if their building is equipped with compatible controls.
- Does ButterflyMX work with property management systems?
- Yes, ButterflyMX integrates with popular property management platforms like Yardi, AppFolio, and RealPage. This allows property managers to automate security permissions and manage access remotely.
- Is ButterflyMX expensive?
- The cost depends on building size and features, but some users find the hardware and annual software fees higher than traditional intercom systems. However, its smart features and convenience often justify the price for many properties.
