ButterflyMX Intercom: Review, Pricing and Comparison

In this review, you’ll find an in-depth look at the differences between ButterflyMX Smart Intercom and Swiftlane Video Intercom. Also included is a comprehensive review of ButterflyMX, including key features, pricing, and pros and cons.

For more reviews and comparisons of apartment intercom systems, visit the best video intercom systems guide.

ButterflyMX vs. Swiftlane

Hardware

Pricing

Video Intercom

Visitor Management

Common Area Security

ButterflyMX vs. Swiftlane – which is better?

ButterflyMX Intercom is a video intercom solution suitable only for the front lobby or door. Swiftlane is a complete common area security platform, including access solutions for mobile and facial recognition unlock.

As a single solution to visitor management, ButterflyMX is still one of the most expensive options on the market. In terms of hardware, ButterflyMX is several times more expensive per unit that Swiftlane’s complete, comprehensive solution. Because of the price and the limited operability, ButterflyMX, unlike Swiftlane, is much more difficult and cumbersome overall to scale.

Swiftlane’s Swiftreader is also rated IK07 for vandal resistance, unlike ButterflyMX. While the two have similar touchscreen interfaces and weatherproofing options, the Swiftreader is much more compact compared to the ButterflyMX Smart Intercom. The compact nature of Swiftlane’s solution grants an extreme amount of flexibility and versatility. ButterflyMX hardware is limited to installation sites that will support its robust size. This also affects the cost of installation, which will be much higher for a larger install.

ButterflyMX installation will not only be more costly, there is limited local support. Swiftlane is installed by an extensive network of local installers who also provide accessible, on-the-ground support. Since Swiftlane is a complete common area security solution, it can be configured to support any type of building with any number of needs, such a multi-door unlock, parking garage access, elevator integration, etc.

The visitor management experience also looks different for ButterflyMX and Swiftlane. ButterflyMX issues QR codes for temporary access. Swiftlane has taken into account the entire visitor ecosystem by providing the ability to issue unique temporary or expiring PIN codes. With single-use PIN codes, building visitors can now include delivery drivers and couriers who can be provided a unique PIN in the delivery instructions. PIN codes are also inclusive of those without smartphones.

The Swiftlane visitor management experience also allows calls to be received by multiple devices simultaneously. ButterflyMX does not support simultaneous calling. In addition, Swiftlane provides a unique virtual front desk option as a backup should a call go unanswered. ButterflyMX requires a third party service for this function.

As such, Swiftlane has built both a product, an experience, and a service to simplify the lives of both property management and tenant. Swiftlane combines high security with intuitive, easy to manage interfaces. The entire Swiftlane experience is built to solve problems from the ground up.

Reference an even more comprehensive, side-by-side feature comparison below.

ButterflyMX Intercom Overview

Key Features for Property Managers and Building Owners

• Ability to see door release event history for up to 365 days
• Manage tenant and visitor permissions
• Integration with property management software (PMS)

Key Features for Tenants

• Remote unlock feature for tenants or guests through smartphone
• Visitors can be sent virtual keys for managed access
• Two-way video intercom calling

Pricing

7” Surface Intercom: $3650, with 2 year warranty

7” Recessed Intercom: $4150, with 2 year warranty 

11.6” Surface Intercom: $5650, with 2 year warranty

11.6” Recessed Intercom: $6150, with 2 year warranty 

ButterflyMX software is priced based on the number of units, starting at $750/yr for residential. Commercial pricing is based on the number of employees and starts at $2400/yr, based on pricing available in September 2020. 

ButterflyMX Reviews

Advantages

• Has been around for approx. 10 years
• Multiple fancy integrations, primarily only attractive to large buildings
• Many deployments within the major markets with strong traction in Class A buildings
• 6-digit access PIN available if keys or phone are left behind
• Elevator controls through mobile app 
• Alexa- or Siri-enabled voice controls

Disadvantages

• High cost: ButterflyMX is very expensive compared to other products in the market. Most modern intercoms start at $1200, whereas ButterflyMX starts around $3500, plus requires several additional pieces like an active internet connection, a POE+ switch, UPS battery backup, and door lock power supply components (if not available).
• Installation is done by outsourced third party installers. Unclear how local support could be provided if there are issues.
• As an intercom system only, ButterflyMX requires a separate access control solution to be installed. This increases installation cost and overall operational overhead including training and managing multiple systems.
• Large panels are a space constraint and increase cost of labor and install in smaller spaces. Additionally, large panels are a limitation to install in all entrances needed. Finally, the larger panel can attract vandals and require expensive replacements and repair in the event of a vandal incident.
• The Virtual Key QR code cannot be used for embedding in delivery instructions, causing issues with effective delivery management.
• No ability to set up multiple front desk callers.
• Does not support temporary PIN access for guests.