New Building Intercom
Started by Ethan129
over 6 years ago
Posts: 157
Member since: Sep 2007
Discussion about
Our condo is looking into replacing our older intercom system. Is anyone familiar with the Butterfly MX system? If so, the good and bad would be much appreciated. Thanks.
it doesn't matter, you just need something that works and not too difficult to learn to use
Looks pretty cool.
My main concern would be whether it has any ongoing subscription-type costs since you are using their app/software. Also, you probably need to have Internet service in the lobby for this to function which may be another expense.
I cannot say that I have experience with Butterfly, but it was one of a few systems we considered when replacing our intercom in a 12 unit building 2 years ago. I would say the main benefit of this system is that it uses your phone. I would also say that the main drawback (and deal breaker for us) was that it uses your phone, and to my recollection it had no option for a hard-wired wall mount screen. For myself and other long-beyond millennial aged owners who not keep their phones cemented to their hands (and others who have sitters and employees staying in the unit), needing to use your phone to buzz the door was not viable (and there are reports on various websites that the App is finicky). Also, this system only has a scrolling screen to list and ring apartments at the front door, but we wanted separate buttons for each unit. A number of unit owners liked the idea of being able to buzz in UPS/FedEx remotely. I did not, but as a compromise, we went with Virtual Doorman, which had the hardware we wanted (which i believe is Aiphone) and simultaneously installed security camera system. To Rock28's comment, Virtual Doorman but does come with annual fees, and also required bringing fairly high speed internet to the basement (adding more monthly fees).