Hardware vs software
ButterflyMX replaces lobby panels with proprietary hardware. Protobuzz keeps your existing callbox and modernizes it through a virtual callbox app.
Protobuzz vs. ButterflyMX
Contrast software-first automation with hardware-centric video intercoms so you can decide whether to modernize legacy buzzers or invest in new ButterflyMX panels.
Who it’s for
ButterflyMX is built for buildings that want new touchscreen panels, video intercoms, and on-site hardware. Protobuzz focuses on tenants, hosts, and property teams who prefer to modernize their existing phone-dial buzzers with cloud software and mobile apps.
Pricing snapshot
- ButterflyMX: Requires purchasing hardware for every entrance, paying for installation, and layering on service or SaaS contracts per panel.
- Protobuzz: Software subscription per unit with optional Premium upgrades; no mandatory hardware spend or electrician visits.
Key features compared
Resident experience
ButterflyMX emphasizes video calls at the panel. Protobuzz leans into mobile-first notifications, guest codes, and automations so residents control access from their phones.
Portfolio management
Protobuzz provides multi-building dashboards out of the box. ButterflyMX can manage portfolios but requires outfitting every entrance with new readers.
Where Protobuzz stays ahead
Software speed
Protobuzz deploys without electricians or panel swaps, letting you modernize in days instead of waiting on construction timelines.
Automation-first UX
Residents, hosts, and PMs get mobile notifications, guest codes, and delivery workflows without relying on lobby hardware interactions.
Cost efficiency
Subscription pricing keeps budgets predictable; boards avoid large CapEx while still gaining concierge-grade tooling.
Choosing a ButterflyMX alternative
ButterflyMX popularized app-connected intercom hardware. Protobuzz takes a software-first approach, letting you modernize legacy buzzers with remote unlocks, call forwarding, and delivery automations without touching the panel.
Use this comparison to evaluate rollout timeline, budget, and resident experience. You can also review Protobuzz vs. Lowkey buzzer and Protobuzz vs. FreshBuzzer for additional context.
| Capability | ButterflyMX | Protobuzz |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware requirements | Requires ButterflyMX hardware readers, panel replacements, or camera intercom installations. | Software-only deployment that layers on top of existing buzzers and phone-line intercoms. |
| Call routing & automations | Forward calls to residents and issue virtual keys; advanced automations require additional modules. | Multi-recipient call forwarding, programmable automations, and trigger-based unlocks with calendar sync. |
| Delivery workflows | Delivery tools available via package room hardware or integrations with supported locker vendors. | Delivery windows, passcodes, and concierge alerts built into the core app with exportable logs. |
| Portfolio management | Portfolio dashboards available, but every entrance requires ButterflyMX devices and wiring. | Manage multiple buildings, entrances, and resident groups from one dashboard at software pricing. |
| Cost structure | Hardware purchase, installation costs, and ongoing service contracts per entrance. | Low software subscription per unit with optional Premium upgrades; no mandatory hardware spend. |
Quick feature check
| Capability | ButterflyMX | Protobuzz |
|---|---|---|
| Video intercom hardware | Touchscreen panels | Software-only overlay |
| Package room integrations | Locker hardware | Delivery windows + logs |
| Elevator/gate control | Hardware tie-ins | Focus on buzzer entries |
| Hardware-free deployment | Requires new panels | Uses existing buzzer |
| Entry cost | CapEx + $30+/unit/yr | $0 start, $4.17/mo Standard |
| Automation workflows | Video-first focus | Rules, delivery windows, quiet hours |
| Deployment timeline | Construction approvals | Deploy in days |
| Small-building accessibility | Enterprise focus | Great for small condos |
| Portfolio scaling | Hardware per entrance | Software dashboards |
| Maintenance overhead | Hardware servicing | No onsite servicing |
When Protobuzz is the better fit
Choose Protobuzz when you want to modernize door access quickly, keep existing wiring, or roll out software-driven automations across many buildings. It is easy to pilot, easy to scale, and delivers the concierge automation residents expect.
Choose ButterflyMX if you are ready to invest in new lobby hardware with built-in video and touchscreen directories, or if you are planning a full renovation where physical upgrades are already in scope.
ButterflyMX alternative FAQs
Protobuzz answers the most common questions about smart buzzer access, subscriptions, and getting started below.
Buzz smarter. Live easier.
