Comelit vs Aiphone vs ButterflyMX for NYC Multifamily
The three intercom platforms most NYC property managers actually choose between are Comelit, Aiphone, and ButterflyMX. Each has different strengths. Here’s how they compare across the variables that decide a multifamily project.
Hardware approach
Comelit. Mostly traditional infrastructure with a modern IP layer. Visto IP and Ultra series sit at the top. Strong PoE-based head-end and lobby station options. Wide range of indoor stations. Reuses 2-wire and 4-wire risers from older Comelit deployments more often than not.
Aiphone. GT series for mid-market and IX series for enterprise. IX is a serious IP-native platform with the deepest commercial-grade feature set in this comparison. GT is the workhorse for typical NYC multifamily.
ButterflyMX. Mobile-first cloud platform with IP-only entry stations. Fewer indoor station options because the assumption is most residents use their phone. Cleanest install when the building is going all-mobile.
Resident experience
Comelit. Indoor stations work for residents who don’t want to run an app. Mobile-app option layered on top.
Aiphone. Same as Comelit. Strong indoor station hardware. Mobile is layered on for those who want it.
ButterflyMX. Mobile-first by design. Optional indoor station for residents who don’t have or don’t want to use a smartphone. Less of a focus.
Property manager experience
Comelit. Local management software (Comelit Hub or third-party PM tools). Per-building administration.
Aiphone. Local management. Some IX series cloud features.
ButterflyMX. Cloud-native management. Resident provisioning, credential changes, and access logs all in a web dashboard. Strong fit for portfolios.
Cost over 5 years
A 100-unit building, all-in installation plus 5 years of platform fees:
- Comelit: $50,000 to $80,000 install, minimal ongoing fees beyond hardware support contracts.
- Aiphone (GT): $50,000 to $90,000 install, similar low ongoing fees.
- ButterflyMX: $40,000 to $70,000 install, $8 to $12 per unit per month in ongoing platform fees ($48,000 to $72,000 over 5 years for 100 units).
Headline ButterflyMX install is often cheaper. Total cost of ownership across 5 years frequently comes out higher than Comelit or Aiphone.
Integration with access control
Comelit integrates natively with its own access platform and via SDK with Paxton, HID, and Brivo.
Aiphone IX integrates with most major access platforms.
ButterflyMX integrates cleanly with Brivo and other cloud-native access platforms.
Best fit by building type
- Owner-occupied co-op or condo with resident retention focus: Comelit or Aiphone.
- Rental portfolio with frequent tenant turnover: ButterflyMX shines here. Mobile-first credential management is a real time-saver.
- High-end residential or small luxury building: Aiphone IX or Comelit Visto for the full feature depth.
- Mixed-use buildings: Comelit or Aiphone, because of the deeper integration with traditional access systems.
FAQ
What if I have an existing Comelit system and want to keep it?
Most newer Comelit head-ends ride existing wiring. We’d audit your current panel and recommend a head-end-only upgrade if the existing infrastructure supports it.
Can a building run a hybrid of two platforms?
Yes, but it adds complexity. We typically recommend committing to one platform per building.
Does ButterflyMX work without WiFi?
The lobby station needs internet. The resident app uses cellular or WiFi as the resident’s phone configures.