1Valet Video Intercom Review, Cost, Alternatives

 

 

Disclaimer: ButterflyMX provides these blog posts to help our customers and potential customers make the right business decisions. Our blog posts are based on the information available to us at the time of writing.

 

If you’re reading this 1VALET review, you’re likely deciding whether it’s just an intercom or a bigger building platform worth shortlisting. That’s the right question to ask, because 1VALET combines a Smart Intercom, a Resident App, and a Management Portal for multifamily properties.

For buyers, the real questions are practical ones. How does it work at the front door? Which console size makes sense for your entrance? What do residents get in the app? How is pricing handled? And how does 1VALET compare with other property access platforms like ButterflyMX?

This review walks through 1VALET’s apartment video intercom models, features, integrations, installation, pricing, pros and cons, customer feedback, and alternatives so you can decide whether it belongs on your shortlist.

This guide will answer:

• What is 1VALET?
• How does the 1VALET Smart Intercom work?
• 1VALET Smart Intercom models
• 1VALET features and capabilities
• 1VALET integrations
• Installation, wiring, and connectivity
• How much does 1VALET cost?
• 1VALET pros and cons
• What do customers say about 1VALET?
• 1VALET alternatives
• 1VALET vs. ButterflyMX
• Is 1VALET worth considering?
• Frequently asked questions

 

What is 1VALET?

1VALET is a smart-building operating system for multifamily properties. It combines a video intercom console, a resident mobile app, and a management portal for access, resident services, and day-to-day building operations.

That matters because buyers aren’t only choosing a lobby device. They’re also deciding whether they want one platform that reaches into visitor entry, package delivery, resident communication, payments, maintenance, parking, and staff workflows.

The company was founded in 2017 in Gatineau, Quebec. Its platform is aimed at property owners, operators, developers, condo boards, and property managers.

 

Who is 1VALET designed for?

1VALET is mainly designed for multifamily apartments, condominiums, and mixed-use residential developments. Its strongest fit is in residential properties where residents, guests, staff, and couriers all need different access workflows.

If you manage another property type, it’s worth asking how well the platform maps to your use case before moving too far into the buying process.

 

Watch how ButterflyMX works:

 

How does the 1VALET Smart Intercom work?

The 1VALET Smart Intercom puts a video console at the entrance, sends visitor calls to residents’ smartphones, and gives property staff a central portal to manage access and related operations.

When a visitor arrives, they use the intercom to call a resident. The resident can answer in the mobile app, see and speak with the visitor, and let them in if needed.

Residents can also use mobile credentials, guest access tools, and optional facial recognition. On the staff side, the Management Portal supports access permissions, CCTV workflows, parking, inspections, incident reporting, and other building tasks.

 

What parts make up the 1VALET platform?

1VALET has three main parts:

• Smart Intercom console: The entrance hardware for visitor calls, resident entry, and courier access workflows.
• Resident App: The app residents use for access, video answering, guest passes, payments, amenity booking, maintenance requests, and more.
• Management Portal: The staff dashboard for access control, CCTV, concierge workflows, parking, inspections, and related operations.

So if you’re comparing 1VALET with other systems, you’re really comparing a front-door product plus a broader residential operations platform.

 

1VALET Smart Intercom models

1VALET offers three Smart Intercom console sizes: 10-inch, 21.5-inch, and 43-inch. The clearest published hardware details are for the 10-inch and 21.5-inch models.

The 10-inch console is the most compact option. The 21.5-inch model gives you a larger display, while the 43-inch version appears geared toward larger lobby presentation.

Model	Best fit	Display size	Connectivity	Durability ratings	Key difference
10-inch console	Entrances that need a smaller footprint	10-inch touchscreen	PoE+ or optional LTE	IP65, IK08	Most compact model
21.5-inch console	Lobbies that benefit from a larger screen	21.5-inch touchscreen	PoE++ or optional LTE	IP65, IK07	Larger display than the 10-inch model
43-inch console	Larger lobby presentation	43-inch format	Public details are more limited	Public details are more limited	Largest model in the lineup

 

How the 1VALET console sizes differ

The biggest difference is size. If space is tight, the 10-inch console may be easier to fit. If the entrance needs a bigger screen, the 21.5-inch or 43-inch model may make more sense.

For the 10-inch and 21.5-inch consoles, 1VALET lists IP65 ingress protection and different impact ratings. The listed operating temperature across consoles is -30°C to 55°C, which is important for outdoor entrances and colder climates.

Before choosing a model, ask which published specs apply to the exact console you’re considering, especially if you’re looking at the 43-inch version.

 

1VALET features and capabilities

1VALET’s core features include HD video calling, mobile credentials, guest access, package-scanning courier access, optional facial recognition, remote management, and integrations with other building systems.

What makes those features matter is the workflow behind them. Residents need an easy way in. Visitors need a clear way to reach the right person. Couriers need temporary access. Staff need control without handling every task at the door.

Feature	What 1VALET offers	Why it matters
Video calling	HD two-way video calls from the entrance console to a resident’s smartphone	Residents can see who’s there before granting access.
Facial recognition	Optional touch-free entry for residents	It can make entry faster, though some properties will want to weigh privacy expectations.
Digital keys	Smartphone and wearable credentials, including Apple Watch and Wear OS support	Residents can depend less on physical fobs or cards.
Guest access	Time-limited guest passes with logged activity	Properties can give temporary access without handing out permanent credentials.
Package-scanning courier access	Parcel barcode scanning and temporary courier entry	Buildings with heavy delivery traffic may spend less time managing courier access by hand.
Management Portal	Tools for access, CCTV, concierge workflows, parking, inspections, and incidents	Staff can manage more building tasks from one dashboard.
Cloud tools	Remote software updates and cloud-based multi-property management	Portfolio teams can manage supported workflows across multiple buildings.
Integrations	Connections with locks, access control, cameras, elevators, lockers, and PMS platforms	Properties may be able to modernize without replacing every existing system.

Buyers comparing access platforms may also look at ButterflyMX, which offers video intercoms, mobile access, and visitor access as part of a broader property access platform. That comparison can help you decide whether you want an intercom-centered resident operations platform, a wider access platform, or both.

 

Visitor and guest access

1VALET supports visitor video calls from the entrance console to the resident’s smartphone. From there, the resident can talk with the visitor and decide whether to let them in.

The platform also supports app-based guest access and time-limited credentials. That can make life easier for properties that don’t want staff involved in every expected visit.

Guest activity is also logged, which gives property teams a record they can review later.

 

Delivery and package access

Package handling is one of 1VALET’s clearest differentiators. The Smart Intercom includes parcel barcode scanning that can give couriers temporary access for deliveries.

1VALET also supports parcel notifications with QR or numeric pickup codes and integrations with smart lockers such as Luxer, Expedibox, Snaile, and BlueBox. If package volume is a pain point at your property, this part of the platform deserves a close look.

ButterflyMX takes a different package approach through package rooms. If deliveries are a major issue for your property, compare the exact workflow each platform supports, including courier entry, locker integration, package room access, resident notifications, and staff oversight.

 

Mobile app features

The 1VALET Resident App goes beyond opening the door. Residents can use it for digital keys, video intercom answering, rent payments, amenity bookings, maintenance requests, messaging, community features, and document access.

1VALET also lists support for Apple Watch, Wear OS, CarPlay, and Android Auto. That gives residents more ways to interact with the platform, depending on the building setup.

If your property wants one app to handle both access and everyday resident tasks, this broader app experience may stand out.

 

Management and cloud tools

1VALET’s Management Portal gives staff one place to manage supported access and building operations. Listed capabilities include access control, CCTV viewing and playback, camera reboot, virtual concierge workflows, parking management, inspections, shift notes, incident reporting, and PMS sync.

Remote software updates are also part of the platform. For portfolio operators, the cloud-based portal can help teams manage multiple buildings from one dashboard.

The bigger buying question is scope. If your team wants to connect access with broader residential operations, the portal may be a large part of 1VALET’s value.

 

1VALET integrations

1VALET is positioned as a platform that works with existing building technology instead of requiring a full rip-and-replace project. Its listed integrations include smart locks, access control panels, property management systems, video surveillance, elevators, and smart lockers.

Integration category	Supported examples	Buyer benefit
Smart locks	SALTO, Yale, Alfred, Dormakaba	Properties can extend access workflows beyond the main entrance.
Access control panels	SALTO, ICT, Kantech, Brivo	Existing access hardware can connect into a broader dashboard.
Property management systems	Yardi, RealPage, Entrata, Hopem	Resident data, fobs, maintenance, and payment workflows can sync with management tools.
Video surveillance and NVR	Digital Watchdog, Hikvision, Hanwha	Staff can manage camera-related workflows from the platform.
Elevators	OTIS, Kone, Braxos	Properties can restrict floor access based on credential permissions.
Smart lockers	Luxer, Expedibox, Snaile, BlueBox	Package pickup can tie into resident notifications and access workflows.

 

Why 1VALET’s integrations matter

Integrations matter because many multifamily buildings already have locks, cameras, elevators, and property management software in place. Replacing everything at once can be expensive and disruptive.

1VALET’s approach may appeal to properties that want to connect existing systems into one operating environment. It may also help portfolios that already have different hardware across different buildings.

Buyers reviewing connected access ecosystems may also compare ButterflyMX, which supports access control and smart lock integrations as part of its property access and security platform. That can help clarify how each product fits into a larger access strategy.

 

Installation, wiring, and connectivity

1VALET is a professionally installed, wired video intercom platform. The 10-inch console uses PoE+, the 21.5-inch console uses PoE++, and optional LTE is available with a separate SIM card and data plan.

It doesn’t rely on a landline. Wired Ethernet is the main connection method, while LTE may be used where supported and properly set up.

1VALET is also positioned as retrofit-friendly. In many cases, that means it’s designed to work with existing building wiring, locks, and access-control panels without major rewiring.

Buyers comparing deployment approach and platform scope may also review ButterflyMX’s video intercom and access control offerings. No matter which platform you’re considering, ask what hardware is needed at each entrance and how access workflows may expand over time.

 

What hardware may be involved beyond the intercom

The intercom console is the core entrance device, but a full deployment may include more than the console. Depending on the property’s goals, 1VALET may connect with third-party access-control panels, smart lockers, smart thermostats, elevators, cameras, or EV charging integrations.

That broader scope can be helpful, but it also makes planning more important. Before buying, ask which devices are included, which come from third parties, which require separate contracts, and what ongoing fees may apply.

 

How much does 1VALET cost?

1VALET does not publish pricing on its website. To get a price, buyers need to request a quote based on the property, hardware, software, integrations, and installation scope.

A third-party estimate has put the intercom at $5,000 to $10,000 per unit, but that is not official manufacturer pricing. It’s best used as a rough outside reference, not as a guaranteed quote.

1VALET has also been described elsewhere as using subscription-style software pricing, but there is no current public fee schedule. Ask for a quote that clearly separates hardware, installation, software, LTE data needs, integrations, and any ongoing fees.

Key pricing questions to ask include:

• What is the hardware cost per entrance?
• Are software or platform fees charged monthly or annually?
• What does professional installation include?
• Does LTE require a separate data plan?
• Are integrations, smart lockers, cameras, or thermostats priced separately?
• Does pricing change across the 10-inch, 21.5-inch, and 43-inch consoles?

 

1VALET pros and cons

1VALET stands out for its all-in-one residential platform, package-scanning courier access, broad integration ecosystem, and resident app. The main tradeoffs are quote-based pricing, limited detail on some models, LTE data-plan needs, privacy considerations around facial recognition, and its strongest fit being multifamily residential.

Pros	Why it matters
Combines intercom hardware, resident mobile tools, and management workflows	You can evaluate access, resident services, and staff operations as part of one platform.
Offers package-scanning courier access	Buildings with high delivery volume may benefit from a more automated courier workflow.
Supports many integrations	Connections with locks, access control, cameras, elevators, lockers, and PMS tools may reduce the need to replace existing systems.
Includes multiple access methods	Residents, guests, couriers, and staff can use different workflows, including mobile credentials, guest passes, and optional facial recognition.
Provides climate-oriented hardware specs	Published temperature and durability ratings matter for outdoor entrances and harsh climates.

Cons	Why it matters
Pricing is not published	Buyers can’t easily compare costs without going through a quote process.
Some model details are clearer than others	Properties considering the 43-inch console may want more product-specific detail before choosing hardware.
Optional LTE requires a separate SIM and data plan	Cellular connectivity can add both planning steps and ongoing cost.
Optional facial recognition may raise privacy questions	Some properties may see it as a benefit, while others may need a more careful policy and rollout plan.
The strongest documented fit is residential	Non-residential buyers should ask how well 1VALET fits their property type.

 

What do customers say about 1VALET?

Public customer feedback for 1VALET is limited, and the comments that are available are mixed. Some users praise the app’s ease of use, while others mention problems with smart thermostat responsiveness or occasional access issues tied to connectivity.

Positive comments focus on the Resident App being easy to use for access, notices, documents, and marketplace features. A property manager testimonial published by 1VALET also describes the app as user-friendly for residents setting up door access.

Negative comments include criticism of the smart thermostat experience, including responsiveness and temperature limits. Another theme to watch is occasional network-related access trouble in the app.

The main takeaway for buyers is simple: don’t rely too heavily on a small review set. Use demos, references, and pilot questions to test the workflows that matter most at your property.

 

1VALET alternatives

The best 1VALET alternative depends on what you’re trying to solve. Some buyers want a smart intercom. Others want a broader access platform, a stronger resident app, or more building operations tools.

• ButterflyMX: A strong option for buyers comparing video intercoms with a broader property access and security platform. ButterflyMX includes video intercoms, access control, mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials.
• BuildingLink: A useful comparison for teams more focused on resident and building management workflows than intercom hardware.
• Carson Living: A relevant option for buyers comparing resident experience platforms and property operations tools alongside access features.

If your priority is package-scanning courier access and resident operations, 1VALET may deserve a close look. If you want a broader property access and security stack, it makes sense to compare it with platforms like ButterflyMX.

 

1VALET vs. ButterflyMX

1VALET and ButterflyMX both serve multifamily access needs, but they frame the buying decision differently. 1VALET centers on its Smart Intercom, Resident App, and Management Portal, while ButterflyMX is built as a broader property access and security platform.

The better fit depends on whether your property is focused more on resident operations, broader access coverage, or both.

Feature	1VALET	ButterflyMX	Why it matters
Video intercom	1VALET centers its offering on a smart video intercom console connected to the Resident App and Management Portal.	ButterflyMX offers video intercoms for property entrances, with visitor calls handled through the ButterflyMX mobile app.	Video intercom is often the starting point for a property access upgrade.
Mobile access	1VALET supports smartphone-based digital keys and app-based resident access, along with wearable credential options.	ButterflyMX supports mobile access, including wallet-based credentials on compatible devices.	Mobile credentials affect convenience, staff workflows, and reliance on physical fobs or cards.
Visitor access	1VALET supports visitor video calls to residents’ smartphones, app-based guest passes, and logged guest activity.	ButterflyMX supports visitor access that lets residents receive calls, speak with visitors, and grant access remotely.	Visitor workflows shape the day-to-day resident experience.
Elevator controls	1VALET supports elevator integrations for floor-restricted access through partners such as OTIS, Kone, and Braxos.	ButterflyMX supports elevator controls.	Elevator-linked access matters in high-rises and mixed-use buildings where door access alone isn’t enough.
Smart lock and access ecosystem	1VALET integrates with smart locks and third-party access-control panels as part of its broader building system.	ButterflyMX supports access control and smart lock integrations.	This helps buyers compare how each platform may fit into an existing or expanding access setup.
Security and property access breadth	1VALET extends beyond the intercom into CCTV, parking, inspections, concierge workflows, and resident operations through its management tools.	ButterflyMX supports access control, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, and more alongside video intercoms.	Buyers often want to know whether they’re choosing a point solution or a broader access and security platform.
Package-related capabilities	1VALET highlights built-in package scanning, courier entry automation, parcel notifications, and smart locker integrations.	ButterflyMX supports package rooms.	Package handling can be a major operational issue, so the workflow matters as much as the feature name.
Credential options	1VALET supports facial recognition, smartphone credentials, guest passes, and compatibility with existing fobs or cards through integrated systems.	ButterflyMX supports mobile access and wallet-based credentials.	Credential strategy affects convenience, adoption, and long-term access planning.

 

Which properties may prefer 1VALET?

1VALET may fit best for properties that want a multifamily-focused smart-building platform tying together a video intercom, resident app, package-scanning courier access, management workflows, and property-management integrations.

It may be especially appealing to apartments and condos that want resident services and courier automation in the same platform conversation.

 

Which properties may prefer ButterflyMX?

ButterflyMX may fit best for properties looking at a broader property access and security platform that includes video intercoms, access control, mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials.

It may be a strong comparison option for teams that want to manage more access workflows across doors, gates, garages, elevators, and package areas.

 

Is 1VALET worth considering?

1VALET is worth considering if you want more than a basic video intercom. Its strongest fit is for multifamily and condo properties that want to connect front-door access with a resident app, package workflows, integrations, and staff-facing tools.

The biggest tradeoff is buying clarity. Pricing is quote-based, some model details require follow-up, LTE may add a separate data-plan cost, and facial recognition may need a careful policy discussion.

If 1VALET matches the way your property operates, it belongs on the shortlist. Just make sure you compare it against other platforms that fit your bigger access goals.

 

Frequently asked questions

What is 1VALET?

1VALET is a smart-building operating system for multifamily properties. It combines a Smart Intercom, Resident App, and Management Portal for access, resident services, and building operations.

 

How does the 1VALET Smart Intercom work?

The 1VALET Smart Intercom uses an entrance video console to call residents through the mobile app. Residents can answer remotely, speak with visitors, and grant access from their phones.

 

What 1VALET intercom models are available?

1VALET offers 10-inch, 21.5-inch, and 43-inch console options. The 10-inch model is the most compact, the 21.5-inch model has a larger display, and the 43-inch version is the largest format.

 

How much does 1VALET cost?

1VALET uses quote-based pricing and does not publish prices on its website. A third-party estimate cites $5,000 to $10,000 per intercom, but buyers should request a full quote for hardware, installation, software, LTE, and integrations.

 

Does 1VALET require internet or a landline?

1VALET uses wired Ethernet through PoE or PoE++, depending on the model, and it does not require a landline. Some models also support optional LTE with a separate SIM card and data plan.

 

Does 1VALET have a mobile app?

Yes, 1VALET has a Resident App. Residents can use it for digital keys, video intercom answering, guest access, payments, amenity bookings, maintenance requests, messaging, and document access.

 

What integrations does 1VALET support?

1VALET supports integrations with smart locks, access control panels, property management systems, video surveillance and NVR systems, elevators, and smart lockers. Listed examples include SALTO, Yale, Yardi, RealPage, OTIS, Kone, Luxer, and others.

 

What are the main pros and cons of 1VALET?

1VALET’s main advantages are its all-in-one platform, package-scanning courier access, broad integrations, and resident app. The main tradeoffs are quote-based pricing, limited detail on some models, LTE data-plan needs, facial-recognition privacy considerations, and a strongest fit in residential properties.

 

What are the best alternatives to 1VALET?

Common 1VALET alternatives include ButterflyMX, BuildingLink, and Carson Living. The best option depends on whether your priority is video intercom access, broader property access, resident operations, or building management workflows.

 

How does 1VALET compare with ButterflyMX?

1VALET is a multifamily smart-building platform centered on its Smart Intercom, Resident App, and Management Portal. ButterflyMX is a broader property access and security platform that includes video intercoms, access control, mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials.

 

1VALET may be a strong fit for multifamily and condo properties that want more than front-door entry. It’s most compelling for teams that want to connect a video intercom with resident app features, package workflows, integrations, and staff operations tools.

The biggest question to answer before buying is scope. If you want an intercom plus broader residential operations features, 1VALET deserves a close look. If you want a broader property access and security platform, compare it carefully with options like ButterflyMX.

ButterflyMX helps properties manage access with video intercoms, access control, mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials. To compare your options, request pricing from ButterflyMX and evaluate which platform best fits your entrances, residents, staff, and delivery workflows.

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