DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System Review: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons

 

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.

 

The DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System is built for properties that need more than a basic call box. It’s a cloud-managed apartment video intercom and access-control panel for multifamily, gated, mixed-use, and commercial properties.

If you’re comparing systems for a larger property, the big questions are simple: How does it work day to day? How much can it handle? What will installation look like? And what will you need to budget for beyond the panel itself?

This DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System review walks through features, model differences, installation needs, pricing factors, pros and cons, and the main alternatives buyers may want to compare.

This guide will answer:

• DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System review
• What is the DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System?
• How does the DoorKing 2137 work?
• DoorKing 2137 features and capabilities
• DoorKing eVolve models: 2137 vs. 2132 vs. 2112
• Installation, wiring, and connectivity
• How much does the DoorKing 2137 cost?
• DoorKing 2137 pros and cons
• Customer feedback and market perception
• Alternatives to the DoorKing 2137
• DoorKing 2137 vs. ButterflyMX

 

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DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System review

The DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System is a wall-mounted, cloud-managed video entry and access-control system for multifamily, gated, and commercial properties. It’s part of DoorKing’s eVolve Series and combines visitor calling, resident video screening, remote access actions, and system administration through DKS Cloud.

What stands out first is scale. The 2137 supports up to 10,000 users, 40,000 entry codes, and expansion to 97 entry points with optional Tracker boards. It also supports elevator access control for up to 8 elevators with 64 floors each.

That makes it a serious option for larger properties. But capacity alone won’t decide whether it belongs on your shortlist. You’ll also want to look at cloud requirements, optional hardware, cellular add-on costs, model differences, and how it compares with broader access platforms.

 

Key buying points

• Best fit: Larger multifamily, gated, mixed-use, commercial, parking, self-storage, and industrial properties that want dealer-installed entry hardware.
• Main strengths: High user capacity, multi-entry expansion, elevator control, smartphone visitor viewing, and flexible Ethernet or optional cellular connectivity.
• Main tradeoffs: DKS Cloud is required for programming, pricing is quote-based, cellular connectivity costs extra, and the video experience appears focused on residents viewing visitors rather than a clearly two-way visitor-side video display.

 

What is the DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System?

The DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System is a video intercom and access-control entry panel for multi-tenant, gated, mixed-use, and commercial properties. It uses a wall-mounted panel with a 6.5-inch by 4.875-inch color display, A-Z call buttons, and live video streaming to residents’ smartphones.

In plain terms, it helps visitors contact residents, lets residents see and speak with visitors, and gives authorized users a way to grant access remotely. Property staff handle programming and reporting through DKS Cloud.

DoorKing, also called DKS, has been making gate operators, telephone and video entry systems, and access-control hardware for decades. The company sells through a nationwide dealer network, which helps explain why the buying process is more quote-driven than self-serve.

 

Who is the DoorKing 2137 designed for?

The DoorKing 2137 is designed for properties that need more capacity than a small residential intercom can offer. Its scale and expansion options make it relevant for property managers, HOAs, commercial building owners, gated community operators, and other teams managing multiple entrances or elevators.

Common fit scenarios include:

• Large apartment communities
• Student housing and residence halls
• Gated communities
• Mixed-use buildings
• Commercial and industrial sites
• Self-storage facilities
• Parking facilities
• Properties with multiple controlled entrances
• High-rise buildings that need elevator access control

 

How does the DoorKing 2137 work?

The DoorKing 2137 works by letting visitors use the panel directory or call interface while residents receive video and voice communication on their phone or through the DKS Community App. Administrators manage programming, permissions, and reporting through DKS Cloud.

Here’s the basic flow: A visitor arrives, looks up a resident, and places a call. The resident can view the visitor on a smartphone, speak with them, and decide whether to grant entry. The system also supports PIN entry codes, optional Wiegand card or fob readers, and scheduled or one-time visitor access.

That means the 2137 is more than a simple call box. It brings together visitor screening, remote entry actions, access credentials, and system management in one workflow. Buyers comparing broader property access strategies may also want to look at ButterflyMX, which supports video intercoms, access control, mobile access, and visitor access as part of a broader property access and security platform.

 

How residents and visitors use the system

Residents and visitors use the DoorKing 2137 through directory calling, live video, voice communication, and access credentials. Visitors can call residents from the panel, and residents can view the visitor on their smartphone before granting access remotely.

The system also supports scheduled visitor access windows and one-time visitor access codes. That can help properties handle guests without giving every visitor a permanent credential.

For everyday entry, the 2137 supports the DKS Community App, 4- or 5-digit PIN entry codes, directory call-up to a resident’s phone, and optional Wiegand card or fob readers. Because the card reader is an add-on, buyers should confirm whether it’s included in the quoted package.

 

How managers administer the system

Property managers administer the DoorKing 2137 through DKS Cloud. DoorKing describes DKS Cloud as required for programming, so it’s a central part of how the product works.

The DKS Community App includes Manager, Enhanced User, and Standard User permission tiers. The system also stores up to 6 months of event history, giving staff a way to review access activity after the fact.

For buyers, the main question isn’t just whether cloud management exists. It’s whether that cloud requirement fits your budget, staffing model, and expectations for ongoing software use.

 

DoorKing 2137 features and capabilities

The DoorKing 2137’s key features include smartphone video, cloud-based programming, visitor access tools, multiple credential options, high capacity, elevator access control, and expansion to many entry points. Those details matter most for properties trying to manage more than one door, gate, or building entrance from the same system.

Feature	What the DoorKing 2137 offers	Why it matters
Video streaming	Residents can view visitors on a smartphone and communicate by voice.	Residents can screen visitors before granting access, even when they aren’t at the entrance.
Cloud management	Programming and reporting run through DKS Cloud.	Staff can manage supported access tasks remotely, but cloud use is part of the system requirement.
Visitor access	Scheduled visitor access windows, one-time visitor access codes, and directory-based calling are supported.	Properties can handle different guest scenarios without issuing every visitor a permanent credential.
Credentials	The system supports the DKS Community App, PIN codes, directory calling, and optional Wiegand card or fob readers.	Multiple entry methods can help serve residents, staff, and authorized users with different needs.
Elevator access	The 2137 supports up to 8 elevators with 64 floors each.	High-rise and mixed-use properties can include elevator permissions in the same access plan.
Entry-point expansion	Optional Tracker boards expand the system to as many as 97 entry points.	Larger properties can plan for multiple doors, gates, or other controlled access points.
Connectivity	Ethernet is the primary connection, with optional cellular where Ethernet is unavailable.	Buyers can plan around wired infrastructure or budget for an added cellular fallback.
Event history	The system stores up to 6 months of event and transaction history.	Access logs can help staff review entry activity after it happens.

 

Access methods and credentials

The DoorKing 2137 supports smartphone-based access through the DKS Community App, 4- or 5-digit PIN codes, optional Wiegand card or fob credentials, and directory call-up to a resident’s phone. If residents, staff, and visitors enter in different ways, that flexibility matters.

Some buyers may also want to compare ButterflyMX here. ButterflyMX supports mobile access and wallet-based credentials on compatible mobile devices, which may matter if your property wants to lean more heavily on phone-based credentials.

 

Video, audio, and mobile access

The DoorKing 2137 lets residents view visitors through live video on a smartphone and communicate by voice before granting or denying access. It also includes a day/night camera with enhanced low-light sensitivity and Do-Not-Disturb scheduling for video calls.

Available product details describe residents viewing visitors, but they don’t clearly describe visitors seeing residents on the panel. If video experience is a big part of your buying decision, it’s worth asking exactly what the visitor sees at the entrance.

 

Cloud management, logs, and permissions

DKS Cloud is required for DoorKing 2137 programming and reporting. Administrators can use it from an internet-connected device, and the DKS Community App supports Manager, Enhanced User, and Standard User permission levels.

The system also supports 31 security permission levels with 10 time zones each, plus scheduling for holidays, hold-open periods, entry codes, and do-not-call rules. For busy properties, those controls can help staff decide who gets access, when they get it, and where it applies.

 

Capacity and expansion

The DoorKing 2137 supports up to 10,000 users, 40,000 entry codes, up to 25 device codes per user, expansion to 97 entry points, and elevator control for up to 8 elevators with 64 floors each. Those numbers are a big reason the product stands out for larger properties.

For a single small entrance, that level of scale may be more than you need. But for a large apartment community, campus, commercial site, or gated property, it can make a real difference. Buyers thinking beyond a single front door may also compare ButterflyMX, which supports access control and elevator controls as part of a broader platform.

 

DoorKing eVolve models: 2137 vs. 2132 vs. 2112

The DoorKing 2137 and 2132 share the same core eVolve 2100 platform and capacity, while the older 2112 is a smaller residential-focused model with much lower capacity. That matters because the eVolve name covers several products that aren’t built for the same type of property.

Model	Best fit	Key differences	Capacity	Main tradeoff
DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System	Larger properties that want the full-size eVolve video entry panel	Larger 6.5-inch by 4.875-inch display and larger enclosure than the 2132	Up to 10,000 users, 40,000 entry codes, and 97 entry points with expansion	Larger panel size may not fit tighter mounting areas
DoorKing 2132 Video Entry System	Properties that need similar capacity in a narrower form factor	Smaller 4.25-inch by 2.625-inch display and narrower, taller enclosure	Same user, code, and entry-point capacity as the 2137	Smaller display than the 2137
DoorKing 2112 eVolve Video Entry System	Smaller residential use cases	Older model with a different app context and much lower directory capacity	Up to 40 phone numbers and 500 entry codes	Not comparable to the 2137 for large multi-tenant scale

 

DoorKing 2137 vs. 2132

The DoorKing 2137 and 2132 differ mainly in physical design, not core capacity. Both share the same eVolve 2100 circuit board and support the same large-scale user, code, and entry-point limits.

The 2137 has the larger display and wider enclosure. The 2132 has a smaller display and a narrower body meant for tighter mounting spaces. For many buyers, the choice comes down to installation space and how much screen size matters at the entrance.

 

How the 2112 differs from the 2137

The DoorKing 2112 is an older, smaller predecessor and shouldn’t be treated as a direct substitute for the 2137. It is limited to 40 phone numbers and 500 entry codes, while the 2137 supports up to 10,000 users and 40,000 entry codes.

The 2112 also uses the older DKS 2112 Resident app, while the 2137 uses the DKS Community App. If you’re comparing DoorKing models, make sure you don’t apply 2112 limits or app reputation directly to the 2137.

 

Installation, wiring, and connectivity

The DoorKing 2137 is typically dealer-installed, powered by PoE++ or 12–24VDC, and connected mainly through wired Ethernet with an optional cellular add-on. Before buying, it helps to think through power, network access, mounting needs, optional credentials, and any expansion hardware your property may require.

The system includes an 18VDC power supply, but PoE++ can simplify wiring in some installations by carrying power over Ethernet. If Ethernet isn’t available, DoorKing offers an optional cellular connection kit that requires separate service and enough upload speed.

Category	DoorKing 2137 details	Buyer consideration
Power	PoE++ Type 3 or 12–24VDC, with an 18VDC power supply included	Confirm which power approach your site will use before installation.
Network connection	Wired Ethernet is the primary connection	Plan cabling and network access at the mounting location.
Cellular option	Optional cellular kit is available where Ethernet is unavailable	Budget for extra hardware, monthly service, and required upload speed.
Professional installation	DoorKing systems are typically installed through authorized dealers	Quote scope can affect hardware, labor, accessories, and setup.
Optional hardware	Tracker boards, internal card reader, security hood, flush mount kit, internal heater, and cellular kit may be added	Ask which items are included and which are add-ons.
Cloud account	DKS Cloud is required for programming	Include cloud use in your total cost and operations review.

 

Power and network requirements

The DoorKing 2137 supports PoE++ Type 3 or 12–24VDC power. Ethernet is the primary network connection, so most properties will need a wired network path to the entrance unless they plan to use the optional cellular kit.

The cellular option can help where Ethernet isn’t practical, but it isn’t just a simple backup. It adds hardware, a monthly fee, and connection requirements that buyers should review early.

 

Optional hardware and add-ons

Optional DoorKing 2137 hardware can include Tracker expansion boards, an internal card reader, a security hood, a flush mount kit, an internal heater, and a cellular connection kit. These add-ons can change both project scope and total cost.

Before approving a quote, ask which accessories are required for your property layout and which are optional upgrades.

 

How much does the DoorKing 2137 cost?

DoorKing does not publish list pricing for the 2137 Video Entry System, so most buyers will need quotes from authorized dealers. Total cost can vary based on the hardware package, installer, region, project scope, expansion needs, cloud use, and optional add-ons.

The exact DKS Cloud subscription fee for the 2137 and 2132 is not publicly listed in the available product information. Still, because DKS Cloud is required for programming, buyers should ask about recurring software costs during the quote process.

 

What affects total cost?

The final cost of a DoorKing 2137 project can depend on several factors:

• The 2137 hardware quote
• Professional installation labor
• Power and network wiring
• Optional Tracker expansion boards
• Optional internal or external card reader hardware
• Mounting accessories, such as a security hood or flush mount kit
• Optional internal heater for cold environments
• Optional cellular kit and monthly service if Ethernet is unavailable
• Required DKS Cloud use for programming

Because pricing is quote-based, it’s smart to compare more than the headline hardware cost. The bigger question is what the quote includes and what it leaves out.

 

What buyers should ask before requesting a quote

Before requesting a DoorKing 2137 quote, ask questions that reveal both total cost and day-to-day operating needs:

• What hardware is included in the base quote?
• Is the card reader included, or is it an optional add-on?
• Does the property need Tracker boards to support all desired entry points?
• What are the DKS Cloud fees for this model?
• If Ethernet is unavailable, what are the cellular hardware and monthly service costs?
• Are mounting accessories, heaters, or security hoods included?
• Who handles setup, programming, and ongoing support?

 

DoorKing 2137 pros and cons

The DoorKing 2137’s pros and cons come down to scale, installation model, cloud dependence, and cost clarity. It’s built for larger access-control needs, but buyers should understand the ongoing and optional pieces before moving forward.

Pros	Why it matters
Supports large-property scale	With up to 10,000 users, 40,000 entry codes, and expansion to 97 entry points, the 2137 can support complex properties with many users and entrances.
Includes elevator access control	Support for up to 8 elevators and 64 floors each makes it relevant for high-rise and mixed-use buildings.
Offers multiple entry methods	Smartphone access, PINs, directory calling, and optional card or fob readers give properties several ways to manage entry.
Supports flexible infrastructure choices	PoE++ and Ethernet can simplify some wired installations, while optional cellular can help where Ethernet is not available.
Comes from an established manufacturer	DoorKing has been in business for decades and sells through a large dealer network, which may appeal to buyers who prefer dealer-installed hardware.

Cons	Why it matters
Requires DKS Cloud for programming	Buyers should plan for cloud-based administration and ask about recurring software costs.
Public pricing is limited	Quote-based purchasing can make it harder to compare total cost quickly across vendors.
Cellular connectivity adds cost and setup requirements	Properties without Ethernet may need extra hardware, a monthly service fee, and enough upload speed.
Video experience appears resident-facing	Product details describe residents viewing visitors, but buyers should ask whether the system supports the visitor-side video experience they want.
Direct model-specific feedback is limited	Buyers may need to rely more on specs, dealer input, and broader DoorKing reputation than on a large body of 2137 user reviews.

 

Customer feedback and market perception

Customer feedback specific to the DoorKing 2137 is limited, so it helps to separate three things: DoorKing’s broader hardware reputation, feedback on older app experiences, and the still-small public rating base for the DKS Community App.

Some industry reviewers describe DoorKing hardware as durable and long-lasting. That’s useful context for buyers who value established hardware brands. At the same time, the older DKS 2112 Resident app has had poor App Store ratings, while the newer DKS Community App used with the 2137 and 2132 has too few ratings to support broad conclusions.

 

What buyers should take from the available feedback

Buyers should treat DoorKing’s company reputation and the 2137’s product-specific experience as separate topics. A long-running hardware brand may be a plus, but the app experience and cloud workflow still deserve a close look during demos and dealer conversations.

If the mobile app will be central to resident access, ask to see the DKS Community App workflow before you buy. Focus on how residents receive calls, view visitors, grant access, manage visitor options, and use everyday credentials.

 

Alternatives to the DoorKing 2137

Alternatives to the DoorKing 2137 include other video intercom, access-control, and property technology platforms that take different approaches to video, cloud management, and overall platform scope. The right comparison depends on whether you want a focused entry system or a broader access strategy.

• Avigilon Alta Video Intercom Reader Pro: Useful for properties comparing DoorKing with a cloud-native intercom product marketed around API and platform scalability.
• SmartRent Access Control / Video Intercom: Relevant for multifamily buyers considering a mobile-centric property technology platform.
• Brivo Access: Worth comparing for buyers evaluating cloud-first access control alongside DoorKing’s dealer-installed hardware approach.
• ButterflyMX: Relevant for properties that want to compare DoorKing with 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.

 

Which buyers may want to compare ButterflyMX

Buyers may want to compare ButterflyMX if they aren’t only choosing a front-entry video intercom. It may be especially relevant for properties also thinking about how residents, staff, visitors, vehicles, elevators, packages, and other access workflows fit together.

 

DoorKing 2137 vs. ButterflyMX

DoorKing 2137 vs. ButterflyMX is a comparison between a focused, dealer-installed video entry and access-control panel and a broader property access and security platform. The better fit depends on your property type, access points, resident expectations, and how many workflows you want to manage together.

Feature	DoorKing 2137	ButterflyMX	Why it matters
Video intercom	The 2137 is a video entry panel that lets residents view visitors on their smartphones and communicate by voice before granting access.	ButterflyMX offers video intercoms for property entrances, letting residents receive visitor calls through the ButterflyMX mobile app, see and speak with visitors, and grant access remotely.	Both options address front-entry visitor communication, but buyers should compare the resident and visitor workflows closely.
Access control	The 2137 combines entry communication with access-control functions, including PINs, optional credential readers, and multi-entry expansion.	ButterflyMX offers access control for doors and other controlled entry points, with permissions managed through the broader platform used for its video intercom and other access products.	Access control scope matters if your property wants to manage more than basic visitor calling.
Mobile and visitor access	DoorKing supports mobile-based visitor communication and remote access actions through the DKS Community App, along with scheduled and one-time visitor access.	ButterflyMX supports mobile access and visitor access. Authorized users can use the mobile app to access supported doors, gates, and other controlled entrances, while residents can receive visitor calls, communicate with visitors, grant access remotely, and use temporary visitor access.	Mobile-first access can affect daily convenience for residents, staff, and visitors.
Credentials	The 2137 supports the DKS Community App, PIN codes, directory calling, and optional Wiegand card or fob readers.	ButterflyMX supports smartphone-based access and wallet-based credentials on compatible mobile devices, giving supported users mobile credential options beyond traditional physical credentials.	Credential strategy affects whether residents and staff rely on phones, PINs, cards, fobs, or wallet-based access.
Elevator controls	The 2137 supports elevator access control for up to 8 elevators and 64 floors each.	ButterflyMX offers elevator controls that can connect with the property’s broader access system.	Elevator access can be a major decision point for high-rise, mixed-use, and multi-tenant buildings.
Vehicle access	DoorKing’s broader company background includes gate and entry hardware, and the 2137 is relevant to gated-community and vehicular entry environments.	ButterflyMX offers vehicle access control for gates and garages as part of the broader platform used for pedestrian and building access.	Gated communities and parking properties may want to compare how each vendor fits a wider vehicle and pedestrian access plan.
Broader property access ecosystem	The 2137 centers on video entry, credentials, remote management, elevator access, and expandable access control within the eVolve platform.	ButterflyMX brings multiple access and security products into one platform, including video intercoms, access control, mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials.	Buyers choosing a long-term system may want to compare a focused entry product with a broader platform approach.

 

Which properties may prefer DoorKing

Properties may prefer the DoorKing 2137 if they want a high-capacity, dealer-installed video entry system from an established entry-hardware manufacturer. It may be especially appealing for larger properties that need elevator control, many user codes, multiple entry points, and a traditional dealer-supported buying process.

 

Which properties may prefer ButterflyMX

Properties may prefer ButterflyMX if they want to evaluate video intercoms alongside a broader set of property access and security products. ButterflyMX may be especially relevant for teams comparing mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials in one platform conversation.

 

Frequently asked questions

What is the DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System?

The DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System is a cloud-managed video intercom and access-control panel for multifamily, gated, mixed-use, and commercial properties. It lets visitors call residents, lets residents view visitors on smartphones, and supports remote access actions.

 

How does the DoorKing 2137 work?

The DoorKing 2137 works by connecting an entrance panel, resident smartphone video and voice communication, access credentials, and DKS Cloud programming. Visitors use the panel to call residents, and residents can view the visitor and grant access remotely.

 

How many users and entry points does the DoorKing 2137 support?

The DoorKing 2137 supports up to 10,000 users, 40,000 entry codes, and expansion to 97 entry points with optional Tracker boards. It also supports up to 25 device codes per user.

 

Does the DoorKing 2137 require internet?

Yes, the DoorKing 2137 uses internet connectivity for cloud management, with Ethernet as the primary connection. An optional cellular kit is available where Ethernet is not available.

 

Does the DoorKing 2137 require a landline?

No, the DoorKing 2137 does not rely on a traditional telephone landline. It uses Ethernet as the primary connection, with optional cellular connectivity available.

 

Does the DoorKing 2137 have a mobile app?

Yes, the DoorKing 2137 uses the DKS Community App for supported mobile functions. Residents can view visitors, communicate by voice, and take remote access actions through the app workflow.

 

How much does the DoorKing 2137 cost?

DoorKing does not publish list pricing for the 2137, so buyers usually need a dealer quote. Total cost can depend on hardware, installation, DKS Cloud use, optional cellular service, expansion boards, credential readers, and mounting accessories.

 

What are the main limitations of the DoorKing 2137?

The main DoorKing 2137 limitations are required DKS Cloud programming, limited public pricing, extra cost for optional cellular connectivity, and an unclear visitor-side video experience. Buyers should also keep in mind that direct 2137 customer feedback is still limited.

 

What are the best alternatives to the DoorKing 2137?

Common alternatives to compare with the DoorKing 2137 include Avigilon Alta Video Intercom Reader Pro, SmartRent Access Control / Video Intercom, Brivo Access, and ButterflyMX. The right option depends on whether your property wants a focused entry system, cloud-first access control, or a broader property access platform.

 

Final verdict

The DoorKing 2137 Video Entry System may fit properties that want a high-capacity, dealer-installed video entry and access-control panel with smartphone visitor viewing, elevator controls, and room to expand across many entry points. It’s especially relevant for larger multifamily, gated, mixed-use, commercial, and campus-style properties.

The biggest tradeoff is that the 2137 isn’t just a hardware purchase. Buyers should plan for DKS Cloud programming, quote-based pricing, optional cellular costs, optional reader and expansion hardware, and the need to confirm the exact mobile and video experience before committing.

If you’re comparing the DoorKing 2137 with broader access options, ButterflyMX is worth a look. ButterflyMX brings video intercoms, access control, mobile access, visitor access, vehicle access control, elevator controls, security cameras, package rooms, smart lock integrations, and wallet-based credentials into one property access and security platform.

To compare your options, explore how ButterflyMX can support your property’s access needs and request pricing for your building or community.

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