Key takeaways

  • Liftmaster offers several intercoms, including the CAPXLV Smart Video Intercom – L, CAPXS Smart Video Intercom – S, CAPXM Smart Video Intercom – M, and the CAPXLV2 Smart Video Intercom – L.
  • When purchasing a LiftMaster intercom, you can select different tiers of the cloud software subscription through their myQ Community app.

 

liftmaster intercom product review

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 own or manage a multifamily property, you know how important it is to ensure convenient and secure property access. The best solution for residents, visitors, and building staff is a video intercom system for apartments installed at your property’s entryway or gate. One series of systems you may have heard of is LiftMaster’s Video Intercoms.

But how do these intercoms work, and are they worth the investment? This review compares LiftMaster’s Cloud-Based Video Intercoms to the competition.

In this LiftMaster intercom review, we’ll cover:

 

best apartment video intercom systems

 

About LiftMaster

LiftMaster, a subsidiary of The Chamberlain Group, is a globally recognized leader in smart access solutions with over 50 years of industry experience. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, LiftMaster operates as part of a larger network of companies under Chamberlain Group, leveraging its extensive infrastructure and engineering expertise to drive innovation and growth.

The company is known for its commitment to safety, security, and connectivity, and it is supported by a workforce dedicated to delivering superior performance and reliability across its operations. With a strong presence in North America and international markets, LiftMaster has established itself as a trusted partner for homeowners, property managers, and businesses. 

While known for their garage door controllers and related tech, LiftMaster is also an access control provider with a number of different video intercoms for residential and commercial properties.

 

Watch how ButterflyMX works:

 

LiftMaster Intercom Review

LiftMaster’s Video Intercoms include:

 

CAPXLV Smart Video Intercom – L

The CAPXLVMC is LiftMaster’s cloud-based video intercom for multi-tenant residential properties. The intercom allows residents to see their visitors through live video and grants access to the building via the myQ app. MyQ is LiftMaster’s proprietary cloud-based software. It’s used for Liftmaster’s various mobile applications and hardware and is controlled solely by LiftMaster.

Features

  • Display and interface. 10” color display with touchscreen.
  • Connectivity. WiFi, cellular, wired high-speed, DSL.
  • Audio capabilities. Voice over IP – digital call quality with no long-distance charges.
  • Video capabilities. One-way video calling with a 135-degree view.
  • Remote unlock. Grant property access using the myQ app.
  • Quality materials. Stainless steel, fade, and glare-resistant.

 

Pros

  • Video storage. Records videos for access events.
  • Security. Protects resident information with cloud-based security.
  • Entry protocols. Allows entry even when the internet is down.

 

Cons

  • Lack of hardware integrations. This LiftMaster intercom does not appear to have any hardware integrations, meaning expanding your access control system may be arduous.
  • Dealer purchasing. The CAPXLVMC may only be purchased through local dealers in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Limited reviews. They may not have as many user or buyer reviews as some competitors.

 

Pricing

LiftMaster pricing isn’t available on the company’s website, but the average price online is about $3,450. The installation and software costs are unavailable at the time of this writing.

 

An example of a property that would benefit from a LiftMaster Video Intercom.

 

CAPXS Smart Video Intercom – S

This intercom is intended for one to nine-unit apartment buildings. Additionally, it can be upgraded with a sun hood.

 

Features

  • Smartphone integration. Connects to smartphones via the MyQ app for remote access and control.
  • Live video feed. Provides real-time video of entranceways that is viewable from mobile devices.
  • Remote unlocking. Unlock your door or gate remotely for authorized visitors.
  • Motion detection. Alerts users to any motion detected near front entrances.
  • Wide-angle camera. Offers a broad field of view for better monitoring of the area.
  • Night vision. Equipped with infrared technology for clear video even in low-light conditions.
  • Cloud storage. Option for cloud-based video storage for easy access and review of past footage.

 

Pros

  • Remote management. Cloud-based dashboard for property managers.
  • Smart features. Supports live video streaming and smartphone-based access.
  • Mobile access. Residents can unlock doors/gates via a smartphone app.
  • MyQ integration. Seamlessly works with LiftMaster’s myQ ecosystem.
  • Weather-resistant. Durable design for outdoor use.

 

Cons

  • Compatibility issues. Limited third-party integrations.
  • Limited customization. Minimal options for branding or custom messaging.
  • Internet dependence. Requires stable WiFi or internet for reliable performance.
  • Video limitations. No built-in recording or motion-triggered features.

 

Pricing

The LiftMaster Smart Video Intercom – S retails on Amazon for $593.

 

Read customer reviews of ButterflyMX

 

CAPXM Smart Video Intercom – M

The LiftMaster Smart Video Intercom – M is a mid-tier intercom solution designed for multifamily properties. It controls up to two gates or doors.

 

Features

  • Smart video. Built-in HD camera with live video streaming.
  • Mobile access. Open doors and gates via the myQ Community app.
  • Cloud-based management. Remote monitoring and access control for property managers.
  • Weather-resistant. Durable, commercial-grade outdoor design.
  • Digital directory. Touchscreen directory for residents and guests.
  • Two-way communication. Audio communication with visitors.
  • Scalable solution. Ideal for medium to large multifamily properties.

 

Pros

  • Smart video. HD camera with live streaming for secure visitor verification.
  • Mobile access. Residents can control access via the myQ Community app.
  • Cloud-based management. Remote monitoring and updates for property managers.
  • Weather-resistant. Durable design for outdoor reliability.
  • Digital directory. Modern touchscreen interface for residents and visitors.

 

Cons

  • Door coverage. This intercom is limited to only two doors or gates, which might not be ideal for larger properties.
  • Limited customization. Minimal options for branding or personalization.
  • Internet dependent. Requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance.
  • No advanced video features. Lacks motion-triggered recording or extended storage.
  • Integration limitations. Works best within the myQ ecosystem, so it may limit third-party compatibility.

 

Pricing

The prices for this intercom range from $699 to $2,431, depending on the seller.

 

CAPXLV2 Smart Video Intercom – L

This is the upgraded and expanded version of the CAPXLVMC Smart Video Intercom – L. It features a larger screen than its predecessor. Additionally, it is designed to be used for up to 50,000 unit multifamily properties.

 

Features

  • HD video. Built-in camera with live video streaming for secure visitor verification.
  • Mobile access. Unlock doors and gates via the myQ Community app.
  • Cloud-based management. Remote access monitoring and control for property managers.
  • Large touchscreen display. User-friendly interface with a digital resident directory.
  • Weather-resistant design. Durable construction for outdoor environments.
  • Two-way communication. Residents can see and speak with visitors.
  • Scalable solution. Ideal for large multifamily properties and gated communities.

 

Pros

  • Property size. This intercom can serve much larger properties than other LiftMaster intercom systems.
  • Easy installation. WiFi or ethernet can be used for easier installation and for an internet connection.
  • User friendly. The larger display makes this intercom a little more user-friendly.

 

Cons

  • Internet dependent. Requires a stable connection for smooth operation.
  • Limited customization. Minimal branding and personalization options.
  • High cost. More expensive compared to smaller intercom models.
  • Third-party integration. Best suited for the myQ ecosystem, which may have limiting compatibility.

 

Pricing

The price for this intercom typically ranges from $2,299 to $4,399.

 

Watch what Property Brother Jonathan Scott has to say about ButterflyMX:

 

LiftMaster’s cloud software subscription

LiftMaster provides property managers with remote access control and management capabilities through the myQ Community platform.

This subscription enables features such as:

  • Remote management. Manage access permissions, monitor activity, and update system settings from anywhere.
  • Activity monitoring. View entry logs and access events from the past or as they actively occur.
  • Seamless integration. Connect LiftMaster intercoms, gates, and access systems for centralized control.
  • Resident convenience. Residents can use the myQ Community app for mobile access and notifications.
  • Scalability. Supports multiple properties and devices, making it ideal for multifamily buildings and gated communities.

 

How much does LiftMaster’s cloud software subscription cost?

LiftMaster’s cloud software subscription costs vary based on property size and features:

  • Base package. Starts at around $61/month for access control and 30 app licenses.
  • Additional app licenses. $1 per license/month.
  • VoIP service. $12 per device/month (required for Smart Video Intercoms).
  • 30-day video storage. $15 per device/month.

Final pricing depends on the number of access points, residents, and optional features, with tailored plans for multifamily properties and gated communities.

 

Comparison LiftMaster to ButterflyMX

LiftMaster and ButterflyMX both offer intercoms that utilize smart technology to enable property access from a smartphone. However, a few additional features make ButterflyMX’s smart video intercom the better choice.

LiftMaster’s primary focus on garage door openers indicates their video intercoms may not be one of their focal points. There is little performance feedback or reviews of their intercoms online.

Meanwhile, ButterflyMX has focused solely on smart video intercom solutions since 2014. ButterflyMX has been installed in over 15,000 buildings with proven success, as demonstrated by more than 40,000 five-star reviews from residents, property owners, and managers.

A significant difference between the ButterflyMX and LiftMaster intercoms is ButterflyMX’s property management software (PMS) integrations. LiftMaster’s intercoms may not integrate with property management software and could solely function on LiftMaster’s myQ connectivity. Choosing LiftMaster could mean having no option but to switch to the myQ software for resident management, which would take time to input resident and unit data.

In contrast, ButterflyMX can simplify property management by seamlessly integrating with existing products or platforms property managers and owners already use.

From an access standpoint, the Liftmaster intercoms allow you to create trackable PINs for guests to gain access to the property. This feature could be convenient, however, it may come with risks since guests may forget the PIN or share it with others.

ButterflyMX offers virtual keys that can be customized for single- or recurring use, specific days of the week, and even certain times of the day. Virtual keys are QR codes sent via text message or email to the trusted visitor, eliminating the risk of forgetting or sharing a code with others.

 

ButterflyMX vs. LiftMaster

LiftMaster’s Video Intercoms are an option for multifamily residential access but may not offer the extensive functionality of ButterflyMX. ButterflyMX’s robust features, proven success, and reliability make it the better choice for multifamily buildings and gated communities.

Here’s a table comparing LiftMaster to ButterflyMX:

Feature ButterflyMX LiftMaster
Built-in camera Yes Yes
Two-way video calling Yes No
Customizable intercom screen Yes Yes
IP65 rated Yes No
Virtual keys Yes No
Mobile app Yes Yes
PMS integrations Yes No
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Author

Nick Manzolillo

Content Writer
Nick has been a Content Writer at ButterflyMX since 2022. With extensive experience writing SEO-focused content as a copywriter, content operations specialist, and marketing writer, Nick appreciates the time it takes to gather and utilize data to create useful content for unique audiences.

He received his Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Rhode Island in 2015 and his Master of Fine Arts in Creative and Professional Writing from Western Connecticut in 2017. His debut crime novel, Moon, Regardless, was published in 2021 by World Castle Publishing and his short fiction has appeared in World Unknown Review Volume III, Mother’s Revenge, SciFI Monkey’s Seasons, Death and Decorations, and more.

Nick lives in Rhode Island with his wife and son.

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