Key takeaways
- Siedle provides telecommunications systems, including intercoms, IP systems, cameras, and access point security devices.
- Siedle’s top three products are the Siedle Vario IP, their door intercom system sets, and Siedle Secure – which is their take on access control.
- While Siedle intercom systems offer reliable access control, they lack modern conveniences such as two-way video calling, touchscreen functionality, and seamless cloud-based integrations.
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.
Multifamily residents prioritize safety and security. Protecting property, possessions, and loved ones is critical to maintaining resident satisfaction. Video intercom systems for apartment buildings are an effective way for tenants to see who’s at the door before granting them property access.
There are plenty of video intercom providers, but not all products are equal. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at Siedle’s intercoms, cameras, and more. We’ll also see how it compares to the competition.
This review covers:
About Siedle
Based in Germany, Siedle provides telecommunications systems, including intercoms, IP systems, and access point security devices. The company has an international footprint and is in many countries worldwide. It is dedicated to creating innovative designs and engineering technologies that enhance security for people and organizations. Simplicity is a hallmark of Siedle, as it strives to provide functional products that deliver results.
What’s more, the company emphasizes sustainability by incorporating environmentally friendly practices and materials into its manufacturing processes. Siedle also prioritizes customization, offering flexible design options that allow clients to tailor solutions to their specific needs.
Overview of top Siedle products
The Siedle products we cover in this review include:
1. Vario IP
The Siedle Vario is a modular video intercom that can be mounted horizontally or vertically in a surface-mount or flush-mount version. With a variety of optional features, the Vario is easy to customize. Siedle’s digital configurator tool lets you design a system with desired features.
Intended for multifamily properties, this Siedle intercom can also be installed at commercial buildings, gated properties, and other multi-tenant buildings. Residents can open the door using an indoor door station or with their smartphones using the Siedle mobile app.
Features
- Call button interface with optional digital directory/call display
- Customizable and adaptable for different configurations and situations.
- Dome camera that includes integrated infrared lighting
- Day/night switchover function
- Optional features include letterboxes, fingerprint reader, card reader, key-operated switch, electronic key reader, and code lock
Pros
- Good sound quality
- Straightforward design and easy to use
- Useful add-ons like the fingerprint reader, card reader, and electronic key reader
Cons
- No touchscreen
- Mobile app requires a complex set-up process to grant residents access
- Not a cloud-based video intercom system
- Only one-way video calling
- Interface may feel outdated to users, which has limited functionality
- Not ideal for large buildings with many units
Watch how ButterflyMX works:
2. Door intercom system set
Siedle’s door intercom systems are designed to combine functionality, aesthetics, and security, making them an ideal choice for residential and commercial properties. These systems offer a variety of configurations and features to suit a wide range of applications, from single-family homes to multi-tenant buildings. With Siedle’s modular approach, property managers and owners can customize their intercom systems to meet specific needs while maintaining a sleek and unified appearance.
Features
- Modular design. Siedle’s intercom systems are modular, allowing users to add or remove components as needed. This ensures the system can adapt to evolving requirements.
- Audio and video. If purchasing the set, these intercoms deliver crisp sound and clear video, ensuring seamless communication between residents and visitors.
- Customizable. Optional features include call buttons, nameplates, integrated cameras, and access control solutions such as code locks, card readers, and fingerprint scanners.
- Integrated lighting. Many models come equipped with LED lighting to improve visibility and usability, especially in low-light conditions.
- Multiple mounting options. Siedle systems can be surface-mounted or flush-mounted, depending on the design and architectural requirements of the property.
Pros
- Flexible modular design for customizable configurations
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship
- Aesthetic appeal with modern and timeless designs
- Integrates well with other Siedle access control solutions
Cons
- No cloud-based functionality unless paired with their Smart Gateway
- Pricing may not be transparent and varies significantly based on customization
- May feature limited software integration with modern property management systems
- Requires professional installation and setup
- Does not support two-way video calling
3. Siedle Secure
Siedle Secure is their take on an access control system, and is a good choice for properties seeking reliable and advanced access control solutions. However, properties looking for fully cloud-based or third-party integrated systems may find limitations with this offering.
Features
- Flexible. Siedle Secure allows for easy integration of various components, such as fingerprint scanners, code locks, and card readers, offering customizable access control solutions tailored to individual property needs.
- Comprehensive security. When paired with the Smart Gateway, the system protects access points with features like encrypted data transmission and intelligent access management, minimizing the risk of unauthorized entry.
- Integrations. It works cohesively with Siedle’s intercom systems and communication devices, creating a unified approach to property security and access control.
- User-friendly interface. Siedle Secure prioritizes ease of use for both property managers and end-users, offering intuitive control panels and straightforward functionality.
- Scalable options. The system is suitable for small properties and scalable to meet the demands of larger facilities or multi-building complexes.
Pros
- Customizable for specific access control needs
- High security with encrypted data transmission
- Integrates seamlessly with Siedle intercom and communication systems
- Scalable to accommodate properties of different sizes
Cons
- Pricing may not be transparent and varies based on the chosen configuration
- May require professional installation and setup for optimal functionality
- Limited cloud-based capabilities unless used with Siedle Smart Gateway
- May not integrate easily with third-party property management software
Comparison: ButterflyMX vs. Siedle
Installing a video intercom system is an easy way to establish secure and convenient property access at any apartment building. But which intercom is better: the Siedle Vario or ButterflyMX? Though Siedle’s Vario intercom offers a basic property access solution, it may not go beyond that.
ButterflyMX’s mobile app and web-based platform provide a far more seamless access experience for both property managers and residents. Property managers using the ButterflyMX intercom are given access to a cloud-based property management dashboard. This means you can manage the video intercom system from anywhere without downloading software. You can also program the intercom and add or remove tenants remotely without going onsite to update the resident directory.
When it comes to hardware design and functionality, ButterflyMX also has the upper hand. Though simple and straightforward, the Siedle Vario’s intercom hardware may leave much to be desired. Our Video Intercom, on the other hand, offers a more modern aesthetic with its large touchscreen interface and clean design.
Another advantage of our Access Control System is its many property entry methods. With ButterflyMX, you can send virtual keys to guests in advance, provide delivery PINs to couriers, open the door with a Siri- or Alexa-enabled device, and swipe to open the door from the mobile app, among other methods.
Finally, ButterflyMX has over 40,000 five-star reviews and is installed in over 15,000 buildings. As far as our research shows, there are not as many customer reviews on Siedle’s website.
ButterflyMX vs. Siedle
The Siedle Vario intercom may function well enough for basic property access at multifamily apartment buildings. However, the Siedle Vario intercom could lack the convenient features and functionality needed to create a well-rounded building entry experience. Installing the Siedle Vario may be expensive if you choose to install indoor hardware in every unit, and setting up the mobile app for all your residents could be more trouble than it’s worth.
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