SmartRent Review | Alloy Hardware & Home Solution 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.

 

Choosing a smart home solution for your multifamily property isn’t a decision you make lightly. With so many options on the market, it’s important to find an intercom system that balances automation, access control, resident convenience, and operational efficiency, all without overcomplicating daily management.

SmartRent is one of the most recognized names in the rental housing smart home space, offering a centralized platform that connects locks, thermostats, lighting, leak sensors, and visitor access systems into a single ecosystem. Their focus is on creating integrated solutions specifically for multifamily, student housing, and build-to-rent communities.

But how well does SmartRent deliver on its promises? And how does it compare to other access control and smart home providers?

In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at SmartRent’s hardware, software, pricing, installation, and support, as well as real user feedback. We’ll also compare SmartRent’s Smart Intercom System to ButterflyMX’s Video Intercom to help you understand the key differences if visitor management is a top priority for your property.

In this post:

• About SmartRent
• How we reviewed SmartRent
• SmartRent Devices & Alloy SmartHome Hardware
• Who SmartRent solutions are best for
• SmartRent costs
• SmartRent installation and support
• Pros and cons of SmartRent
• SmartRent customer feedback: What real users are saying
• Comparing SmartRent competitors
• SmartRent Smart Intercom System vs. ButterflyMX Video Intercom
• SmartRent FAQs

 

About SmartRent

SmartRent is a smart home automation company focused on serving property owners and managers in the rental housing industry. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, SmartRent aims to simplify property operations and enhance the resident experience by offering a fully integrated suite of hardware and software solutions.

Unlike traditional smart home providers, SmartRent is built specifically for multifamily, single-family rental, and student housing communities. For example, their platform combines IoT devices, like smart locks, thermostats, sensors, and plugs, with cloud-based software designed for both property managers and residents. With this combination, SmartRent helps streamline everything from access control and energy management to maintenance workflows and unit turnovers.

Today, SmartRent solutions are deployed across thousands of communities nationwide, and the company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol SMRT.

 

How we reviewed SmartRent

To create this SmartRent review, we conducted an in-depth analysis of SmartRent’s product ecosystem, with a focus on their Alloy SmartHome devices, access control platform, and property management tools. Our team reviewed product specifications, training resources, case studies, and official documentation published on SmartRent’s website.

We also examined real-world feedback from property managers, residents, and installation professionals across public review sites, app stores, and industry forums. This helped us better understand how SmartRent performs across key criteria like ease of use, reliability, and customer support.

In addition, we compared SmartRent to other smart home and access control providers to help multifamily decision-makers understand where it fits into today’s proptech landscape. Our goal is to give you a clear, honest evaluation of SmartRent’s features, pricing, usability, and overall value.

Whether you’re exploring SmartRent for a new development or considering retrofitting an existing property, this guide will help you cut through the marketing and focus on what matters most.

 

 

SmartRent Devices & Alloy SmartHome Hardware

SmartRent Alloy SmartHome Hardware

• SmartRent SmartHome Hubs
• SmartRent Sensors
• SmartRent Readers, Panels, and Boards for access control
• SmartRent Smart Intercom Systems for apartments

 

SmartRent SmartHome Hubs

 

SmartRent’s Alloy SmartHome Hubs act as the central command center for each unit, connecting all smart devices, including locks, sensors, thermostats, and lights, to a single property-wide platform. These hubs rely on Z-Wave technology to ensure stable communication between devices, and they’re essential for enabling remote management through the SmartRent app.

There are two models to choose from:

• Alloy Hub. The standard model enables seamless device connectivity and supports automation scenes, remote control, and real-time monitoring. It’s typically installed inside each unit and is required to unlock the full functionality of SmartRent’s smart home ecosystem.
• Alloy Hub+. This upgraded version includes all the capabilities of the original Alloy Hub, plus an integrated smart thermostat. With temperature control built directly into the hub, property managers can reduce hardware clutter while still offering energy management features to residents.

Both hubs are designed for rental properties, which means they’re engineered to be tamper-resistant and easily reset between residents. Particularly, for owners and operators, the Alloy Hub is what brings SmartRent’s ecosystem to life.

 

SmartRent Sensors

 

SmartRent offers a suite of in-unit sensors designed to enhance security, prevent damage, and support automation across rental properties. These sensors connect to the Alloy SmartHome Hub and are a key part of SmartRent’s value proposition for both residents and operators.

Here’s a breakdown of their core sensor offerings:

• Motion sensors. These devices detect movement within a room and can trigger automated actions, like turning on lights or sending alerts, based on preset conditions. They’re often used for occupancy detection, energy-saving routines, and even self-monitored security features.
• Contact sensors. Installed on doors, windows, or cabinets, contact sensors monitor open and close activity in real-time. Property managers can use them to ensure vacant units remain secure while residents benefit from added peace of mind.
• Leak sensors. One of the most valuable sensors in SmartRent’s lineup, leak sensors identify the presence of water and alert property staff before costly damage occurs. These are commonly placed near sinks, toilets, and HVAC units to proactively manage maintenance issues.

 

SmartRent Readers, Panels, and Boards for access control

 

SmartRent’s access control hardware is designed to support seamless, property-wide entry management, from perimeter gates to lobby doors and everything in between. The system is built to integrate directly with SmartRent’s software platform, giving property managers full visibility and control over who enters and when.

Here’s how their hardware breaks down:

• Smart readers. These long-range readers are built for convenience, capable of detecting fobs or mobile credentials from up to 23 feet away. They’re commonly deployed at parking gates or vehicle entrances, offering hands-free access for residents. This distance-based credential recognition adds speed and efficiency without sacrificing security.
• Control panels and boards. These devices serve as the backbone of SmartRent’s access control system. Installed in key locations throughout the property, they manage all connected entry points and coordinate with the cloud-based platform for real-time permissions and logging. Panels and boards are essential for syncing in-unit hardware with shared amenity access and front entry points.

 

SmartRent Smart Intercom Systems for apartments

 

SmartRent’s smart intercom is a cloud-based solution designed to manage visitor access at building entrances. Built specifically for multifamily properties, the system enables residents to answer calls and unlock doors from anywhere using the SmartRent app, eliminating the need for in-unit hardware or landlines.

The intercom features a weatherproof design and supports two-way audio communication, allowing visitors to request access and residents or staff to respond in real-time. So, when paired with SmartRent’s access control hardware and Alloy Hub, it becomes part of a fully integrated entry experience across the property.

However, the SmartRent intercom lacks built-in video, which limits visibility for residents compared to more advanced systems on the market. There’s no touchscreen directory either, meaning visitor navigation relies on pre-assigned call buttons or integrated credential access.

For properties already using SmartRent’s ecosystem, this intercom offers basic remote entry functionality and a consistent user experience. But for buildings looking for a modern, video-enabled intercom with customizable branding and robust visitor management, it may fall short of expectations.

 

SmartRent additional devices

• SmartRent Locks and Lockboxes
• SmartRent Thermostats
• SmartRent Smart Lighting: Switches, Dimmers, Bulbs, and Plugs

 

SmartRent Locks and Lockboxes

 

Smart locks and smart lock integrations are at the core of SmartRent’s appeal, offering a keyless, cloud-connected entry experience for both residents and property staff. Further, SmartRent is compatible with major hardware brands like Yale, Kwikset, and Schlage, and they integrate directly with the SmartRent app for remote locking, unlocking, and access scheduling.

For residents, that means no more lost keys or waiting for packages. Additionally, for property managers, it enables streamlined access management for vendors, tours, and turnovers all without needing to be on-site. SmartRent also supports one-time access codes and scheduled credentials, making it easier to coordinate entries for maintenance or deliveries.

In addition to smart locks, SmartRent offers lock boxes that serve as an alternative solution for access control. So, these secure, app-enabled boxes are often mounted near unit doors or entry points and are used to store keys or access cards. Further, they’re especially useful for self-guided tours or temporary access allowing prospective renters or service providers to enter designated spaces without staff supervision.

 

SmartRent Thermostats

 

SmartRent offers smart thermostat solutions that aim to enhance resident comfort while improving energy efficiency across rental properties. Futher, their thermostats integrate with the SmartRent platform, allowing for remote control, scheduling, and automation through the SmartRent app, whether units are occupied or vacant.

SmartRent primarily features thermostats from trusted manufacturers like Honeywell, known for reliable performance and strong compatibility with smart home ecosystems. The available models typically include a mix of Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats for direct cloud communication and Z-Wave models for seamless integration with the Alloy SmartHome Hub.

Through the SmartRent app, residents can easily adjust temperature settings, create automated schedules, and monitor energy usage. So, property managers can remotely manage climate control in vacant units, enforce energy-saving settings, and reduce operational costs without needing to physically access each apartment.

 

SmartRent Smart Lighting: Switches, Dimmers, Bulbs, and Plugs

 

SmartRent’s smart lighting solutions give residents greater control over their in-unit environment while helping property owners improve energy efficiency. The lineup includes smart bulbs, switches, dimmers, and plugs, all of which integrate with the Alloy SmartHome Hub and can be managed through the SmartRent app.

Residents can schedule lighting scenes, adjust brightness levels, and turn lights on or off remotely, whether they’re home or away. As a result, these automation features not only offer convenience but can also support energy conservation, particularly in vacant units or common areas.

For property managers, smart lighting adds a layer of control without requiring on-site staff. However, during turnovers or showings, lights can be activated remotely to create a welcoming environment, and smart plugs can be used to power on appliances or lamps as part of a preset automation.

 

Who SmartRent solutions are best for

SmartRent is built specifically for rental housing, which is demonstrated by how their platform is designed, deployed, and supported. Their solutions are best suited for owners and operators who want to automate building operations, streamline maintenance workflows, and offer modern conveniences to residents, all from a centralized platform.

Here’s who SmartRent is a strong fit for:

• Multifamily portfolios with 100+ units. SmartRent’s tools are designed to scale across multiple properties and unit types, making it a solid choice for operators managing large portfolios or scattered sites.
• Developers and REITs. New developments and real estate investment trusts can benefit from SmartRent’s hardware packages and enterprise-level management tools, especially when planning for long-term energy savings and operational efficiency.
• Student housing and build-to-rent communities. With features like self-guided tours, smart locks, and leak sensors, SmartRent is a good match for properties that prioritize automation and low-touch maintenance.
• Operators already using Yardi, RealPage, or SightPlan. SmartRent integrates with major property management systems, which simplifies implementation and helps maintain clean data across platforms.

However, SmartRent may not be ideal for small properties, buildings with legacy wiring challenges, or operators who only need access control without broader smart home functionality. For those cases, more specialized or modular systems may be a better fit.

 

SmartRent costs

SmartRent Essentials Package

SmartRent offers an all-inclusive Essentials Package priced at $18 per unit per month.

This package encompasses:​

• Hardware. Alloy Deadbolt, Alloy Hub+, and two Alloy Leak Sensors.
• Software. Access to Smart Communities Manager, Resident App, Work Management, and Answer Automation.
  Implementation. Full setup, training, flat-rate shipping, and sales tax are included.

Notably, this package requires no upfront costs, making it a budget-friendly option for properties aiming to integrate smart home technology without significant initial investment.

 

Custom hardware installations

For properties seeking a more tailored solution, SmartRent provides custom hardware installations. According to UDR, a real estate investment trust, the hardware cost per unit, including smart locks, water sensors, and other devices, ranges from $900 to $1,000. Additionally, this investment is typically recouped over three to four years, with the equipment’s lifespan estimated at six to seven years.

 

Resident fees

Properties often pass a portion of the smart home technology costs to residents. For instance, UDR charges residents a monthly fee of $20 to $25 for SmartRent services.

However, fees can vary by location. A resident in McKinney, Texas, reported an additional $40 to $50 monthly fee for SmartRent services.

 

Additional services

SmartRent also offers supplementary services that can enhance property operations:​

• Self-Guided Tours. Implementing self-guided tours requires an initial hardware investment of $150 to $600 and a monthly software fee of $100 to $150.
• Managed WiFi. While specific pricing isn’t provided, SmartRent notes that offering managed WiFi can be a competitive advantage, especially since the average renter pays $69.50 per month for retail internet services.

 

SmartRent Video Intercom

SmartRent does not publicly list specific pricing for its smart intercom systems. Instead, the company provides custom quotes based on the unique needs of each property, considering factors such as the number of units, existing infrastructure, and desired features.

For a comprehensive understanding of SmartRent’s offerings and to obtain a tailored quote, we recommend you contact their sales team directly. They can provide detailed information on hardware options, integration capabilities, and support services to help determine the best solution for your property’s needs.​

 

SmartRent installation and support

Installation process

• Property assessment. SmartRent’s team conducts an on-site evaluation to tailor solutions to the property’s specific needs. ​
• Hardware selection. Based on the assessment, appropriate hardware, such as smart locks, thermostats, and sensors, is selected to meet the property’s requirements. ​
• Installation. Professional technicians handle the installation, ensuring that devices are correctly set up and integrated into the SmartRent ecosystem.
• Training. Post-installation, SmartRent provides training for property staff to familiarize them with the system’s functionalities. ​

 

Support services

• 24/7 customer support. Clients have access to round-the-clock support for any technical issues or inquiries. ​
• Dedicated account managers. Each property is assigned an account manager to assist with ongoing needs and ensure optimal system performance.
• Comprehensive online resources. SmartRent offers a library of support articles, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides to assist with common issues.

 

Pros and cons of SmartRent

Pros

• SmartRent offers an all-in-one platform that combines access control, smart home automation, and property management tools.
• Their Alloy SmartHome hardware is designed specifically for rental properties, making it durable and easy to reset between residents.
• The system integrates with major property management software like Yardi, RealPage, and SightPlan.
• Self-guided tours and centralized maintenance tools help reduce operational overhead for leasing and site teams.
• Residents benefit from app-based control of locks, thermostats, and lighting, improving day-to-day convenience.

 

Cons

• SmartRent intercoms lack video capabilities, which limits visibility compared to more advanced systems.
• The total hardware cost per unit can range from $900 to $1,000, which may be a barrier for budget-conscious properties.
• Some users report inconsistent app performance and difficulty with smart device connectivity.
• Customer support reviews are mixed, with some property managers citing slow response times.
• Pricing and features are not fully transparent online.

 

SmartRent customer feedback: What real users are saying

SmartRent has mixed reviews, from positive to negative, on sites like the Google Play store, the Apple App store, the Better Business Bureau, and Product Hunt, where it has a rating of 3 out of 5 stars.

Most reviewers appreciate the idea behind SmartRent’s platform, offering app-based control over locks, thermostats, and lighting, but many report frustrations with the execution. Common complaints focus on unreliable app performance, poor customer service responsiveness, and the difficulty of getting technical issues resolved in a timely manner.

Here’s a sampling of what customers have shared:

The lack of responsiveness and accountability from SmartRent is unacceptable, especially considering the monthly fee I am required to pay for this service as part of my apartment’s amenities. I have attempted to contact their customer service multiple times, but my issue remains unresolved, leaving me frustrated and dissatisfied. – BBB Customer Review

Their customer service is nonexistent as well as not helpful at all. If I could give them no stars I would without a doubt. – LuLu, via Product Hunt

I hate this app. Not only is it super slow, but it’s constantly breaking where I have to uninstall and reinstall it. That’s the last thing you want when you’re just trying to get into your apartment with groceries and kids. Update, this app keeps getting worse. I have had to uninstall and reinstall several times in one day (I have a new samsung galaxy s24 ultra, so it’s not my phone). – Michael M., via Google Play Store

Works but doesn’t build confidence… Overall the app works reliably and intuitively, but find the local caching quite misleading .- Daniel V., via Apple App Store

*Quotes sourced from publicly available reviews and lightly edited for clarity and length.

 

Discover the ButterflyMX Video Intercom:

 

Comparing SmartRent competitors

SmartRent is a leading provider of smart home automation and property management solutions for multifamily properties. However, several competitors offer alternative solutions with varying features and capabilities.

Here’s how SmartRent compares to some of its main competitors:​

• PointCentral
• BeHome247
• STRATIS

 

PointCentral

• Overview. A subsidiary of Alarm.com, PointCentral specializes in property automation for rental housing.
• Strengths. Known for strong device reliability, cellular connectivity (no WiFi required), and energy management tools.
• Considerations. Focuses heavily on smart home automation, but requires integration with third-party software for full property management functionality.

 

BeHome247

• Overview. BeHome247 is a full-stack property management platform that combines smart home automation with operational management tools.
• Strengths. Device-agnostic system compatible with multiple hardware brands, plus built-in tools for maintenance, inspections, and vendor management.
• Considerations. May require more upfront configuration compared to plug-and-play platforms like SmartRent.

 

STRATIS

• Overview. STRATIS offers an IoT platform for smart apartments, focusing on whole-building connectivity and device management.
• Strengths. Strong in energy management, bulk device onboarding, and integrations across multiple IoT products.
• Considerations. Primarily targets large properties, and while robust for device control, it does not offer full property management workflows like maintenance or leasing support.

 

SmartRent Smart Intercom System vs. ButterflyMX Video Intercom

When evaluating intercom solutions for multifamily properties, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your building and residents. SmartRent and ButterflyMX offer distinct approaches to property access, each with its own set of features and considerations.​

 

SmartRent Smart Intercom System

SmartRent’s intercom system is designed to integrate seamlessly with its broader smart home ecosystem. The system enables two-way audio communication between visitors and residents, allowing residents to grant access remotely via the SmartRent app.​

Key features:

• Audio communication only. Facilitates voice interaction without video capabilities.
• App-based access. Residents can unlock doors remotely using the SmartRent mobile application.
• Integration with SmartRent ecosystem. Works in tandem with SmartRent’s suite of smart home devices and property management tools.​

Considerations:

• Lack of video functionality. The absence of video may limit the ability to visually verify visitors.
• Dependence on SmartRent platform. Optimal performance is achieved when used within the SmartRent ecosystem, potentially limiting flexibility.​

 

ButterflyMX Video Intercom

ButterflyMX offers a video intercom system that emphasizes user experience and security. The system provides two-way video and audio communication, allowing residents to see and speak with visitors before granting access.​

Key features:

• Video and audio communication. Enables residents to visually confirm visitor identity.
• Touchscreen interface. Features a user-friendly touchscreen with a searchable directory.
• Mobile app integration. Residents can manage access remotely via the ButterflyMX app.
• Visitor management tools. Includes features like virtual keys and delivery PINs to streamline access for guests and service providers.

Considerations:

• Not suitable for single family homes. ButterflyMX is designed for multifamily and commercial properties.
• Standalone system. While it integrates with various property management systems, it operates independently of broader smart home ecosystems.

 

Comparison of SmartRent vs. ButterflyMX

Feature	SmartRent	ButterflyMX
Communication	Audio only	Audio and video
Remote access via app	Yes	Yes
Visitor verification	Audio only	Audio and video confirmation
User interface	Basic	Touchscreen with directory
Visitor management tools	Limited	Comprehensive

 

If you’re looking for a future-proof intercom system that improves resident experience, simplifies operations, and scales with your building, then ButterflyMX might be the better fit.

See how ButterflyMX works →

 

SmartRent FAQs

• How safe is SmartRent?
• What is SmartRent used for?
• Is SmartRent a good investment?
• How much does SmartRent cost?

 

How safe is SmartRent?

SmartRent is designed with security in mind, using encrypted communication between devices, hubs, and the cloud. However, like any smart home system, security ultimately depends on proper device setup, regular updates, and strong user credentials. Some resident reviews cite occasional connectivity issues, but no major widespread security breaches have been reported.

 

What is SmartRent used for?

SmartRent is used to automate and manage rental properties by connecting smart devices like locks, thermostats, sensors, and lights into a centralized platform. As a result, property managers use SmartRent to remotely manage unit access, monitor building systems, and streamline operations, while residents benefit from app-based control over their home environment.

 

Is SmartRent a good investment?

For large multifamily portfolios and operators looking to automate property management, SmartRent can offer a strong return by reducing operational costs, enhancing resident satisfaction, and improving energy efficiency. However, properties should carefully weigh upfront hardware costs, software fees, and resident expectations before investing, especially if advanced access control or premium visitor management features are a priority.

 

How much does SmartRent cost?

SmartRent’s pricing varies depending on the property and package. Their Essentials Package is priced at about $18 per unit per month, including basic hardware and software. However, for customized setups, hardware installation typically costs between $900 and $1,000 per unit, with optional resident fees ranging from $20 to $50 per month, depending on the community.

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