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Vivint

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Average Project Cost: $29.99 - $49.99

Vivint Home Security offers a high-tech, professionally monitored security system with advanced smart home integration, making it a strong choice for homeowners seeking comprehensive protection. Their systems include cutting-edge devices like the Vivint Smart Hub, AI-powered doorbell and outdoor cameras, and a range of smart sensors, all managed through an intuitive mobile app. Equipment packages start at around $599, with monthly monitoring fees ranging from $29.99 to $49.99, depending on the level of service. While Vivint requires professional installation and typically involves a 3- to 5-year contract, they offer flexible financing and a solid warranty with a 120-day initial coverage, extendable through their Premium Service Plan. Despite the higher costs, Vivint’s robust features and seamless integration make it a top choice for those seeking long-term security and smart home capabilities.

Author: Kalicia Bateman

LAST UPDATED: October 23rd, 2024

Vivint Smart Home offers comprehensive home security and home automation solutions for more than one million customers across the United States. Vivint provides wireless home security systems with 24/7 professional monitoring and a lifetime equipment warranty. Its systems are professionally installed and supported by 24/7 customer service teams. In this Vivint home security review, we'll provide an inside look at the company's security systems, such as Vivint security alarms and system monitoring, as well as insight into the customer experience with the company.

Founded in 1999, Vivint has built a strong reputation for its sleek equipment, cutting-edge technology, and robust monitoring services. This review provides an in-depth look at Vivint’s home security products, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, pricing details, and warranty information to help you decide if Vivint is the right choice for your home security needs.

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The Good

  • Advanced and Integrated Security Equipment
  • 24/7 Professional Monitoring
  • Competitive Equipment Pricing
  • Mobile App Control
  • Solid Warranty and Service Agreements

Advanced and Integrated Security Equipment

Vivint's home security systems stand out for their high-tech, integrated equipment designed to provide comprehensive protection and a seamless user experience. The core components of Vivint’s system include:

  • Vivint Smart Hub: A touchscreen control panel that serves as the command center of the system, allowing users to arm and disarm their system, view live camera feeds, and control smart home devices. It also has two-way communication, enabling users to talk directly to the monitoring center in case of an emergency.
  • Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro: A high-definition doorbell camera with advanced AI detection to distinguish between people, packages, and other activity. It includes a 180-degree field of view and offers two-way audio.
  • Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro: A smart outdoor camera with a 4K image sensor, night vision, and intelligent motion detection that can identify potential threats and actively deter intruders with a red light and warning tone.
  • Smart Sensors: Vivint offers a range of smart sensors for doors, windows, motion, and glass break detection, providing an extra layer of security around the home.
  • Smart Thermostat, Smart Locks, and Lighting Control: Vivint’s security system integrates with smart home products, allowing homeowners to manage their locks, thermostats, and lights through the Vivint app or control panel.

This extensive array of devices enables users to create a highly personalized home security solution that not only protects their property but also enhances convenience and energy efficiency.

24/7 Professional Monitoring

Vivint offers 24/7 professional monitoring for its security systems, ensuring that emergency services can be dispatched quickly in the event of an alarm. The monitoring service is professionally installed, which ensures that the system is set up correctly and optimized for each home’s layout. Vivint’s monitoring plans include the option for video surveillance, where the monitoring team can view video clips during an alarm event to assess the situation and respond appropriately. This level of monitoring is ideal for homeowners looking for peace of mind and rapid emergency response.

Competitive Pricing for Equipment Packages

Vivint’s home security packages are competitively priced for the level of technology and service they offer. While Vivint’s equipment is sold upfront, they provide flexible financing options to make the purchase more manageable. The basic equipment package starts at approximately $599, which includes the Vivint Smart Hub, a selection of door/window sensors, and motion detectors. Additional cameras and smart home devices can be added to customize the system further. Vivint also offers monthly financing options for the equipment, with payments as low as $15 to $25 per month, depending on the package and the length of the financing plan.

Vivint’s home security pricing can be broken down into equipment costs and monitoring fees:

  • Basic Equipment Package: Starts at around $599, which includes the Vivint Smart Hub, a selection of entry sensors, and motion detectors.
  • Outdoor Camera Pro: Approximately $399 per camera.
  • Doorbell Camera Pro: Priced at $249.
  • Smart Locks and Smart Thermostats: Range from $159 to $299 per device.
  • Professional Installation Fee: Typically starts at $99, depending on system complexity.

Monthly monitoring costs range from $29.99 for basic security monitoring to $49.99 for comprehensive monitoring with video surveillance.

Intuitive Mobile App for Remote Control

The Vivint Smart Home app is a standout feature, allowing users to control their security system from anywhere. The app is user-friendly and offers functionalities like live video streaming, real-time notifications, remote arming and disarming, and control over integrated smart devices such as locks and thermostats. The ability to monitor and manage the entire home security system through a single app provides convenience for homeowners.

Solid Warranty and Service Agreements

Vivint provides a 120-day warranty on all equipment, covering any defects in materials or workmanship. After this period, customers can opt for the Vivint Premium Service Plan, which extends coverage for the duration of the monitoring contract. This plan includes free repairs and replacements for any faulty equipment, ensuring that the system remains in top working condition without additional repair costs. The Premium Service Plan is particularly valuable for homeowners who want to avoid unexpected expenses related to their security system and includes:

  • Free repairs and replacements for any defective equipment.
  • Priority service calls to ensure quick resolution of any system issues.
  • Battery replacements for the life of the system.

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The Bad

  • Higher Monthly Monitoring Costs
  • Lengthy Contracts
  • Professional Installation Only
  • Limited Equipment Compatibility

Higher Monthly Monitoring Costs

Vivint’s monitoring plans are priced higher than some of its competitors, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious homeowners. The monthly fees range from $29.99 to $49.99, depending on the level of monitoring and whether video surveillance is included. The top-tier Smart Complete package includes video monitoring and advanced smart home features, priced at around $49.99 per month. While the higher cost reflects the advanced features and professional monitoring, it may be a drawback for those seeking a more affordable solution.

Long-Term Contracts Required

Vivint typically requires a 3- to 5-year contract for its monitoring services, which can be a drawback for those who prefer more flexibility. Early termination fees apply if customers choose to cancel their contract before the end of the term. While Vivint does offer a month-to-month service plan for customers who purchase their equipment outright, most customers opt for the contract to take advantage of financing options. Homeowners who are not comfortable with long-term commitments might find this aspect limiting.

Professional Installation Only

Vivint’s systems must be installed by a professional technician, which can add to the initial setup costs. The installation fee varies depending on the complexity of the system, typically starting at $99 but can be higher for larger homes or systems with numerous devices. Unlike DIY systems that can be self-installed, Vivint’s approach ensures that the system is properly configured, but it lacks the flexibility of do-it-yourself installation.

Limited Equipment Compatibility

While Vivint's system is highly integrated and compatible with various smart home devices, it is somewhat limited when it comes to third-party device compatibility compared to other systems. Homeowners who already have existing smart home devices that are not compatible with Vivint’s platform may need to replace them with Vivint-compatible products, adding to the overall cost.

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The Bottom Line

Vivint home security is an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a professionally monitored, high-tech security system with robust smart home integration. With advanced equipment like the Vivint Smart Hub, AI-powered cameras, and a user-friendly mobile app, it offers a seamless and customizable security solution. Although the upfront costs and higher monthly fees may be a consideration for some, the value provided by Vivint’s comprehensive protection and warranty coverage can make it a worthwhile investment. The system's emphasis on professional installation and long-term contracts may not suit every homeowner, but for those looking for a hands-off approach with top-tier service, Vivint stands out as a leader in the home security market.

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Vivint Frequently Asked Questions

What comes as standard equipment in Vivint home security packages?

Vivint provides customized systems based on each customer’s unique needs, so it’s difficult to define standard equipment. That said, there is a Starter Kit that most customers begin with as a solid baseline.  Typically, the Starter Kit will include the touchscreen Vivint Smart Hub control panel, a Vivint yard sign and light, two door/window sensors, a motion sensor, and $100 worth of customizable equipment. Most customers also opt for at least one or two security cameras and a few additional pieces of equipment.

What is Vivint’s cancellation policy?

In most cases, a customer can cancel within their right of rescission (three days) without any penalty. After that, the customer is required to pay the remaining balance of the service and equipment for the life of the agreement. 

Does Vivint require an installation or activation fee?

Vivint typically charges a $49 install fee, which is the least expensive professional installation fee in the industry. It does not charge an activation fee.

Does Vivint run a credit check?

Vivint will run a credit check if the customer intends to finance the equipment. If the customer pays upfront for the equipment, no credit check is needed.

How much does Vivint professional monitoring cost?

Vivint’s monthly monitoring service starts at $29.99 per month.

Do you own your Vivint home security equipment?

Once a customer pays off their equipment, they own it. The vast majority of customers finance the equipment over 60 months.

What devices can you use to access your Vivint cameras?

Customers can access their Vivint camera feeds through the Vivint Smart Home app which is compatible with most smartphones and tablets. It is not compatible with Kindle tablets or older flip phones.