4.5
4.5
Author: Kaitlyn Short
Vera Control Ltd. offers home automation with their DIY system which consists of a centralized controller and products. Products in the home can be controlled from a computer, smartphone or wearable (Apple Watch). The company is headquartered in Hong Kong and was founded in 2008. Vera Control Ltd. was named as a winner of Electric House Magazine's 2013 Product of the Year Award. The system is able to communicate with most protocols and the company guarantees that any certified Z-Wave device will be compatible with the Vera controller. The introduction of the VeraPlus resulted in significant back orders. Vera Control Ltd. has been proactive in updating their customers via their social media channels and promise that all orders will be fulfilled as quickly as possible. Vera Control Ltd. offers its customers a home automation option which is very adaptable and easily expanded and comes without monthly fees or a contract. Vera's guarantee of any certified Z-Wave product being compatible is unmatched.
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The Good
- No monthly fees or service contract
- Customers are promised fast shipping times
- Customizable home automation systems
- Multiple methods to receive customer support
- Vera app is widely accessible with several devices
No Monthly Fees or Service Contract
One thing that sets Vera apart from many of its home automation competitors is the fact that the customer is not charged for installation, activation, nor monthly monitoring fees. Customers are charged for the cost of the hardware only.Customers Are Promised Fast Shipping Times
When customers order from Vera Control Ltd, the company promises that all of their "in stock" orders will be shipped within 48 hours. The company does not have an extensive product catalog online, and most of the products which complete a home automation installation can be easily found at a local home improvement store or online, so the company maintains a streamlined inventory.Customizable Home Automation Systems
Although Vera's product selection online is limited, the company does offer top products to create a comprehensive home automation experience:- Climate: Z-Wave Thermostats
- Energy: Energy Dimmers and Switches
- Lighting: Wall Dimmers and Modules
- Security: Security Cameras, Automated Locks, and Motion Sensors
Multiple Methods to Receive Customer Support
Vera also offers more in terms of customer support than some of its competitors; in addition to phone and email support for new or potential customers, existing Vera customers can enable Remote Tech Support on their Vera Dashboard. This is a fast and easy way to submit a support ticket and receive help from one of Vera's support experts. Vera also provides online manuals on each of its products. These manuals are not overly technical, providing easy step-by-step instructions as well as contact information for the company that manufactured the product.Vera App is Widely Accessible with Several Devices
- Home Computer
- Android
- Windows Smartphones and Tablets
- Apple iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad
- Apple Watch
The Bad
- Warranty differs for Vera and third-party products
- Limited catalog of products
- Lack of entertainment features
Warranty Differs for Vera and Third-Party Products
While the Vera Smart Home Controller included in each package has 12-month warranty, this is not the case for third-party products.Limited Catalog of Products
Vera's selection of products is limited when compared with some of its competitors, so customers looking for a specific component may need to look elsewhere.Lack of Entertainment Features
Vera does not provide audiovisual equipment or entertainment features, neither does it support smart appliances.The Bottom Line
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Dave Cawood Bloomington, IL
9 years ago
nate Salt Lake City, UT
6 years ago
