Zipato is a DIY home automation company that provides users with suite of smart home options relating to home security, energy usage, comfort amenities, and senior health care. Customers can purchase an entire system upfront for as little as $596 total. Zipato features a number of popular integrations, ensuring both a compatible and customizable system; however, the company also lacks some features, including garage door functionality. Nevertheless, Zipato carries an attractive set of features at an affordable price.
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The Good
- Price
- Integrations
- Home health options
Price
Zipato's smart home products are affordably priced and are available a la carte in 59 countries throughout the world. Customers can choose from a number of Zipato products, from motion detectors and keypads, to controllers and connectors that can fully automate just about any home feature. Although Zipato's products are not sold in pre-arranged packages, customers can usually assemble a full system for just under $600, which is considerably less expensive than other smart home providers.
Integrations
Zipato offers a number of impressive integrations which will allow customers to customize their system with third-party products from the following:
- ZigBee
- KNX
- Hue
- Somfy
- Z-Wave
- Nest
- Sonos
- Nexa
- And more
The company also provides iOS, Android, and Windows smart device owners with a mobile app from which to control their smart home features remotely. Customers can arm/disarm security systems, monitor video fees, adjust the temperature, and program scenes all from their smartphone or tablet.
Home Health Option
Zipato offers customer the unique option of its caregiver network for users (or loved ones of users) who are homebound. The company users its monitors, sensors, and mobile technology to alert family, friends, neighbors, and emergency personnel in the event of an emergency.
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The Bad
- Limited home security options
- Only sells Zipato products
Limited Home Security Options
As many home automation providers originate as home security providers, having a full suite of home security features-indoor/outdoor cameras, motion sensors, door/window sensors, automated locks, etc.-will often come standard as a bundle option with the smart home features. This, however, does not seem to be the case with Zipato, as the company does not appear to offer a doorbell camera, smart locks, or a garage door controller.
Only Sells Zipato Products
While the company offers an impressive set of controllers and keypads, the company does not offer products from any third-party manufacturers. While this does not affect Zipato's compatibility with other products or communication protocols, it will require users to shop around to other locations if they feel their home's needs require products not listed on Zipato's site.
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The Bottom Line
Overall, Zipato is an excellent choice for those looking to convert their home into a smart home. The company provides a number of cost-effective, but useful features as we as an expansive customer support system to help users through the process, including an online community, self-help resources, or a tech support ticketing system directly on its site. Despite a few limitations, Zipato is an affordable and simple way to get started in home automation.