Vivint Smart Home Review: Overpriced or Cutting-Edge

Vivint Home Security Review: In-Depth

One of the main reasons why this company is so popular is that it incorporates modern technology and safety. Around-the-clock expert surveillance and smart automation create an impressive combination. Of course, every business has its downsides. This review will look at the top priorities for Vivint as well as its advantages and disadvantages.

Key Features

This system comes with lots of innovations, but below are the key elements to expect from a Vivint package.

• Automated device integration
• Indoor and outdoor cameras
• Live video feed
• Mobile app
• Sensors and detectors
• Smart locks and thermostat

Vivint Smart Home Review: Background Information

This surveillance company is one of the best in the country, according to consumer reports. Along with its automated technology, the systems are wireless, and the devices are sleek and sophisticated. Many customers also love that the business provides 24/7 monitoring by a team of professionals.

The corporation was founded in 1997 under the name APX Alarm Security Solutions, Inc. It rebranded in 2011 and was bought by The Blackstone Group in 2012 for $2 billion. In 2014, it acquired Space Monkey, which specializes in cloud-based storage. Today, it has more than 11,000 employees and is headquartered in Provo, Utah.

Security Features: Stand-Out Solutions

The company’s reputation as a leader in smart home innovations means that they are constantly improving their offerings. Not only that, but they have custom packages that allow consumers to create a plan that best suits their needs.

Doorbell Camera: Anytime Outside Surveillance

Vivint Home Security customers get a keyring remote control that they can use to arm and disarm their systems. Besides that, the accessory is capable of customized actions such as locking the doors or garage. There is also a panic button that comes in handy for seniors and those with physical impairments.

Video Cameras: Watch Anytime, Anywhere

Clients can choose from a variety of cams that suit both interior and exterior settings. The design is sleek and unassuming, plus customers can access the video feed from a mobile device. Then, they can save any live-streaming footage to the cloud for future reference.

Voice-Activated Home Automation: Easy-Breezy Controls

Part of the system’s smart home integration is syncing up with devices like the Amazon Alexa or Echo. Through voice recognition software, the network can register different commands. Individuals can use this technology to dim the lights, lock the doors, turn on the alarm, and more.

Element Thermostat: Lower Energy Bills, More Comfort

This accessory works with the Vivint products to help reduce energy bills for clients. A newer addition to the line-up, the thermostat can make recommendations for heating and A/C and is accessible via the control panel or app.

Cellular Connection: A Safe & Reliable Network

Every piece of equipment is 100% wireless and connects via a cellular network. This creates a secure system and eliminates the need for pesky cords and wires. While the devices are superb, the company lacks landline connections, which can turn rural customers away.

24/7 Professional Monitoring: Clients Always Have Back-Up

Families can have the added assurance of knowing that there are trained technicians and experts who are always on-call. These employees can assist with any connection or support issues and even dispatch the local authorities in case of an emergency.

Equipment Warranty: Try it for Four Months

Those who are hesitant about trying out the service can rest assured. All of the products come with a 120-day warranty, so there is time to get a feel for the systems and determine whether they’re a good fit.

Compatibility with Smart Home Devices: The Full Package

Tech-lovers will find everything they want and need with Vivint. This includes motion detection, instant alerts, voice recognition, smart device and mobile compatibility, and more. This company has the most well-rounded integration of any on the market right now.

Smart Home App: Sky-High Service

The Sky Mobile App grants users 24/7 access to their systems, including camera and video feeds, voice commands, and synced integration. Even when they’re far from home, they can set up alarms and devices to keep an eye on everything at the house.

Equipment & Installation

Besides the typical motion sensors and indoor cameras, clients can choose from a wide range of products and services. There are plenty of automated accessories, as well as lighting modules. Also, despite the high-tech gadgets, everything is quite easy to install.

The Goods

All of the packages come with high-tech equipment and a range of options. Things like add-ons and customized deals are also available for those who want more.

• Detectors and sensors – track movement, sound, and environmental triggers like rain
• Home automation – integrations with Alexa, Echo, Google Assistant, and mor
• Sky 2.0 control panel – seven-inch touchscreen with total control of the system
• Smart locks and lighting – remote-controlled and help lower utility bills
• Video doorbell – visuals and two-way audio for increased safety

Controls

The following gadgets make it even easier for clients to monitor their property and get expert assistance when necessary.

• Keyfob control – remote access to arm/disarm the system, lock-up doors, and more
• Panic button/pendant – perfect for the elderly or those with physical disabilities
• Touchscreen panel – recognizes command patterns and intuitively engages the systemrecognizes command patterns and intuitively engages the system
• Two-way audio – allows for rapid communication between homeowners and police

Sensors

A variety of sensors will warn customers of possible danger or intruders.

• Broken glass – sets off an alarm whenever windows get smashed
• Carbon monoxide – warns of possible CO2 poisoning and syncs to the system
• Entryway – detects movement and sound around doors and windows
• Freeze – registers colder temperatures to alert homeowners of possible frozen pipes
• Garage door – allows for remote opening and closing
• Motion – detects movement and notifies homeowners
• Smoke/Heat – senses increases in temperatures to notify of possible fires/overheating
• Water/Floods – alerts individuals of excess water levels

Home Automation

This is the crown jewel of the enterprise’s equipment. The products sync with other devices and grant all-over control and usability for customers.

• Doorbell Cam – shows who’s at the front door for increased safety
• Element Thermostat – recommends house temperature for lower energy bills
• Garage Door Control – remote open and close
• Philips Hue – smart lighting that conserves energy and reduces costs
• Ping Camera – all-over visuals with voice and infrared night vision
• Smart Locks – allows remote access and control for homeowners

Installation

Given the state-of-the-art nature of Vivint’s equipment, it’s not a surprise that professional installation is required. Installment fees range from $49 to $199, depending on the package. On the one hand, having an expert technician put everything together can be a great benefit. It saves clients time and lets them know that their system is properly connected. Plus, there is an employee there to demo the equipment and answer any questions in-person.

On the other hand, some people would prefer to save money by doing the installment themselves. Also, some homeowners may be hesitant about having someone come out to their property. There’s also more of a time commitment involved because clients need to be at the house for the process to take place.

Vivint Packages & Prices

While other corporations have set prices for all of their customers, Vivint Home Security doesn’t. Instead, consumers need to contact the agent or store that is closest to them. The website lists undisclosed pricing and encourages people to call in for a quote. That said, there are some ballpark figures that individuals can consider when browsing through the company’s offerings.

Packages

The corporation has a few different plans to choose from. The lower-tiered one is full of the standard equipment that comes with most basic kits. The next option is a step up and offers the addition of integrated locks. Finally, the most expensive one has the full spectrum of live-streaming capabilities.

Comparison Chart for The Three Package Tiers

Below is a side-by-side glance at the three monitoring plans and what they include. The primary difference lies in each kit’s focus. The first is more basic, while the second centers on locks, and the third reviews video footage.

Smart Protect

At $29.99 per month, this basic plan comes with the SkyControl Panel, the main hub of the system. Clients get access to the mobile app as well as a variety of sensors for motion, smoke, broken glass, and flooding.

Smart Protect + Control

For $10 more, consumers can get this kit, which includes the previous plan’s equipment as well as smart door and garage locks. Due to the increase in devices, the installation fee will be higher than the basic package.

Smart Complete

The most expensive option includes all of the previous equipment, as well as more video monitoring capabilities. Buyers will receive the HD video doorbell as well as the Ping camera with wide-angle lenses and night vision. Pricing ranges from $44.99 to $49.99 per month.

Ease of Use

When it comes to the user-friendliness of these systems, most clients would agree that the technology itself is quite intuitive. The majority of people don’t have trouble using the devices or even syncing up their existing gadgets with the surveillance. That said, the support team isn’t always the easiest to work with. This could be because of the variations in the training and capabilities of regional technicians and agents.

Vivint Customer Support

Since different company representatives work around the country, client satisfaction depends on the specific regional area. Even so, individuals can find the support and solutions they need through the business’s website and over the phone. Here is a look at their reviews and policies.

Terms & Guarantees

The website stores cookies and collects personal data to provide a better user experience. If they prefer, individuals can opt-out of advertising cookies and promotions. There is a 120-day warranty on all products, but no refund guarantees. If a person needs to move their service, it will cost $99 to transfer it to a new property. Regarding contracts, customers need to sign on to a 42 or 60-month agreement, although zero-percent financing is available. Furthermore, clients own all of the equipment they purchase, and they can buy it upfront or in recurring payments.

Customer Service

The Customer Service page on Vivint’s website will reveal telephone numbers, email addresses, and FAQs that can help solve client problems. Agents are available seven days a week. Customers can ask questions and even pay their bills online. Moreover, the North America team speaks English and Spanish.

Trust Score (Trustpilot & BBB.org)

The corporation has a D rating with the Better Business Bureau and is not accredited with the organization. The majority of customer complaints center around the service team and representatives. Also, lots of people aren’t too fond of the company’s lengthy contracts. On a positive note, the actual technology gets high remarks from shoppers. Individuals like the range of options and find the integrations and automation to be quite useful.

On Trustpilot, there are over 14,000 Vivint home security reviews, and the brand has four out of five stars. This demonstrates the wide spectrum of expertise that agents have. It seems that people will have very different experiences depending on where they’re located. As for the things that are constant throughout all the locations, it’s the equipment, and it’s generally impressive.

FAQ Section

• Is Vivint a Good Security System?

  Yes, many clients would agree that it’s a decent system, and it excels at smart integrations and automation. Something that people should consider is the cost because it’s much higher than most competitors. That said, the trade-off is state-of-the-art gadgets and a 100% wireless system.

• Is Vivint Better Than ADT?

  These brands don’t differ too much on the upfront costs and monitoring fees. The latter has way more experience and history in the market, but not as many technological advancements. The former has longer contracts and lacks a money-back guarantee. In the end, it’s going to be up to consumers to choose what works best for their budget and lifestyle. One has a more solid reputation, and the other boasts better high-tech efficiencies and capabilities.

• Can Vivint Security be Hacked?

  Any kind of surveillance system is susceptible to hacking; it’s just a question of how prone it is to such a situation. In terms of this brand, everything is wireless, meaning it requires a cellular connection. As with WiFi, families need to be certain that their network is secured to prevent hackers.

• Is Vivint a Legitimate Company?

  Yes. The business was founded back in 1997 and has grown throughout the years. It has witnessed acquisitions and has thousands of employees all across North America. The corporation was recognized by Fast Company in 2017 as one of the World’s Most Innovative Brands. That said, it has come under fire for deceptive marketing claims.

• What Happens if You Break a Contract With Vivint?

  Canceling an agreement with this company can be a bit difficult. It does offer a break for those who are moving or are on active duty in the military. Other than that, the business expects clients to pay the remaining balance if they cancel their contract early. One way to get around this problem is by purchasing the equipment upfront, as this eliminates the need for a contract.

• Can Vivint be Used Without Monitoring?

  No. All of the Vivint home security systems come with 24/7 expert monitoring included. Should someone want to have a plan that offers self-monitoring, they will have to look at a different brand. Keep in mind that there are plenty of perks to the former option, such as the support of a professional team.

Vivint`s Pros & Cons

Again, this brand’s strength lies in its cutting-edge technology, while it’s weaker in the customer service department.

Do the Strengths Outweigh the Weaknesses?

There’s a lot to like about this surveillance system. The simple controls, the mobile app, and the smart integrations are just a few examples. While plenty of people complain about the customer support, it seems to be a more localized issue. For those who are okay with longer-term agreements and can afford the best of the best, this is a brand to consider.