When it comes to deciding on a home security system, don’t be too hasty. There are so many factors to consider (price, size, features, etc.) when shopping around that you’re probably exasperated just thinking about it. Well, sit back and relax because we’ve done the hard work for you!
Vivint is a leading home security company offering some of the best systems out there (see why it’s one of our favorites in our Vivint review). There are, however, a few alternatives that should be considered if Vivint tops your list. In this guide, we’re going to cover three home security systems that are comparable in quality and deserve a closer look.
What Sets Vivint Apart?
Vivint is a top-of-the-line security company with some great features that really make it stand out among its competitors. Their systems are exceptionally user-friendly and can be controlled and monitored directly with your smartphone. But, with all that said, we really like variety and decided to personally try out some Vivint rivals – namely, SimpliSafe, ADT, and Frontpoint – to see how they match up.
Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro
Did You Know: At first glance, you may think you’ve already found the perfect security system to fit your needs. However, there are three additional options that might be of interest to you if Vivint is on your mind.
SimpliSafe, Our Top Pick for a Vivint Alternative
The first contender to go head-to-head with Vivint is SimpliSafe, an award-winning home security company offering simple and affordable home security installations with lots of added perks. We recently got our hands on a SimpliSafe package and, after testing SimpliSafe over several days, were surprised at the number of shared similarities with Vivint. But, what exactly sets these two industry heavyweights apart? Well, we’ve got some answers below with the tale of the tape!
SimpliSafe Indoor Camera
Similarities Between Vivint and SimpliSafe
When it comes to features and tech, SimpliSafe and Vivint are similar in a lot of ways. First off, they each offer 24/7 monitoring services, as well as access via an app on your mobile device. This makes monitoring and controlling your home security system a breeze.
They both also offer indoor and outdoor cameras that can be used in different locations in and around your home. Having cameras set up outside will ensure that the exterior of your abode can be monitored without the risk of your equipment being compromised.
Did You Know: You’ll also receive alerts regarding potential natural dangers, such as the presence of smoke, carbon monoxide, frozen pipes, water leaks, etc.
Both companies also provide window and door sensors which will alert you when anyone or anything enters through your doors or windows (burglar, baseball, bear, you name it!). Depending upon the plan you purchase, both systems also have the capacity to alert the authorities automatically whenever a door or window sensor is tripped.
Differences Between Vivint and SimpliSafe
The first difference that you’ll likely notice between Vivint and SimpliSafe is that SimpliSafe allows for DIY installation, while Vivint requires professional installation. It’s also much easier to own your equipment outright with SimpliSafe, given that the SimpliSafe equipment cost will only set you back $200-$400, as opposed to $600+ with Vivint. Also, SimpliSafe offers ultra-affordable 24/7 monitoring that starts at only $21.99 per month. Compare that to Vivint’s monitoring fees that range between $29 and $59 per month. With this in mind, the biggest difference between Vivint and SimpliSafe is the price.
That being said, you get what you pay for. While the SimpliSafe gear punches above its weight, the Vivint equipment is simply of a higher class. For example, the Vivint Smart Hub with its touchscreen interface is a straight-up flex against SimpliSafe’s keypad and Base Station controllers. Vivint’s cameras are also a cut above, leveraging AI technology to distinguish home owners from home invaders.
A Vivint system can also link and connect to Google Nest products. For example, your system can link to the Nest thermostat, allowing you to cool and heat your home efficiently through the Vivint app. It’s a nice little bonus for those frigid mornings when you can’t quite bring yourself to get out of bed to turn up the heat..
FYI: Voice activation using Alexa or Google Home can come in handy and provides a hands-free way to arm and control your security system. Voice control can also help to make home automation a lot more convenient. Thankfully, both companies integrate seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Hey Google.
While it’s clear that differences between the two companies do exist, we found SimpliSafe and Vivint both have great qualities worth checking out, albeit at different price points and quality levels.
ADT, Our Runner-Up for Best Vivint Alternative
Next up in our metaphorical battle of the ages, Vivint goes toe-to-toe with the widely recognized and acclaimed ADT, a home security icon that’s been in the game for over 140 years. You might be wondering how any company could possibly compare to such a long-standing company whose reputation precedes them. Well, although Vivint has only been in the industry for roughly 20 years (which is still impressive), they easily match up to ADT in terms of quality and features. After heading into the lab to test out each system firsthand, here’s what we uncovered.
ADT Indoor Camera (left) and Outdoor Camera (right)
Similarities Between Vivint and ADT
You’ll be surprised to find out that ADT’s app and Vivint’s mobile app are neck-and-neck when it comes to features and remote monitoring capabilities. This means that home automation features can be easily accessed and controlled using your smartphone. We see this as a huge plus because it not only allows for home automation, but it also grants easy access from both home and remote locations.
FYI: To learn more about ADT, head on over to our comprehensive ADT review.
The camera quality of both systems is also exceptional, providing you with a crisp and clear image to better help you identify whether it’s your aunt, neighbor, a burglar, or Bigfoot stealthily approaching your front door. As an added bonus, ADT and Vivint cameras are easy to use. They’re also probably easy to install, but you’ll never know because both security systems are best installed by a technician. You get to just sit back, relax, and watch them do all the heavy lifting.
Finally, both companies have a stellar reputation in the industry for providing whole home security. We’re talking entryway sensors, motion sensors, glass- break sensors, garage door sensors, indoor and outdoor cameras, touch screen control panels, and the list goes on.
Pro Tip: If you think that you’ll need to install cameras on the outside of your home, be sure to purchase outdoor cameras for those locations. Most indoor cameras are not rated to withstand outside elements.
Differences Between Vivint and ADT
While there are many similarities between ADT and Vivint systems, some major differences should also be considered. One of the more obvious disparities between the two is the cost.
The most basic equipment package from ADT costs $269 upfront or $7.47 per month for 36 months. The most comprehensive equipment package costs $1,214 dollars upfront or $33.72 per month for 36 months. ADT’s monitoring service ranges from $29.99 to $44.99 per month depending on whether you have smart home equipment and security cameras.
On the other hand, Vivint charges $600+ to purchase the equipment. On top of that, there’s the monthly monitoring fee that starts at $29.99 and goes up with additional features. There is the option to spread out the cost of the equipment and get on a monthly payment plan that gets added to the cost of your monitoring fee.
While the equipment from ADT is higher quality than what you get from SimpliSafe, it still doesn’t meet the gold standard set by Vivint. ADT also doesn’t offer the level of smart home features and automation that you get with Vivint.
Frontpoint, Yet Another Vivint Alternative
Our final contender might be the youngest of the group, but can nevertheless still hold its own against these tough competitors. Just like with SimpliSafe and ADT, we tested and reviewed Frontpoint to better understand exactly how they compare when matched up against frontrunner Vivint.
Frontpoint – Outdoor Camera
Similarities Between Vivint and Frontpoint
So, how do they pair up? To start, both Vivint and Frontpoint are widely known for their user-friendly apps that provide coverage nationwide. Both brands also offer a 24/7 monitoring service.
As for key similarities, Frontpoint makes a wonderful Vivint alternative when it comes to custom actions for your home devices. Through the Frontpoint app, you can automate your smart home with custom actions and triggers such as your phone’s location (also known as geofencing). To learn more about that, check out our guide to smart home automation.
Did You Know: Using an online app allows you to access and monitor your home security system from anywhere in the country. You can also use mobile apps to arm your system, view livestream video of your security cameras, and control your home automation features.
Differences Between Vivint and Frontpoint
The first thing that sets these two home security systems apart is the ease of installation. Frontpoint allows for a quick and easy DIY installation while Vivint, on the other hand, requires their equipment to be professionally installed.
While the Frontpoint mobile app is packed with features, the user experience isn’t as streamlined as with Vivint’s app. Also, Vivint systems are more easily integrated with other systems such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Pricing, unfortunately, can be difficult to compare due to the fact that both Vivint and Frontpoint have a lot of packages and options to choose from. However, Frontpoint’s monitoring is set at $49.99 per month, while the cheapest plan from Vivint is $29.99. However, because Vivint requires professional installation, it can end up more costly upfront.
Finally, Frontpoint requires a 36-month contract. Vivint requires a contract as well – up to five years, in fact. But Vivint also offers the option to not sign the monitoring agreement if you pay for your equipment upfront.
Summary of Vivint Alternatives
Looking at all three of these alternative systems might be a little bit confusing or overwhelming at first, but by taking the time to evaluate your personal home security needs, you’ll better understand which system and company is right for you.
Top considerations to keep in mind are installation and monthly costs. While some companies offer simplified and affordable services, they may require large initial startup investments and professional installation of any or all equipment. Knowing your capabilities (and willingness) will aid in your decision to go with professional installment or instead seek other DIY options.
Hopefully, this comparison has helped you to better understand the three alternatives to Vivint’s home security systems and how to make the best choice. Taking a moment to really assess your living situation and budget will help you find the best security system for your exact needs.
