Brinks vs. CPI Security

Both companies offer professional monitoring at $29.99/mo. But the price differs when it comes to equipment. Brinks equipment starts at $199 upfront, with no contract required. If you choose any Brinks plan other than the Nest option, you will need to sign a 36-month agreement. CPI Security’s equipment is $499 upfront, or it can be financed for 39 or 60 months. 

Brinks and CPI Security offer a comprehensive range of home automation devices, including thermostats and light controls. However, Brinks wins this category by a hair. Brinks offers one plan that works with Google Nest, but Nest equipment must be purchased separately. CPI Security does not offer any home automation devices with their packages, but each device can be purchased separately.

Brinks offers a wide range of equipment options, including touchscreen control panels, cameras and door sensors with its basic package. It also offers home automation devices at an additional charge. CPI Security wins this round, though, with its 180-degree view inTouch 180™ Indoor Camera and Stream Video recorder that can record for up to 30 days. It’s a top-notch device that enhances your home’s security and sets CPI apart.

Brinks keeps it simple and wins this round with a two-year warranty on all devices. CPI Security offers two separate warranty programs. With its Basic Warranty Program, labor is covered for 90 days, and parts are covered for a year. It also offers a Service Plus Program that includes parts and labor for a year. CPI’s No False Alarms guarantee, which credits your account if you are charged by your local authorities for a false alarm, is a nice perk.

Brinks offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and no termination fees. CPI Security offers an unusually short trial period of 3 days, making Brinks the easy winner of this category.

Both Brinks and CPI Security offer professional installation options. Neither company offers a self-installation option, making both companies less ideal for renters.