Frontpoint vs. Nest

We like Frontpoint because they don’t require a service contract for any of their plans. With Nest, you can choose between two monitoring plans: one that is less expensive but requires a 3-year contract and one that is more expensive but does not require a contract. With Frontpoint, although the starting monitoring price would be higher, you’re avoiding a long-term commitment.

With Nest, the cost of your equipment and monitoring together will be less expensive over time compared to Frontpoint. The Nest Secure system, without any add-ons, costs $399. And, if you add on Brinks monitoring for $19/mo. (contract required) you’d spend around $1,083 over 3 years. For Frontpoint, the Starter package retails for $319.95 with a starting monitoring price of $44.99/mo. Over the course of 3 years, you’d pay around $1,939.59 (if you stay with Frontpoint).

Another benefit that Frontpoint boasts is a locked monitoring rate during your service time, which means no increases as long as you’re a Frontpoint customer. Nest doesn’t offer this same benefit with its monitoring through Brinks. Brinks doesn’t specify that your monitoring rate will stay the same. If, however, you’d like your first month of monitoring free, then it would be better to go with Nest.

We crown Nest as the winner for this category as they have unique home security equipment that you won’t find across other security providers. The basic Nest package comes with the Nest Guard Hub, two Nest tags and two motion sensors – each of which are unique pieces of equipment. Frontpoint sources its equipment through Alarm.com, a company that other providers also use.

Both Frontpoint and Nest security systems have home automation features. You can purchase standalone smart home devices with Frontpoint like a smart bulb, light controller, garage door controller and more. You’ll also have hands-free home security control with voice assistants. Nest comes with the power of Google Home. You can connect compatible smart home equipment in your home, including your lights, thermostat, and your security system through Google Home hub. You can also use Amazon Alexa with the Nest Secure system.

We like that both providers also offer DIY installation, giving you more control over placement of equipment in your home and cutting installation costs. Frontpoint claims to have the “industry’s easiest set-up” with customers being able to install their security systems in less than thirty minutes. Nest claims you can install their system in under an hour, and if you need assistance they offer professional installation as an option.