Frontpoint vs. Nest: Which is Safer?

Compare Frontpoint and Nest

Frontpoint offers several different home security options depending on your needs. If you’re looking for a complete security system with the essentials like entryway sensors and motion detectors, Frontpoint is the choice here. It offers DIY wireless security systems that are customizable and affordable, and you’ll have contract-free security with month-to-month monitoring plans.

But if you’re just looking for standalone security devices like video cameras and smart doorbells, Google Nest may be a good option. Google Nest is best known for the Nest Hello and Nest Indoor Camera IQ. All equipment works with Google Assistant-enabled devices. But if you want to create a full system with Nest products, you’ll need to do some of the building on your own, and all of your equipment may not come from Google Nest. Nest discontinued their home security system in October 2020, but the company is still supporting its Nest Secure users in other ways.

Despite the differences between these providers, there are some similarities that are worth comparing.

	Frontpoint	Nest
Starting package cost	$319.95	N/A
Starting professional monitoring cost	$49.99/mo.	Depends on provider preference
Monitoring	Professional	Self and Professional
Installation	DIY	Self and Professional
Warranty	3 years	1 year
Money-Back Guarantee	30 days	N/A
Contract	No	No
Camera recording and storage	Yes	Yes
Smart home compatibility	Yes	Yes

Home Automation
Winner: Frontpoint
Both Frontpoint and Nest have smart home features to enhance your smart home. We love Frontpoint’s compatibility with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and other Z-wave devices. You’ll be able to conveniently control smart lights, thermostats and more using the mobile app or your voice assistant-enabled device. Frontpoint also has an in-house lineup of smart home devices, including light bulbs, smart thermostats and a Yale smart lock.

Google Nest’s smart home compatibility is limited to only control using a Google Assistant-enabled device or your smartphone. You can choose from a video doorbell, smart lock and several smart security cameras for indoor and outdoor surveillance. You can still add Z-wave devices and control them using your mobile app or voice commands. But Frontpoint gives you more flexibility regardless of your preferred smart home provider.
Monitoring
Winner: Google Nest
Monitoring all boils down to your personal preference. Some prefer DIY, while others like to leave it to the pros. But we believe that you should have the option to choose. Unfortunately, Frontpoint requires professional monitoring to use most of its features. Monitoring ranges from $44.99 to $49.99 per month.

On the other hand, Google Nest gives you the flexibility to self-monitor your home’s surveillance without monitoring. Most features are included or require a Nest Aware cloud subscription starting at $6 per month. But if you got the Nest Secure system before it was discontinued, you’ll still be able to self-monitor your system or use Brinks or ADT for professional monitoring. Brinks’ monitoring starts at $19 per month for a three-year contract or $29 per month for a monthly subscription. ADT has yet to release its pricing because the partnership with Nest is new.
Contracts
Tie: Frontpoint and Nest
Fortunately, both providers are contract-free options to give you more flexibility in the long run. Frontpoint and Nest require their equipment to be purchased upfront unless you choose their financing option, but it’s yours to keep. Frontpoint monitoring is required for equipment and system features, but a contract isn’t required. On the other hand, Nest doesn’t require a contract for monitoring, video storage or other components.
Our Pick:
Frontpoint
All in all, Frontpoint is our pick between these two providers. Even though professional monitoring is required, you’ll still get more smart home functionality and various products than Nest. Frontpoint’s systems are also affordable to give you whole-home security without breaking the bank. You’ll have smart security and easy-to-use products without a contract.

But if you’re just looking for video surveillance right now, Google Nest may be a better option. You’ll be able to buy your equipment upfront, free of contracts and control it using your smartphone. You can also add more Google Nest cameras and products when you’re ready.

If you’re still undecided between Frontpoint and Nest, take a look at these additional resources.

Frontpoint

Google Nest

Frontpoint vs. Nest FAQ

Both Frontpoint and Nest can work with other products. Both have systems that can function with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. Frontpoint devices can also work with Z-wave-enabled devices.
Frontpoint does not offer professional installation as an option. Nest, however, does offer professional installation if you contact a Nest professional in your area.
With Frontpoint, you do not have to sign a service contract. Nest does not require a contract if you choose the month-to-month monitoring plan for $29/mo. That plan is more expensive, but if you want to pay $19/mo., you’ll have to sign a three-year contract.

Want to know more about how we scored Frontpoint and Nest? Check out our Safety Score Methodology.

Safety and Security Reporter

Jalesa Campbell

Jalesa is one of Safety.com's staff experts on home security, natural disasters, public safety, and family safety. She's been featured on Today.com and elsewhere.

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