Each provider’s score is based on the affordability of equipment and professional monitoring services. Providers whose pricing on these two factors are lower received a better score from us. We know a security system is an investment, but it shouldn’t break your budget.
An Overview of Vivint Home Security Services
Vivint has been in the home security industry for more than 20 years and differentiates itself from others with advanced home automation features and modern-styled equipment. Some highlights of the provider’s services include remote access by mobile app, home automation products and live video surveillance.
Vivint: Our Recommended Pick for Innovative Features
Vivint has innovative home security solutions as well as smart home features that make the company stand out among other competitors. We go into our Vivint security review of six categories: price, stand-out features, equipment, installation and trial period.
Vivint is a premium home security provider and it is relatively expensive, especially when compared to budget options. One thing to note, however, is that the provider gives customers the option to finance their security packages through the Vivint Flex Pay program.
Vivint’s pricing structure requires customers to pay for their equipment up front (or finance it through Flex Pay) and then pay a monthly monitoring fee for the duration of the contract.
You can build out your custom system to include equipment for intrusion protection, smart home capability or both. Exact equipment costs vary depending on the items selected, but Vivint requires at least $650 worth of equipment in order to start your service.
Monitoring service starts at $38.99/mo. for basic Smart Security Service or $39.99/mo. for more advanced Smart Home Service. You can add on video monitoring for an additional $5/mo per camera.
Vivint has a number of stand-out features and innovative equipment. In addition to mobile app access, you can also manage your security system and smart devices through the Vivint Smart Hub. If your security system package or monitoring plan comes with smart home devices like the Nest Learning Thermostat, Kwikset Smart Lock, Smart Garage Controller or others, then you can easily control them through your smart hub.
If your package or monitoring plan doesn’t include smart devices but you have a compatible Amazon device, you can link your Amazon device to the Smart Hub. By linking this device, you’ll be able to arm your security system using voice control.
Another perk of the Vivint Smart Hub is the ability to receive weather alerts. If there is a severe weather alert for your area, you’ll get notifications to help keep you and your family updated so you can stay safe. This is a feature that’s especially good for those who live in tornado or hurricane-prone areas.
Last but not least, Vivint also provides an option for live video surveillance. This service isn’t offered by many providers. Add it on to your monitoring plan for an additional $5 per month, per camera.
Vivint has a reputation for innovative equipment. It offers a full suite of equipment for environmental monitoring, intrusion protection, video surveillance and home automation, which can all be controlled through the Vivint Smart Hub and the Vivint smartphone app. Whether you’re at home or away, the system is always ready to work for you.
Security equipment options include smart door and window sensors, glass break detectors, motion sensors and panic pendants. Environmental monitoring equipment options include a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector and a flood/freeze/heat sensor. Indoor, outdoor and doorbell cameras are also available. On the home automation front, you can select anything from garage door controllers to smart thermostats and locks.
The best part is that customers can pick and choose the exact set of devices to fit their unique needs. You’re not limited to predetermined equipment packages that include features you don’t need or want. With Vivint, you’re free to choose what’s right for your home.
Vivint Smart Home professionals will help ensure that your security system is properly installed so you can avoid mistakes and get started using your system. The installation fee varies depending on your home and equipment (though occasionally free installation is available through a promotion).
With a professional installation, you’ll be able to ask your service technician questions regarding your system and can gain insight on the security needs of your home. We highly recommend this type of installation for customers who do not feel comfortable with navigating technology. But, if you’re on the other side of the fence and would like to install your own system, we recommend choosing a DIY security solution.
Vivint has a refund period of 3 days for customers to try out their security systems and determine if it is a great fit for them. This is the shortest trial period available by law.
Vivint also has a Premium Warranty service that you can opt into, or you could use the regular warranty period. With the Premium Service warranty, Vivint will repair and replace your equipment for up to 120 days at no charge. If you do not opt for the Premium Service warranty, Vivint will still repair and replace your equipment, but you’ll have to pay a service fee plus taxes.
While checking Vivint reviews, we found that there is a complex process when cancelling service. Customers will have to make sure that they are satisfied and want to continue using their Vivint services within a very brief period.
