When it comes to home security, Vivint Smart Home is a name that frequently pops up, promising cutting-edge technology, professional installation, and peace of mind. But what’s the real story behind owning Vivint home security equipment? Is it worth the investment, or are there hidden pitfalls that homeowners should be aware of? In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the truth about Vivint’s equipment, exploring its features, costs, performance, and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
What Vivint Offers: A Premium Smart Home Security Experience
Vivint positions itself as a premium home security provider, blending advanced technology with smart home automation. Their equipment lineup includes:
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Vivint Smart Hub: A 7-inch touchscreen control panel that serves as the central command for your security system and smart home devices.
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Doorbell Camera Pro: Known for its high-quality video and Smart Deter technology, which uses AI to detect and deter potential threats like package thieves.
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Outdoor Camera Pro: Equipped with floodlights and whistling alerts to ward off intruders.
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Indoor Camera Pro: Offers 1080p video and features like video calls for in-home communication.
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Sensors: Motion, door/window, glass-break, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors for comprehensive protection.
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Smart Home Devices: Smart locks, thermostats, and lighting controls that integrate with platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Z-Wave-compatible devices.
Vivint’s systems are professionally installed, ensuring seamless integration and optimal placement. The company emphasizes 24/7 professional monitoring, which starts at $19.99 per month, and a mobile app for remote control. But with premium features comes a premium price tag, and that’s where the conversation gets interesting.
The Upside: Why Vivint’s Equipment Stands Out
1. Top-Tier Technology
Vivint’s equipment is undeniably high-quality. Their cameras, particularly the Doorbell Camera Pro, deliver exceptional image clarity, even at a distance of 15 feet. During testing, Vivint’s sensors—motion, entry, and glass-break—triggered alerts within 10 seconds, showcasing reliability. The Outdoor Camera Pro’s Smart Deter feature, which activates floodlights and sounds to scare off intruders, is a standout, offering proactive protection that competitors like SimpliSafe or Ring don’t always match.
2. Professional Installation
Unlike DIY systems, Vivint’s professional installation (costing $49–$199) ensures that every component is optimally placed and integrated. Technicians explain the system thoroughly, making it user-friendly even for tech novices. This hands-off approach is a major draw for those who want a hassle-free setup.
3. Smart Home Integration
Vivint excels in smart home automation. The Smart Hub feels like a tablet, offering snappy controls and compatibility with third-party devices like Nest thermostats, Philips Hue lighting, and Kwikset smart locks. This makes Vivint a great choice for those who want a unified smart home experience rather than just a security system.
4. Responsive Monitoring
Vivint’s 24/7 professional monitoring is a key selling point. If an alarm is triggered, their team contacts you within seconds and can dispatch authorities if needed. This rapid response is critical in emergencies, providing peace of mind that DIY systems may lack.
The Downside: Costs and Commitments
While Vivint’s equipment is impressive, there are significant considerations that potential buyers should weigh.
1. High Upfront Costs
Vivint’s equipment isn’t cheap. A basic system starts at $599.99, but most customers spend $1,200–$2,600, depending on their home’s size and needs. For example, an Outdoor Camera Pro costs $399, and additional sensors like glass-break detectors are $100 each—far pricier than competitors like SimpliSafe ($14.99 for door/window sensors) or Cove ($35 for glass-break sensors). If you want a comprehensive system with multiple cameras and smart devices, costs can easily climb into the thousands.
2. Mandatory Professional Monitoring
Vivint’s equipment is proprietary, meaning it’s only fully functional with their monitoring service, which ranges from $19.99 to $50 per month, depending on the number of cameras and smart features. Without monitoring, you lose remote app access and system functionality, rendering the equipment nearly useless. This lack of self-monitoring options is a stark contrast to competitors like Ring or Abode, which offer flexibility for budget-conscious users.
3. Long Contracts and Financing
If you can’t pay for equipment upfront, Vivint offers 0% APR financing for up to 60 months, but this locks you into a five-year contract—the longest in the industry. Early cancellation requires paying off the remaining equipment and monitoring balance, which can be a hefty sum. Paying upfront avoids the contract, but not everyone can afford the initial investment.
4. Short Return Policy
Vivint’s three-day return window is one of the shortest in the industry (though customers 65+ get 60 days). Competitors like ADT offer six-month guarantees, and many DIY systems provide 30-day trial periods. This tight window means you need to be certain about your purchase quickly.
5. Past Ethical Concerns
In 2021, Vivint settled a $20 million FTC lawsuit for deceptive sales practices, including using unrelated individuals’ credit reports to qualify customers for financing. While Vivint has since tightened its practices, this history raises red flags about transparency and trust. Potential buyers should carefully review contracts and financing terms.
Real-World Performance: Does It Deliver?
Vivint’s equipment performs exceptionally in real-world scenarios. During testing, the Doorbell Camera Pro’s image quality remained sharp even at a distance, and the Smart Hub’s intuitive interface made system management a breeze. The Outdoor Camera Pro’s deter features effectively scared off potential intruders, and the app’s push notifications allowed for customizable alerts, reducing unnecessary pings. However, some users reported occasional lags with smart locks, though Vivint’s customer service was responsive in addressing issues, often dispatching technicians to fix problems like manufacturing defects.
On the flip side, some Reddit users and former employees have criticized Vivint, calling the equipment overpriced for its quality and alleging poor customer service. One user noted that the system becomes “unusable” without monitoring, and a former installer claimed the company ignored critical security flaws. These anecdotes suggest that experiences can vary, and due diligence is crucial.
Who Is Vivint For?
Vivint is best suited for homeowners who:
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Want a premium, professionally installed security system with robust smart home integration?
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Are comfortable with ongoing monitoring fees and potentially long contracts.
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Value high-quality cameras and proactive features like Smart Deter.
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Can afford the upfront or financed costs of a customized system.
It’s less ideal for:
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Budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable or DIY options.
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Those who prefer self-monitoring or shorter trial periods.
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Renters or those who may move frequently, as reinstallation fees ($129) apply.
Tips for Owning Vivint Equipment
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Get a Custom Quote: Since pricing isn’t transparent online, work with a Vivint representative to tailor a system to your needs. Be wary of upselling during installation.
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Understand Financing: If you finance, clarify terms with the third-party lender to avoid surprises. Paying upfront is ideal for flexibility.
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Test Immediately: Use the three-day return window to thoroughly test the system, as it’s your only chance to cancel penalty-free.
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Check Promotions: Vivint often offers free installation or equipment discounts, so ask about current deals.
The Bottom Line
Owning Vivint home security equipment offers a premium, tech-forward experience with top-notch cameras, seamless smart home integration, and reliable monitoring. However, the high costs, mandatory monitoring, long contracts, and short return policy make it a significant commitment. For those who prioritize quality and convenience and can afford the price, Vivint delivers. But if you’re looking for flexibility or affordability, alternatives like Ring, SimpliSafe, or abode might be better fits.
Before signing up, weigh your budget, security needs, and willingness to commit long-term. Contact Vivint at (877) 833- 3122 for a personalized quote, and always read the fine print. With the right expectations, Vivint can transform your home into a safer, smarter space—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.