Vivint Smart Home review - best smart home system tested
As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the quest for home security solutions has transcended traditional methods. Smart home systems are now at the forefront, offering not just security but automation and convenience. Among these solutions, Vivint stands out with its comprehensive smart home security offerings, combining state-of-the-art technology with user-friendly features. This review delves into the intricacies of the Vivint Smart Home system, exploring its components, benefits, and considerations for prospective users.
The hub is the core of the system
At the heart of the Vivint experience is the Smart Hub, a control panel that serves as the command center for your home security system. With a 7-inch color touchscreen and a user-friendly interface, it provides seamless navigation through the system’s various features. The hub connects to your home network via Wi-Fi, ensuring that your security system remains operational even during power outages thanks to its backup battery.
This Smart Hub also communicates with all connected devices—such as cameras, motion detectors, and smart locks—using both Wi-Fi and Z-Wave protocols. This dual-connectivity ensures that your devices can communicate effectively, providing robust security and automation features. In the event of an emergency, the hub allows for direct communication with Vivint’s monitoring service, enabling swift responses from emergency services.
- Centralized Control: Manage all smart home devices from one place.
- Backup Power: Ensures functionality even during outages.
- Emergency Communication: Direct line to monitoring services for quick response.
Smart actions for automation
The Vivint app is equipped with a feature called Smart Actions, allowing users to create automated routines based on specific triggers. This is akin to using If This Then That (IFTTT) technology, where users can define a trigger event and choose corresponding actions. For example, if the security system is armed and a door is opened, the system can automatically turn on all indoor lights and start recording video from the nearest camera.
Smart Actions can be customized to suit individual preferences, making your home not only secure but also more convenient. Some common automations include:
- Turning on lights when the system is armed away.
- Locking all smart locks at a specified time.
- Triggering the doorbell camera to record whenever motion is detected.
Smart lighting solutions
Vivint offers a range of smart lighting options designed to enhance your home security. While the system features its own smart lighting controls, it also supports Z-Wave technology, allowing users to incorporate compatible third-party devices. This flexibility enables users to customize their lighting setup according to their needs.
Key features of Vivint's smart lighting include:
- Zigbee Integration: Works with Zigbee smart bulbs and dimmer switches.
- Z-Wave Compatibility: Users can add a wide variety of Z-Wave devices.
- Remote Control: Control lighting through the Vivint app, whether you're home or away.
For those who prefer DIY installations, Vivint provides guidance on how to integrate Z-Wave lighting controls, making it easy for users to enhance their smart home setup without professional installation.
Advanced security camera options
Security cameras are a vital aspect of any home security system, and Vivint offers a robust selection. The system features both indoor and outdoor cameras, each designed to integrate seamlessly with the Smart Hub. These cameras provide high-resolution video feeds, motion detection capabilities, and two-way audio communication.
- Indoor Camera: Features 1080p resolution with HDR and a 150-degree field of view, ideal for monitoring the interior of your home.
- Outdoor Camera: Equipped with a 4K image sensor and 140-degree field of view, it offers night vision and can be powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE).
- Video Doorbell: Captures high-definition video of visitors and allows for two-way communication, enhancing security at your front door.
The outdoor camera also comes with a unique Smart Deter feature, which activates a loud sound and illuminates an LED light when someone lingers in its field of view, potentially deterring intruders.
Cost considerations for Vivint Smart Home system
Investing in a Vivint Smart Home system is a commitment that requires financial consideration. The initial cost can be significant, with the average system setup costing around $2,800, plus monthly monitoring fees of approximately $54.99. Users have the option to finance their system over time, which may help mitigate the upfront financial burden.
Key financial points to consider include:
- Initial Costs: Systems start at about $2,800, depending on the components chosen.
- Monthly Fees: Professional monitoring services typically cost around $54.99/month.
- Long-Term Commitment: Contracts usually range from three to five years, depending on the financing options.
Should you buy a Vivint Smart Home system?
For those seeking a comprehensive, professionally monitored home security solution that integrates seamlessly with smart home technology, Vivint stands out as a top contender. The system's combination of robust security features, customizable automation, and convenience makes it an attractive option for homeowners.
While the system may come at a higher price point, the peace of mind and convenience it offers can justify the investment. With its ability to adapt to user needs and integrate various smart home devices, Vivint presents a unique solution for modern homeowners looking to secure their properties while enhancing their living experience.
For a more in-depth look at Vivint’s offerings, check out the following video:
Ultimately, if you're in the market for a sophisticated security solution that doesn't compromise on smart home features, Vivint is certainly worth considering.
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