Tuesday, October 15th
2024 Home Security System Reviews
Vivint
- Professionally-installed home security system
- Must order through a representative, not online
- Monthly monitoring fees of at least $29.99/month
- Minimum equipment purchase of $599.99
- Installation fees of $49 to $199
- Contracts may range from 42-60 months (when not purchasing equipment upfront)
- Offers smart home integrations
Vivint, a popular brand in the home security industry with over two million customers in North America, has a friendly door-to-door sales approach that may seem appealing. But, customers are often locked into lengthy contracts with no guarantee of reliable service. And, despite something of an improvement in Vivint's BBB rating (from an "F” to a "C”), there are still thousands and thousands of complaints about how these home security systems function down the line after being installed. As a result, Vivint has received one of our lowest rankings among home security systems.
Wyze
- $99.99/year for home monitoring
- Expandable up to 100 sensors
- DIY installation
The Wyze home security system falls short of expectations. Every time we've shopped at Wyze over the last 12+ months, the central component necessary to operate the system wasn't available for purchase. Also, it's not enough to be affordable if what you deliver doesn't work consistently, and that's the picture painted by Wyze's numerous customer complaints. We recommend selecting another provider to fulfill your home security requirements because Wyze - even when it is in stock - is nothing but a let-down.
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Which Home Security System is the Best?
Home security systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people seek to protect their homes and families from potential threats. With a wide variety of options available on the market, choosing the right system for your needs can be overwhelming. We can help you take the stress out of the decision-making process and ultimately select a home security setup that's perfect wherever you live.
Let's get started. As you already know, a home security system is a network of electronic devices designed to secure your home against theft, vandalism, and other possible dangers. A typical system may include sensors, cameras, alarms, and monitoring services.
Home Security System FAQ
Continued from above...
Sensors are the backbone of a home security system. They detect any unusual activity in and around your home and alert the system. The most common types of sensors are door and window sensors, motion sensors, and glass-break sensors. Door and window sensors are placed on the frames of doors and windows and detect any movement when the doors or windows are opened or closed. Motion sensors detect movement within a room, while glass-break sensors detect the sound of breaking glass. Pretty self-explanatory.
Cameras are an essential component of many home security systems. They provide visual evidence of any unusual activity around your home and can help identify intruders. Most cameras are connected to the internet, allowing you to view the footage remotely from your phone or computer.
Alarms are designed to alert you and your neighbors to any potential threats. When a sensor is triggered, the alarm will sound, and a notification will be sent to your phone or monitoring service. These companies monitor your home security system 24/7, and if a sensor is triggered, they will usually contact you to verify whether there is a genuine threat. If they are unable to reach you, they will contact the authorities on your behalf.
Now that you have a solid understanding of the basics of any home security system, what other factors might have an impact on your decision? Here are some criteria to consider:
- Professional install vs. DIY. Professionally-installed systems are designed for those who want a more comprehensive setup, often including cameras, sensors, alarms, and monitoring services. The professional install makes these systems more expensive than DIY systems but provide a higher level of security. DIY systems are designed for those who want affordability and are willing to install and maintain their home security system.
- Cost. Will you pay upfront for the service and/or equipment? What monthly fees are involved? Contracts can often range from 3-5 years, but not every home security system requires one.
- Portability of service. Can you take your home security system with you if you move, either by taking the equipment itself or transferring your contract and having a new install?
- Cancellation. What happens if you decide you don't need a home security system anymore? Many providers have hefty cancellation fees, especially if you signed a lengthy contract in exchange for no upfront equipment costs.
- Trial period. The best home security providers give you a grace period to see how the system works. After all, there's a pretty steep learning curve involved, and you want to make sure your system gives you the coverage and peace of mind you're paying for.
- Satisfaction guarantee/refund policy. Can you get your money back if you don't like how your security system works once it's installed?
- Customer feedback. What do other homeowners have to say about the home security system? Is the customer service team responsive? How often does the system register false alarms?
Top Consumer Reviews brings you the ultimate guide to the best home security systems on the market today. Our comprehensive review and ranking system is designed to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision and protect your loved ones both now and in the future.
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