Vivint vs Frontpoint: Comprehensive Security System Comparison

Vivint vs Frontpoint: Which Security System Is the Better Choice?

Frontpoint and Vivint are both well-regarded home security providers, but they take different approaches to protecting your home. Frontpoint offers a wireless, mostly DIY system with professional monitoring, while Vivint provides a fully professional smart home security experience. At ShieldHome Pro, we break down the details so you can choose with confidence.

Company Profiles

Frontpoint was founded in 2007 and has built a reputation for straightforward, wireless home security systems. They focus on simplicity, offering pre-configured packages that customers can install themselves. Frontpoint uses equipment from GE and Qolsys, which are respected names in the security industry.

Vivint has been operating since 1999 and serves over 1.8 million customers across North America. Vivint designs much of their own equipment and provides professional installation with every system. Their focus on technology and smart home integration sets them apart in the market.

Equipment Comparison

Frontpoint equipment includes:

• Qolsys IQ Panel as the central hub
• Wireless door and window sensors
• Motion detectors
• Indoor and outdoor cameras
• Doorbell camera
• Smoke and CO detectors
• Water and flood sensors

Vivint equipment includes:

• Vivint Smart Hub with touchscreen control
• Professional-grade door and window sensors
• Advanced motion detectors
• High-definition outdoor cameras with AI analytics
• Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro with face recognition
• Smart locks and smart thermostat
• Garage door controller
• Smoke and CO detectors

While both companies offer quality equipment, Vivint's proprietary devices are designed to work together as a unified platform. The AI-powered camera features, in particular, are well beyond what Frontpoint currently offers.

Smart Home Capabilities

Frontpoint supports some smart home features through the Qolsys panel and a mobile app. You can control basic functions like arming and disarming, view camera feeds, and receive alerts. Integration with third-party smart home devices is limited, though they do support some Z-Wave devices.

Vivint excels in smart home automation. Their platform allows you to:

• **Control every connected device** from a single app or the Smart Hub
• **Create automation scenes** such as locking all doors and arming the system at bedtime
• **Manage energy usage** with smart thermostat integration
• **Monitor your home with AI-powered cameras** that send intelligent alerts
• **Use voice commands** through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

For homeowners who want their security system to also make their home smarter and more efficient, Vivint is the clear leader in this comparison.

Professional Monitoring

Both Vivint and Frontpoint offer 24/7 professional monitoring:

• **Frontpoint** uses Alarm.com's monitoring network, which is reliable and well-established. They offer crash and smash protection, cellular communication, and battery backup.
• **Vivint** operates their own professional monitoring infrastructure with fast response times and integration across all smart home devices. Their monitoring can trigger automated responses like turning on lights or locking doors during an alarm event.

Both companies provide dependable monitoring, but Vivint's deeper integration with smart home features gives it an edge for homeowners who want automated responses during security events.

Installation Process

Frontpoint ships equipment to your door with step-by-step instructions. Most customers can complete installation in under an hour. The wireless equipment uses adhesive strips, making it renter-friendly and easy to relocate.

Vivint sends a professional technician to your home. They evaluate your property, install all equipment in optimal locations, configure the system, and train you on how to use it. This ensures every sensor is placed correctly and the system performs at its best. Through authorized dealers like ShieldHome Pro, professional installation is often included at no extra cost.

Pricing and Contracts

Frontpoint pricing:

• Monthly monitoring plans start at a competitive rate
• Equipment can be purchased upfront or financed
• Contract terms are typically 12 months or month-to-month on some plans
• More flexible commitment options

Vivint pricing:

• Monthly monitoring plans start around $29.99 and up
• Equipment financing available with service agreement
• Typical contract terms of 42 to 60 months
• Higher overall investment but significantly more features and better equipment

Customer Experience

Frontpoint has historically received strong marks for customer service and has maintained good ratings with consumer review sites. Their straightforward approach appeals to customers who want simplicity.

Vivint has invested heavily in customer experience, with in-home service technicians, dedicated support teams, and a highly rated mobile app. Their tech support can remotely troubleshoot many issues, reducing the need for service visits.

The Bottom Line

Choose Frontpoint if you want a simple, wireless DIY system with decent monitoring, flexible contracts, and no installation appointment needed. It is a solid mid-range choice for basic security needs.

Choose Vivint if you want the most advanced smart home security system on the market, with professional installation, AI-powered cameras, comprehensive home automation, and top-tier monitoring. Vivint delivers more features, better equipment, and a more integrated experience.

Find Your Perfect Vivint System

ShieldHome Pro makes it easy to get started with Vivint. As an authorized dealer, we offer free consultations, customized system designs, and access to exclusive promotions. Get your free quote today and discover why so many homeowners choose Vivint for their smart home security.