Let’s start off with Vivint’s most obvious strength: home automation. The Vivint Smart Hub houses the system’s brain, which is capable of connecting with things like smart thermostats and smart outlets. From there, you can create automation rules, schedules, and scenes so you can manage all connected smart home products easily.

The first thing you should know about Alder is that it requires a three-year agreement. That’s an awfully long time, especially for renters such as ourselves. It’s also a huge risk even for homeowners to sign a contract without knowing if the system works for their needs. Lastly, SimpliSafe is user-friendly, from the simple installation process that often takes less than an hour to the functional app and keypad that comes with the system, almost everything about SimpliSafe is simple. (Not perfect, but simple.)

Smart home automation

The sensitivity of the motion sensors in this 8-piece kit is adjustable to account for pets of up to 25kg and it has a piece of tech the brand claims can tell the difference between false alerts (like a football hitting your front door) and a real break-in scenario. For extra convenience, you get a keyfob that automatically disarms your system when you enter your home.

Additionally, you also have full control of your surveillance options, and don't need to wait for alerts in case you may be unavailable to take them. As a monitored solution, Frontpoint can call 911 for you if they detect a clear incident, ensuring that your home remains protected even if your smartphone is switched off. A video intercom solution that’s tied with the access control, so that you can manage access for both visitors and residents from a single system Doorbell Camera Pro– Vivint’s doorbell camera with night vision lets you see who’s at your door anytime. It’s triggered by motion and sends alerts to your mobile phone as needed. For instance, “A visitor approached your door” will be sent with video. Video is recorded with a 180-degree lens, and a sound system lets you talk with visitors. For low maintenance, Frontpoint equipment is powered by long-lasting batteries. For instance, batteries in their pet-friendly motion sensors will serve for about seven years. Eagle eye is one the most established cloud camera companies in the US. They provide camera systems that can operate both offline or online (via a cloud connection). Eagle eye can work with their own cameras, or through existing or third party IP based cameras. Some of the reasons to choose eagle eye would be:Next, I tested the connection between each sensor and the central monitoring station. I pressed the button on the side of the motion sensor and the panel displayed a Motion Signal Test Status screen that showed a verified connection. I also received a text message on my phone with a motion alert. I then tested each door/window sensor: All three were verified on the Signal Test screen, and I received text messages for each triggered sensor. I pressed a button on the key fob, held it for two seconds, and it too was verified and a text message was received. Installing the Cove system is easy no matter how much tech expertise you have. Following the simple instructions, I plugged in the panel and waited around three minutes for it to establish a cellular connection. I was greeted with a voice that welcomed me to Cove, and pressed the Get Started button on the screen. Vivint’s equipment is centered on the Smart Hub, a touchscreen tablet that acts as the system’s brain. It’s similar to the touchscreen control panels we see from other brands, but it has a few standout features. Smoke/ CO alarm listener: Already have smoke and CO detectors that aren’t smart (no offense)? Smoke and CO alarm listeners can detect the sounds of your existing smoke and CO alarms going off and alert you via your mobile app, essentially turning your “dumb” devices into smart ones. This is a more affordable option than buying smart smoke and CO alarms to begin with, although not every company sells them. Motion sensors: A motion sensor will trigger your alarm system if an intruder manages to gain entry to your property without triggering your entry sensors.