Vivint Smart Home

Vivint Smart Home

 4.7/5 (4041 reviews)
Vivint Smart Home
4.7(4,041)
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About Vivint Smart Home

Vivint is a home security and home automation company that offers professionally installed and monitored customized security systems with 24/7 support. Its product line includes integrated security and automation systems, outdoor and indoor cameras, doorbell cameras, security sensors, smart locks and smart devices for lighting, temperature, locks and garage doors. You can call or go online for a free quote from Vivint.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Fully customizable systems
    • Professional installation
    • Contract-free option
    • Complete control with Vivint app

    Cons

    • No DIY installation option
    • Relatively high costs

    Bottom Line

    Vivint is a good choice for those willing to pay a bit more for a customized home security system with professional installation. All plans include a centralized hub, sensors, app control and 24/7 monitoring and support.

    What is Vivint?

    Vivint designs integrated smart home security systems, including features such as professional installation and 24/7 monitoring. With a Vivint system, you can control security and smart devices such as locks, lighting and cameras on the Smart Hub or using the Vivint app. Vivint’s process starts with a custom design with help from one of its Smart Home Pros.

    Vivint was founded in 1999 and has about 1.9 million customers throughout the U.S., according to the company. It is based in Provo, Utah.

    Vivint home automation packages

    Each Vivint home security and automation system comes with the Vivint Smart Hub, a cellular-connected control panel that connects all your products on a central platform via Wi-Fi. You can customize the rest of your package with a variety of products, including doorbell cameras, outdoor and indoor cameras, smart deterrent lighting, smart thermostats, water and glass break sensors, smart locks and more.

    Vivint’s three customizable packages include:

    • Starter Package: This basic package includes the Smart Hub, with a touchscreen control panel, intruder detection, ongoing monitoring and access to the mobile app.
    • Premium Package: This package provides everything included in the Starter Package, plus video security and theft protection.
    • Premium Plus Package: Vivint’s highest-level package includes everything in Premium, plus smart-home automations (including voice control), protection for your vehicles and video recording storage.

    Vivint pricing

    The total cost of a home security system from Vivint varies based on the package and equipment you choose.

    The base cost of the Starter Package is $599, with monthly monitoring starting at $19.99 per month. The cost includes an in-home consultation, professional installation, 24/7 support, home monitoring and service.

    You can buy the equipment upfront in full from Vivint or finance it over time. Talk to a Vivint specialist about any ongoing promotions that may include free installation.

    To how Vivint’s costs compare with competitors’, read Vivint vs. ADT, Vivint vs. Frontpoint and Vivint vs. Ring.

    Vivint equipment

    Vivint’s base equipment includes its Smart Hub panel, a flood and water damage sensor and break-in security sensors.

    You can add any of the following equipment options to your security or home automation package to personalize your system.

    The wireless sensors communicate with the hub and app, sending alerts and sounding alarms. They have a five-year battery life.
    The smoke alarm helps shut off airflow in a fire, and the carbon monoxide detector connects you to monitoring if there’s a harmful level of the odorless gas.
    If the camera detects someone, it activates an 85-decibel speaker and lights up. It is high-definition and has a 140-degree field of view and night vision.
    The indoor camera records when there’s motion and sends notifications to your phone. It also has a two-way talk feature.
    Vivint’s doorbell camera has Smart Deter technology to stop package theft; if it sees someone trying to take a package, it activates a 90-decibel speaker and LED ring. The camera has a 180-degree-by-180-degree field of view and night vision.
    The Kwikset smart lock lets you assign up to 30 unique access codes for family members and friends. You can also stay informed on who’s unlocking and locking doors and use the Vivint App or Smart Hub to unlock with an access code.
    Control the temperature in your home from anywhere.
    Manage your lights without flipping switches. You can set custom lighting schedules and save on energy costs.
    Use the app to open and shut your garage from anywhere. The app also notifies you if you leave the garage door open.
    vivint doorbell camera
    Doorbell camera
    vivint garage door control
    Garage door control
    vivint outdoor camera attached to a brick wall
    Outdoor camera
    vivint indoor camera
    Indoor camera
    vivint smart locks
    Smart locks
    vivint smart thermostat
    Smart thermostat

    Vivint Smart Home FAQ

    Does Vivint have an equipment warranty?

    Vivint covers repairs or replacements of any defective part of a system at no charge within 120 days of installation. After 120 days, Vivint covers replacements of defective parts, but you are responsible for paying a service charge for any service call. Vivint’s warranty doesn’t cover alarm screens or batteries.

    How long are Vivint contracts?

    Vivint states that equipment financing requires a “coterminous” monthly agreement. So if you opt for a 60-month financing plan, you will have a 60-month contract. Month-to-month monitoring is possible if you pay for the equipment upfront.

    Does Vivint work without Wi-Fi?

    You need a wireless connection to use a Vivint system, because the Smart Hub (the central control panel) uses Wi-Fi to connect. However, Vivint has a cellular backhaul that allows the system to work if your Wi-Fi goes out.

    Does Vivint spy on you?

    Vivint doesn’t spy on you. However, hacking is always a possibility with any home security system that uses wireless technology. Vivint’s Smart Hub encrypts signals to keep cameras, recordings and devices safe from breaches. The company recommends taking steps to secure your wireless network, like regularly changing passwords and updating software and hardware.

    Does Vivint run a credit check?

    Vivint may run a credit check if you request a free quote or make a purchase. When you contact Vivint for the first time, you can ask if a credit check is necessary before proceeding.

    Can Vivint be used without monitoring?

    All Vivint systems include professional monitoring.

    Does Vivint SkyControl have a camera?

    The Vivint SkyControl panel does not have a camera. It is a control panel that allows users to control their home security equipment and communicate with Vivint security professionals. It does provide notifications of camera activity (if you have cameras set up).

    Is Vivint worth it?

    Vivint is expensive compared with some security systems — mostly because of the cost of equipment. But for those willing to pay more for home security, it seems the ability to customize a system with high-quality safety devices is a big draw. Vivint users say the control panel is easy to use and praise the camera quality — particularly the doorbell camera. They also say installation technicians are professional and take the time to answer any questions you have. If you’re searching for an integrated smart home security system, we recommend getting a quote from Vivint.

    For further insight, see how Vivint compares with our top picks for smart home security systems.

    Vivint Smart Home video reviews

    vivint smart home video review
    Claudia: Hi, my name is Claudia. I am from California. I was looking into Vivint to make sure I had security at the new home I was moving into this year. So I had considered two other alarm companies, but I'm pretty well versed in what my experience was with them in my past homes and I didn't want those issues. Vivint, I have seen has excellent camera, like, the, oh, I think they call it resolution. You can zoom in and you can see people at your door. You can even actually see what they're even carrying at your door. So I went with Vivint because of that. And I went online, searching, and actually Vivint contacted me, not, like, in a way where they are marketing, but literally a text came out from one of their people, and it was, like, a live person. It wasn't a automated deal. So I started communicating with him, and then we got on the phone and it just went from there. So Vivint made my purchase process pretty easily. I had looked at two other companies that I chose not to go with. And I was online searching. So that really was a way to optimize my time in looking to get things set up for my new location. They reached out to me via text pretty quickly. I responded to the text. I let that person know that I was going to be moving in around a certain period of time. No pressure. He said, get back to me when I was ready. I was ready. I started to text and ask questions. We reviewed what I would need for my location. And we started to create an order by phone at that point, after we had text a few times. That order was pretty simple. He was very clear in the price and the pieces I would be getting. He even gave me a promo piece that was going on at the time. So that experience was, it was just logical. It made sense. And it made me feel like I would be protected by the items, but also our conversation, he was aware of my circumstances. So he knew that I was really interested in getting it sooner than later. And so we booked a date, and that date, sooner than later, was really what I wanted. So he got me on calendar, and then I was happy to have that install. There was nothing in between that I didn't like as far as my salesperson went, or how the sale went, because it was very clear. I got lots of emails and confirmations from them, but I had referred a friend to Vivint who had then told me they have a F rating on Better Business Bureau. And so I actually text my sales guy and said, hey, this is what I heard. Some salespeople wouldn't respond, because now they think they've got the sale. What actually assured me of going with them was that he responded, and he actually responded with a very diplomatic response, and very transparent. So we went ahead and I made sure I had that appointment on Saturday, and it went from there. So my experience with the Vivint service team was excellent. They were courteous. My installer came to the door with his mask, with his booties. He was ready to enter my home safely. And I didn't feel like I had to question who he was. He identified himself. So that made it great. When he entered, he told me what he was here to do. They have these iPad type tools. And what they do is go over the bill, and the products, and how it's financed, and how everything should roll out, consistent with what the salesperson had told me on the phone and what we had gone over via email. All that was a fact. However, we did make one change. And in that one change, it was to my benefit. We removed something and we added a feature. That feature that we added would actually make my bill go down, but it actually was added safety measure for me. So I thought he was extremely knowledgeable. He had been with the company for a bit of time. He could tell I wasn't so technologically savvy, but I did need something that was gonna protect my house. And he explained everything. What I did like was it wasn't so much about me signing electronically these days. It was more about, there is a feature on Vivint's iPad to verify your face so that you are actually doing an audible yes or no, so that there is no way that you could be mistakenly or forging anything. It was just, yes, this is me. Yes, this is me, and I agree to this. So I like that deal. I'm being transparent. They're being transparent in what they're providing. So if there are any changes later on, I surely was made aware. He was timely. He got everything done pretty quickly for me. He reviewed everything a few times, and then he left. And I just thought based on his knowledge, I accepted his expertise for the recommendation based on his several reviews. I appreciated his transparency. He was courteous when he needed me to refer to something while he worked in my house for a couple hours. I came back, I acknowledged what he needed, then I went on. So I actually even felt safe while he was in my house doing what he needed to do. So my experience with him was great. My follow up from all the emails with their team of making sure the surveys that went out, I responded to, and I could only give them top stars because I didn't have any issues from my sales to my installer. So I really think that my Vivint security system is worth it. It is giving me peace of mind. I am able to handle my security from my phone when I'm leaving, when I'm entering, I am able to check my pad. I am able to make sure, and I love, this is what I love about it. My front door, lots of people walk by, it was recommended by my installer to put on the whoo-whoo recording sound. I really do think it's great because it does identify if someone's there in front of my door, the camera's capturing. It's also letting me know someone's there, but it's also letting them know that they're being recorded. So I feel like it's a great deterrent, but I also feel like any activity at my home is being recorded. If there's anything in question it's on camera and any type of entry, in an event of an emergency, and I'm away from my home or in my home, it's been set up to keep me safe, to notify police. Their process in making sure that I'm safe, the calls and things like that, I feel like I'm comfortable with knowing that there won't be delays, and won't be any kind of technical difficulties that would delay in my safety or the safety of my home.
    vivint smart home video review
    Greg: My name is Greg and I'm from Reno, Nevada. And what got me into the Vivint Home System is a roofing project that I have going. The security system was partnered with the roofing company. Actually it's a solar panel company. And that's how I got into the system. Well, you know, we checked out Nest and some others and being that this new Vivint system was provided by my solar panel company, it was a no-brainer to go ahead and get this system. And so far it's been amazing. We had a really nice rep that came out to the house and he went over the whole program with us. Had a nice brochure that we went through. Talked about the different aspects of the home system and some of the add ons that we decided to go ahead and purchase, such as adding extra security devices to each of the doors leading into the house. So we have a total of five of those now. And we went over everything in detail and it was a no-brainer. Very simple to operate and to use. The sales person that came out just seemed to know the system hands down. And they did a great job going over everything with me and installing the device. And they went over it in great detail on how to program it, how to adjust the the heat, how to adjust it so my cleaning people can come in without setting off the alarm. And it was a great experience and, you know, it was good. You know, this is a great system and I'm really enjoying it. And I plan— I think it's well worth the money. Absolutely well worth it. It's not that much a month and I would— I'm gonna actually try to sell this to my friends. But, you know, I love the aspects of being away and being able to unlock the door for people and lock it back up, adjust the thermostat when I need to. Cause we travel a lot and it's a great tool, I guess you could say, for me to make sure I have a peace of mind with my home.

    Vivint Smart Home Reviews

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    Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
    Original review: Jan. 10, 2023

    Josh, the Vivint Tech, came to our home right as scheduled. He was simply amazing. We wanted to have this system reinstalled in a different location in our home. My father has dementia and we wanted to be able to know if he opened the doors and went outside without us knowing when he visits. The VIVINT system had already been installed in this new house we bought. Josh came in and introduced himself. We felt uncomfortable with the board being by the front door, so he moved it for us into the living room. He also change the batteries and gave us new passwords and reset it for our personal use. We could not hear the doorbell or the announcements where it was originally installed in the foyer. We had Josh install a keyless entry on the front door. He also left us a keyless entry for a bedroom door to be installed at a later date.

    Josh was an amazing guy. He was so patient and so kind. We could not have asked for a better Tech. Everything works perfectly. And it’s exactly the peace of mind we wanted. We even had a tip sensor on the garage door installed so when the garage door goes up, we are notified. Our NEST thermostat was also hooked up to the Vivint board. He helped us to hook this all up to my phone app. It takes a little while to get all of this done. And he was so patient with my husband, me, & all our questions. He had answers for everything that we asked. And he showed us everything he did along the way. He even showed us how to use our system, our phone, and how to arm and disarm everything. And it is a reasonable assurance in cost per month. Josh, thank you, thank you for everything you did for us!!!

    2 people found this review helpful

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: Nov. 16, 2022

      I own two houses. I have had VIVINT (previously another company that I can’t remember) in Arlington TX since 2008. I purchased a new home in Waxahachie TX and BRINKS (formerly another company that I can’t remember) was already at the house, I just had to activate. We became dissatisfied with BRINKS and I chose to also put VIVINT at the Waxahachie address.

      Yesterday Ali, an outstanding technician, arrived to install. I had been told I was “pre-approved” so I was surprised when Ali told me I needed to “apply for credit”. I didn’t understand since I already have an account for the home in Arlington but reluctantly agreed to “apply”. Ali went back to work and in a few moments I got a message that my Equifax account was locked and VIVINT could not get approval. I had locked my account almost two years ago due to a bank irregularity when my previous bank was acquired by PNC, and was told the freeze was for 12month unless I requested the freeze again. I did not request an additional freeze, have not applied for any credit and thought the freeze no longer existed.

      Once I was made aware Equifax needed access, I tried to reach Equifax online but they could not verify who I am!!! WHAT???? I had to them call Equifax which proved to be a V E R Y arduous task!!! My call was “bumped up” to three different supervisors and then I was finally told there was no freeze and no entity had tried to verify my credit. WHAT???? All this time Ali was patiently waiting and heard much of what was going on because I had the Equifax call on speaker phone.

      Finally, the third supervisor sent another link after being convinced I really could not access either of the prior links. The Equifax supervisor assured me they had had no problem with the final form link but by that time my patience and nerves were stretched beyond my ability to cope any longer. Ali to the rescue!!! He understood what I was being asked to do and showed me on my MacBook how to accomplish what I needed to do to complete the Equifax form!! Had Ali not been present I know I would not ever have been able till comply with the Equifax request. After two hours on the phone, Citizen was able to verify my creditworthiness and Ali quickly finished the install. Ali was the epitome of professionalism and maintained “cool” at all times, even when I was on the verge of losing my mind!! THANK YOU TO ALI FOR MAKING THE INSTALL A SUCCESS!!!

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: Sept. 2, 2022

      I can't help but be fair and accurate. The technicians that I had were a great team together. From the sales rep to the installers. Which started as one and then came two more. The sales rep arrived first - presented the Vivint products - and after agreeing to sign up - I received an immediate installation date and time - which was the same night. I really didn't want to have the technician(s) do any work on this night. I wasn't feeling well and was very tired, I wanted to call it for the night. Reluctantly, I agreed. Mainly because I didn't want to pay the installation fee, if my date of install had to change.

      The first technician arrived within 30 minutes after my presentation. A female arrived, I thought very impressive. After asking me location questions for the equipment placement, putting on her working tool belt, she proceeded to get started with the installation. Within another hour, two more technicians arrived. She asked and gave instructions for equipment placement to get the installation done accurately and efficiently and as soon as possible. They knew I wasn't feeling well. I would say well done. They were out by midnight. And I couldn't wait to go to bed. Suggestion: I feel the sales rep should be more upfront with the time length to a customer, especially after giving a quick (ie. 15 min) overview of the products. If a customer is interested, they will sit thru a longer presentation. For me it was 1.5 hours barring some short stops. Because I have small children to attend to.

      Vivint Smart Home response

      This is great feedback, Linda! Please let us know if we can do anything to help you in the future. Thanks for choosing Vivint to protect your home and family!

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: July 29, 2022

      Never have I ever had a fantastic experience from start to finish when ordering something custom. The rep on the phone (Steele) was beyond great at explaining who guys are, and what services you offer that matches our needs. Amen. Justin was our technician, was very personable and professional! His customer service went above and beyond from what I know companies expect. This is the sole reason why I will have no problem telling friends and family about your company and WHY they should get services from you! Great guy and these are exactly the type of employees that you want to have representing the company! Nobody likes an employee who is grumpy and micromanages.

      Mat the manager also stopped by our house and let me say, he carried himself exceptionally and I clearly see why he is in the position that he is. We had a few concerns about our install due to our house lacking a doorbell electrical line and he was able to instantly find a solution so that we would not see ANY CABLES coming out of the wall! We couldn't believe how professional it looked and were dreading having to see cables and painting it to try and hide it. He also made sure to use a product so that they didn't have to staple anything and WE APPRECIATE Mat treating our home as if it was his! I can’t say enough about these two gentlemen! Hands down one of the best experiences we have ever had when purchasing something! The way they took care of us, I hope you take care of them as well!

      Vivint Smart Home response

      That's what we like to hear, Flor! We appreciate you giving us your feedback! Thanks for choosing Vivint to protect your home and family!

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: June 19, 2022

      I had ADT. Was paying $45 a month just for monitoring? A Vivint sales rep. knocked in my door, Aaron. Nice guy, very knowledgeable and informative! He stated ADT might be a little cheaper, but not better. He was correct!! I had some concerns and issues, he answered every one!!!! I was still on the fence, over thinking. So I called Vivint directly, spoke to Franklin. A really great rep. and spent sometime answering any odd question I had, put my mind at ease!!! An answer to prayer, actually!!! He professionally directed me back to Aaron to complete the process. I did. I ordered a system!!!

      The installation technician came today, a very polite and super knowledgeable young man, Jesse. Started the install with the help of another tech, I believe his supervisor? Frankie? Also very knowledgeable and nice! During the install Jesse had some system issues with the old ADT system, brainstormed it, came up with a game plan and executed it promptly!!! Without delay!!! My old system had been "updated" poorly over 15 years???? Jesse explained the issues, showed me exactly what was wrong and what needed to be done to correct them. And he did, Jesse, literally is the man!! He fixed every issue, did the complete install, and overcame every hurdle and we had a few!!! This tech deserves a raise, promotion, or both!! He earned it today, a long one! I would highly recommend Vivint, especially with this team!!! System's in and I LOVE it.... I complain when I get bad service and give praise when I get good service!!! This was better than good!!!!

      Vivint Smart Home response

      That's what we like to hear, John! We appreciate you giving us your feedback! Thanks for choosing Vivint to protect your home and family!

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: May 27, 2023

      Everyone that came here was very professional and explained everything really well! The installation was quick and efficient and they explained how everything is used very well. I am very pleased with their service and would recommend Vivint to anyone looking to get or upgrade their security system!

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: May 26, 2023

      Salesman was very knowledgeable and not aggressive at all. He explained everything in detail. Installer was on time. Had lots of patience because I had a lot of questions. Love the simplicity of this system. Would definitely recommend it.

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: May 26, 2023

      We’ve only had the system for a matter of hours. But, our sales person John was really great to work with. I don’t think I’ve even given someone knocking on my door the time of day in the last ten years. John is polite, professional, and honest. If he knocks on your door, chat with him. Even if you’re not in the market for a security system. He will surprise you.

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: May 26, 2023

      Luke & Ty did a great job putting together the best security set up for my new home while working quickly & professionally. Why the Wow factor? They made it happen with same day install with a crew of 4 guys and knocked out a clean job of the cameras and monitor walked me through how to operate the system. Shout out to the whole crew, now I have the best system in town.

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      Verified Reviewer Verified Buyer
      Original review: May 26, 2023

      David was amazing. He takes his time educating me on the system and was very helpful. I felt very comfortable with him installing everything. He is very knowledgeable. Thank you for also changing the times for my install and getting here so quickly after my home was vandalized.

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      Vivint Smart Home Company Information

      Social media:
      Company Name:
      Vivint
      Company Type:
      Private
      Address:
      4931 N 300 W
      City:
      Provo
      State/Province:
      UT
      Postal Code:
      84604
      Country:
      United States
      Fax:
      (801) 377-4116
      Website:
      www.vivint.com

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