Vivint vs. Xfinity

Vivint vs. Xfinity: What's the difference?

Vivint is a full-service smart home security provider that builds and owns its entire hardware ecosystem. Its professionally installed systems can include cameras, smart thermostats and voice integration with Amazon Echo and Google Assistant.

Xfinity Home is Comcast's home security offering, built to work alongside its internet and cable services. It's aimed at existing Comcast customers who want a single bill covering internet, TV and home security through a professionally installed setup.

What we like about Vivint

• Proprietary technology: Vivint controls its entire hardware stack, including smart locks and outdoor cameras with on-device person detection that goes beyond basic motion alerts.
• Proactive security: The Smart Hub uses on-device analytics to deter threats before an alarm triggers — including audio deterrents directed at potential intruders.
• Unified control: The Smart Hub serves as a single command center for security, lighting, locks and temperature, pulling all smart home functions under one interface.

What to consider: Equipment costs are the biggest hurdle — full systems can exceed $2,000. Vivint also requires financing contracts of up to 60 months, which is one of the longest commitments available in the home security market.

What we like about Xfinity

• Service integration: Existing Comcast customers can manage internet, cable and home security under a single monthly bill, which simplifies account management.
• Widespread availability: Xfinity Home is accessible to millions of households across nearly every area where Comcast provides service.

What to consider: Xfinity Home is only available to Xfinity Internet subscribers, making it off-limits to non-Comcast customers. You'll also need to keep a minimum internet plan active to maintain your security service.

Vivint vs. Xfinity: System and installation

Both Vivint and Xfinity require professional installation. Here is what to expect from each company's installation process.

Vivint system and installation

• System type: Vivint uses wireless equipment built around the Vivint Smart Hub, a touchscreen control panel that manages the entire system.
• Installation options: A Vivint Smart Home Pro handles all installations. Fees typically fall between $99 and $199, though they are often waived with promotional offers or higher-tier packages.

Vivint equipment costs

Starter packages begin around $599, while full custom systems with multiple cameras can push well past $2,000. Vivint offers upfront purchase or financing across 42- or 60-month terms.

Xfinity system and installation

• System type: Xfinity Home uses wireless equipment with cellular backup. Smart devices including lights, locks and thermostats are managed through the Xfinity Home app, with automation handled via the xFi Gateway and a touchscreen panel.
• Installation options: An Xfinity technician handles all installations. Fees vary but are frequently waived or reduced through promotional packages.

Xfinity equipment costs

Starter kits are priced between $150 and $300 upfront. Equipment is typically sold in bundles and may require a down payment if financed.

Vivint vs. Xfinity: Monitoring plan costs

Vivint uses a traditional monitoring contract structure, while Xfinity ties its monitoring into its broader network of home services.

Vivint monitoring plans

• Monitoring type: Vivint offers two service tiers based on whether you want camera coverage included.
• Smart Security: Starts at $29.99 per month and covers sensor-based monitoring without cameras.
• Smart Home Video: Starts at around $44.99 per month, with cloud storage for cameras running approximately $5 per camera each month.

Contract commitment: Customers who finance equipment — which most do — sign a 42- or 60-month agreement. Paying for all equipment upfront, which typically runs $1,000 or more, allows you to use a month-to-month service plan instead.

Xfinity monitoring plans

• Monitoring type: Xfinity Home offers two tiers: a self-monitoring option and a professionally monitored plan.
• Xfinity Smart Home: $10 per month. With 24/7 continuous video recording for up to six cameras but does not include police dispatch.
• Xfinity Home Security: $65 per month. Includes professional monitoring and cellular backup.

Contract commitment: The Home Security plan generally requires a 24-month contract. The Smart Home plan at $10 per month is typically month-to-month with no long-term commitment.

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Vivint vs. Xfinity: Equipment and technology

Compare Vivint's proprietary hardware lineup with Xfinity's integrated home technology ecosystem.

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

What Vivint customers say

The Vivint Smart Home system consistently draws positive reviews from its customers. Many reviewers point out the company's exceptional service and skilled technicians who perform fast, thorough work and field any questions from customers. There are some negative reviews that point to faulty installation or equipment that doesn't work with existing systems. These customers were frustrated by the lack of communication in fixing these issues, but most reviewers are satisfied with the service and would recommend the company to others.

What Xfinity customers say

Xfinity customers who left reviews on our site have both good and bad things to say about the system. Some positive highlights include HD cameras and an easy-to-use app. A few reviews mention equipment issues or problems with customer service. As of publishing, the majority of Xfinity ratings on our site are negative.

Bottom line: Vivint or Xfinity

Choose Vivint if you want a custom-designed system with cutting-edge hardware and aren't deterred by premium pricing or long financing contracts. It delivers high-end equipment and white-glove service, but the multi-year commitment required when financing is a real consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Choose Xfinity if you're already a Comcast subscriber and want the simplicity of a single bill covering internet and home security. It offers solid smart home features, but the hard requirement to bundle with Xfinity Internet means it's a non-starter if you use a different internet provider.

» MORE: Xfinity vs. Frontpoint