If you’ve ever encountered a restaurant with a price-free menu, you likely anticipated a hefty bill. This somewhat mirrors the experience of exploring Vivint home security systems. Unlike brands such as ADT and SimpliSafe, which readily display their pricing, Vivint keeps its device and bundle costs under wraps online. To uncover the price tags, you must engage with a sales representative and customize a system tailored to your home’s specifics before receiving a quote.
Our recent quote from Vivint confirmed our expectations: their home security solutions come at a premium. Upon installing and testing the system, the rationale behind Vivint’s higher prices became apparent. The exceptional quality of Vivint’s products and their system capabilities impressed us so much that we recognized it as a leading home security system of 2025. Intrigued? Let’s delve into our findings, beginning with the pricing structure, which includes mandatory professional installation and monitoring fees, and considering elements like the convenience offered by accessories such as the Vivint Key Fob.
The Vivint technician expertly installed the Outdoor Camera Pro (Gen 2) above the entryway.
Understanding Vivint’s Monitoring Service Costs
Vivint’s monitoring expenses are not uniform; they vary depending on individual needs. When we inquired with a sales consultant about pricing, we were informed that plans begin at $30 and can reach up to $50, aligning with the costs associated with ADT.
The ultimate monthly cost is influenced by the number of devices incorporated into your system and whether you opt for automation features within your plan. Cloud storage and state taxes also factor into the overall price. It’s important to note a limitation on equipment: the system permits a maximum of 12 security cameras. While this may suffice for most households, it’s a consideration if you require a security system for a larger property.
Vivint Smart Home mobile app timeline showcasing recent activityThe Vivint Smart Home mobile app displaying a timeline of recent home security events.
Pro Tip: If Vivint doesn’t align with your requirements, remember that similar alternatives exist. For example, abode’s packages offer more streamlined equipment capable of delivering comparable smart security features. Explore various options using our comprehensive home security system buying guide.
Expert Take
From Gene Petrino, Retired SWAT Commander and Law Enforcement
“Many people are unaware that the national average police response time for a residential burglary is around 10 minutes. The primary reason for this is that a monitored alarm system does not directly contact law enforcement initially. The monitoring center first attempts to verify if the alarm is false by contacting the homeowner. Consequently, by the time law enforcement is notified, suspects have typically already left the scene.”
Navigating Vivint Contracts
If you are new to purchasing a home security system, the Vivint price range might seem somewhat daunting. However, Vivint offers equipment payment plans extending up to five years, contingent upon signing a contract. To contextualize, a $200 security camera translates to just $3.33 per month when payments are spread over five years.
A contract also provides the advantage of securing prices, particularly during periods of rising inflation. We’ve observed instances of home security companies imposing price hikes on their customers, especially among some of the least effective security systems we’ve evaluated.
For those preferring to avoid contractual commitments, upfront payment for equipment is an option. However, a monitoring plan remains mandatory for system functionality. Unlike ADT, which offers a six-month money-back guarantee, Vivint provides a shorter three-day window to decide if their service is the right fit for you.
Pro Tip: If Vivint’s mandatory monthly fee is a concern, alternative options are available. Explore our compilation of the best security systems without monthly fees. Abode stands out as a particularly strong Vivint alternative due to its advanced home automation capabilities, comparable to Vivint’s and exceeding those of most security systems.
Vivint’s Standout Features
- Professional Installation: Vivint professionals handle the installation of your security system. Note that a $129 fee applies for re-installation if you relocate.
- Smart Home Integrations: Vivint home automation seamlessly integrates with platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, Philips Hue smart lighting, and Nest thermostats, enabling convenient automated actions.
- Advanced Outdoor Camera and Video Doorbell: Vivint’s latest offerings in outdoor cameras and video doorbells are top-tier in video quality and artificial intelligence. Refer to our review of the Vivint Doorbell Camera for detailed insights.
- User-Friendly Mobile App: The Vivint Smart Home app offers effortless remote monitoring and control of your home security system from anywhere.
- Convenient Key Fob Accessory: For simplified control, especially for families, Vivint offers a key fob accessory. This allows for easy arming and disarming of the system without needing to use the mobile app or panel, ideal for quick actions or for those less comfortable with smartphone interfaces.
Unless your doors are white, the Vivint Door Sensor will be noticeably visible.
Vivint Equipment Pricing Details
Reliable smart home security necessitates investment in trusted, expert-tested devices. With Vivint, you have the flexibility to select your specific equipment, which in turn determines your monthly fee. If budget is a concern, numerous opportunities to save on Vivint are available throughout the year. Before purchasing, consult our guide to Vivint’s year-round deals and our resource on Vivint Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.
Vivint Package Pricing Options
A frequently asked question regarding Vivint equipment is, “What will the total cost be?”. The answer hinges on the specific equipment you choose and your payment method. Our Vivint package amounted to $1,200, which included:
- Vivint Smart Hub
- Motion sensors
- Glass break sensors
- Entry sensors
- Smoke and CO detectors
- Kwikset smart lock
- Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro
The Vivint Smart Hub stands out as one of the most aesthetically pleasing control panels we’ve tested.
If the $1,200 price point is deterring, consider that a basic system can be obtained for approximately $600. Furthermore, you can distribute the cost over a four or five-year contract. This option reduces the upfront payment, with the monthly equipment cost added to your monitoring fee. Financing a Vivint system necessitates a credit check and commitment to a monitoring contract matching the equipment financing term.
For those able to pay upfront, the financing contract can be bypassed. However, a monthly monitoring fee remains essential for system operation.
FYI: Vivint is a viable choice for those seeking a security system without a credit check, although its premium pricing might discourage some potential buyers. Currently, SimpliSafe, abode, and Ring are recognized as the top security systems that don’t require a credit check.
To provide an estimated cost for a Vivint system, refer to the latest equipment pricing below. We’ve outlined both retail prices (upfront cost) and financing prices based on a 60-month term (monthly payment).
| Component | Retail price | Cost per month with 60-month financing plan |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Drive | $250 | $4.17 |
| Car Guard | $200 | $3.33 |
| Smoke Detector | $100 | $1.67 |
| CO Detector | $100 | $1.67 |
| Smoke alarm and Carbon Monoxide Monitor | $100 | $1.67 |
| Smart Lock | $180 | $3 |
| Garage Door Controller | $100 | $1.67 |
| Vivint Smart Thermostat | $170 | $2.83 |
| Lamp Module | $50 | $0.83 |
| Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro | $250 | $4.17 |
| Outdoor Camera Pro | $400 | $6.67 |
| Vivint Ping Indoor Camera | $200 | $3.33 |
| Vivint Indoor Camera Pro | $200 | $3.33 |
| Spotlight Pro | $250 | $6.67 |
| Water Sensor | $50 | $0.83 |
| Flood/ Freeze/ Heat Sensor | $50 | $0.83 |
| Smart Sensor | $50 | $0.83 |
| Panic Pendant | $50 | $0.83 |
| Key Fob | $50 | $0.83 |
| Tilt Sensor | $50 | $0.83 |
Programming a code on the Vivint Smart Lock was a straightforward process.
While Vivint isn’t the most budget-friendly option, home security is an area where compromising on quality is unwise. Be sure to review our comprehensive review of Vivint before making any definitive decisions.
Vivint Pricing Compared to Competitors
Let’s evaluate Vivint’s position in the home security market. On the more affordable end, systems like Cove and Ring Alarm require approximately $200 for equipment and around $20 monthly for monitoring. Conversely, companies such as Deep Sentinel represent the higher end, with a single camera system costing $499 and monitoring starting at $100.
Vivint occupies a middle ground, leaning towards the premium end. The Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro, priced at $399, stands out as their most expensive individual component. In comparison, SimpliSafe’s most expensive camera is $199 (SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera Pro Gen 2), and ADT’s is $279 (Nest Cam with Floodlight).
The Vivint Outdoor Camera is an exception; when comparing other equipment types, Vivint remains pricier but not by a significant margin. For instance, consider the following comparison of Vivint, ADT, and SimpliSafe packages with similar equipment:
| Vivint Basic Package | ADT Front Door Protection Package | SimpliSafe The Lighthouse Package |
|---|---|---|
| – 1 x Smart Hub – 4 x Entry Sensors – 1 x Motion Sensor | – 1 X Base – 3 x Entry Sensors – 1 x Motion Sensor – 1 x Smart Lock – 1 x Doorbell Camera | – 1 x Base and Keypad – 3 x Entry Sensors – 1 x Motion Sensor – 1 x Outdoor Camera |
| $599 | $359.49 (discounted from $718.98) | $479.93 |
The higher investment in Vivint translates to enhanced features. Vivint offers a broader spectrum of equipment, including smart home products like thermostats, locks, and bulbs, which are not available through SimpliSafe. Furthermore, Vivint provides professional white-glove installation, whereas SimpliSafe is a DIY system.
>> Compare: SimpliSafe vs. Vivint
Compared to ADT, currently our top-rated security system, Vivint is positioned slightly higher in price. While an ADT basic system starts around $269, Vivint justifies its premium with superior product features. For example, Vivint’s control panel offers smart home device control, a feature limited in ADT’s control panels.
FYI: If a simple and cost-effective security system is your priority, Vivint may not be the ideal choice. Explore the best DIY security systems instead, particularly Cove’s affordable packages.
Vivint’s premium status is further emphasized when considering its security cameras. The Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro, at $399, is double the industry average for outdoor cameras, but it incorporates AI and proactive burglar deterrence. Similarly, the Vivint Video Doorbell Pro, priced at $299.99, nearly doubles the $180 industry average for video doorbells, yet it offers comparable AI and crime deterrent capabilities.
On a positive note, Vivint’s monitoring pricing is relatively more competitive, ranging from $30 to $50. However, this may increase with the addition of more security cameras. It aligns with ADT in this aspect.
>> Learn More: Vivint vs. ADT
Expert Take
From Gene Petrino, Retired SWAT Commander and Law Enforcement
“Criminals are constantly evolving their methods to adapt to technology. I recall numerous instances where burglars were undeterred by audible alarms because they understood local law enforcement response times. However, advancements in technology have improved notification and response times, causing criminals to reconsider targeting homes equipped with security systems.”
What Sets Vivint Apart? Robust Smart Home Integration
Vivint distinguishes itself through its seamless third-party integrations. While seemingly a minor detail, this is fundamental to Vivint’s functionality. Home automation elevates home security significantly.
We experienced seamless connectivity with our Amazon Echo through the Vivint Panel.
Vivint offers voice control, enabling you to use Alexa or Google Assistant to arm your system or obtain sensor status updates. Vivint can be integrated into your routines, so a voice command like “I’m leaving for the day” can arm Vivint and manage other smart home devices, such as adjusting the thermostat or turning off lights.
>> See More: The Best Security Systems That Work With Alexa
Vivint also directly integrates with third-party devices, including:
- Kwikset and Yale smart locks
- Chamberlain and LiftMaster garage door controllers
- Nest smart thermostats
- Philips Hue smart bulbs
Integrating these devices into your Vivint system enables manual control via the Vivint app and Smart Hub. More importantly, you can establish IFTTT-style automation rules to automate various actions.
For instance, we configured an automation rule to lock our front door, dim living room lights, adjust the thermostat to our preferred sleep temperature, and arm Vivint at a set time each night. This not only serves as a bedtime reminder but also ensures our home is secured before we retire for the night.
Our Nest Thermostat seamlessly integrated into our Vivint system.
Vivint’s automations can also assist individuals with hearing impairments. When our grandmother visits, we have a Vivint automation set to activate the guest room light if smoke is detected, providing an additional alert method. This contributed to Vivint being recognized as one of the best security systems for seniors and best security systems for the deaf.
Pro Tip: Within the Vivint app, we recommend exploring the Custom Notifications page. Here, you can customize alert types and timing. For example, we receive notifications if a window remains open for over 30 minutes after 8 p.m. This feature can also be used for person and package detection, doorbell alerts when you are away, and notifications if the front door isn’t properly closed.
Discover how Vivint compares to other home security systems. Our comprehensive testing and side-by-side comparisons with other brands provide a complete perspective.
Our Verdict on Vivint
Pinpointing an exact price for a Vivint home security system is challenging, but it’s undeniably a premium investment. While a five-year contract can make monthly payments more manageable, even the monitoring costs exceed those of some top competitors.
Nevertheless, Vivint is a standout smart home system and a leading professionally installed security system. It’s ideally suited for homeowners and renters who prioritize high-quality equipment, advanced home automation, and round-the-clock professional monitoring and are comfortable with a higher price point. If DIY installation and self-monitoring are not your preferences, entrusting your security to Vivint is a highly recommended option.
Vivint FAQs
Based on our firsthand experience testing Vivint, we’ve addressed common questions from our readers regarding Vivint’s pricing.
