Frontpoint vs Scout Alarm

Frontpoint and Scout Alarm are both disrupters to the security industry. Frontpoint was launched out of Virginia in 2007 and covered most of North America, making a name for itself as a good DIY home security system provider.

Scout has since entered the industry after a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2013. Scout has sold over half a million dollars of products. Still, they're quickly building a reputation for themselves in a security industry that names like ADT and Vivint have long dominated.

Frontpoint vs. Scout Alarm - What are their similarities?

• Installation: Whether you choose Frontpoint or Scout Alarm, you'll be installing your own system. The benefit to this approach is the lack of installation fees
• Home automation: Both systems are Z-wave compatible, which allows you to integrate them with Amazon's Alexa, Google Home, and other smart home features
• Customizable packages: You can choose your equipment packages and purchase individual add-ons for a more flexible experience
• Mobile app: With your mobile app, available on both Apple and Android stores, you'll be able to receive notifications and control your alarm system from your mobile device
• Warranty: With Frontpoint, you'll have a warranty for the duration of your contract. Scout Alarm offers a three-year warranty on all of its products
• Activation fees: Many home security companies charge activation fees, and these two do not

Frontpoint vs. Scout Alarm - What are their differences?

• Credit check: You'll need a credit check to sign up for Frontpoint's services. While this may save you some money if you have excellent credit, it may prove costly if your credit is less than perfect
• Cost: Scout's products are overall cheaper than Frontpoint
• Reputation: Frontpoint has been around for longer than Scout and has more customers, making their reputation more trustworthy
• Reliability: Frontpoint security software can run on cellular backup, meaning that you are protected in the event of interference or tampering. Scout doesn't offer this
• Monitoring options: You can self-monitor with Scout. With Frontpoint, you'll need to take out some kind of contract

Scout Alarm - What you need to know

Scout offers an array of flexible equipment on a no-contract basis; they're one of the cheapest home security companies. However, some customers have reported issues with the quality of the equipment, including poor battery life.

Installation

The DIY installation process is an easy one. You shouldn't require any additional assistance; however, when our Security Nerd contacted them, they were helpful and responsive without any unnecessary upselling.

Equipment

Scout Alarm offers four different starter packages; the cheapest package starts at $229 and includes:

• A door panel
• A motion sensor
• The central hub
• Two window/door sensors
• Two key fobs

The Scout Architect pack (the largest pack) is $549 and includes:

• One door sensor
• One motion sensor
• Four window/door sensors
• Two key fobs
• Smart locks
• Glass break sensors

You can purchase a large array of equipment on an a la carte basis:

• Hub and keypad
• Window and door sensors
• Indoor cameras
• Access sensors
• Water sensors
• Smoke alarms
• Carbon Monoxide detectors
• Smart locks

Home Automation

Scout Security gives you total control of your smart home; they offer a comprehensive system including integration with Nest (which includes an array of items such as the Nest Thermostat), Amazon Echo, Google Assistant, and all IFTTT compatible equipment. Overall, Scout is compatible with more than 175 smart home partners.

Costs

The equipment costs are low, beginning at $229. There are no installation costs, but there are monthly fees (which can be as low as $9.99). You can purchase monthly monitoring for $19.99. There are no contracts required, and flexibility is assured.

Nerd Pros

Customization: You can fully customize your Scout security system. Components cost less than most competitors, including Frontpoint, and professional monitoring is an optional add-on

24/7 monitoring: Monitoring is offered by UL-certified monitoring centers. You'll be monitored 24/7, and monitors can assist you by dispatching emergency services as soon as your alarm sends out an alert. Monitoring services come with a verified video response

Nerd Cons

DIY-only install: If you'd rather have the convenience of professional installation, then Scout isn't for you. No professional options are offered

Equipment: Some users report issues with the equipment, including problems with battery life

Frontpoint Security: What you need to know

Frontpoint is quickly gaining a reputation for flexibility and good customer service. Frontpoint has plenty of great smart home integrations, too.

Installation

There are no professional installation fees to consider, as Frontpoint only offers DIY installation. Customer reviews report that set-up is fast and easy. You can expect to have your system up and running within 30 minutes.

Home Automation

Frontpoint can integrate with existing smart home equipment as long as it's Z-wave compatible, but they also offer a line of products such as smart locks and lights.

Equipment

Frontpoint offers a selection of incredible bundles for you to choose from, but you can also purchase upgraded items on an individual basis. The basic bundle includes:

• Frontpoint hub and keypad
• Door sensors/window sensors
• Motion sensors
• A yard sign
• Window decals
• A door sticker

Possible add ons include:

• Smoke detectors
• Heat sensors
• Glass break sensors
• Indoor cameras
• Outdoor camera (including video doorbell)
• Garage door tilt sensor
• Carbon monoxide sensor
• Smart locks
• Smart lights
• Garage door controller
• Keychain remote
• Panic button

Pricing

You have several costs to consider; the equipment bundles start at $99 for a basic bundle which includes the Frontpoint keypad and hub, two door sensors, and a motion sensor with a video doorbell. Monthly costs begin at $35, but you should know that additional features such as motion-triggered alerts will increase the price.

Nerd Pros

• Hardware options: You'll have the ability to purchase a bundle or individually purchase your security system, and the customer service team will do a virtual walkthrough with you to ensure you have everything you need
• Home automation: Frontpoint offers some of its own smart home devices, including a doorbell camera, but it allows for greater flexibility by being Z-wave compatible which gives you an array of possibilities

Nerd Cons

•  Credit checks: You'll be required to undergo a credit check before you can use Frontpoint's services. If you have poor credit, you may need a larger deposit upfront
• Inflexible contracts: You have to take out a contract to use Frontpoint's services, whereas Scout allows you to proceed without any contracts

Frontpoint or Scout?

Scout Alarm is a relatively new entrant to the market. However, they've already developed a strong following for their flexible monitoring plans and excellent smart home capabilities. They're a DIY company, and no contracts are required to sign up with them. Frontpoint is similarly DIY only but will require credit checks, possibly a more significant upfront investment, and also a contract. If you're looking for more flexibility, you should look to Scout or alternatives such as SimpliSafe.