Vivint vs Comcast Xfinity Home Security

When looking for a new home security system, you have a lot to consider. There are dozens of options on the market, and it's hard to know which is best for you. Today, we'll be comparing Vivint and Comcast Xfinity Home Security. Vivint is a significant security provider that helps 1.4 million customers across North America. Xfinity is a branch off of Comcast, the largest cable provider in the USA.

Vivint vs. Comcast Xfinity - What are the similarities?

• Wireless systems: Both systems are fully wireless with cellular backup.
• Professional installation: A qualified technician will come to your home and install your security system, meaning you have nothing to worry about. DIY installation isn't possible.
• Security cameras: You can purchase high-quality indoor and outdoor cameras, motion sensors, and more with both. Both also offer night vision.
• Mobile app: You'll have access to a handy app that allows you to arm/disarm your system and receive relevant notifications.
• Professional monitoring: Either way, you'll be signing up for a monitoring plan. The peace of mind offered by monitoring centers is a strong selling point. In the event of a break-in, a monitoring center can quickly report the issue to the police, keeping you, your family, and your home safe but also increasing the chances of the burglars being apprehended.
• Long-term contract: You’ll be entering into a 1, 2, or 3-year agreement with Comcast or a 3 or 5-year contract with Vivint.

Vivint vs. Comcast Xfinity - What are the differences?

• Bundles: Comcast can help you save money by offering you package deals and discounts; Vivint only provides security solutions, so there is no way to bundle services.
• Smart home automation: While you can integrate your security equipment with similar products, Comcast is limited by being incompatible with Z-wave technology such as Amazon's Alexa, Google Home, and Nest Thermostat.
• Pricing: While they both represent a higher price point, Comcast is quite a bit cheaper than Vivint and offers more "bang for your buck."

Comcast - What you need to know

Comcast offers professionally installed and monitored systems at an affordable price - it is even more affordable for current Comcast customers who can get bundled discounts to save money on their entertainment services too.

Installation

The Xfinity alarm system is installed for you. You don't have to worry about installation, but one drawback is the installation fee of $99.

Equipment

Xfinity offers a variety of equipment, including a basic package and upgraded smart home products. First, the basic system comprises:

• Touch screen controller
• Door and window sensors
• Pet-friendly motion sensor
• Battery/cellular system backup
• Yard sign

Extra products include:

• Wireless keypad
• HD Xfinity home camera
• Smoke detector
• Zen thermostat
• Outlet controller (for smart lights)

Home Automation

Along with their alarm system, Xfinity customers can enjoy a vast range of smart home integrations. Still, the lack of Z-wave compatibility places it at a disadvantage against competitors such as Vivint. With that said, several large third-party vendors work with Comcast:

• Yale smart locks
• Caseta wireless
• August
• Chamberlain
• Sengled
• Phillips Hue
• Kwikset
• Ecobee
• Cor
• LifeX

You also don't get a doorbell camera or two-way communication.

Costs

When purchasing an Xfinity alarm system, there are several key costs to consider:

• Equipment costs: You'll be given a choice between paying upfront for your equipment or paying monthly. When choosing to pay monthly, your equipment may be more expensive.
• Installation fee: There is an installation fee of $99, but you can pay on an installment basis if you choose
• Monthly costs: Prices can vary depending on your area. Because service fees range by area code, it's vital to speak with a customer service advisor in your region for an accurate estimate.

Here are two examples of service costs:

• Home Security Plan: $40/month - In this package, you get constant professional monitoring, real-time alerts, cellular backup, live HD video, Xfinity Home app, and compatibility with Xfinity X1.
• Home Security Plus Plan: $50/month - Everything above plus 24/7 recording, motion-activated recording, and AI that can detect vehicles, pets, and false alarms.

Nerd Pros

• Professional monitoring: Although Xfinity Home fees can be high, professional monitoring can give you excellent peace of mind
• Bundle options: One of the most convenient aspects of choosing Xfinity Home is that you can bundle all of your services into one monthly bill. You'll have the choice to purchase cable, internet, and security all at once, at a discount.
• Money-back guarantee: You have a 30-day money-back guarantee if you decide to cancel.

Vivint: What you need to know

Vivint is an amazing combination of classic yet flexible. Vivint offers outstanding equipment, professional monitoring, and installation by qualified technicians. One of the best parts of using Vivint is the variety of smart home options; it is compatible with Z-wave technologies and gives you access to Amazon's Alexa, Google Assistant, and other popular tools. Unfortunately, Comcast isn't Z-wave compatible.

Installation

Vivint offers several installation options - but a qualified Vivint technician will always visit your home and fit your system for you. You can ask your Vivint technician to make suggestions for your home security, too. Just be aware that they're known for upselling.

Equipment

Vivint offers multiple home security packages, but you can also purchase equipment individually. Available equipment includes:

• Smoke alarms
• Indoor cameras
• Window sensors
• Outdoor cameras
• Door sensors
• Motion detectors
• Flood and freeze sensors
• Heat sensors
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Control panel
• Panic pendant
• Tilt sensor for garage doors

Home Automation

You can purchase home automation features a la carte, including smart door locks and a video doorbell, garage door sensors, and more. You can also integrate your system with Z-wave compatible products.

Costs

• Equipment costs: You'll usually need to pay for your equipment monthly without paying for anything upfront. However, a basic equipment bundle (including smart hub, door sensor, motion sensor, and yard signs) will come in at $599 or $9.99 per month. Once the equipment is paid off, your monthly fee will drop dramatically. You should consult with Vivint for an up-to-date quote.
• Installation costs: Vivint quoted us $100 for the installation process but did advise us that they occasionally run promotions during which the fee is waived. Before parting with any cash, you should ensure you ask about deals and promotions.
• Monthly costs: Monthly monitoring is available for $39.99 to $59.99, depending on how many cameras you have.

Nerd Pros

• Customization: You can customize your security equipment with the help of Vivint's professional team.
• Smart home options: From smart door locks to smart lighting and more, you'll have the opportunity to integrate your security system into a smart home ecosystem.

Nerd Cons

• Price: The price is relatively high, a DIY system will save you more money, but even Comcast represents a significant cost saving. Most Comcast packages are about half of the cost of Vivint, though the monitoring services and installation fees are similar.
• No satisfaction guarantee: Some companies offer a moneyback guarantee; Comcast offers you 30-days. However, Vivint only offers you three days.

Comcast or Vivint?

Whether you choose Comcast or Vivint depends on a multitude of factors. If you're an existing Comcast customer or want to bundle your services with your landline, cable, and internet service, you should look to Comcast Xfinity.

However, suppose you're put off by their poorer customer service reputation, more limited service area, and lack of smart home options (such as Z-wave compatibility). In that case, you should give Vivint a call.