Vivint vs. Ring – Looking for the best home security system?
Compare Vivint’s advanced smart home features with the cost-effective security of Ring, known for its top-tier cameras, to make an informed decision on home security.
Vivint vs. Ring: A Quick Glance
- Goal: Both aim to shield your home from threats.
- Equipment: Seamless wireless integration from sensors to control panels.
- Camera Options: Both brands offer indoor and outdoor video solutions, including doorbell cameras.
- App Control: User-friendly smartphone apps for easy system management.
- Voice Integration: Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free commands.
- Professional Monitoring: Both can be overseen by a dedicated monitoring center.
Vivint vs. Ring: Key Differences
- Price: Ring offers budget-friendly solutions, while Vivint is on the higher end.
- Installation: Get professional installation with Vivint, whereas Ring is primarily DIY (though professional help is available).
- Self-monitoring: Ring allows self-monitoring without fees; Vivint requires a professional plan.
- Smart Home Features: Vivint shines with an extensive home automation system, integrating with various smart devices. Ring offers basic integrations but is not as comprehensive as Vivint.
- Camera Variety: Ring boasts a broader range of cameras with innovative features, while Vivint’s selection is more limited but advanced.
Let’s take a look at more detail
Customer Reviews
Both Vivint and Ring shine in the home security industry. While Vivint is renowned for professional services, Ring is a go-to for DIY enthusiasts, especially with its popular Ring Doorbell.
- Trustpilot reviews: Vivint boasts a solid 3.5/5 rating from 31,600+ reviews, while Ring trails with a 1.3/5 rating from over 4,600+ reviews.
- Consumer Affairs: Ring scores a respectable 1.7/5 rating from 108 reviews, but Vivint takes the lead with a 4.7/5 rating from 30,400+ reviews.
The verdict on reputation
Both brands have merits, but Vivint edges out with more solid positive reviews. Vivint is the winner.
Installation & Monitoring
Need a quick decision on installation and monitoring between Vivint and Ring?
Installation
- Vivint: Prefers the pros. A technician will set everything up for you and provide a hands-on demo. It’s fuss-free, but there’s a fee (though offers can offset it).
- Ring: All about DIY. Everything you need comes boxed. While it’s free (because you’re doing it), the gear is designed to be user-friendly, so expect a quick and easy setup.
Monitoring
- Vivint: Only offers professional monitoring. Costs start at $29.99/month for 24/7 expert surveillance, app access, and perks like home automation. It’s reliable, fast, and secure, leveraging cellular signals.
- Ring: Your choice of self-monitoring (free) or the Ring Protect Pro plan at $20/month. While it mainly relies on Wi-Fi, there’s cellular backup. The plan covers 24/7 monitoring, smart features, and 60 days of video history.
Monitoring Plans & Costs (Vivint vs. Ring)
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Expert Opinion: Ring’s Alarm Pro plan is an all-in-one deal. For $20/month, you get broad coverage plus bonus features when paired with their advanced system.
The verdict on installation & monitoring
- Quality: Vivint shines with advanced features, especially when delving into home automation.
- Value: Ring takes the trophy. $20/month for all-inclusive monitoring is a steal, especially with unlimited video storage.
Equipment
How do Vivint and Ring stack up in terms of equipment?
Central Device
- Vivint: Boasts the Vivint Smart Hub – a sleek touchscreen keypad. It’s Wi-Fi and cellular-ready, offers 24-hour battery backup, and streams camera footage – User-friendly and customizable.
- Ring: A base station that acts like a router. There is no touchscreen here – instead, you get a wireless keypad. It’s Wi-Fi-centric, with a built-in siren, battery backup, and optional cellular connectivity with a pro plan.
Sensors
- Vivint: Offers a broad spectrum from motion to door/window and glass break sensors. Bonus? A sleek door sensor that integrates seamlessly with the door frame. Also, hazard sensors like smoke alarms, CO detectors, and more.
- Ring: Keeps it essential with indoor/outdoor entry sensors, motion, glass break sensors, and smoke/CO alarm listeners. (Note: Their listeners don’t detect but hear beeping alarms.)
Security Cameras
- Vivint: Three top-tier models, all AI-powered for precision. They offer stellar video quality (up to 4K UHD), night vision, and local storage options.
- Ring: While it may lack ultra-premium features, it excels in variety and affordability. There’s something for everyone, from the basic Stick Up Cam to the powerful Floodlight Cam, with power options galore.
The verdict on equipment
Vivint takes the crown. With its versatile sensor lineup and top-notch cameras, paired with the advanced touchscreen hub, it’s hard to beat. Even with Ring’s diverse camera options, Vivint remains a strong contender. Making changes on the go without always reaching for your phone? That’s a Vivint specialty!
home Automation & Costs
Home Automation
- Vivint: The standout champ in automation. Vivint’s system flawlessly syncs with various smart devices and even third-party brands. Control everything – lights, locks, thermostats – effortlessly. Have you got Alexa or Google Assistant? Even better – you can command your home with your voice.
- Ring: While it supports voice commands and has some Z-Wave integration, it’s mostly limited to smoke alarms and locks. So, when it comes to home automation, Vivint takes the crown.
Dollar & Cents Comparison
– Equipment Costs
- Vivint: Premium quality, premium prices. Sensors average $50 each, and cameras start from $200, with the high-end model at $400. But you can finance it! Spread the cost over 4-5 years if an upfront payment is different from your thing.
- Ring: A basic system starts at $250. Add sensors for $20-$40 and cameras from $60-$200+. And they’ve got financing options via the Affirm program.
– Monitoring Charges
- Vivint: Plans range from $29.99 to $49.99 per month. But be cautious: If you’re financing equipment, you’ll be tied to a monitoring contract for that term. Canceling? Expect a penalty.
- Ring: Flat $20/month, no strings attached. Pay month-to-month or yearly, offering flexibility, which is especially handy for renters.
– Installation & Extras
- Vivint: There’s an installation fee. But watch for those special deals where they ditch this charge!
- Ring: Transparent pricing without hidden fees.
App User Experience
Dive into the digital realm with Vivint and Ring – feature-rich apps that aim to amplify your home security experience.
Vivint App
- Access live video, alerts, and two-way communication.
- Control your entire home, from lights to garage doors.
- Craft custom routines and set profiles for household members.
Note: Full features exclusive to Smart Home Monitoring or Video Monitoring plans.
Ring App
- Engage in two-way chats, monitor live videos, and control smart lights.
- SOS button for those with professional monitoring.
- The bonus ‘Neighbors’ app informs you about neighborhood events.
However, it doesn’t quite match Vivint’s breadth in smart-home controls.
App Ratings
Both apps shine on the Apple or Android App Store, but Vivint shows slightly ahead on Google Play.
The verdict on App experiences
Both are champions, but Vivint’s added flair and functionality give it the winning edge. The winner is Vivint.
Your Quick Guide to the Final Decision!
Regarding equipment, features, monitoring, and Apps, Vivint steals the spotlight. But remember, the best choice isn’t only about features; consider costs, user-friendliness, and installation.
Vivint is your go-to if you love:
- Smart home security & automation.
- Advanced camera technology.
- Premium yet user-friendly features.
- Pro installation.
- 24/7 expert monitoring.
Ring is your match if:
- DIY is your jam.
- You’re hunting for budget-friendly rates.
- You crave contract flexibility.
- A blend of security and doorbell cameras thrills you.
- You want cost-effective cloud storage.
We hope this review helped you in making a choice. However, if you need more information, here’s another guide outlining what to consider in the best home security system.
