In our series of articles on home alarms, we review the top options. We’re putting the series together because selecting the right system to meet your needs can be really confusing. There’s so many choices that it can be overwhelming. Not all systems will meet your needs. And some may be overkill on your wallet as well as the features. This article takes a closer look at Frontpoint which is one of the most highly rated security systems out there. We will examine the history of the company, equipment, features, strengths, and weaknesses, and compare with the competition, highlighting who this system may suit best. We hope that this article will help you to make an informed decision on which alarm system best suits your specific needs.
A Brief History
The history of a company helps you gauge its stability. Technology has swept through many industries, including the home security market. So a company that has been able to establish itself and keep up with the tech wave is a good indicator of the company’s resilience and innovative capacity.
Frontpoint is a company that has been around long enough to establish itself and gain a good reputation (in fact it’s customer service is among the highest rated). It’s not the latest kid on the block, but it was among the first to disrupt the home alarm industry with innovative and more accessible systems.
Frontpoint Security was founded in 2007. It was created by security experts with over 35 years’ experience in the industry. It’s headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, USA and it has provided top-quality security services for customers throughout America for years now. Frontpoint’s goal has always been to provide reliable and innovative home security solutions to its customers.
How it Works
Frontpoint’s home security systems monitor your home using a combination of sensors and cameras. These sensors are able to detect suspicious activities such as glass breaking, temperature changes, movement and other events.
When an alarm is triggered, the system immediately alerts the monitoring center. You will also receive notification on your mobile device, if you have that set up. The monitoring center will call you to verify the alarm, and if the alarm is not verified or you request it, they will contact the local authorities and request a dispatch. The app allows you to stay informed and in control of your home’s security at all times. And the monitoring station provides the second layer of assurance and response.
Frontpoint Installation
Installing Frontpoint security systems is made easy with the DIY option and detailed step-by-step instructions. The process takes approximately an hour (depending on how many devices you have), and does not require any special tools or wiring.
For an additional fee, Frontpoint offers professional installation services for customers who may not feel comfortable installing their system or do not have the time to do so.
Monitoring Options
At Frontpoint, there are two options for monitoring: professional monitoring and self-monitoring. Professional monitoring involves alerting the monitoring center when an alarm goes off. They will quickly get in touch with you and, if necessary, contact the local authorities. The monitoring center runs all day, every day to ensure your home stays safe.
With self-monitoring, you can personally manage your home security system. Whenever an alarm is triggered, you will receive a notification and must directly communicate with authorities. This option is suitable for customers who prefer to be in charge of their home security or who do not wish to incur additional fees for professional monitoring.
It should be noted that while the response times from Frontpoint’s central station are better than average, their monitoring is an outsourced service, unlike an ADT system for example.
Equipment Offered by Frontpoint
Frontpoint provides a wide range of equipment that will protect your home from all angles. The list below shows the standard equipment that comes with a Frontpoint security system. You should also know how an alarm works, and what to compare alarm systems. Be smart and safe, as we say. Here is some basic Frontpoint equipment:
- Control Panel: This is the central hub of your security system. It allows you to arm or disarm it.
- Door and window sensors: These sensors detect unauthorised access to doors and windows.
- Motion Sensors: These sensor detect the presence or movement of objects or people using one or several specialized technologies.
- Glass Break Sensors – These sensors detect the sounds that are emitted when glass breaks, whether a window is being broken or a door.
- Indoor and outdoor cameras: These cameras allow you to view your home from anywhere. They also record video.
- Smoke and heat detectors: These devices detect both smoke and heat and alert you in the event of an emergency.
Other Equipment
Frontpoint provides a variety of equipment to enhance the functionality of your home security system. These include:
- Frontpoint offers doorbell cameras that allow homeowners to remotely see and communicate with their visitors. The cameras also send notifications whenever motion is detected on the front porch.
- With Frontpoint smart locks, homeowners can lock or unlock their doors from a remote location. They can also give access to guests and receive notifications in case someone enters or exits the house.
- The environmental sensors by Frontpoint are capable of detecting temperature and humidity levels in order to notify homeowners of potential hazards such as water leaks and frozen pipes.
- Frontpoint offers panic buttons that can be placed in various areas of your home to quickly notify authorities in case of an emergency.
Home Automation and Integration:
Frontpoint offers a variety of home automation features that can be integrated with your security system to create a smarter home. As a leader in this field, they offer a wide range of options for you to choose from.
- The Frontpoint app lets homeowners remotely control various connected devices in their smart home, such as thermostats, locks, and lights.
- Users can use voice commands with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control Frontpoint.
- Geofencing – Frontpoint can configure the system to arm or disarm automatically when the homeowner leaves or arrives home.
- Frontpoint is compatible with IFTTT. This online service allows users to create customized automations based upon triggers like time of day and device status.
Standout Features
Frontpoint has several standout features that set it apart from it’s competitors. It has done a great job at innovating but also still ensuring that function and customer satisfaction are maintained. Here are some standout features:
- Frontpoint systems detect attempts to damage or disable the system. This is called their “Crash and Smash” feature. If a burglar tries to break the control panel in order to disable the system an alarm will sound and the monitoring center will be alerted. This is a standout feature- I have personally witnessed the extent to which a burglar will go to disable a control panel.
- Cellular and wiFi enabled communication provides redundancy if your WiFi goes down.
- Mobile App: Frontpoint offers a great mobile app which allows you to control the alarm system, but also other elements of home automation such as connected lighting. The design and features for a comprehensive control of the home will appeal to techies.
- Frontpoint’s customer service has won many awards. Although, it seems it may have dropped in its rank recently.
- Touchscreen keypad is an aesthetically pleasing, functional and well-thought out device.
Customer Service
Frontpoint excels at customer service. Numerous awards attest to their commitment to excellent customer service. They include the Angie’s List Super Service Award, the Stevie Award as the Customer Service Department Of The Year and being named the top-rated U.S. home security company by Trustpilot.
Frontpoint offers a 24/7 customer service, with agents available to answer any questions and concerns. There are many support options available, such as email, phone and live chat. Frontpoint also has a comprehensive knowledge base that includes answers to frequently-asked questions and guides for troubleshooting on their website.
Frontpoint offers customers a portal called “MyFrontpoint”, which allows you to manage your account, view billing statements and update contact information. The portal is easy to use and convenient.
Frontpoint’s commitment to customer satisfaction, responsiveness and knowledgeability are highly regarded. The company has won many awards, including the 2020 Excellence in Customer Service Award by the Business Intelligence Group.
Frontpoint Guarantees, Money Back Options & Warranties:
Frontpoint provides a variety of guarantees and warranties to provide homeowners with peace of mind. These include:
- Frontpoint provides a 3-year equipment warranty. This gives homeowners peace of mind that their equipment can be replaced in the event it breaks down.
- Frontpoint offers homeowners a 30-day free trial during which they can test the system. If not satisfied, they will receive a refund.
- Frontpoint provides a moving policy which allows customers to move their equipment and have Frontpoint reinstall it for free.
Frontpoint – How does it compare?
Frontpoint is a top-rated provider of home security systems. It is often compared with other companies such as ADT, Vivint and Cove. Here is a brief summary of how FrontPoit compares with soem of it’s competition.
Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe
Both Frontpoint and SimpliSafe offer wireless equipment, DIY installation and no-contract options. SimpliSafe is the king of keeping things simple. They do it very well and their systems are truly incredible for the price point. They pack a serious punch. Yes, they are cheaper than Frontpoint overall (with monitoring) but, Frontpoint is a cut above. The features that come with their monthly service fee set it apart from SimpliSafe– things like geofencing, smart zones, camera viewing and extensive automation all from your mobile app, push Frontpoint ahead and into a mid-tier alarm system. So, Frontpoint beats SimpliSafe with it’s innovative and extensive home automation and award winning customer service.
Frontpoint vs ADT
ADT is a well-known and large alarm company. It’s the grandaddy of alarm companies. And it’s systems are excellent. And it’s professional monitoring is superb. But, compared to Frontpoint, they are more expensive and require longer contracts. Frontpoint is more affordable, offers DIY installation, no contract monitoring and still manages to offer award winning service. Frontpoint equipment is compatible across a range of devices from third parties, unlike ADT, which requires proprietary equipment. So, if you want brand name assurance, top of the industry monitoring, and quality equipment then ADT wins. But Frontpoint is an excellent, more affordable option with innovative features.
Frontpoint vs Vivint
Frontpoint and Vivint both offer impressive home automation. Both offer professional installation too. But Vivint is more expensive and requires an extended contract. Frontpoint offers affordable prices, no contracts and still receives great feedback about their customer service. Vivint is definitely a premier system with added features and benefits, but Frontpoint is an excellent, more affordable alternative… kind of like a little brother.
Frontpoint vs Arlo
Arlo is a newcomer to the home alarm scene. It’s wheelhouse has been security cameras. And that’s where it excels. In fact, I consider them the best wireless cameras on the market. But, Arlo’s entry into home alarms makes sense as a compliment to their camera offering. Arlo’s wireless equipment is easy to install, but the number of different sensors available is still limited compared to Frontpoint. And, again Frontpoint excels and beats out Arlo in integrating automation with their systems. So, overall, Frontpoint’s alarm system wins.
Frontpoint vs Cove
Cove, is another wireless alarm system provider that has entered the market in the last decade. They don’t require a contract, which is an attractive feature, and their systems are affordable, DIY installed and reliable. Frontpoint’s upfront equipment cost may be cheaper or comparable but their monitoring fees are higher than Coves. Overall, Fronpoint wins out because of the larger selection of equipment, the more advanced features such as home automation and voice controls and the superior customer service based on customer and industry reviews. So, Frontpoint is a few notches above Cove.
Cost & Contracts
Frontpoint security equipment may appear more expensive than other DIY systems. But you should take a closer look. Frontpoint often offers dsicounts and they cna be significant. That means their equipment can work out cheaper than that from SimpliSafe. Plus, they offer a wider variety of device and automation options than many others. The upfront cost can vary depending on the package you choose, ranging from around $100-$500. However, Frontpoint offers flexible financing plans that allow you to spread out payments over several months with low or no interest rates.
Frontpoint’s monitoring is currently $49.99 per month. There are no tiers, just a single rate., unlike many of it’s competitors. This is more expensive than Simplisafe’s $17.99 by a fair margin. But, the benefits of the monthly fee are not confined to monitoring. With the subscription you will also receive geofencing, their suite of home automation options, plus video monitoring. This fee includes 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular or WIFI connection options, crash & smash protection, and access to the Frontpoint mobile app.
Frontpoint does not require a contract so customers can opt-in or out of service at any time. This makes the system a lot more attractive because of the flexibility it provides. In addition, they offer a 30-day money back guarantee, so you can try out the system risk-free. All in all, Frontpoint is a great option for those looking for reliable and affordable home security.
Summary of Pros & Cons with Frontpoint
In summary, here are some of the main pros and cons with Frontpoint…
Pros
- High quality equipment. The equipment used is very good quality (GE manufactured)
- Easy DIY installation. It really is easy to install a Frontpoint system. It requires no special skills or tools.
- Cellular monitoring. This adds extra backup, removing dependance on land line wiring or WiFi signals and internet connection.
- Loud siren. A good siren can scare off intruders. And Frontpoint’s system siren is surprisingly loud.
- Quality app. Loaded with options and intuitive to use, it is better than much of the competition.
- Cameras. Frontpoint also offers some decent cameras (including outdoor) for full integration with the system and mobile app.
- Automation. The options for automation are extensive compared to many other systems, and easily integrated with the app.
- No contract. There is no contract locking you in.
- Guarantee. There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 3-year warranty on equipment.
Cons
- Large devices. Sensors are large and unattractive (but work well).
- Expensive monthly monitoring. At $49.99 this is significant, but it does provide many additional features.
- Touch screen kepad not included. You will have to fork out extra for the nice-looking, fully-featured screen.
- Outsourced monitoring. This can be a concern as it isn’t fully under Frontpoint’s control.
Who is Frontpoint for?
Frontpoint is a decent choice for anyone looking for a professionally monitored home security system, with high-quality equipment and exceptional customer service. This company is ideal for homeowners looking for a system that’s easy to install and can be customized according to their needs.
Frontpoint is a particularly good choice for tech-savvy home owners who want to integrate a security system with smart devices. Frontpoint is a front-runner in this area, but it is also cheaper than Vivint which is the market leader for home integration. With Frontpoint’s home automation, you can control many devices from door locks and thermostats with a single application.
We would award it the title Best Premium DIY Security System.
Where can I buy a Frontpoint System?
Frontpoint security systems can be purchased directly from their website frontpointsecurity.com. Or you can call their sales team on 833-606-4477.
Frontpoint products are not available through third-party resellers. This means that you won’t receive the same service and support as Frontpoint if you buy from an unauthorised retailer. Make sure you buy direct from the company. It means you’ll get a genuine Frontpoint product, and you’ll be able to access the entire range of Frontpoint services. Frontpoint does have an official Amazon storefront, so you can purchase from there too. Here are some bundles that will give you an idea about pricing.
Frontpoint 13-piece bundle for single-family or multi-family homes. (1 hub, 1 keyboard, 6 entry sensor, 2 motion sensors, 1 flood detection, 1 indoor camera, and 1 home defense kit). The kit includes a yard sign and window decals as well as door stickers.
6-piece Frontpoint package suitable for an apartment or condo (1 hub, 1 keypad, 2 entry sensor, 1 motion detector, 1 doorbell cam & 1 home defense kit)
Frontpoint offers discounts from time to time. They can be substantial. These usually occur around holidays. Mother’s Day or Halloween. Be sure to check out their website.
Frontpoint also offers a 30-day free trial, which allows you to return the system and receive a refund in full if you are not happy with it.
The Final Score: Is Frontpoint right for you?
Frontpoint is a good DIY alarm system option offering extensive home automation and great customer service. Although their prices and monthly monitoring are not the lowest on the market they do offer a variety of options to fit most budgets. Their no-contract option and compatibility of third-party devices makes it easy to customize the security system according to your needs.
SimpliSafe is a good option if you want a wireless system, DIY installation and monthly monitoring at a lower price. And Vivint may be a better option (though more expensive) for those who value professional installation and more extensive home automation features. But, Frontpoint strikes a really nice balance between the two. But make sure to do your own research. Reach out, ask questions, compare and, as aways, be smart and stay safe.