houston security systems
The video looks sharp; night vision is clear; the camera can be used as an intercom; and it interacts with the Nest
Thermostat and the Nest Protect smoke detector, as well as numerous third party smart home devices. But to really make use of the camera's features, you'll have to shell out $10 or more per month for the Nest Aware program, which gives you access to cloud storage, person detection and customizable activity zones. Read our
full Nest Cam Indoor review. 99View at Best Buy?In addition to a sharp 1080p camera, the Ring Floodlight camera has two powerful LEDS that turn on when motion is detected. Plus, Ring's app has a neighborhood watch feature, which lets you see what's happening in your hood from other Ring users, as well as police and fire departments. Unfortunately, to view recorded video, you'll need to subscribe to Ring's cloud storage plans, which start at $30/year. Read our full Ring Floodlight Camera review. 63 View at Amazon$249View at Walmart$249. 99View at The Home Depot?For those looking for a less expensive outdoor security system, the Arlo Pro costs just $189 for a single camera/base station setup; the newer Arlo Pro 2 is $299. The main tradeoff?The Arlo Pro records video at 720p versus 1080p for the Arlo Pro 2. Otherwise, you get a generous storage plan, a two way audio, a weatherproof camera and an excellent app with a lot of features.
Whether you choose to monitor yourself or have professionals do it for you, you’ll still be charged. Scout charges $10 per month just for DIY monitoring — there is no free monitoring plan. DIY monitoring is only $10 less than the professional plan. This isn’t exceptional when it comes to DIY home security, however, since many have cellular connections. These connections work similarly to your cell phone plan and are more secure than traditional Wi Fi or landline connections. But it’s important to note that even if you’re doing the monitoring yourself, you’ll still be charged to keep your system up and running. If you don’t buy the equipment outright, Vivint requires either a four or five year contract — a long time to commit, especially given that you only have three days from the date of install to cancel. Afterwards, you’ll have to pay out the remainder of your contract. If you may be moving in the near future, it’ll cost you $99 to take the system with you. You could alternatively renew your contract, but then you’d be locked in for even longer. Vivint will waive any cancellation fees for extenuating circumstances like death, military circumstances, bankruptcy, or a move to assisted living.