Frontpoint Equipment
Thanks to advances in modern technology, the home security industry has vastly improved in recent years. And, with so many new products on the market, it can be confusing for people to decide which products are the best fit for their needs and budget.
Ring Alarm and Frontpoint are two systems that not only provide excellent home protection against would-be intruders, but also provide home automation features to boot. The fact that each allows for easy DIY installation is a plus!
Ring Alarm (2nd Gen) Equipment
To ease your search, we decided to try out each system firsthand to find out which similarities and differences might make-or-break your decision. After testing both products, we discovered that Frontpoint has more advanced features than Ring Alarm. However, both proved to be effective in protecting your home via entry sensors and video surveillance. Each system also features 24/7 home monitoring capabilities, providing you with peace of mind around the clock.
So without further ado, let’s jump right in!
Similarities Between Frontpoint and Ring Alarm
After using each system, we found quite a few parallels between Frontpoint and Ring. For starters, both are quality home security systems that have excellent reviews from current users (always a good sign). Each is easy to install on your own and does not require professional installation. And both systems include modern features such as indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells with two-way communication, and entry sensors; however, if you want to go with Ring, you’ll have to purchase many of these extras separately.
Ring Cameras
Each setup operates using your home’s Wi-Fi or by an app on your smartphone device. We found them easy to use and we appreciate that both products offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Did You Know? Both Frontpoint and Ring offer 24/7 security protection. That means no matter the time or the day, both companies make sure you are constantly protected.
Differences Between Frontpoint and Ring Alarm
During our hands-on experience with these home security rivals, we also came across some marked differences between Frontpoint and Ring. First up: price. You can get started with Ring Monitoring for as low as $3 per month or $30 annually. Unfortunately, Frontpoint service is a bit more costly and starts at $44.99 per month for professional monitoring (a no-go for some).
Other differences between Ring Alarm and Frontpoint include:
- Setup Time: Ring offers ultra-easy DIY setup, so you’ll be up and running within 30 minutes. Frontpoint is also easy to set up, but not as easy.
- Equipment Options: Ring offers more camera options compared to Frontpoint, but Frontpoint has a greater variety of home automation devices.
- Home Automation: As far as smart home features go, you’ll only get the basics with Ring (Amazon Alexa-compatible), but you’ll enjoy an expansive lineup of smart automations and integrations with Frontpoint.
- Ease-of-Use: Ring Alarm is hands-down easier to use, but this is mostly because Frontpoint offers more customized features.
- Customer Service: Frontpoint has one of the best customer service departments in the business. That said, you shouldn’t have trouble getting hold of a friendly and knowledgeable Ring rep.
FYI: Frontpoint used to require you to sign either a one- or three-year contract before using their service. When the contract was up, you could then choose to pay monthly. But thankfully, Frontpoint no longer requires long-term contracts. So you’re in the clear! Ring also does not require a contract and allows you to pay monthly right out of the gate.
Standout Features of Frontpoint and Ring
The number one thing that most customers (including us) look at when purchasing a home security system is the features. Many are interested in getting all the latest high-tech benefits from their system, while others are satisfied with the basics that keep their setup simple. We’ve rounded up our favorite features and tech between both Frontpoint and Ring. Check it out!
Frontpoint Features
Keep in mind that Frontpoint is a reasonably priced system that is more service-oriented than Ring and also offers technologically advanced features that integrate with your current home security setup.
Pro Tip: To get a full rundown of Frontpoint’s offerings, check out our Frontpoint plans and pricing page.
It includes many of the modern features that you can find on most home surveillance systems, as well as some extras. Some features include:
- Indoor/Outdoor Surveillance: Stay informed on what’s happening both inside and outside your home with 24/7 monitoring and weather-resistant equipment.
- Professional Monitoring Service: Frontpoint includes a professional monitoring service for their users to alert the local authorities in case of emergency.
Frontpoint Hub in the dark
- Touchscreen Control Panel: Frontpoint has a touchscreen control panel that is much more modern compared to Ring’s push-button panel.
- Mobile App: Use your smartphone device to receive alerts and take control of your home security system even while you are away from home.
- Night Vision: Useful night vision capabilities make it possible to easily view what’s happening at all hours of the night.
1080p HD Resolution: See video and images in crystal-clear high-definition, making it easier to identify an intruder. - Adjustable Motion Detection Settings: Make adjustments to your system’s motion detector settings so that you will get alerts when there is an actual threat and fewer false alarms.
- Environmental Monitoring: This feature helps to monitor the weather conditions outside so you can make adjustments to your thermostat inside. Conserve energy and save money over time.
To read our full hands-on experience with Frontpoint, head on over to our Frontpoint review.
FYI: Frontpoint does not require a landline for use and operates off of your cellular or home’s Wi-Fi connection. It can send alerts via the mobile app or a text message in the event of an emergency. If you have 24/7 monitoring active, the system will immediately notify the central monitoring center if a break-in occurs.
Ring Alarm Features
Ring Alarm is a professional home monitoring system that offers excellent services at an affordable price (an ideal fit for the budget-minded). Unlike Frontpoint, Ring does not require you to have a contract to use its services. And, although their products may not be as advanced as Frontpoint’s, Ring is still a viable option for homeowners who want protection at a price within their means.
Boxed Up Ring Security Cameras
Ring equipment includes:
- Outdoor Video Cameras: Weather-proof outdoor video cameras allow you to monitor your entire property and stay secure.
- Environmental Sensors: Useful environmental sensors will alert you of any moisture or temperature changes outside so that you can make adjustments to your thermostat.
- Video Doorbell With Two-Way Communication: Find out who is at your door before they enter. Or communicate with friends, neighbors, and delivery personnel from a safe (social) distance.
- Motion Detectors: Helpful motion detectors let you know if any unusual movement occurs outside your home.
- Optional Floodlights, Chargers, and Solar Panels: These optional accessories can enhance your overall home security experience and help you save on energy costs as well.
To get a closer look at Ring, check out our full Ring review.
FYI: No landline is required with Ring Alarm. Similar to Frontpoint, the system operates using a cellular connection with Wi-Fi backup. It’s also important to note that Ring Alarm now offers a Z-Wave hub in their standard packages, allowing you to add all sorts of third-party smart home devices to your system.
Frontpoint vs. Ring: Cost and Fees
We understand that the cost and additional fees for your home security system is a major deciding factor for many would-be purchasers (honestly, ourselves included). To better help with your decision, we’ve gone ahead and gathered pricing information for both Frontpoint and Ring so there are no surprises down the road.
Frontpoint Pricing
With Frontpoint, credit matters: They require all users to have a 600 or higher credit score to qualify for their best pricing options. You’ll then have the option of choosing one of two plans. The Basic starts at $44.95 per month, and the Premium costs $49.99 per month. Note that this is slightly higher than what we’re used to seeing in the industry.
Frontpoint Keypad Control Panel
Additionally, Frontpoint has its own line of smart devices that you can purchase and pair with your system. On the plus side, there are no installation fees and professional installation is not required with Frontpoint. Customers can install all Frontpoint systems on their own. DIYers, rejoice!
For those less handy, don’t fear. The equipment includes easy-to-follow instructions, and we had our Frontpoint system up and running within 30 minutes. A bonus feature of Frontpoint is that its systems are not just limited to homeowners, but are also available for renters.
Finally, it’s comforting knowing that Frontpoint does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. So you can always return the kit if you find that it isn’t the perfect fit.
Did You Know? Frontpoint offers advanced home automation features that allow you to pair the system with other smart devices such as Google or Alexa, set up smart locks and smart lighting, and even pair with a smart thermostat.
Ring Pricing
Ring offers professional home monitoring starting at just $10 per month, significantly less than the high price for Frontpoint service. With that said, Ring can still prove costly as you need to purchase all your own equipment up front.
The basic Ring kit is priced at $199 and comes complete with a central hub, a push-button keypad, a motion sensor, and two entry sensors. This price will increase with each device you add: video doorbell viewers, door and window sensors, motion sensors, and outdoor surveillance cameras to name a few.
Ring Alarm Sensors
Did You Know? Ring LLC is a smart home company that is owned by Amazon. The brand manufactures all of its home security products.
As mentioned, there are two monitoring packages available, called Ring Protect Plans. The first package costs either $3 per month or $30 per year and supports video recording and sharing with only one camera. The other package costs $10 per month or $100 per year and covers unlimited cameras and includes 24/7 professional monitoring for the Ring Alarm system (that’s total home protection right there).
Like Frontpont, Ring does not charge any installation fees and you can install the Ring security system on your own in about 30 minutes (we believe in you). Easy- to-follow instructions are included so don’t worry.
To top things off, we love that Ring services do not require a contract and allow customers to pay for their service every month.
Which Is Better: Frontpoint or Ring Alarm?
So, which do we think is better? If you’re looking for a top-notch home surveillance and security option, Frontpoint and Ring are two great brands to consider. But, several differences between the two could be deciding factors in your decision.
Frontpoint is an excellent choice for those who want a security system that features the latest technology innovations. This brand includes many impressive features, like their environmental monitoring sensors that will alert you if there are changes in the temperature or moisture outside. This allows you to control your energy usage inside the house and save money over time on your electric bill.
Frontpoint Door Sensor
FYI: Ring is an excellent option for homeowners who want to improve their home security while sticking to a budget. Although you have to pay for your equipment up front, the monthly service fee is impressively affordable, starting at only $3 per month. With their system, you get the traditional entry sensors and motion detectors to alert you of any movement outside.
For those interested in modern technology and who want a surveillance system that is loaded with features, Frontpoint is your best bet. It offers all the latest home security advancements with a simple DIY installation and is also reasonably priced, especially when you consider all the extras that come with it.
If you’re looking for a home surveillance system that is easy to set up and one you can get started with right away, without the higher cost, Ring is the way to go. But regardless of the company you choose, you’ll have the assurance of home security protection for you and your loved ones, which, at the end of the day, is the most important feature one can buy.
