Frontpoint Home Security Review
Affordable DIY home security with some of the best customer service in the business
Updated April 4, 2020 copied! SafeHome.org may receive compensation from some providers listed on this page. Learn More
We may receive compensation from some providers listed on this page. Learn More
Affordable DIY home security with some of the best customer service in the business
Updated April 4, 2020 copied! We don’t throw around the word “innovation” lightly. So when we say Frontpoint is a leader in innovation, we mean it. And not in a corny marketing way either. We rigorously tested their products and monitoring service, and we discovered some nice features and technology that we think you’ll like. With that said, Frontpoint isn’t for everyone. Although they offer reliable DIY home security and home automation, the monthly monitoring prices are high compared to the competition, and the video options aren’t the best.
But… to balance things out, Frontpoint recently began offering month-to-month monitoring, with no contracts. Now you can enjoy quality customer service, wireless DIY systems, and GE devices, without being stuck in a long-term contract. Still, it begs the question: do Frontpoint’s features and tech justify the higher-than-average monthly costs? Let’s find out!
Co-founders Aaron Shumaker and Chris Villar started Frontpoint back in 2007, in Virginia. The fledgling company quickly rose in stature, and by 2011 Frontpoint had won the Angie’s List Super Service Award.1 Since then, they’ve had their challenges and we’ve noticed some bad reviews. Frontpoint’s customer service is almost back on track. They currently hold an A+ rating from the BBB.2
FYI: Customer service is more important than you may believe. If you have a security system for several years, there will certainly be times you need to call for tech support, billing questions, etc.
Since Frontpoint did away with long-term contracts, and now sells packages at only $99 (cheaper than some DIY competitors), it stands to reason that they’re storming into the DIY market. Whether this is a smart move on their part, or a mistake as far as branding/positioning goes, time will tell. We mention this because it’s important to know that Frontpoint has had some identity issues as of late.
There are two pricing considerations with Frontpoint. First, you will have to purchase their equipment up-front, but these costs aren’t too shocking. They also offer 0% financing on equipment for qualified buyers. One look at our Frontpoint Pricing chart below, and you’ll see that the company is currently offering full setups for under $100 — which is quite low compared to much of the competition. But there’s always more to the story.
| Frontpoint Systems | Safe Home Everyday | Safe Home Plus | Safe Home Select | Safe Home Preferred |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size of System | 9-Pieces | 9-Pieces | 12-Pieces | 14-Pieces |
| Type of System | Intrusion | Intrusion | Intrusion + Environmental | Intrusion + Environmental + Video |
| Regular Price | $369.93 | $399.93 | $479.90 | $599.88 |
| Sale Price | $99.99 | $319.94 | $383.92 | $479.90 |
You also have to consider the monthly monitoring price. Now, we’ve tested hundreds of home security systems over the years, so we know what’s fair and what’s not. Frontpoint offers two plans that cost $44.95 or $49.95 per month for 24/7 professional monitoring. The premium plan offers video and automation. Frontpoint partners with Rapid Response Monitoring Services,3 which we’ve found to be fast and reliable. They claim to offer 23x faster response times using LTE technology, but there’s really no way of verifying this. It was pretty fast, but not that fast.
| Frontpoint Monitoring | Interactive Plan | Ultimate Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $44.95 per month | $49.95 per month |
| Type of Coverage | Intrusion + Environmental Monitoring | Intrusion + Environmental + Video + Home Automation |
| Connection Type | LTE Cellular Monitoring | LTE Cellular Monitoring |
| Mobile App Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Installation Type | DIY | DIY |
| Contract Length | No Contract | No Contract |
Frontpoint’s monitoring prices are slightly more expensive than the industry average. For instance, Alder Security offers DIY home security with monitoring priced at $34.99 per month. With Frontpoint, the plans start at $44.95 per month, but you’ll spend about $50 per month if you want all the fixins’.
Thankfully, there aren’t any hidden fees or activation fees. Also, since Frontpoint offers DIY installation, there are no installation fees to worry about. Just pay for the equipment upfront (or finance it), and choose your monthly plan, and that’s it. When all is said and done, you’ll likely be paying $50+ per month, which isn’t exactly cheap.
Our latest round of Frontpoint testing started on their website.4 They make it fairly easy to choose a system, along with accessories and a monitoring plan. If you don’t have the cash to buy the equipment upfront, you can finance the equipment at no-interest for 3, 6, or 12 months. Well, that’s if you qualify after a credit check. But don’t get lost in the details. Just know that Frontpoint lays it out in simple language, making it pretty easy to choose a system and slide through the checkout process.
We went with the Safe Home Preferred Plan, a 14-piece package that includes the Frontpoint hub, entryway sensors, motion sensors, a glass break sensor, a smoke and heat sensor, and an indoor camera. We liked how robust this package seemed, and with a 2,500 sq. ft. home, we figured it would do the trick. We also purchased an outdoor security camera. Of course, there are a few kits to choose from (see chart above). And each kit is customizable with environmental sensors, cameras, smart locks, etc. It’s also worth noting that all of Frontpoint’s equipment comes with a 3-year warranty.
Pro Tip: We often recommend purchasing a base package and expanding on your system over time with add-ons and upgrades. Depending on your budget, this might be a great approach.
Like most DIY systems, Frontpoint was easy to install on our own using removable adhesives (no drilling or wiring). It took about 25 minutes, but that’s with camera mounting and everything. For the most part, these systems are plug-and-play easy; and they come preconfigured from the factory, which is always nice. While the installation was fast and easy, it wasn’t nearly as easy as other DIY kits like Ring Alarm or SimpliSafe — which can both be installed in about 10-15 minutes with no tools.
From what we’ve seen, DIYers shouldn’t have a problem getting their Frontpoint system installed and set up. But if you do experience hiccups, you can usually get Frontpoint on the phone to bail you out. As you’ll see, their service team is great, although they’ve had a checkered past. Frontpoint also has online troubleshooting and installation guides to help you along. All in all, we satisfied with the ease of installation.
Once our Frontpoint system was in place, it was fairly easy to manage and control. Using their mobile app, we could toggle through the modes to arm and disarm our system. All fairly standard. But Frontpoint also has a mobile app that we used to manage our system on-the-go via their app.
Frontpoint App
FYI: Using Frontpoint’s mobile app, you can control your home security system and smart home features from pretty much anywhere in the world. And if you install cameras, you can check in on your live video feed with Frontpoint’s Ultimate Plan.
We touched on it already, but it’s worth repeating that Frontpoint received Angie’s List “Super Service” award back in 2011. However, that was a decade ago; so how does Frontpoint measure up to the competition today? Well, each time we called in, we got a real human on the line (that’s already better than a few brands we won’t mention). And they were pretty nice humans, too. We found Frontpoint agents to be highly-trained with a friendly phone-side manner, if that’s a thing.
But digging through user reviews online, we did come across some not-so-positive experiences. These were mostly about Frontpoint’s long-term contracts, which they no longer have, but it became clear that their customer service isn’t what it used to be. Finally, it’s worth noting that Frontpoint staffs English- and Spanish-speaking agents from 8am to 11pm EST on weekdays, and from 10am to 7pm on weekends.
We opened this review raving about Frontpoint’s innovation, so we won’t leave you hanging any longer. We do like the forethought and engineering that goes into their features and tech. For instance, did you know that Frontpoint was the first company to introduce a self-guided setup app? But really, it’s nothing above and beyond what brands like Vivint and ADT have been doing for years.
One of our biggest gripes was with the Frontpoint security cameras. Now, don’t get us wrong, they have a few devices to choose from. But they didn’t really measure up to the quality standards that we’re used to seeing — especially when it came to features and technology.
FYI: Keep in mind that you’ll need to sign up with Frontpoint’s Ultimate Plan if you want camera monitoring and live-streaming.
This camera came with our Frontpoint Safe Home Preferred package. It was ultra-simple to set up, and it gave us decent surveillance of one room. Also, with 1080p HD video quality, the resolution was crystal clear for us.
Now this is a step up from the standard indoor cam, with 1080p HD video quality, built-in Bluetooth speaker, an echo-canceling mic, pan & tilt, 180-degree viewing angle, two-way talk, mobile app, and enhanced zoom capabilities. We recommend this camera for indoor use.
This wireless camera offers night vision and a weatherproof design that’s built to last. It’s also pretty easy on the eyes, with a sleek and modern aesthetic. But unfortunately, it doesn’t have two-way talk (which we just established is a favorite feature of ours). Also, the 720p HD video quality leaves something to be desired. All in all, not recommended.
Frontpoint also sells the Slimline doorbell camera (made by SkyBell). We7ve tested this doorbell several times in the past, and it’s actually pretty solid. It just might help to fend off porch pirates7 and give you a little extra peace of mind.
| Frontpoint Cameras | Indoor Camera | Premium Indoor Camera | Outdoor Camera | Doorbell Camera |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 720p HD | 1080p HD |
| Weatherproof | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Two-Way Talk | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $99 | $193.99 | $167.50 | $149.99 |
Although Frontpoint is a bit pricey compared to some of the competition, and although they’re lacking in the security camera department, there are some redeemable qualities about this brand. First off, we’re impressed with Frontpoint’s customer service. In our experience, their team was helpful and friendly. Also, they now offer a handful of packages at deeply discounted prices. We were happy with the $99 price tag on their standard kit (which includes a doorbell camera!).
However, these low prices probably aren’t sustainable; and they likely won’t last. But one thing we liked about Frontpoint is their new month-to-month monitoring plans. Sure, this is a given with most DIY security companies out there. But Frontpoint required 3-year contracts for the longest time, so it’s nice to know they’ve jumped on the no-contract bandwagon. Overall, we think Frontpoint is a decent DIY system, but it certainly needs some work to be our favorite.
Angie’s List. (2020). Super Service Award. Local service provider review site. https://www.angieslist.com/
Frontpoint: Better Business Bureau® Profile. (2020, April 3). BBB. https://www.bbb.org/us/va/vienna/profile/burglar-alarm-systems/frontpoint-security-solutions-llc-0241-213917567
Rrmc.com. (2020). Rapid Response Monitoring Center. Alarm and Security Monitoring Company. https://www.rrms.com/
Frontpoint.com. (2020). Home Security System. https://www.frontpointsecurity.com/
GE.com. (2020). Industrial Manufacturing Company. https://www.ge.com/
Z-Wave. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 3, 2020. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Z-Wave
C+R Research. (2020). Independent Research Company. https://www.crresearch.com/blog/2019-package-theft-statistics-report
We have FrontPoint since moving into our home and love it. It was easy to install, add ons are a cinch and arming reminders are always appreciated. The service is great too, as they give you a quick call if ur alarm goes off with a series of questions b4 they let u off the hook.
Thanks for the info Michael! Your honest input is much appreciated.
I love Frontpoint! Its better than I could imagine. I feel so much safer, for sure. Great customer service also!!
I have used this system for 7 months and do not have any issues or complaints thus far. Fast and effective customer care support, they were there to answer all of my questions and concerns and helped me to compare different plans. I was also offered $100 risk free trial. They were extremely friendly and patient with me and helped to select a plan that suited my budget and life style. Technical support was very fast in getting back every time I had a technical issue.
I’ve had a great experience with them since day 1. They are very forthcoming with their representatives over the phone. They go out of their way to assist with issues I have and streamline the process of installation for new customers.
We had an outdated ADT system that required wiring in our old house. We moved to a different state and after doing research decided to call Frontpoint. The salesman was very patient, knowledgeable, well spoken, and not pushy. After asking some questions he recommended a system to me and did not attempt to upsell me on anything I didn’t want or need. In fact, when I asked about smoke and CO detectors he was happy to sell them to me but recommended that I consider cheaper GE alternatives. I had previously priced out the equipment online and was preparing to balk at the upfront costs. The salesman gave me several discounts and I ended up paying a little over $200 for what I wanted (4 door sesnsors, smart lock, 2 glass break detectors, hub, and keypad) for equipment that retailed for over $750. Delivery at my new house was quick and self setup was beyond easy. The only slightly challenging step was the smart lock installation but it was not that difficult. Everything attaches without screws, nails, or bolts. Syncing and setup were a breeze using the mobile app. Monitoring is exceptional as I am able to arm or disarm the system and unlock the front door remotely from my phone. Geolocation works as advertised as when I wandered farther than my set distance from home the app reminds me that my system was not armed. I am so impressed with Frontpoint that I decided to replace all the 25 year old smoke detectors in my home with Frontpoint smoke and CO detectors. They offer a 25% discount on any equipment purchased within 90 days of initial system purchase. I will eventually add cameras and smart features.
Bottom line…Frontpoint is a giant leap forward compared to what I had before. I realize other providers offer similar systems but I am overly impressed with Frontpoint’s customer service and overall experience. Highly recommended.
Tried researching here, but didn’t find the answer I was looking for…… How many wireless cameras can be set up? I’d looking for something like 4 exterior and 2 interior.
Hi Robert,
You can set up as many cameras as your home or business needs.
I have been with Frontpoint since 2013 and as a widow can’t tell you how very comforting and reassuring it to have it, as well as affordable. Their customer service was outstanding from my first call inquiring about their system through my install (which was very easy) to my last addition to my system, a fire detector. Just one example of their A1 customer service: more recently we lost power for most of a day and customer service helped me in keeping my alarm from going off over and over until we regained power. This company is #1 in my book for product, service and what so many companies have lacked for so long- CUSTOMER SERVICE. Thank you Frontpoint for being there for me 24/7, 365.
Having Frontpoint is peace of mind!
We were robbed many years ago when our children were young. They were walking on their way home and from what neighbors witnessed, they missed confronting the thieves by just 15 minutes or so. The fact that they stole things that couldn’t be replaced was bad enough but more importantly was how vulnerable we were especially our children.
We immediately started researching security companies and after all the wonderful reviews we decided to purchase our system from Frontpoint and we have never regretted it for one single second. Knowing that I could go to work knowing that once my children were back in the house, it was as if they had their own personal security guard and that is priceless peace of mind. We have now been Frontpoint customers for several years. Not only is their equipment state of the art and but their customer server is second to none. They are always very friendly, helpful and very professional whenever I have called just to ask a question. I even received a call from one of their support techs at work one day letting me know that one of our sensors was not making a connection therefore, they were not able to see it. Once my husband ran home and fixed it, the same guy called right away to let us know we were all set.
We couldn’t be happier and confident when we leave each morning knowing our home and our pets are protected by Frontpoint.
We highly recommend them.
I got my system a year ago and haven’t had any problems. The app makes it easy, especially when I can turn it on, when I forget, at work miles away. easy installation, had it put up in about 45 min with no problems. So with that being said I don’t think we could have picked a better alarm sys.
We have had our system now for about 6 months and love it. So easy to use and reliable.
I really have never felt so security. When I was a victim of vandalism and my privacy was violated, Frontpoint was the one who gave me my life back. I thank God and also their support that I was provided a great plan. Also I’m able to review my home from my phone. Customer service has given me a wonderful experience. Thank you again for making me feel safe. Veronica Galindo
Great customer service. And a system that is easy to install and use.
I just wanted to correct a detail in your review. You said FrontPoint does not offer landline. FrontPoint currently (5/2019) offers a panel that uses both cellular and landline. Not sure if it will work with no cellular connection at all but it definitely falls back to a landline if the cellular does not work.
I cannot recommend this company enough. I’ve been a customer for about 3 years and they have always done exactly what they said they were going to do. Support (all US-based) picks up the phone immediately most of the time with no waiting, and they’ve always been able to solve my problem on the first call. I had a defective sensor once and they sent me out another one without waiting for me to send the old one back. They just have nothing bad to say about these people. Happy happy.
I have had Frontpoint for about 7 years now, and I love it! I have not had any problems, and it is simple and secure all the time!
I can only describe this company as awesome ,I have the basic system for about 5 years now , when I FIRST Got MY SYSTEM , NEW TO MODERN TECHNOLOGY forgetting my code from time to time my alarm would go off , within 10 minutes a Deputy would be at my door making sure I was ok ,now lol when that happens they will call me first to make sure I am ok before notifying the Sheriffs Office ,I feel very safe and secure with this system , I highly recommend it , going to upgrade to cameras in the near future !!!
I’ve had my system for about a year and I love it. Set up was so easy. Anytime I’ve needed to call customer support they’ve always been extremely nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. About 2 months ago my hub quit working and they had a new one out to me at no cost in 2 days. Overall, the system works great, is easy to use and install, and customer service is very helpful.
Ive had my Frontpoint system for four years. My cameras, motion sensors and control panel have been 100% reliable.
Compared to other competitor pricing Frontpoint is #1 at the value and level of security you get for your money.
Customer Service has been excellent and response times have been immediate on any issues I have had.
I would rate Frontpoint 5 stars out of 5 stars
Yes, I agree and thought it was just me – their customer service is poor, wait time is disrespectful and they make multiple billing errors, and send notices to your phone via text in error.
I got locked into FrontPoint on a 3 year agreement and had problems along the way. We had multiple false alarms and had to call many times to try to correct. They had to send out different door alarms as some were faulty.
Then when it was time to cancel after we honored our 3 year contract, they charged us another $50 for a 37th month when we didn’t even use the service.
We have had Frontpoint for almost 3 years and are completely happy with it. It is a reasonable price for equipment and monitoring. Easy to install yourself. Immediate call if the alarm goes off and they stay on with you until the situation is resolved. Highly recommend!!!
Didn’t lock my doors for 25 years, without an issue. Then someone came in the house during a two hour window and took things. Did a lot of research on home security systems. Besides getting consistently high ratings, the indoor cameras, window/door sensors, and security fob were easy to use and reasonably priced. Just when I thought we were covered security wise, someone came on my porch in broad daylight and stole couple of metal chairs. I live by a main road with no sidewalks! So now we have doorbell cameras on two of our four doors. My innocence has been lost!
I am happy with products and would definitely recommended them.
We have had the Front Point security system for a year now. The price is extremely reasonable for all you get and installation is simple. During installation, their customer service people are pleasant and really helpful. Everything works the way they say it will. Having camera security also really gives you ease of mind when you are not home. Had someone walk in and they told us that if anyone could stand the audible alarm, they won’t have any hearing leafy by the time they leave. We travel, so the peace of mind is priceless!! I like the fact that there is no high pressure sales. Also, the monitoring system is wonderful!!! You can keep track of whether or not a door has been left open. This is definitely top of the line security and very dependable.
I have used Frontpoint for about 3 years and my alarm has gone off a few times and the response time for them to call me is always very fast, they ensure that I am the person they should be speaking with and if I need help. From the sale to me at start to any interaction on the phone with them, they have as always been very helpful, informative, and friendly. I would definitely recommend Frontpoint.
We have had Frontpoint for 5 years and have been pleased with their service. Their personnel have been pleasant and easy to work with. We have had home security systems in various houses for about 30 years, with each system being wired in. It was so nice this time to be able to put the sensors where I wanted without having to have a stranger come into our house and run wires. Technology is great!
Easy to install. Great answers to questions. Quick to solve problems.
I have had frontpoint for years now and have had good customer service and been happy with their products. But recently they talked me into a newer main unit that is to be so much better than my old one. Now we have had nothing but problems. Sometimes out of the blue it can’t read a sensor; then out of the blue it will reconnect. Don’t know if I can trust it.
Hmm, a lot of people seem to be talking about Armorax. Why? What do they offer that the rest don’t?
After reading the comments on this page I went to Armorax’s site to see what they offered; they’ve partnered with another security company and their starter package I believe starts at $0 down. The panel and sensors are Qolsys, so that’s good. Monitoring is priced well too, so all in all a great deal.
They actually have month-to-month packages too, i initially signed up online for that, i dont think that was mentioned here. I called to cancel because I was thinking of switching to another company to pay less up front, but they told me about the 3 year and I went with it. I feel like 30 days is a long time to try it out and I got a REALLY good discount. I’ve had the system for 2 months now. Really happy I kept it. Their customer service really is the best. Their representatives are not only the friendliest call center people ever, but they’re actually helpful and in my opinion go above and beyond. I had ADT before and was going for Vivint for install, but install was so easy and they help you over the phone if you need it so waiting all day for a stranger to know everything about your house and your system is not necessary. They also cost less than ADT and Vivint and they dont trick you into a wifi-based service that has a cell back up that may or may not work because it’s a cell system like cheap month to month options. My mom fell for the Ring trap. My son set off the alarm coming home and I got a call at work, they waited on the phone with me to check my cameras and see it was him and he was fine. It gave me piece of mind that they called so quickly and they really are the best option.