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Iris® by Lowes is a home security company that combines smart home technology with home security monitoring and equipment. Some of the experts report that the equipment is very affordable -- both in build and price, which may entice customers, but there are reports of equipment malfunctions and breakages. Although some may find what they are looking for, it is best to do research to make sure that you're covered if malfunctions occur.
Overall Score: 7.7/10
Customer Satisfaction: 7.6/10
Features: 7.8/10
Equipment: 7.6/10
Equipment Price: $95-$129+
Monitoring Price: $10/mo-$15/mo
Get Your Quote NowBrowse Our #1 Home Security CompanyIris integrates with some pretty cool equipment -- like Nest thermostats, but when you take into consideration the core security features, you get a security system that is under par in monitoring and actually protecting your home. The reviews for the equipment that Iris uses for its core system leave something to be desired. Many customers have problems with malfunctioning equipment.
Here are what customers say are Iris's biggest advantages:
In addition to these positives, there are some complaints from some customers about Iris's service. Here's what they mention as the biggest disadvantages:
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Iris provides both remote home monitoring and home automation services with their own proprietary equipment. You have to purchase equipment and monitoring plans separately, which might work best for those that don't want to get into a contract, but customization may be get expensive.
Iris's Equipment
Iris has multiple equipment packages -- along with some add-ons that are higher priced (and may work better for you). Their standard equipment have some negative reports from customers. Here are details of what their equipment offerings are:
| Package | Details |
|---|---|
| Security Pack ($109) |
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| Automation Pack ($129) |
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| Lighting Pack ($95) |
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Iris's Monitoring
Iris offers both self-monitoring and professional monitoring services. In terms of features, they a really lacking versus other major competitors -- no professional video monitoring packages. However, if you are looking for something very basic, this could be an okay fit. Here are the details of their plans:
| Package | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Plan (Free) |
|
| Premium Plan ($10/mo) |
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| Professional Monitoring Plan ($15/mo) | All Premium Features and:
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Iris is going after low priced, automated security and control for home owners. Though we definitely think it is a good idea to bring security to everyone, there are some issues when it comes to the quality of their services. The quality of the equipment is low and therefore, the liklihood of malfunction is higher. For those that are self-monitoring, this may not be a big deal (though it can cause some headaches and frustration), for those that are using the professional monitoring service, it can mean false alarms with hefty fees attached.
Overall, if you are looking for something that is cost effective, but not monitored by professionals, the Iris system is affordable and will get the job done for most. If you have a malfunctioning component, replacing the broken piece isn't going to be a big investment. That said, you are getting what you pay for and it isn't what a lot of customers expect.
Frontpoint
If you are looking for professional monitoring, it is really important to get something that is customizable like Iris, but also has higher end monitoring plans. Frontpoint is our highest rated security company because of its plans and also features. It has fully customizable features and affordable equipment, while also having portability so that you can move and take your system with you. All this without having to deal with installers in your home. It also has smart home features and up-to-date technological advances.
Vivint
For those that are interested in all of the cameras and control over lighting and temperature remotely, Vivint puts a serious focus on the smart home and the home automation. It has customizable and scalable products while not skimping on the home security monitoring. It is definitely a brand to take a look at.
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Great product. I was a bit skeptical based on some of the negative reviews, but happy so far. Hub and other add-ons are very easy to install. The app is very simple and i like the scene and rule features. My only complaint is that contact sensor range is limited. Two sensors about 20 feet from hub do not maintain connection. I was able to solve this problem by installing a smart plug which also acts as a range extender. Appears that electronics that connect via wifi do cause interference with system. Also wish there were more compatible products. Hope that improves over time.
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