Let’s chat more in this Scout Alarm review. *You can add cloud storage for additional cameras for $2.99/mo. per camera. You can choose to make a 12-month commitment in exchange for a 10% discount. But even then, Scout will give you a prorated refund if you have to cancel. That’s a pretty sweet deal in an industry known for wringing steep cancellation fees out of customers.
System hub Door panel Keypad Access sensor Motion sensor Water sensor Glass break sensor Doorbell camera Indoor camera Door lock Panic button Remote control Key fob RFID sticker Siren and Zigbee repeater Yard sign Window sticker
However, we think Scout Packs are the way to go in most situations. You can save a little money on your equipment with the bundle. For instance, we compared the $549 Scout Architect Pack to the $509 Fortress from SimpliSafe. The Architect Pack includes a Yale smart lock, which Scout sells for $249 on its own. The Fortress has a couple more pieces than the Architect Pack but doesn’t offer anything as valuable. Unlike most control panels, Scout’s door panel is an access sensor. Instead of putting a sensor on the front door, you install the door panel. Any time it opens or closes, you’ll know.
1080p vision 180° field of view Two-way audio Motion detection People detection Pre-recorded messages
Overall, that’s not bad. This camera could potentially hold its own against some leading video doorbell cameras. And it’s not only compatible with hubs and protocols. It also works directly with security and smart home devices, like Yale locks, Kwikset locks, Nest cameras, LIFX bulbs, and Philips Hue bulbs. Hands down, that’s some of the best automation on the market. Scout installation steps:
Download the app or visit the website and follow the instructions for setting up an account. Plug the hub in. Connect the hub for Wi-Fi. Type the installation code in the provided field on the app or website. Pair the hub with the account. Follow the online instructions to connect the rest of the system.
Scout offers tons of videos and resources to help customers out. You can also contact customer service if you get confused. And, of course, you can always outsource the installation to someone you trust if you don’t think you can do it yourself. In some ways, that’s encouraging, since it suggests customers don’t have many recent complaints. But it makes it hard for us to pin down what the Scout alarm customer service is like. From what we do know about Scout, it offers some neat customer-friendly features. The lack of contracts, the prorated refunds, the automation, and the DIY installation resources are all positive signs for us. But we’re still side-eyeing the lack of free app access, so it’s not totally a customer’s dream. Pricing: Scout’s prices are reasonable, but we don’t like that the company charges for the app. Equipment: This equipment looks weirdly nice for a home security system and has some standout functions. Home automation: Scout has extremely good home automation. Installation: The Scout Alarm system is self-installed, but there’s a lot of support to help you along the way. Customer experience: Scout hasn’t made much of a name for itself, though it offers several customer-friendly features. If you’re looking for a system that won’t charge you to use the app, we suggest Ring Alarm. Or, if you want a bigger name, ADT or Vivint would be our picks for you. To truly keep your system monitored, you would always have to keep your phone on, nearby, and charged. You could never turn it on silent or ignore a push notification while doing something else. You might even feel skittish about napping or watching a movie because you might miss something. So generally, if you can afford it, we suggest going with professional 24/7 monitoring. Scout’s professional monitoring is one of the cheaper options out there for sure (though not the cheapest, which is probably Ring).
