Anyone switched a Honeywell Vista system to Alarm.com? How did it go?

General Security Topics and Discussions
1

I have a Vista panel with a cellular and ethernet communicator that connects to a local monitoring company. No issues with the monitoring itself, but the Honeywell Total Connect system has been frustrating. Arming and disarming from the app either doesn’t work or takes a few tries.

Since my monitoring contract is up, I’m thinking about replacing my communicator with one of the Alarm.com modules like this one: https://www.alarmgrid.com/products/alarm-com-adc-sem300-vt-vz-m

For those who have switched, was it a smooth transition? Does Alarm.com perform better, or is it about the same?

2

I switched to Envisalink 4 for self-monitoring. It’s easy to set up and saves money.

3

If you have a Vista 20, Envisalink 4 is a solid option. Works well.

4

I run an alarm company and install these from time to time. It’s a good way to modernize a Vista system without replacing everything. The SEM module does most of the setup work for you, and the app is way better than Total Connect.

5

@Jarrod
Good to hear. Thanks!

6

I switched to Alarm.com when my 3G communicator stopped working (even though it had ‘4G’ in the name).

Overall, Alarm.com is a better platform, but if you only care about security features, Total Connect had some advantages:

  1. Virtual keypad that wasn’t limited to app functions.
  2. Faster power outage notifications—Total Connect was immediate, while Alarm.com takes a few minutes.

Total Connect wasn’t bad for security alone, but Alarm.com is much better for automation and overall performance.

7

@Laurence
Thanks for that breakdown. I’ve never used the virtual keypad, but it’s good to know. My Total Connect experience has been unreliable—I get delayed or missed notifications, and commands sometimes don’t go through.

8

@Eduardo
Yeah, it’s possible it’s gotten worse since I switched.

9

I installed an Alarm.com communicator on my Vista 20 panel, and it’s been solid. Commands from the app are fast and reliable. Just make sure you have good Verizon service in your area. I picked this over Honeywell’s option because AT&T coverage wasn’t great for me.

I also use an Envisalink 4 module for smart home integration. Alarm.com’s integration with home automation has been on and off over the years, so keep that in mind if you use a smart home system.

10

If you’re comfortable with tech, you could look into Konnected.io with Noonlight for professional monitoring.

11

Larry said:
If you’re comfortable with tech, you could look into Konnected.io with Noonlight for professional monitoring.

Interesting, I didn’t know this was an option. I’ll check it out.

12

@Eduardo
There’s also a forum for it if you want more info.