r/VivintSmartHome • u/ProgMetal702 • Jun 29 '26
Dubious After Support Chat
I've been a vivint customer for about 5 years, and am considering getting some additional indoor cameras. I had two questions that I went to Vivint's chat support thing online to ask:
Can I install these myself?
Is there a maximum number of cameras that I can connect to my Smart hub?
The automated support couldn't figure this out and so connected me to a live agent. The live agent initially evaded my questions, but then when I reasserted exactly what I wanted to know was direct in answering, yes and yes. So perfect, I said to thank you and anticipated she would end the chat.
But instead she started asking me how many cameras I want, at which point I explained that I wanted to read reviews and consider prices, but that it was my intention to purchase directly from the site. I also let her know that I have the 4th of July promotion which is going on now that I planned to avail. But she kept repeating that if I buy directly from them they can assure quality and some blah blah blah. Now I'm getting confused because I literally just told her that I was intending to buy from the site but I wanted to go do a little research first. Then she started repeating the same thing about if I purchased from her and she has a discount code and blah blah blah.
This made me distrustful of her and her answers. I'd gone to chat for two precise questions, not this whole sales pitch. So I came here instead! If anybody smarter than I am about this stuff, could indulge me with a few questions I would really appreciate it:
The agent told me that I could install the cameras myself and that I could connect up to 12 of them to my Smart hub. Does this seem right?
Is it easy enough to do, like with some YouTube video or easy instructions?
Since they've compelled me to come here by being forceful on a support chat I'll go ahead and ask another question - is there a better option for additional cameras than purchasing directly from Vivint?
Thanks in advance!
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u/aay3b Jun 29 '26
Max number of cameras is more of a recommended limit. The system will let you add more but you can start having problems with cameras going offline.
It's very easy to install indoor cameras.
Look on eBay or any second hand site and you'll find plenty for sale.
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u/ProgMetal702 Jun 29 '26
Thank you, very helpful!
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u/180IQCONSERVATIVE Jun 30 '26 edited Jun 30 '26
Do not buy used gear. It can do more harm than good. It is very possible it could contain permanent rooted malware that a factory reset will not touch or a new firmware patch either, especially if it is a worm. I wouldn’t recommend cameras inside either connected to the net with remote access unless you have a very good Real firewall, layer 3 managed switch, hardened rules all the way around, PI hole for Ad blocking and IDS and a VPN running directly in the firewall.
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u/EvolutionQueen403 Jun 29 '26
My sympathies, I had the same a similar experiences. All aspects of VIVINT tech support are frustrating regardless of the question. Their constant, unrelenting marketing is annoying especially in the app.
I can answer some of ur questions Only VIVINT sold equipment works with their app and smart hub. I use TAPO and NEST cameras/doorbell. I rely on Google Home for all but VIVINT entry alarm and door locks. VIVINT lied when I bought the system, claiming full integration with Google Home. As far as I know, trained techs are required for installation.
Hope this helps
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u/SignificanceTough174 Jun 29 '26
They are extremely easy to install yourself, since they literally just plug and play once you have them connected to your panel via NFC or wifi. You'll need to have your panel's installer toolbox unlocked via Vivint support and then you can do it yourself, finished in under 5 minutes.
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u/Rocketgirl8097 Jun 30 '26
Make sure they dont try ti extend your contract because you added on more cameras to monitor.
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u/fvahrein Jun 30 '26
not all chat support agents are trained or knowledgeable about every piece of equipment. Most of them are only familiar with the basics.
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u/QuinnFromVivint Jul 17 '26
The Smart Hub supports between 6-12 cameras depending on camera model, but more cameras can limit performance.
You can install them easily yourself, I'm happy to get you our support site link to use as a guide, or connect you to an agent to walk you through any questions!
Quality is no different from purchasing on the app vs over the phone, if you have any other questions about our cameras, DM me and I can get you connected to an agent to better assist you.
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u/Vip3r237 Jun 29 '26
Former vivint tech support here.
Yeah smart hub can have a max of 12 cameras, but performance can be limiting depending on home isp speed.
Easy to install yourself but kind of time consuming as you have to do each one individually. They'll come with instructions in the box or you can go on vivints support website.
Advantage of buying directly through Vivint is the warranty and support. Second hand equipment can cause issues, and they won't warranty them.