Are Vivint Cameras Hardwired? Know The Answer

When you're investing in a home security system, one of the first questions that comes up is how the equipment is powered. You’ve probably heard terms like “hardwired” and “wireless” tossed around. And if you're considering Vivint for your home security, you might be wondering: Are Vivint cameras hardwired?

 

The short answer: Yes, some are hardwired, and others are wireless. Vivint offers a hybrid system designed to combine the strengths of both. In this article, I will walk you through exactly how Vivint cameras are powered, which ones are hardwired, and what that means for your setup.

 

What Are Vivint Cameras?

 

Vivint provides a range of security cameras designed to help you monitor your home effectively. These cameras include indoor models, outdoor options, and specialized devices like doorbell cameras. Vivint cameras come equipped with features like high-definition video, night vision, two-way audio, and smart integration with other Vivint products, allowing you to control your home security from your smartphone.

 

Hardwired vs. Wireless Security Cameras

 

Before answering whether Vivint security cameras are hardwired, it's essential to understand the difference between hardwired and wireless cameras. Wireless security cameras are easy to install, allowing many users to set them up without professional help. In contrast, hardwired or wired cameras require a connection to your home’s electrical wiring, which usually necessitates expert installation.

 

One of the key advantages of wireless cameras is their ability to be managed and monitored remotely via a smartphone or computer. This is due to the fact that wireless cameras use a Wi-Fi internet connection for communication, while wired cameras rely on coaxial cables within your home. Although wired cameras can transmit data more quickly and securely, they lack the remote access features of wireless systems.

 

Typically, a wired security camera saves video recordings on a local device, such as a digital video recorder (DVR). This setup allows the system to continue recording even if the internet goes down. If you want to access clips online, you can link the DVR to the internet via an Ethernet cable.

 

On the other hand, a wireless security camera generally uploads videos straight to cloud storage. This makes it easy to see and share footage online. However, security companies often charge a fee per month for this cloud storage service. 

 

Additionally, wireless security cameras can integrate into a broader smart home ecosystem, allowing them to connect and function with different smart devices. In contrast, hardwired cameras typically lack this capability, limiting their functionality in a smart home setup.

 

Are Vivint Security Cameras Hardwired?

The answer isn't a simple yes or no. Vivint offers both hardwired and wireless security camera options.

1.   Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro

• Power Source: Hardwired
  
  
  
• Wiring Type: Connects to existing doorbell wiring (usually 16- 24V AC)
  
  
  
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
  
  
  
• Notes: Because it's replacing your doorbell, this camera uses your home's existing wiring for constant power. It's not battery-operated, so you never have to worry about recharging it.

2.           Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro

• Power Source: Hardwired
  
  
  
• Wiring Type: Low-voltage power cable installed during setup
  
  
  
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
  
  
  
• Notes: This camera is designed for 24/7 outdoor surveillance. It’s installed professionally and connects to a power source through a hardwired setup, giving you uninterrupted coverage.
  
  
  

3.           Vivint Indoor Camera

• Power Source: Plug-in (not hardwired to your home’s electrical system, but not battery-operated either)
  
  
  
• Wiring Type: Power adapter and standard wall outlet
  
  
  
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi
  
  
  
• Notes: Think of this one as semi-wired. It’s not hardwired in the traditional sense, but it does need to be plugged in to work—no batteries involved.
  
  
  

4.           Vivint Spotlight Pro

• Power Source: Hardwired (works with the Outdoor Camera Pro)
  
  
  
• Wiring Type: Integrated with existing Vivint outdoor camera wiring
  
  
  
• Connectivity: Controlled through the Vivint app
  
  
  
• Notes: This spotlight accessory adds an extra layer of protection and runs through the same wired connection as the camera it pairs with.
  
  
  

So overall, most Vivint cameras are hardwired for power but use wireless technology to transmit video. That gives you the best of both worlds: reliable power and flexible connectivity.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wired Home Security Systems

 

A hardwired camera needs to be directly connected to your home’s wiring. Connecting this device to your electrical system can be tricky if you don’t have some knowledge of electrical work. As a result, most wired cameras usually need to be installed by professionals.

 

Here are some advantages of having a hardwired camera:

• Hardwired cameras are difficult to hack because they don’t use a wireless connection. For example, a hacker would need to physically access your microSD card or recording device to view footage from your camera.
• These cameras can transmit strong signals over large areas, making them suitable for office buildings or big homes. Additionally, information sent through a wired connection is often more secure and faster than data transmitted over Wi-Fi.
• You also won’t need to worry about battery life. Wired cameras draw power directly from your home’s electrical system, eliminating the need for batteries.
• Hardwired cameras can continue recording even if your internet goes down. Since they don’t depend on a wireless internet connection, they remain operational even when your internet signal is disrupted.

 

Below are some drawbacks of having a wired camera:

• The installation process for a wired camera can be disruptive and costly. An installer typically needs to drill into your home's walls to join the camera to your electrical wiring.
• Another downside is that you usually can’t take a wired camera with you if you move. These cameras are challenging to transport and are generally considered a permanent part of a home.
• You also won’t have the ability to control a wired camera remotely. While there is usually a fixed control panel located somewhere in your home, it typically lacks a mobile app for remote management.
• Exposed wires can be unsightly. It can often be difficult to hide all the wires that connect various sensors and cameras in a wired system.
• Wired cameras rely on telephone lines for communication. This means that an intruder could disable the security system by cutting the phone line.

 

The Bottom Line

 

When it comes to Vivint security cameras, you have options. Are Vivint cameras hardwired? The answer is yes, but there are also wireless alternatives available. Each option has its own set of benefits and considerations. 

 

Hardwired cameras provide reliability, high-quality video, and enhanced security, making them an excellent choice for many homeowners. However, consider the installation challenges and costs, as well as your home’s layout, before making your decision.

 

Ultimately, the choice between hardwired and wireless cameras will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you opt for the stability of hardwired models or the flexibility of wireless options, Vivint offers a range of solutions to help you secure your home effectively.