Cox Homelife Home Security Review: In-Depth

Telecommunication is what the majority of US people know about Cox company; however, there already have been 8-years of standing in the video surveillance industry. Cox Homelife Security is customization-friendly, comes with pro installation, disaster protection, and a wide assortment of smart solutions. As for the plans, everything is pretty simple: two main ones differ only with monitoring as one provides it, while the second one does not. Beyond that, the company carries the mission to make its security system energy efficient.

Key Perks

The provider offers many advanced devices and has 6 monitoring centers across the US. Apart from the centers, the clients can reach the provider through social media, so you will not lack online support, resolving any issues. Below, we want to briefly introduce you to their features.

About Cox Homelife Security

James M.Cox is the mastermind of the company who, back in 1898, came up with the idea to start the company; however, it came true only in 1962. Since that time, the company was most well-known for providing telecommunication services, which are offered by now. Only 8 years ago, Cox introduced their home security system, which is provided on a bundled basis. You need to be subscribed to their other services for more savings. Cox Homelife Security, compared to other providers, supply basic safety devices, but they are designated concerning energy efficiency. Beyond that, the company itself is very much into philanthropy, as they make donations to several youth initiatives across the country.

Interesting fact: they are the third-best providers of cable in the US with over 6M customers.

Features Of Cox Homelife Security

Cox Home Security can help potential clients to save money with their bundle offerings. For example, upon buying an Internet plan with them (which is highly rated with additional perks powered by McAfee malware and spyware protection to help you deal with malicious software painlessly), a client can integrate it with the safety kit, the same concerns when buying a phone. Beyond that, the provider will not make one puzzled with plans; however, there are also upfront fees that may frustrate you. That we are to cover later, and for now, let us move on to the features.

Automated Solutions

Depending on your choice of kit, there is an array of various automated devices. Buyers can choose customized options for smart home locks, lighting, etc., and then control them via phone or any other devices connected to the Internet.

Wireless Approach

Drilling holes, fire breakings, etc. are all unnecessary with Cox’s wireless security system. Their devices are designated with cellular backup and the durable life of the battery.

Disaster Protection

Carbon monoxide sensor, floor, and smoke detectors provide a family with total protection and security in case of any disasters. Equip your house with these devices, and let professionals install them.

Around-the-Clock Monitoring

With a pro plan, every client accesses 24/7 video monitoring. If you require a faster response to emergencies, it is highly recommended to provide monitoring with extra sensors and detectors for smoke, or flood. Furthermore, with the Security&Automation Starter Kit, one can access the recorded footage.

Professional Installation

The Cox security system is not as easy to set up compared to DIY devices, so a pro installation will be required. Buying any plan, a client gets this option straight away. Speak to the technician about your concerns and understand how everything works.

Mobile Notifications

Single kits come with mobile alerts, so clients know what is going home whenever they are there or away. Receive text, or email, and take prompt measures in case of burglary or intrusion.

Power Outage Protection

Thanks to cellular backup, no power outage outcomes are scary anymore. The security system works with the WiFi network but you can rest assured knowing that not a single episode will be missed when there are power issues.

Video Surveillance Cameras

HD quality of images and videos, recorded footage which can be accessed via a mobile device, and streams storage for up to 10 days. Their surveillance cameras won’t disappoint you with the clarity of the recording.

Remote Control

Upon the need, you can buy a key-chain to have a remote control always at hand when you are away.

Equipment & Installation

Cox home security offers a lot in terms of starter kits, so one should clearly understand what to choose. Nevertheless, their security system will fit only those clients which houses support high-speed connectivity, or else there can be issues. Starter kits may require a pro installation, at least when joining this provider, as many details are hard to figure out with set-up.

Automation Starter Kit

It is a basic plan stuffed with automated devices fit for remote control. It works with Wi-Fi only but you can access it through a mobile application. The app will be required due to the absence of a monitoring panel. This starter kit comes with one surveillance camera, LED light bulb alongside an entry sensor. It is free but if you commit to a 2-year contract.

Security & Automation Starter Kit

24/7 monitoring, and customized options to choose from, including a smart outlet or HD camera. It is an upgraded plan compared to a basic kit, and it comes with one camera, motion sensor, and two-door and window sensors. Fits more large houses with a family.

Digital Starter Kit

Unlike free packs, this starter kit can be purchased at $200 but you can have more solutions in one security system. It comes with 24/7 monitoring, two surveillance cameras, 2 LED light bulbs, a motion detector, and two-door and window sensors.

Accessory Value Pack

This kit fits large families and people who want to have the utmost protection of their homes. It comes as an add-on to the primary package and costs $160. The value pack includes an outdoor camera, and door and window sensors.

Choose Equipment That Meets Your Needs

The last option fits those who want to decide what devices they need for their homes. The prices for each item range between $60–$230.

Installation

With Cox security systems you require a hand of the professionally-trained technician able to set up equipment and explain the performance details. This specialist ensures the devices work perfectly and recommends on the locations of installing them best. Though, such help is chargeable, as a set-up cost is $50, while $49 is charged as an activation fee. Unlike other providers who offer DIY installation, you will be bound to tech support, at least initially.

Available Plans and Their Prices

Their security system plans vary in cost between $29.99 to $44.99 monthly. It is not so expensive only if you do not compare it with other providers. Another thing is the commitment which is also a not pleasant one. Yes, you get automated devices for your needs and taste, but be ready to be bound to a 2-year contract. Finally, there is an activation fee of $49.

Comparison of Devices in Plans

As of now, Cox Homelife Security offers to buy one of their two plans and get free of charge automated devices. Potential buyers will still be obliged to a 2-year commitment but with the potential savings for up to $200. For example, one can get CO2 detectors or LED light bulbs among others.

For more deals, one can refer to their official website, and it is updated every month.

Automation Starter Kit

This starter kit will cost one $29.99/monthly. Users can access remote control of live streams, sensors, detectors as well as lighting. Beyond that, it allows one to receive mobile notifications whenever the doors or windows are opened. As for drawbacks, users should be ready to sacrifice the comfort of touchscreen panels, as they are not available.

Security & Automation Starter Kit

As was said above, it is an upgraded version of the Automation Starter Kit which comes with around-the-clock monitoring. The price is $44.99/monthly alongside $49 for activation. Unlike the first kit, it comes with cellular backup and an additional motion sensor. Users get a touchscreen panel as well.

Overall Usability

The official website of Cox company may seem impractical, as users who would like to buy a plan or at least figure out what exactly is offered. The interface is not convenient, so your online shopping can turn out to be a frustrating experience. You won’t understand the purpose of items, their belonging to any plan, or find accessories that fit as add-ons only. Buying in-person may be a better choice for you.

Our recommendation is to contact the company directly and ask about everything you are interested in their security systems.

Customers’ Feedback On Use

Cox’s home security varies in feedback. The majority of customers are satisfied with the services provided including how the customer service team speaks and resolves the issues. On the contrary, Cox does not fit those households that lack high-speed connectivity, so customers claim it as a huge drawback.

General Terms On Use Of Cox Security System

Whenever you think about subscribing to one or another provider, including Cox, you should precisely study their price policy, especially the part with hidden fees. For example, this provider will charge you straight away $49 as an activation fee, and $50 for installation. However, there is also a 30-days trial that helps to try the security system and then request a refund if you do not like it. As for other policies, Cox bounds the clients to a 2-year contract and only a 1-year warranty, which is not effective. If you plan to relocate, the tech team will be there for you to help; however, if you move to the area out of their service, there is no chance.

Customer Support

You can contact a separate support hotline whenever you have an inquiry. Beyond that, there is a separate hotline designated only for current surveillance clients. To reach the provider, you should call during the working hours only — Mon–Fri from 8 am to 8 pm, and Sat from 9 am to 6 pm. Otherwise, use their live chat on the official website.

Furthermore, there is a separate email, where you can report about a phishing attack or cyber threats. However, ensure you come across cyberattacks rather than simple spam.

Trust Ratings 

You can occasionally come across bad feedback about their security system including complaints about customer service, high fees, etc. Trust Pilot and Consumer Affairs gave this provider only 2 out of 5 stars. With other review-websites, the rating can be even lower, however, it is worth saying that people usually assess the whole Cox communications company rather than their security systems only.

So, it is up to potential clients to rely on Cox, however, ensure it services your area.

FAQs On Cox Homelife Security 

Pros And Cons Of Cox Security System

Cox can boast automated devices and their good quality. On the other hand, this cannot be said about the contract and activation fee. You will not enjoy their systems if your house does not have high-speed connectivity or you live in a place which out of their service areas.

The Bottom Line

As you can see Cox may seem an attractive option for home security but there are hidden drawbacks as well. If you find it fine committing to a 2-year contract and paying upfront and activation fees, go for it. Cox Homelife Security is pretty affordable and offers high-tech solutions that are customization-friendly, an app where you can receive both real and false alarms. The majority of devices require pro installation which you also have to pay for. All in all, it can be just a good and decent security system, but if you need more customer-friendly policies, look for another provider.