Thinking about a new panel install, and the recently released 5 seems like a new tradeoff.
New install, so no existing wired sensors. Would like to interconnect with a AC-hardwired and interconnected smoke detectors. FireFighter 319.5 listening sensor seems like the best option, but maybe I’m missing some hardwired relay.
Ideally would prefer a panel installed in some closet and day-to-day operation by phone app. Displays/keypads seem a bit ugly and likely to need replacements in the future, so at first glance seems like something to avoid.
Possibly multiple zones in the same building, and another detached garage. But that seems workable with either panel.
So from that point of view, IQ Pro seems like a better option, even if I don’t care about hardwiring anything. But is there any downside to just installing IQ5 in a closet, and always arming/disarming via phone (or a remote keypad)?
Perhaps also curious if there’s any reason to wait for a hardware refresh of the IQ Pro.
This is the best route if your devices are all interconnected. If they are not, then I would recommend replacing at least the hallway smokes to Wireless IQ smokes or PowerG Smokes.
If you will be keeping it in a closet and using it only with the app, then I would say it would be easier to use an IQ Panel 5. It is smaller and all in one. You can then use either wireless PowerG Smokes which can activate the piezo in them in a burglar alarm or wireless PowerG sirens with either. Not having a screen would make it a bit more reliable but usually in the cases I’ve seen a screen fail, the panel still works using the alarm.com app. This was on the older IQ Panel 2 panels but the IQ Panel 4’s have been way more reliable.