* Firmware upgrade is long coming
There is a lot of expectation for further automation compatibility etc.with the GC3, but the firmware timeline is standard for the manufacturer. 2GIG releases large scale heavily tested updates infrequently.
By comparison, Qolsys tends to have more frequent releases with fewer changes.
Does not seem to be actively worked on
I can assure you that is not true. It was released roughly 6 months ago, and unlike many industries (smartphones, for example) there is a slower adoption rate. A lot of the time taken to work on the product firmware/peripherals is customer and dealer feedback consideration.
The platform is solid, and I anticipate the GC3 handily outperforming the GC2 in the future, however, until further features and compatibility are enabled via firmware, there are definitely some concerns - particularly with Z-wave automation as it does not have as wide of an initial compatibility list as the GC2. This will undoubtedly grow much larger.
Does not support encrypted sensors
Correct. If this is a concern, we would recommend going with a GE Sensor panel such as the Qolsys IQ, Concord 4, or Simon. GE wireless sensor utilize encryption.
So far the winner by all the features, but I could be wrong
Honeywell Lyric uses the same unencrypted sensor transmission as the GC3, but the panel you should choose would be determined by personal preference.
What features of the Honeywell Lyric are you interested in? We can compare those with Alarm.com compatible panels.
Why not Honeywell Lyric?
We do not sell or monitor that panel. suretyDIY is an Alarm.com service dealer. The Lyric is not an Alarm.com compatible panel.
We provide monitoring and Alarm.com service and support for all Alarm.com compatible panels.
Why would Qolsys be better than Lyric
The answer to this would be dependent on the features that interest the user. The biggest difference again is that the Honeywell panel does not connect to the same back-end service. While the panels available in the industry are certainly becoming more aesthetically pleasing and functionally diverse, the service they connect to is perhaps a more important distinction.
What features are you looking for in a panel? Are you interested in home automation? Are you looking to add lighting control, thermostat integration, energy monitoring, etc.? Will you be primarily interacting with the panel locally or will you be more regularly controlling the system functions with a smartphone?