Qolsys IQ Panel 2 vs Qolsys IQ Panel

The IQ Panel 2 and the IQ Panel are the two security systems that have been produced by Qolsys. They offer similar functions and features, and they both provide a great experience for end users. That being said, most consider the IQ Panel 2 to be an upgrade over the IQ Panel.

In terms of pure functionality, there's almost nothing the IQ Panel 2 can do that the IQ Panel cannot. They connect with the same security sensors, they both offer a dual path communication setup (WIFI & cellular) and they both provide support for Z-Wave home automation. Both panels can also access Alarm.com, which allows users to remotely arm and disarm their system and check the status of their security sensors from almost anywhere in the world. Finally, both panels feature a colorful 7 inch LCD touchscreen display that is very pleasing to the eye.

However, there are some distinct advantages that the IQ Panel 2 maintains over the IQ Panel. The cellular communicators that are built-in to the IQ Panel 2 are faster than those ingrained into the original IQ Panel. The operating system of the IQ Panel 2 (Android 5.1) is a newer and faster version than the OS of the IQ Panel (Android 2.2.2) The IQ Panel 2 features a slimmer, more compact design that most people would consider to be more aesthetically pleasing. The IQ Panel 2 can support up to 128 wireless zones, while the original IQ Panel can only handle 59. Additionally, while both of the Qolsys systems include built-in cameras, the camera inside the IQ Panel 2 is more advanced with its 5 MP lens.

Although the IQ Panel 2 is fairly more advanced than the IQ Panel, differences are not so huge that an upgrade is necessary. However, if you are purchasing a new Qolsys system, we would definitely recommend going with the IQ Panel 2. You can compare the two systems in the table below:

	Qolsys IQ Panel 2	Qolsys IQ Panel
Manufacturer	Qolsys	Qolsys
Operating System	Android 5.1	Android 2.2.2
Compatible Sensors	Qolsys	Qolsys
Display Screen	7 Inch LCD Capacitive Touchscreen	7 inch LCD Resistive Touchscreen
Dimensions	5”H x 7.75”W x .75”D	6.5”H x 8.5”W x 1.5”D
Built-In Voice	Yes	Yes
Interactive Service	Alarm.com	Alarm.com
WIFI Connectivity	Yes	Yes
Cellular Connectivity	Yes (AT&T LTE or Verizon LTE)	Yes (AT&T, Verizon, Rogers, Telefonica)
Z-Wave Home Automation	Yes	Yes
Encrypted Sensors	Yes (S-Line)	No
Siren	85 dB	91 dB
Camera	5 MP Fixed Focus	0.3 MP Fixed Focus
User Codes	242 Total	242 Total
Input	5v - 5.5v 1000mA DC adapter	12V 2000mA DC Adapter
Power Supply	100-240VAC 50/60Hz	100-240 V-50/60Hz
Battery	Lithium Polymer 3200mAh	Lithium Polymer 3200mAh
Wireless Zones	128	59
Hardwired Zones	2 Built-In	2 Built-In
Bluetooth Disarming	Included	Not a Feature