Compare the Best Home Security Systems
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*Monitoring price shown is for entry-level professional monitoring service.
**Nest – Contract is required for $19/mo. monitoring plan with Brinks
***Cove – Warranty is based on the monitoring plan chosen.
– Please note that BBB ratings, plans, pricing, and other details can change without our knowledge.
Here Are the Best Home Security Systems
Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals
Black Friday falls on November 27, 2020 and Cyber Monday on November 30, 2020.
This year, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, you can expect to find more home security online deals than other years. To facilitate your research, we’ve compiled the top home security deals on everything from security cameras, video doorbells, professional monitoring and more. Visit our Deals Page!
Which home security system is best for me?
Overall, Simplisafe is the best home security system in our opinion, but below are some additional recommendations for specific customer needs:
If you’re looking for affordable home security system:
We recommend SimpliSafe, Ring and Blue by ADT. These affordable home security providers have lower upfront costs for equipment packages. Ring currently offers the cheapest professional monitoring.
If you rent an apartment or townhome:
For renters, we recommend SimpliSafe, Cove and Ring. The best home security systems for renters offer wireless security systems that you can set up yourself to avoid any installation fees.
If you are looking for the highest camera resolution:
We recommend the ADT Indoor Camera as the best for monitored security, and the Nest Cam IQ as the best smart indoor camera. Nest also offers the best outdoor camera with the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor Camera, known for its AI features.
If you want the best smart home integrations with Google Home and Alexa:
We recommend Nest Security, which works seamless with Google. Ring Home Security pairs well with Amazon products.
If you want the best reliability and customer service:
We recommend ADT for their industry experience in Home Security. Frontpoint Security is recognized for their customer service and overall value packages.
If you want a security system best protects your pet:
Some of the best home security systems for pet owners are Cove, Simplisafe and ADT. Each of these providers will have a professional install your system for you, and offer pet-immune sensors to avoid false alarms.
You can also use our recommendation tool below.
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Our Take on SimpliSafe Home Security
Keep those pesky burglars away with a SimpliSafe security system. Choose from a range of packages and equipment, and get inexpensive professional monitoring.
★ Recommended Plan
We recommend The Barrington if you’re interested in SimpliSafe. This package combines intrusion detection and video surveillance. Equipment starts at $388.93. Professional monitoring starts at $14.99 per month. Self-monitoring is free.Pros
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- Wireless equipment
- Cellular monitoring
- Free self-monitoring
Cons
- Mobile alerts not available in the basic monitoring plan
- No selection of smart home devices
- Smart home capabilities not available in basic monitoring plan
- Research SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
SimpliSafe equipment is attractive, modern and easy to install, and it launches new products all the time. SimpliSafe systems work with Alexa and Google Assistant, so it supports voice commands through Amazon Echo and Google Home devices (sold separately). Note that the system doesn’t include a Z-wave or Zigbee smart home hub.
SimpliSafe Monitoring Services
SimpliSafe’s monitoring services are handled by COPS Monitoring, a proven leader with 41+ years of experience serving over 3 million customers. It offers two tiers of 24/7 monitoring plans (one with expanded app functionality, one without) with a Visual Verification option for customers with cameras. Visual Verification lets monitoring personnel review surveillance footage if an alarm is triggered, which SimpliSafe says speeds response time and reduces false alarms.
DIY Installation
Customers must set up their own equipment, but according to SimpliSafe, it usually takes less than 30 minutes. The ease of self-installation makes SimpliSafe a go-to choice for renters, homeowners and frequent movers alike. SimpliSafe also offers professional installation starting at $79.
SimpliSafe Pricing & Value
SimpliSafe pricing is very competitive. The main question is whether or not the DIY model and pricing structure work for you. With SimpliSafe, equipment packages start at $183 and must be paid for upfront (or financed through PayPal Credit) and monitoring fees are billed monthly. Long-term contracts not required.
SimpliSafe’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
SimpliSafe is continuing to provide 24/7 alarm response for customers. This includes responding to alarms triggered for break-ins, fire, carbon monoxide, and medical assistance. SimpliSafe is also continuing to provide technical support by phone and ensures that they are following federal safety guidelines. Learn more here
Compare SimpliSafe
Our Take on Abode Home Security
With an all-in-one home security system and lots of smart home compatibility, Abode is an innovator, giving you the ability to choose between self- or professional monitoring.
★ Recommended Plan
The Iota All-In-One Security Kit combines motion detection, video surveillance, and two-way audio into a single hub for your home. Equipment starts at $299. Professional monitoring starts at $20 per month.Pros
- Flexible monitoring plans
- Option for short-term professional monitoring
- Access to an all-in-one security system
- Free self-monitoring
Cons
- Professional monitoring only available in highest tiered monitoring plan
- Cellular backup not available in basic monitoring plan
- Understanding custom home automation features could be difficult for some
Abode Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
In terms of equipment, Abode offers the typical do-it-yourself selection of intrusion protection and alarms, plus a few different indoor camera and home automation options. It doesn’t have a carbon monoxide detector or an outdoor camera, which might be dealbreakers for some people. However, the Abode hub supports Z-wave, Zigbee, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can find plenty of compatible third-party devices.
Abode Monitoring Service
Abode offers affordable plans for both self-monitoring and professional monitoring. Self-monitoring through the mobile app is free, which is unusual. Many security providers will charge at least a nominal fee for full access to mobile app monitoring. There’s also a $7/mo. self-monitoring plan that includes cellular backup if the home wifi network goes down. Professional monitoring starts around $8.33/mo., and you can even get on-demand short-term professional monitoring for if you only need it now and then.
Why Abode is the Best for Self-Monitoring
Many people who are looking for DIY home security solutions want systems that they can install and monitor themselves. Because of its range of self- and professionally monitored plans, Abode is our top pick for the diehard DIYer.
Abode Pricing & Value
Abode is a budget-priced option for tech-savvy people who want to set up and monitor their own system. Equipment and/or monitoring are often steeply discounted if you bundle them together. We’ve seen professional monitoring start as low as $8.33/mo. with the purchase of a starter kit.
Compare Abode
Our Take on Nest
Access Google smart home technology with a Nest security system. Even better, Brinks will protect your home with Nest for as low as $19 per month.
★ Recommended Plan
Keep things simple with the Nest Secure Alarm System. You’ll get two Nest tags for easy arming & disarming and access to Google Assistant features. Equipment starts at $399. Professional monitoring starts at $19 per month.Pros
- Reasonably priced DIY option
- Contract for professional monitoring is optional
- Easy to use
Cons
- No variety of preset hardware packages you can purchase
- The cost of month-to-month professional monitoring is higher than contract option
- Could lose one of the arming/disarming tags
Nest Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Nest currently has one home security system you can purchase, and that’s the Nest Secure System. It comes with the essentials you need for basic intrusion detection like a base station and sensors. You’ll also be able to use Google Assistant for voice control and additional Google smart devices with the Nest Secure System. Feel free to add on devices as you see fit for your home.
Nest Monitoring Services
Brinks Home Security provides professional monitoring for the Nest Secure System. Brinks’ monitoring service for Nest starts at $19/mo. Professional monitoring is optional with Nest – you can opt to self-monitor your home instead. If you choose professional monitoring for Nest, you’ll have access to Brinks’ fast response services.
Best Smart Home Integrations
It’s no secret that with Nest you’ll get access to some of the best smart home integrations with Google. If you have a Google smart device such as the Nest Hub, Google Home, and more. For voice control, simply ask Google Assistant to help.
Nest Pricing & Value
Nest’s security system is competitively priced compared to other DIY providers. Retailing for $399, the Nest Secure System gives you access to unique equipment like the Nest Guard Hub, two Nest tags for easy arming/disarming, two Nest Detector sensors, two open/close magnets, a power adapter, and additional items for getting started.
Compare Nest
Starting at $45.99/mo
Our Take on ADT Home Security
ADT is a well-recognized name in the home security business thanks to its top-notch equipment, award-winning monitoring centers and commitment to customer service. For people who feel like you get what you pay for, it’s hard to beat ADT.
ADT prefers to provide a brief consultation before quoting a custom package. Contact ADT to get started.
★ Recommended Plan
ADT’s Video Lite Plan is nothing minor — you’ll get motion detection, smart home capabilities, and video surveillance. Equipment starts at $599. Professional monitoring starts at $54.99 per month.Pros
- 6-month money-back guarantee
- $500 theft protection guarantee
- High-quality equipment
Cons
- Must pay for an extended warranty
- Lengthy contracts
- More expensive than competitors
ADT Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
ADT offers one of the largest sets of equipment options on the market. Higher-tier packages include smartphone apps, smart home integration, camera options and more. We appreciate how ADT’s Command panel (available in the Control package and higher) doubles as a Z-wave smart home hub, so you can configure compatible devices from other manufacturers.
ADT Monitoring Services
ADT does not outsource its monitoring, like many smaller security providers do. It has six monitoring centers with 7,000 trained operators. These centers are certified by the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) and The Monitoring Association (TMA). They’re also fully redundant, meaning that connectivity has plenty of checks, balances and back-up options so you can count on 24/7 service and quick response time.
Professional Installation
ADT security systems require professional installation. This can save you a headache, since it ensures everything is set up correctly and includes one-on-one instruction. If you plan on moving in the near future, know that ADT offers a discounted Mover’s Package to qualified existing customers.
ADT Pricing & Value
To determine the price of your ADT system and service, add the costs of equipment, monitoring service and applicable taxes and fees. Note that ADT requires a long-term contract. Installation and early termination fees apply. You may also qualify for ADT specials and promotions.
ADT’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
ADT is continuing to provide 24/7 alarm response and is working to resolve residential customer issues by phone as much as they can. If a customer’s issue cannot be resolved over the phone, ADT will send out a technician to help. The company is taking additional steps to ensure their technicians are well and safe by performing wellness checks and making sure each household is healthy before sending help. Learn more here
Compare ADT
Starting at $19/mo
Our Take on Brinks Home Security
Like ADT, Brinks has earned a reputation for its commitment to customer service, quality monitoring and top-notch equipment. However, the company focuses primarily on human threats, not environmental threats.
★ Recommended Plan
We recommend the Brinks Smart Security Complete package because it balances affordability with quality equipment, including a security camera, touchscreen panel and motion detection.
Pros
- 2-year equipment warranty
- Impressive industry experience and reputation
- Flexible installation options
Cons
- No equipment for environmental monitoring
- Touchscreen control panel not available in all packages
- Lengthy contracts for some equipment packages
Brinks Home Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Brinks lets you choose between the Google Nest Secure Alarm System or Brinks’ own equipment packages. The Nest system (purchased through Brinks or major retailers like Google and Walmart) integrates with the entire lineup of Nest products and Google Assistant. Brinks equipment options include basic home security or home security with video, and the alarm panel is also a smart home hub compatible with Z-wave and Alexa devices.Brinks Home Security Monitoring Service
Brinks owns and operates its own US-based monitoring center. Its monitoring service includes a benefit called ASAPer, which simultaneously messages a group of pre-set contacts to determine whether alarm activity is a true emergency or false alarm. Most monitoring center call household members one at a time, which can slow response times.
DIY Installation with Professional Options
Brinks security packages are meant to be self-installed. Optional professional help is available through a Nest Pro or Brinks Customer Care for an additional fee.
Brinks Home Security Pricing & Value
Brinks provides value by offering a choice of pricing agreements. The Nest option starts at $399 for equipment, and customers can choose between $29.99/mo. no-commitment monitoring or $19.99/mo. with a three-year contract. Brinks equipment packages require a 36-month contract. Equipment starts at $199 for the most basic package and monitoring starts at $29/mo.
Brinks’ Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
In addition to providing 24/7 alarm response, Brinks is continuing to provide on-site service for its customers. Brinks technicians will check in with customers to ask about symptoms before an appointment to protect themselves and those they serve. If you or a family member are ill or are experiencing illness symptoms, Brinks asks that you reschedule your appointment. Learn more here
Compare Brinks
Our Take on Blue by ADT
Get trusted professional monitoring and an easy-to-install security system with Blue by ADT. Even better, your first month of monitoring is free. As a Blue by ADT customer, you have the option to do a no contract plan. By doing this, you can purchase the equipment and skip the professional monitoring. You can always go back and add professional monitoring to your system if you decide you need it later down the line.
★ Recommended Plan
For front-door protection, we recommend the Blue Doorbell Camera System. You’ll get the essentials and a doorbell camera for your home. Equipment starts at $109.19. Professional monitoring starts at $19.99 per month.Pros
- Smart home compatibility
- 7-Day Practice Period
- 24/7 professional monitoring available
- No contract option
- Free self-monitoring
Cons
- Limited Blue by ADT equipment
- No smart home add-ons
- Cloud storage costs extra
- Research Blue by ADT
Blue by ADT Security Packages and Smart Home Equipment
Blue by ADT has a collection of cameras that connect to LifeShield security systems wirelessly. Their equipment is easy to install and connect to smart home equipment including voice assistants. Their devices can be controlled used the Blue by ADT mobile app for modern home security.Blue by ADT Monitoring Services
Blue by ADT offers self-monitoring for free and professional monitoring for $19.99/mo. The first month of professional monitoring is free and comes with one free month of cloud video storage.
DIY Installation
Blue by ADT is completely DIY for an easy, free set-up that doesn’t require a professional. Their videos and technical support make it easy to set up your cameras and connect them to your smart home devices for whole-home smart security.
Blue by ADT Pricing & Value
Blue by ADT has cameras and monitoring services – all at an affordable cost. All cameras cost $199 each and the monitoring service is $19.99/mo. on a month-to-month rate for more flexibility.
Blue by ADT’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Blue by ADT is continuing to provide 24/7 monitoring and customer support during normal business hours from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. EST Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST on Saturdays and Sundays. Learn more here
Compare Blue by ADT
Starting at $29.99/mo
Our Take on Vivint Home Security
Vivint really shines when it comes to equipment. Perhaps no other provider has such an extensive catalog, which makes it an excellent provider for those who plan to install new equipment over time.
★ Recommended Plan
Vivint’s Smart Home Service is our recommended plan because it unlocks a larger selection of smart home devices, as well as video monitoring.
Pros
- Month-to-month contract option if equipment is purchased up front
- Backup battery included with the Sky Control panel
- Extensive equipment features, including Vivint Car Guard
Cons
- Long contract if equipment is financed
- Installation can take 3-4 hours
- Short (120-day) equipment warranty and service guarantee (unless you purchase Premium)
- Short (3-day) trial period
Vivint Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Vivint doesn’t limit your starting point to pre-selected equipment packages. Instead, build your own system from an extensive equipment lineup, which includes intrusion protection, environmental monitoring, security cameras and smart home devices. Vivint’s alarm panel doubles as a smart home hub, so it’s compatible with home automation devices from other manufacturers as well.Vivint Monitoring Services
Vivint performs its monitoring in-house at its UL- and TMA Five Diamond-certified monitoring center. You can be confident that the responding agent will be a trained professional experienced with Vivint systems. Vivint offers two levels of monitoring service, and with Vivint cameras, you can also opt into video monitoring to allow agents to visually investigate alarms.
Professional Installation
Vivint requires professional installation. This service is a major benefit when dealing with new-to-you technology, but it is an additional expense (usually around $50).
Vivint Pricing & Value
Vivint systems can be expensive– a minimum of $599.99 worth of equipment is required to start service. Monitoring is also a necessity and it starts at at $29.99/mo. Financing is available for equipment, and service contracts match the length of financing terms. If equipment is paid for up front, there’s no long-term service contract required. If you’re serious about Vivint, call about current deals and promotions.
Vivint’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Vivint is still providing 24/7 alarm response and on-site service for customers. Vivint technicians are utilizing best practices for safety when they visit customer homes such as cleaning the areas they touch. Vivint is asking customers who are sick or experiencing symptoms of illness to reschedule their appointment for the health and safety of their technicians. Learn more here
Compare Vivint
Our Take on Link Interactive Home Security
Link Interactive represents a middle ground between the all-out customization offered by SimpliSafe and the more traditional options offered by Brinks or ADT. You’ll sign a contract, for example, but you do get some say in how long the contract will be.
★ Recommended Plan
We recommend Link Interactive’s Elite Plan because it offers both video surveillance monitoring and smart home integration.
Pros
- Locked-in monitoring prices (for 3 years)
- Wide selection of equipment
- Ability to build your own package
Cons
- Video monitoring only available in most expensive plan
- Smart home capabilities not included in most affordable plan
- No professional installation option
Link Interactive Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Link Interactive offers a wide variety of panels, sensors, remotes, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, cameras, smart home hubs and smart locks, thermostats and lights – everything you need for intrusion detection, surveillance, environmental monitoring and home automation with the freedom to build your own system from the ground up.
Link Interactive Monitoring Service
Link Interactive’s monitoring service is handled by Avantguard, a wholesale monitoring center that serves over 500,000 subscribers. Avantguard is TMA Five Diamond and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certified, both important accreditations. It’s also possible to request a self-monitored plan through Link Interactive, though it might not be available in your area, and there is still a considerable fee ($30.99/mo.) associated with app use.
Why Link Interactive is Best for DIY Custom Packages
Link Interactive’s website provides a comprehensive listing of all product options with specifications. It’s a great tool for configuring the system and learning the role of each device. We recommend you use this tool for research and call Link Interactive to actually make your purchase. At the time of writing, there are service plans, deals and options not listed online.
Link Interactive Pricing & Value
It’s possible to get a very good value with Link Interactive with the right equipment selection and service agreement. Customers purchase equipment up front and sign on to a 1, 2 or 3-year contract. Equipment runs on the expensive side, but Link rewards longer contracts with increasingly substantial discounts on equipment. Monitoring costs $30.99-$44.99 monthly.
Link Interactive’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Link Interactive is monitoring the effects of COVID-19 and will continue to provide alarm response as well as home installations and service. If further restrictions are put into place, Link Interactive technicians will work from home. Learn more here
Compare Link Interactive
Starting at $44.99/mo
Our Take on Frontpoint Home Security
Frontpoint recently changed its billing model to month-to-month contracts, which we believe shows that the company strives to stay on top of industry trends and cares about customer service. We also appreciate that Frontpoint’s equipment is compatible with the major smart home hubs.
★ Recommended Plan
Our recommended Frontpoint plan is the Safe Home Starter equipment package combined with the Ultimate monitoring plan, which will give you access to a smartphone app for monitoring your security devices.
Pros
- No lengthy contracts
- Excellent customer service
- Variety of equipment to choose from
Cons
- Monitoring fees are relatively expensive
- Short (30 days) trial period
- No professional installation option
Frontpoint Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Frontpoint Security doesn’t offer the largest spectrum of equipment on the market, but its product lineup still includes everything you need for modern smart home security, including activity detection, cameras and mobile app access. Choose a starter package or build your own system from scratch. The Frontpoint alarm panel also serves as a Z-wave smart home hub, but its ability to integrate with some top smart home brands (like Google Nest) is limited.
Frontpoint Monitoring Services
Frontpoint outsources its monitoring to Rapid Response Monitoring, a multi-award winning monitoring center with two central stations. Rapid Response is UL-certified and approved by the New York Fire Department (NYFD), which is one of the strictest certifications in this field.
DIY Installation
All of Frontpoint’s equipment is intended for simple do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. This saves money on installation fees, avoids the hassle of appointment scheduling, and makes it easier to take the system with you if you move. On the other hand, it’s up to you to make sure the system is set up correctly.
Frontpoint Pricing & Value
Frontpoint equipment pricing is on the low end, but its monitoring services start at a slightly higher price point than the entry-level services of its competitors. However, Frontpoint offers all customers benefits that are often only available through higher-tier plans at other providers, such as complete mobile app access and “Crash & Smash” protection. Overall, Frontpoint pricing represents a good value as long as DIY installation works for you (and it’s even better if you can score a seasonal discount). There’s also a 30-day no-risk trial period.
Frontpoint’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Frontpoint is also continuing to provide 24/7 alarm response and customer service by phone, chat, and email. You can rest assured that a Frontpoint monitoring associate will be available to help. For security system setup, you can visit Frontpoint’s support page to view their user guides and videos for help. Learn more here
Compare Frontpoint
Our Take on Cove Security
Although Cove Security launched just a couple of years ago, it offers some unique perks, such as the ability to completely avoid a contract by paying for equipment up front. Another major selling point is Cove’s ease of installation.
★ Recommended Plan
Regardless of how you pay for your custom equipment package, we recommend the Cove Plus Monitoring plan, the only option that supports Google Home and Amazon Alexa integrations.
Pros
- Affordable monitoring and equipment
- Installation takes about half an hour
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Limited equipment selection
- Does not connect to Z-wave equipment
- Smartphone app only available with most expensive monitoring package
Cove Security Packages & Equipment
Cove doesn’t offer preset packages you can choose from, but you can easily put together your own security system online. Cove focuses on providing the essentials you need for protecting your home with intrusion detection equipment and an indoor security camera for monitoring your home. Cove’s Touch Alarm Panel boasts two-way communication and Smash & Grab Protection for additional security against intruders.Cove Security Monitoring Services
You’ll get 24/7 professional monitoring with Cove through either the Cove Basic or Cove Plus plans. Cove provides this service through COPS Monitoring, an organization that has 6 UL-Listed centers. Your home will be monitored over a 100% cellular connection for greater protection against power outages or Wi-Fi internet issues.
DIY Installation
Cove Security’s system is designed for DIY installation. The provider claims their system can be installed in as little as 30 minutes. Cove’s equipment is pre-configured so that when it arrives, you’ll simply follow the provided instructions for setup.
Cove Security Pricing & Value
With Cove, you have greater control over the cost of your security system by choosing the devices you need and want online, no up-selling involved. Compared to other DIY providers, Cove’s equipment is less expensive, and you may be able to find the devices on sale during any promotions.
Cove’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Cove is continuing to serve its customers with 24/7 alarm response and newly added 24/7 customer support. Additionally, Cove also understands the financial impact the pandemic is having on customers and has stated that the company will work with them to create a plan for keeping their monitoring service. Learn more here
Compare Cove
Showing 5 of 10 providers
Showing 10 of 10 providers
How Do We Rank the Best Home Security Systems?
Learn more about our reviews and ranking methodology here.
Common Home Security Equipment and Features
Home Security Stats
Safety.com conducted a home security survey to find out more about alarm system ownership and the motivation behind security alarm purchases. Here’s a few insights about home security systems:
- About 74% of survey respondents say their home security system or product makes them feel safe.
- 50% of respondents who own security products wanted to add extra security to their home.
- 38% of Americans actually own a home security product.
- 33% of those who don’t own a home security product said they couldn’t afford it.
- 41% of 18-34 year old respondents (Gen-Z and Millennials) own a home security system or product.
- About 18% of all respondents own a video doorbell.
- About 16% of all respondents own a professionally monitoring security system.
Bottom Line: Our Top Pick – SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe stands out as our top alarm security provider overall because of their affordable house alarm systems and professional monitoring. SimpliSafe doesn’t hold customers in a contract, but gives them the freedom to decide between DIY and professional installation, as well as self or professional monitoring. SimpliSafe isn’t in the Dark Ages with its technology either — you’ll find a security camera, smart door lock, and video doorbell among the provider’s lineup. With packages starting around $230 and monitoring at $14.99 per month, renters and homeowners alike are more able to make SimpliSafe part of their home.
Home Security FAQs
How much does a home security system cost?
Home security equipment can cost as low as $99 to over $1,000 depending on the provider.
What should I look for when buying a home security system?
- Price – You can expect to pay for equipment and professional monitoring. Additional fees for installation and activation may apply.
- Contracts – The average contract length is three years, but there are many home security providers that have no-contract options.
- Monitoring Options – Choose between professional or self-monitoring for your system.
- Connectivity Options – Choose between a landline, broadband, or cellular monitoring connection.
- Equipment – Basics like a control panel or hub and sensors come with every security system. Additional equipment can include cameras, smoke detectors, and smart devices.
- Smart Home Integrations – Products like smart lights, locks, and more are generally offered. Integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and other technologies can be found as well.
- Mobile App Access – Get remote access and control by mobile app, allowing you to arm, disarm, and manage smart devices.
- Trial Period – Typically, providers give you 30 days to try out your new security system, but the trial period can vary.
What is do-it-yourself home security?
Do-it-yourself home security gives you the option to self-install and or self-monitor your alarm system, cutting out additional fees for installation and or alarm response.
When should I go with professional installation?
Choose professional installation when you’re not confident with properly installing your security system. A professional can ensure everything’s set up so you’re ready to go.
What is professional monitoring and do I need it?
Professional monitoring ensures that an agent is standing by ready to respond to your alarm. Typically, an agent will contact you if your alarm system is triggered and ask if the authorities or emergency services are needed.
How much does professional monitoring cost?
Professional monitoring can cost as low as $14.99 per month to around $60 per month depending on the provider.
Do all home security systems come with a security camera?
No, all home alarm systems do not come with a camera. You’ll usually pay more for a system that includes an indoor, outdoor, or video doorbell camera.
Should I purchase a home security system if I rent an apartment?
Yes, we recommend purchasing a security system even if you rent an apartment for added safety measures. There are a number of do-it-yourself options with affordable prices that you can choose from.
Will I be stuck in a long contract?
Signing a contract will depend on the provider. Most local and traditional providers require a contract for their services.
What makes home security systems smart?
If a home security system comes with a smart device or home automation capabilities, companies may deem that system as “smart.” This is because you’ll be able to set up custom automations or manage smart devices while using your control panel and mobile app.
Will I be able to control my home security system with a mobile app?
Most security alarm systems come with a mobile app, giving you the ability to arm, disarm, manage smart devices, and more by the touch of a finger.
Are permits required for home security systems?
The need for a permit will depend on the provider. Some local areas require permits to help reduce the number of false alarms and unnecessary emergency response.
How to choose the best home security system?
The best alarm system will fit your budget and also include the devices and features you need and want to help protect your home.
Who has the best home security system?
We chose SimpliSafe as our top pick for its easy-to-install and affordable home security systems. The other security systems we recommend are also great options that might work well depending on your home security needs. When choosing a home security system, always consider what you need first and then go with the provider that aligns with what you’re looking for and can afford.
What is the most affordable home security system?
The most affordable providers from our list are Cove and Ring. With Cove, you can choose additional equipment as you need it, allowing you to purchase a security system for less than $150 based on your selections. Ring’s least expensive security system costs around $199, and you can get professional monitoring for as low as $10 per month.
What was the best smart home security system?
For home automation combined with home security, we recommend Vivint or Nest. Vivint’s price tag is higher, but there’s a wider selection of smart home devices you can get with a Vivint security system. These include a lamp module, the Nest Learning Thermostat, a garage door controller and a Kwikset Smart Lock.
Like Vivint, with the Nest Secure System you can also use multiple home automation products like the Nest x Yale Smart Lock, Nest Hub, Google Home and much more.
What is the best home security system without a monthly fee?
If you’re looking to avoid a monthly fee, SimpliSafe is our top pick. We also recommend Abode, Nest and Ring as additional self-monitoring options.
Which is better, wired or wireless security cameras?
The best security camera for your home will depend on your home. If you’re renting, we recommend choosing a wireless or completely wire-free security camera that runs on battery power or has a power cable. Additionally, choose a camera that doesn’t require any drilling for installation.
If you’re a homeowner, we still recommend a wireless or wire-free camera, but if you need multiple cameras, a wired option would be better. Wired security cameras are better for larger homes and facilities since they run on wired power, like a Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection.
Are wireless security cameras worth it?
Yes. Even if you can’t afford a full home security system, we still recommend adding a wireless security camera to your home. It will allow you to monitor the interior or exterior of your home and receive notifications.
