With competitive professional monitoring rates and no upfront equipment cost, Protect America wins this category. Professional installation starts at $19.99/mo. and could vary based on your package. On the other hand, Brinks requires no contract for its Nest plan, and its professional monitoring starts at $29.99/mo.. Professional monitoring starts at $19.99/mo., and a 36-month contract is required. Most Brinks equipment starts at $399 and could call for a $199 upfront.

Brinks’ basic Nest security system is available without a contract. However, if you choose any other plan outside of the Nest option, you will need to sign a 36-month contract. Protect America, on the other hand, requires a 36-month service agreement for all packages. Brinks’ flexibility gives it the edge in this category.

Both mobile apps offer similar features, such as instant alerts if your security system has been triggered. You can also connect and control smart home devices, lock and unlock your smart lock, control home automation devices, and view live security camera footage. Either company is a great choice for mobile app functionality.

With its basic package, Brinks offers cellular backup, smartphone control, motion detection and door/window sensors. Home automation and video recording are available at an additional charge. Protect America provides a standard control panel, one motion sensor, and three window/door sensors with its basic package. Extra security and home equipment can be added to the package at an additional charge. Brinks requires $199 upfront for equipment, but Protect America does not require an upfront payment, making it the winner of this category. 

Brinks offers its clients a two-year warranty on all devices. Protect America provides better warranties and guarantees with a free lifetime warranty on equipment and a Price Match Guarantee.

Brinks wins out in this category due to its flexibility. Brinks offers both DIY and professional installation while Protect America requires that customers install the system themselves.