A home security system helps customers defend their possessions, investments, and families. The best home security systems put more power in the hands of the purchaser—quite literally, since many can operate and monitor the property via a central mobile application on a smartphone or tablet. Residents can even use their voices to control some home security products, since many of them offer compatibility with smart home assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. Some systems don’t even need to be installed by a professional, though others offer a choice between professional and DIY installation. The price of home security has become more affordable in recent years, as new competitors continue to enter the market and more advanced technologies become available at cheaper costs. There is more choice than ever before when it comes to home security systems.
When most people buy a home security system today, they expect it to have an array of available equipment like doorbell cameras, indoor and outdoor security cameras, motion sensors, smart detectors, and smart alarms. Choosing the right one doesn’t just boil down to the technology, but also the company behind it. Reliable home security brands will offer better-quality products, better applications, better security features, and better monitoring services. Ultimately, investing in the right home security system for your needs is worth the cost. We looked at a number of top home security companies to find the best options available.
- BEST OVERALL: Vivint
- FULL-SERVICE MONITORING: ADT
- BEST DIY SYSTEM: SimpliSafe
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Ring
- ALSO CONSIDER: Frontpoint
What to Consider When Choosing One the Best Home Security System Companies
When shopping for a security system for home use, it’s a good idea for residents to look at the cost of the home security system, the installation process, the equipment they’re getting for the price, the cost of monitoring or subscription fees, and any additional factors like warranties and cancellation fees. Each of these factors is examined in detail below.
Pricing and Fees
Most home security systems include a base cost for the equipment (and some have a fee for professional installation), as well as a monthly cost for monitoring or subscription fees. Customers will want to evaluate exactly what equipment they’re getting for this base cost to determine whether they’re getting everything they need or whether they will need to add extra equipment and pay a higher price for a more advanced package. Some customers are tempted to opt for cheap home security systems or packages with fewer features to save on cost. But paying for an ineffective system that does not have the customer’s desired features will not deliver the results the customer is looking for from their home security system. Similarly, paying for unneeded equipment can mean the customer is paying more than they need to for their home security system.
The same applies to the cost of monitoring and subscription services. Customers will want to look at what each company offers for its monthly cost, and make sure they’re getting what they want and need. Customers can consider factors like smart-home integration, video recording, monitoring, and product support, and carefully examine the details to see exactly what they’re getting for their money.
Installation and Equipment
Some home security systems can be installed by the customer using a few basic tools, while others may require professional installation. Even with systems that can be a DIY install, some homeowners prefer having an experienced professional on site to decide the best placement for security cameras or show them how the system operates. Companies like SimpliSafe and Frontpoint are ideal for those who want to install their own equipment, while brands like ADT and Vivint are a good choice for someone who doesn’t mind paying the price for professional security camera installation. Many home security companies offer customers a choice of DIY and professional installation so they can choose the option that works best for them.
Additionally, it’s unwise for customers to eliminate options with higher up-front costs in an effort to save because they might end up skimping on their system in the process. For instance, if someone chooses to pay the minimum for their base equipment costs, it might appear that they’re getting a great deal at the time, but they might only get a few products for that minimum cost. Customers will want to make sure they’re getting enough window and door sensors, cameras, and smoke/CO detectors to fully protect their home. Residents of a large two-story home will likely need more equipment than someone with a small ranch house. Lastly, customers will want to make sure they’re getting the type of cameras they want (wired vs. wireless) and that their equipment is compatible with their preferred voice assistant (be it Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri).
Monitoring
Systems with professional monitoring typically have monthly fees, whereas those that are self-monitored usually don’t have fees. However, professional monitoring also comes with certain benefits for home security systems with cameras that customers with self-monitored systems won’t get.
A home security camera system is made much more effective with the addition of monitoring. With professional monitoring, the customer has a team of experts available all day, every day to assist in the event of an emergency. With self-monitoring, the customer will need to take action (calling 911, etc.) if an emergency occurs. Professional monitoring is typically more expensive than DIY monitoring, and the customer can’t guarantee the monitoring service will contact the authorities in as timely a manner as they’d like. But generally speaking, professional monitoring promotes added safety and a sense of security, which makes the home security system more effective, as well as giving customers greater peace of mind.
Self-monitoring may be a realistic option for customers who live in a relatively safe area, whose home doesn’t have a lot of access points, and who feel comfortable with self-monitoring. In this case, the customer can save money each month by skipping professional monitoring. Plus, with more and more user services hitting the scene like Alexa Guard Plus, some people might not feel they need professional monitoring anyway. For a cost of $4.99 per month or $49 per year, Alexa Guard Plus gives customers access to an emergency helpline while also sending them alerts in response to broken glass sounds, smoke or CO detector sounds, or other dangerous activity sounds. It can also help deter intruders by making siren or barking dog noises, as well as turning smart lights on and off to make it look like someone is home. Customers will want to keep in mind that Alexa Guard Plus is not a pro monitoring service, but rather only a helpline and a few additional Alexa features that help promote added security.
Packages and Plans
Most home security brands offer a variety of solutions at different price tiers. This way, they can offer options for customers who have an 800-square-foot loft as well as customers who have a 4,000-square-foot home. Customers will find that the number of equipment packages will depend on the home security company, with some just offering two or three and others offering six or seven.
Several brands also offer products on an a la carte basis, so customers can buy a base package and then add on a few sensors or cameras without having to move up to the next package tier. This allows users to customize their system exactly the way they like it. Even with preset equipment packages, customers may be able to add extra equipment for an additional cost if their chosen package is missing an important component. Some companies may offer discounts on additional equipment for customers with professional monitoring plans.
Trial Period
Some companies offer their monthly subscription or monitoring services for free for a limited amount of time—customers might see a free trial for the first 3 days, 7 days, 30 days, or even 90 days or longer. But then, after that time frame, the customer will have to pay for that service or lose it, and they might not be happy with their home security system without the extra benefits that come along with the monthly subscription or monitoring service. For customers who are financing the equipment, the monthly charge might not even be optional.
This is why it’s important for customers to carefully read their contract (if they have one), paying attention to the fine print, and consider what they’re paying over the short term versus the long term. Customers will want to consider the costs they may incur after the trial period, and decide whether that cost is something they can afford long term.
Warranty
No technology product lasts forever, but as there are more and more new home security products hitting the market, it’s natural for customers to want to know how long that specific product might last in comparison to other competing models.
When a brand includes a lengthy warranty, this is a good sign that the company is confident in what it’s selling. With security systems for home use, there is a wide range in the warranty time period between companies. Some brands offer 90 days, while others offer 3 years or longer.
The details of a warranty matter, too. Is the warranty only on manufacturing defects pertaining to equipment, or does the warranty cover all the equipment and the installation as well? These details are just as important as the warranty time frame, so customers will want to ask the company for more details about its warranty if the info isn’t clearly advertised.
Our Top Picks
When considering our picks for best home security systems, we looked for companies that offered a wide range of price options for multiple budgets, different equipment options for varying needs, and warranties to help give customers peace of mind.
Photo: vivint.com
Why It Made the Cut: A flexible system with a built-in Z-Wave receiver, easy smart-home integration, and professional monitoring, Vivint is ideal for those who want smart-home features and advanced home security but also prefer professional installation over DIY installation.
To purchase a security system from Vivint, customers must call and speak to a representative to receive a customized plan and quote. At a minimum, plans will include 24/7 monitoring, intrusion detection, a touch-screen control panel, and access through the mobile app. Add-ons include video security, theft deterrent, voice control, stored video clips, smart-home automation, vehicle protection, and more. Depending on how many features customers opt for, the cost can quickly add up, so Vivint’s pricing may be out of reach for some homeowners.
The Vivint website does not list any prices for plans or equipment, though authorized seller sites list the starting monthly cost at $29.99 and the base equipment price as $599 for a Vivint system. To help offset the relatively high cost, Vivint offers financing options for those who don’t want to or are unable to pay for the equipment up front. The customized plans also mean that customers won’t pay for features they don’t need, and they may be able to negotiate prices with their sales representative.
Customers who choose to go with a Vivint home security system will have a monitoring team on standby waiting to assist them in the event of an emergency. The main panel serves as a hub, making sure all the devices work together and notifying monitoring services when someone or something triggers an alarm.
Vivint is a seamless, whole-home solution that’s easy to use, and the technology does a lot of the work for the customer. The system uses Z-Wave technology to enable security and automation devices to work together seamlessly. Vivint’s best home security camera is the 4K Outdoor Camera Pro—it uses Smart Deter technology, which keeps a lookout on certain areas the customer deems as important, and then sounds an alarm and illuminates the LED ring if someone hangs around that designated area for too long.
Specs
- Base cost: Varies by customer
- Minimum monthly cost: Unclear
- Installation: Professional
- Trial period: 3 days
- Warranty: Duration of the service agreement
Pros
- Smart Deter technology uses light and sound to keep potential threats away
- Wide array of components including thermostat, garage door opener, and smart locks
- Equipment is sleek and high-end
Cons
- No transparent pricing information on website
- No self-monitoring option
Photo: adt.com
Why It Made the Cut: Known in the business for years as one of the bigger names in home security, ADT continues to hold its own by keeping up with the latest smart-home tech and continuing to release new home security product offerings.
What is ADT? The company was founded in 1874, and has continued to keep its finger on the pulse of the latest technologies ever since. With some of the best tech and monitoring in the industry, ADT earns a spot as one of the best home security systems currently available. A wide variety of available security packages means there’s a package for almost anyone, regardless of their requirements.
Customers who opt for an ADT security system will sign a monitoring contract for 36 months. Those who choose to finance their system will sign a 60-month contract instead. If a customer wants to end their contract early, they could end up paying as much as 75 percent of their regular monthly fees for early cancellation.
ADT has a total of three apps to help customers control their security systems, pay their bills, and stay safe while out of the home. Customers will need to choose the Smart or Video monitoring plan to get access to the ADT Control app, which allows users to control their smart home and home security devices from anywhere using just a smartphone or tablet.
Customers who choose to go with a regular ADT system will pay a monthly cost of somewhere between $45.99 and $59.99 for monitoring (depending on the package chosen), along with a possible installation cost and the cost of their equipment. There are options for panic buttons, flood sensors, carbon monoxide detectors, and cameras, in addition to the traditional motion sensors and keypads. Customers will find that they can get a comprehensive home security solution from ADT regardless of their needs. And if they’re not satisfied with the service, they can change their mind within the first 6 months and get their money back.
Specs
- Base cost: $599
- Minimum monthly cost: $45.99
- Installation: Professional
- Trial period: 6 months
- Warranty: 90 days
Pros
- Established name in home security with a large monitoring network
- 6-month trial period with money-back guarantee if homeowner is not satisfied
- Wide variety of security packages available
Cons
- 3-year contract required
- Inconsistent pricing information on website
Photo: simplisafe.com
Why It Made the Cut: An affordable option with various service levels to fit different household needs, SimpliSafe is our pick for best DIY home security system.
SimpliSafe hit the scene back in 2009, and it has since become one of the best-known names in DIY home security solutions. It made the BobVila.com list of the best wireless home security systems because of the myriad wireless products the company offers, like cameras and sensors. Other benefits to SimpliSafe include its lengthy warranties and affordable base packages.
How does SimpliSafe work? Customers can choose from seven preset equipment packages (or build their own package) and pair it with either professional or DIY monitoring. Some of SimpliSafe’s starter packages don’t provide much variety in the way of equipment. The most basic four-piece DIY kit retails for around $122.48 with current discounts, and it includes a base station, keypad, entry sensor, and motion sensor, making it one of the best apartment security systems and ideal for smaller homes. But customers can choose between other kits that include extra home security products like water sensors, smoke detectors, and panic buttons. They can also add on other products like cameras, video doorbells, and smart locks.
One of the best aspects of a SimpliSafe home security system is that it offers the best of both worlds—customers can do a DIY install, but they can also take advantage of professional monitoring services (and they can also opt for professional installation if they prefer). SimpliSafe’s monthly cost is around $18 ($0.60 per day) for standard monitoring. It includes 24/7 police, fire, and medical monitoring and dispatch, so customers can get authorities to their home quickly in the event of an emergency. It also comes with up to a 1-year warranty and HD live view on all cameras. Customers can also choose the interactive monitoring service for approximately $27.99 ($0.93 per day), which comes with even more features like video verification, smart-home integration, arming reminders, and a lifetime equipment warranty. SimpliSafe has a self-monitoring plan that costs around $9.99 per month ($0.33 per day). This plan allows customers to remotely arm and disarm their home, download video recordings, and control their system from the mobile app.
Specs
- Base cost: $122.48
- Minimum monthly cost: $9.99
- Installation: DIY
- Trial period: 60 days
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Outdoor wireless cameras are easy to install
- Batteries last for up to a decade
- Wide range of add-on options
Cons
- Starter pack includes limited equipment
Photo: ring.com
Why It Made the Cut: With cutting-edge technologies and consistent new product releases, Ring has positioned itself as one of the best home security companies.
A Ring home security system gives customers quite a bit for its monthly service fee. As one of the best self-monitored home security systems, the cheapest subscription option (Basic) is only $3.99 per month (or $39.99 per year). This tier of subscription does not include professional monitoring, as it’s more appropriate for someone with a stand-alone Ring camera or video doorbell. While the Basic plan will only record one doorbell or camera, customers with multiple Ring home devices can opt for the Plus plan for $10 per month or $100 per year, which provides video recording for all Ring devices within the home.
The Ring Protect Pro service is $20 per month or $200 per year, and it’s the better option for anyone with a Ring alarm system. This option includes professional monitoring and Alexa Guard Plus in addition to features like 60-day video history and person alerts. All in, customers will pay less than they would pay with many other home security systems, but they can still save video recordings from their camera as well as get alerts to possible emergencies and deter intruders via the included Alexa Guard Plus service.
How does Ring work? With Ring, customers can pick and choose which products they want and don’t want. Customers can opt for a cheap starter kit for as little as $199, plus they can add on extra products like doorbells, cameras, floodlights, and smoke/carbon monoxide detectors (though the selection is relatively limited). Ring also runs sales on its security kits from time to time, so customers may be able to find an even cheaper price around certain holidays.
Customers can control their Ring devices through the Ring – Always Home app, as well as communicate with visitors through video doorbells or cameras. Ring offers an additional app called Neighbors by Ring, which allows the user to connect with other Ring users in their neighborhood to communicate safety alerts and other information about suspicious activity neighbors have reported in their neighborhood.
Specs
- Base cost: $199.99
- Minimum monthly cost: $3.99
- Installation: DIY
- Trial period: 30 days
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Monthly cost is relatively affordable
- Neighbors by Ring app provides local crime and security updates
- Motion sensing and night vision capabilities on select cameras
Cons
- Limited number of devices available
Photo: frontpointsecurity.com
Why It Made the Cut: Frontpoint offers a system that customers can install themselves, along with 24/7 professional monitoring from a team of trained experts.
Frontpoint’s name isn’t as recognizable as some of the other names on this list like ADT or Ring, but the brand has set itself up to be a major competitor in the home security space. Frontpoint doesn’t require a long-term contract, but it only offers professional monitoring as a full-service home security solution (no self-monitoring). Frontpoint charges a base cost of $49.99 per month for its monitoring service, which includes 24/7 support, fast response times, an emphasis on privacy and security, and a number of other perks like alerts, sensor history, and video history.
While Frontpoint has a relatively limited wireless equipment selection compared to others in the industry, it does offer a variety of different equipment solutions for different levels of security needs—and customers have the option of building their own packages if the preselected ones don’t suit their needs. Frontpoint is also compatible with security devices from other companies, so users with their own security equipment can still opt for Frontpoint’s services. Finally, Frontpoint performs hourly automatic system checks, which ensures that customers’ devices don’t die or get disconnected for extended periods.
Specs
- Base cost: $99
- Minimum monthly cost: $49.99
- Installation: DIY
- Trial period: 30 days
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Compatible with security devices from other companies
- Wide selection of preselected packages or build-your-own options
- Hourly automatic system checks
Cons
- Monthly cost may be higher than other DIY options
- Limited wireless equipment selection
Our Verdict
Vivint offers an array of alarm, camera, and sensor products to protect the home as well as 24/7 home monitoring to assist in the event of an emergency. ADT is also a household name, and ADT home security systems are a great option for those who want full-service monitoring. For a more affordable option, customers can look at Ring. This device can be DIY installed, and customers can take advantage of services like Alexa Guard Plus and professional monitoring when they go with the Pro Plan (which is still cheaper than many other home security monthly plans).
How We Chose the Best Home Security Systems
When determining the best security systems for homes, we looked at several factors, but we placed the most weight on each potential candidate’s product releases and the brand’s ability to keep on-pace with recent technology. We also looked at the variety of available products, the setup and monthly costs, the value for money, the ease of sign-up and installation, the warranty, the contract options available to customers, and the brand’s security features.
Choosing the best home security systems requires a balance—finding which system offers the best performance for each individual situation without that system being overpriced or lacking in other key areas like security, installation options, or customer service.
Before You Buy One of the Best Home Security Systems
A home security system serves as protection from intruders, so it’s essential that customers get everything they want and need in a home security system. Sure, it is possible to purchase stand-alone products like video doorbells or outdoor cameras, but those products better serve to help customers catch the perpetrator after the fact rather than to prevent the intrusion from happening in the first place.
A good home security system serves as a deterrent, with yard signs that serve as a warning, sensors that alert customers to motion and breaking glass, and monitoring services that can help get the police or fire department to the home as soon as possible in the event of an emergency. It’s recommended that customers pair their home security system with other home security tips, such as always locking doors and windows, keeping spare keys in a lock box rather than under a plant pot or door mat, keeping the home’s exterior well-lit, and keeping valuables in a well-hidden fireproof safe inside the home.
Cost of Buying One of the Best Home Security Systems
While some will prefer the ease of use associated with a system like Vivint, others will prefer the added flexibility, DIY installation, and affordability they can get with a brand like Ring or SimpliSafe. Weighing these benefits and costs is the key to finding the best home security system for each individual customer. On average, a home security system costs $687 per year, but that is heavily dependent on a number of factors such as monitoring, installation fees, number of equipment pieces, and others. The costs could easily be lower or higher than the average depending on the specific home security setup. Customers could pay as little as $284 per year or as much as $1,089 per year for the average home security system.
The Advantages of Using One of the Best Home Security Systems
A home security systems is both a preventive mechanism and an investigative tool. Yard signs let intruders know that the homeowner or renter has a security system, the presence of home alarms may also help deter a possible intruder, and smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors can help prevent devastating events resulting from fires or leaking CO gas.
In the event that an intruder enters the home, cameras can catch them on video, alarms will sound and help get attention to the scene, and there might be a panic button handy to help the customer get emergency services to their home. As more and more homes and businesses have video surveillance cameras, it becomes harder for people to get away with committing crimes as camera footage can be used to identify perpetrators.
Choosing one of the best home security systems is an investment in the customer’s home, their peace of mind, their mental health, and their physical safety. When a homeowner or renter has an alarm system, especially a reliable system, it provides a sense of comfort and makes them feel safer overall.
- Home security systems can deter home intruders.
- Home security systems can make customers feel safer and their homes more secure.
- The cost of a home security system has decreased, while the available features and technology has increased.
FAQs
Customers who are still going back and forth between two or more options may find it encouraging to know that many people see benefits in more than one home security company. In most cases, customers will be OK if they go with any trusted home security brand. They might not get the perfect system that fits all of their specific needs, but most people will be happy provided they go with a reputable company.
Before choosing the best home security system for them, homeowners and renters can consider the following frequently asked questions.
Q: What equipment typically comes with a home security system?
Most home security starter systems come with a keypad, motion sensors, and a hub at minimum. Some systems may include additional products like key fobs, panic buttons, indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, smoke detectors, CO detectors, or broken glass sensors. Some of the best home security system companies also offer home automation equipment so customers can conveniently manage their home security and smart devices from one app.
Q: How do I protect my home while on vacation?
It’s advised for homeowners and renters to avoid posting their absence on social media, as this lets potential intruders know their house will be empty for a certain time period. Also, residents can program their smart lights to periodically turn on and off while they’re gone, so it looks like someone is home. Residents will want to set their alarm system and place cameras at entrance points to catch any potential intruders. Finally, it’s advised that residents let their neighbors know that they will be gone so they can have extra eyes on their home while they are out of town (and pick up their mail so it doesn’t pile up and clue in intruders to the resident’s absence).
Q: How do I protect my home security system from hacking?
Taking advantage of security features like two-factor authentication can make a big difference. Additionally, it’s wise for customers to make sure they’re changing their password regularly, using strong passwords, using guest networks (instead of allowing guests on their regular network), and taking advantage of a password vault application.
Q: What is the difference between professional monitoring and self-monitoring?
With self-monitoring, customers can contact the authorities if they see something suspicious or dangerous happening. Customers with professional monitoring will have their provider contact the authorities if their alarm goes off (provided it’s not a false alarm). There are benefits and drawbacks to both monitoring options, and customers will want to take into account their personal preferences and budget before deciding on the best monitoring option for them.
Q: Does a home security system lead to a discount on homeowners insurance?
Yes. Homeowners can potentially get a discount on their insurance premium of as much as 20 percent with a home security system. However, homeowners rarely receive that large of a discount, and the typical home insurance discount for security system installation is usually in the range of 2 percent to 15 percent. To find out exactly how much they could save on their homeowners insurance premiums, homeowners are encouraged to reach out to a representative from their insurance provider.
