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Explore and compare our top picks for the best home security systems on the market
Most trusted
Professional install
Best professional monitoring
Best smart home automation
Professional install
Theft-deterrent technology
Best smart home automation
Professional install
Theft-deterrent technology
Best smart home automation
Professional install
Theft deterrent technology
Most trusted
Professional install
Best professional monitoring
Most user-friendly
DIY/Professional install
Personalized device placement
The best home security system is the one that makes you feel safe and includes all the smart home security features you need without breaking the bank.
To some, the convenience that comes with a home security installation is the most important factor when choosing their home security whereas others favor the flexibility of DIY systems or the specific features available in some systems. The best choice for you depends on your home, preferred features, and budget.
Because we believe that professional monitoring brings unparalleled peace of mind and success, all of our top recommended systems come with professional monitoring.
Slide to compare home security systems
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| View packages | View packages | View packages | View packages | |
| Rating |  |  |  | |
| Starting Price | Varies | $540+ | $599+ | $360+ |
| Monitoring Price | $26.99+/mo | $24.99/mo | $29.99+/mo | $39.99/mo |
| Installation Type | Professional | DIY | Professional | Professional/DIY |
| Contract Length | 36 months | Not required | Month-to-month | 36 months |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read review | Read review | Read review |
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Verified
*Requires 36-month monitoring contract. Early termination and installation fees apply. New customers only. Full Terms.
Best Reputation ADT 
Best DIY System Frontpoint
Best Innovative Equipment Vivint
Easiest to Use Brinks
Best Reputation
Best DIY System
Best Innovative Equipment
Easiest to Use
ADT 
Frontpoint
Vivint
Brinks
When buying a home security system, we know that your top priority is going to be the safety that it brings to your home. But there are other benefits and factors to consider when looking for the best home security system for you.
Some families look for the convenience that comes with smart home integration while others look for the flexibility of DIY systems and others still just want the most cost-effective option.
Explore from the list of qualities below to find our recommendation based on what matters most to you.
Runner Up: Vivint
Runner Up: Vivint
Runner Up: Vivint
Runner Up: Vivint
Runner Up: Brinks
Runner Up: ADT
Runner Up: ADT
Runner Up: Frontpoint
Runner Up: ADT
With Vivint security, you can customize the system you need with guidance from home security professionals. Professional home security installation is included in the cost of most Vivint systems, and they offer budget-friendly options for financing the smart home security system of your dreams.
Professionally designed and installed systems – tailored to your home
Theft deterrent technology to stop crime before it happens
Fully integrated smart home system with mobile app and voice control
The Vivint Smart Hub, which is included in every Vivint package, makes it easy to control all your devices from one place at home, and you can control all your smart devices remotely via the Vivint app. Vivint smart home features are intuitive and easy for every customer to use. Plus, all Vivint systems are professionally installed, so you know your smart home products will work correctly.
As the most well-known name in home security, ADT security prides itself on providing top-tier, professionally installed home security systems with professional monitoring plans that give their customers ultimate peace of mind.
24/7 professional monitoring with Theft Protection Guarantee
Proprietary smart home products with Google Nest integration
Professional installation with service and repairs included
ADT has over 140 years of experience keeping homes safe. ADT’s industry-leading professional monitoring is backed by 9 monitoring centers and thousands of employees ready to help. ADT also stands by its products with its industry-best guarantees: 6-month money-back guarantee and Theft Protection good for up to $500 towards your deductible in case of break-in. View packages.
Frontpoint security offers starter packages and build-your-own system options so you can customize your system based on your home’s needs. Frontpoint is a premium DIY security system with 24/7 professional monitoring. Frontpoint boasts they offer “advanced technology that’s easy to use,” and we have to agree.
Complete, DIY home security with Identity Protect included
State-of-the-art tech that adapts to your schedule
Smart locks, lights, plugs, and thermostat with Alexa integration
Frontpoint offers the flexibility of a DIY system with all the benefits of professional monitoring. With their build-your-own package, you can customize your system with high-end security products, choosing from dozens of cameras, sensors, and smart home accessories. Then, it’s easy to install your system and get plugged into their 24/7 professional monitoring so your home is always secure.
As a trusted name in home security, Brinks aims to make protecting your home, property, and valuables simple. They pride themselves on being able to customize your home security system to fit your lifestyle. You can select your Brinks home security system online or over the phone and choose between DIY or professional installation.
DIY or professional installation options for your security system
System arming and disarming functions using the Brinks security mobile app
Personalized device placements, mobile alerts, and system addition
Brinks offers many features that make it user-friendly. First off, Brinks home security systems can be installed professionally or on your own with the help of their excellent customer support team. Your system will be designed with your lifestyle in mind, and you can easily manage and control your Brinks system through the home hub, voice control, or on the go with the mobile app.
SimpliSafe is an award-winning DIY home security systems that offers 24/7 professional monitoring plans. You also have the option for self-monitoring with camera recording. With SimpliSafe, it’s easy to install your customized system, and it’s easy to control your system once it’s up and running with the option to arm/disarm from the SimpliSafe app.
No-contract, award-winning wireless security solutions
Build-your-own options to create a fully customized system
Alexa, Google Home, and third-party smart home integrations
As its name implies, Simplisafe makes home security simple. They offer complete home security packages that are easy to install and include all of the essentials for whole-home protection, without a ton of bells and whistles. If you want an affordable but complete DIY system and don’t mind foregoing more sophisticated smart home features, Simplisafe will be a good option for you.
Ring is a DIY home security solution in the truest sense, offering both Do-It-Yourself home security installation and monitoring. It’s the most flexible home security system we review for a few reasons. First, all monitoring plans are optional, so you won’t have a monthly monitoring fee or be locked into a contract. Second, all products are individually priced and purchased, so you don’t need to purchase a base system to get started.
DIY, no-contract home security with optional professional or self-monitoring
Individually priced video doorbells, cameras, sensors, and more
Alexa voice control and third-party smart home solutions
Since all Ring products are individually priced and sold, you can customize your system to only include products that are in your budget. Additionally, all Ring monitoring plans are optional for a low monthly fee. You can even try out self-monitoring for free for 30 days before deciding if you need monthly monitoring. And if you move, you can take your system with you without paying fees (and add to it if you move into a bigger place).
Home security systems provide peace of mind by protecting your home, property, family, and valuable possessions against intruders and environmental harm. In 2019, the FBI reported over 1.1 million burglaries resulting in $3.0 billion in property loss.
Home security systems keep you from becoming a number in these staggering statistics by capturing potential burglars on camera and alerting you and emergency personnel when an intruder does attempt a break-in.
With so many kinds of home security systems available, it’s time to consider which option is right for you. You can choose a DIY or professional installation system depending on the size of your home and the amount and type of protection you want.
A DIY security system typically consists of a doorbell camera, which you can install yourself to monitor who is at your door. Alternatively, a professional home security system may include features such as a control panel to monitor interior and exterior cameras, window sensors, doorbell cameras, and more. Burglars aren’t always so kind as to attempt their entrance at your front door. With a professional system, you have 360-degree protection. However, it’s important to note that these types of systems generally require a professional to install.
You can also choose a wired or wireless home security system. Both systems rely on sensors installed in various places throughout your home, which typically includes all windows, doors, and other highly trafficked areas. The difference is in the home security installation process, reliability, and functionality.
Wired systems
Wired systems require a more invasive installation process, such as drilling holes in your walls because they use a hardwired connection to power and transmit signals. Because they are hardwired, they are typically reliable systems and are unlikely to run out of power. They also tend to be more cost-effective than wireless systems.
Wireless systems
On the other hand, wireless systems have a less invasive installation process because they are battery-powered and use radio waves to connect and monitor your devices. Wireless home security systems tend to cost more, but they generally offer additional features, such as the ability to remotely arm and disarm your security system, monitor your cameras from your smartphone, and connect to other “smart” devices in your home. Whether you choose a wired or wireless home security system, proper installation is essential for optimal protection.
We’ve heard it all before, and we’re happy to answer your questions. Find answers to our top most-asked questions below.
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Our rankings are determined by a review of the brand’s feature offerings, product performance, customer service, and overall value. We have reached these rankings by evaluating what the brand offers, past and current customer reviews, and how the brand compares to similar systems. Read more.
Customer may receive reimbursement of up to five hundred dollars ($500) of Customer’s homeowner’s insurance deductible (if any) if, and only if, ALL requirements for Theft Protection Guarantee are met to ADT’s reasonable satisfaction. Customer must request reimbursement within 60 days of property loss. Request must be mailed to ADT and include: Theft Protection Guarantee certificate signed by Customer, a letter from Customer requesting reimbursement, a copy of the police report, and a copy of the accepted insurance claim. ADT reserves the right to reject any application for reimbursement that does not comply with all of the requirements.
Money-back guarantee only applies after ADT has made attempts to resolve a system-related issue and has not been able to resolve that issue within the first six (6) months of your contract. Equipment must be fully removed before a refund will be processed. Conditions preventing normal system operation cannot be caused by the customer.
