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Explore and compare our top picks for the best home security systems on the market
Most trusted
Professional install
Theft protection guarantee
Best smart home automation
Professional install
Financing options
Best smart home automation
Professional install
Financing options
Most trusted
Professional install
Theft protection guarantee
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*Requires 36-month monitoring contract. Early termination and installation fees apply. New customers only. Full Terms.
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 peace of mind that comes with a home security installation with a monitored system 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.
| Rating | Starting price | Monitoring price | Installation type | Contract length | Read review | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.5/5 stars | $500+ | $29.99+/mo | Professional | Not required | Read review | View packages |
| 4.2/5 stars | Varies | $45.99+/mo | Professional | 36 months | Read Review | View packages |
 | 4/5 stars | $99+ | $1.64+/day | DIY | Not required | Read review | View packages |
 | 4/5 stars | $244.96+ | $24.99+/mo | Professional/DIY | Not required | Read review | View packages |
 | 3/5 stars | $199+ | Optional self-monitoring | DIY | Not required | Read review | View packages |
ADT does offer service starting at $28.99/mo for those not looking for cameras or home automation. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please verify pricing with your provider prior to purchase.
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. View packages.
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. View packages.
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 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.
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.
There are many different home security systems on the market, and the “best” depends on your needs. When choosing the best home security system for you, compare and contrast the most popular systems to make an informed decision.
First, consider whether you want a professionally installed system like ADT and Vivint or a DIY-friendly solution like Frontpoint and Ring. Professionally installed systems are best for those living in their forever homes who want their equipment installed by experts. DIY systems are best for those looking for a flexible and custom security solution.
Then, consider the cost. Most home security companies offer system bundles that range in price depending on the type and amount of security products you choose. Some companies like Frontpoint, Ring, and SimpliSafe offer build-your-own packages for complete customization. Additional costs associated with home security are monthly monitoring plans and professional installation. Read our in-depth guide to discover the best home security systems we recommend depending on your needs.
The cost of a home security system depends on various factors, including the system you choose, the equipment you need, monthly monitoring plans, professional installation fees, and more. Budget-friendly systems, like Ring, can start as low as $199 with no installation fees or required subscription plans. Other systems that require professional installation and monthly monitoring start around $500 for equipment and between $25 and $45 per month for monitoring. You can expect to pay upwards of $1,000 for robust systems with high-tech features and smart home integration abilities.
Many home security companies offer customizable systems that range in price depending on the products you choose. Other companies, like Ring, offer individually-sold security products if you don’t want or need an entire system. Lastly, many companies offer payment plans tied to 36 to 60 month-long contracts, enabling you to pay off your security equipment monthly rather than in full. ADT, Vivint, and Frontpoint offer some of the best financing options.
The good news is that there are home security systems available for various budgets, depending on your needs.
When it comes to installing security cameras in your home, the two primary installation options are professional installation and do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. With professional installation, the company you purchase a camera from sends a technician to your home to install the product. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing your security system was installed correctly and all pieces will function together properly. Security companies like ADT and Vivint require professional installation for all their security products.
If you choose a security camera from a DIY-friendly company like Frontpoint, SimpliSafe, or Ring, you can install the security camera in your own home yourself following step-by-step instructions. In some cases, DIY home security companies offer professional installation for a fee, although it is not required.
Other home security companies like Brinks offer both DIY-friendly systems and products that require professional installation, so you can choose the option that works best for you
The best home security system without a monthly fee is Ring. Ring products include specific features such as instant alerts, live view, two-way talk, and smart integrations with Amazon Alexa, Smart Locks, and other compatible devices without a paid subscription.
Another benefit of using a Ring home security system is the option to try monthly monitoring for free for 30 days to decide if it’s worth the cost. Ring’s protect plans are significantly less expensive than other home security companies. You can use Ring’s basic subscription plan that includes video recording for one device for $3 per month. Even Ring’s most comprehensive protection plan, Ring Protect Pro, costs just $20 per month. For reference, ADT’s monthly monitoring plans range from $27.99 to $62.99 per month, and Frontpoint’s single plan costs $49.99 per month. Lastly, Ring offers no-contract options, meaning you’re never stuck with a monthly plan you don’t want or need.
Although Ring is the best home security system without a monthly fee, we don’t recommend it to everyone. “Monthly fees” in home security typically refer to monthly monitoring fees, which ultimately make your security system worth the cost. A monthly plan is worth it to get the most out of your security products and protect your home, family, and valuables in more ways than one. What each plan includes depends on the company. However, most offer 24/7 professional monitoring, emergency alerts and notifications, smart integrations, remote system controls via a mobile app, and video surveillance and recording. Fortunately, there are security systems with affordable monthly monitoring plans. We recommend SimpliSafe for those who want a DIY security system with an inexpensive monthly plan and Vivint for those who want a professionally-installed system with professional monitoring.
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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.
