Looking for a great home security system? Home security systems differ quite a bit in terms of what’s offered. Some old school systems like ADT might require contracts, professional installation, and offer both the hardware and customer support, while others allow you to install the system and connect to existing smart home security devices for do-it-yourself home monitoring.
Prices for home security systems depend on a combination of what type of system you’re looking for as well as any installation fees. Some companies might have monthly membership or cloud access fees, while others may not. We’ll talk a little bit about pricing for each item on this list, but for an accurate look at cost, it’s best to visit the website and request a personalized quote. Get ready to feel more secure with these home security systems, listed in no particular order.
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe is a home security hub that comes with alarm monitoring, sirens, and a number of sensors to detect movement, flooding, fires, and many other natural disasters. The “simpli” part of the system? There’s really only one device, plus a security code keypad you can use. You can also buy an additional smart cam, but the system is based on that sensor-loaded hub. This makes installation as easy as picking a table to put it on, and keeps associated costs down, making this an ideal option for people who want to save money.
SimpliSafe is not the first provider to offer this one-hub-that-does-everything model, but they are one of the few to offer an alarming monitoring service along with it. If you want to protect an apartment or smaller home, look into this option.
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Ring Alarm
Ring Alarm doesn’t disappoint. A starter kit comes with a hub, keypad, motion detector, and contact sensor. You can easily add more sensors to track movement (such as windows opening), or one of Ring’s doorbells or outdoor security cameras for more comprehensive security. You aren’t breaking the bank either (you will pay a small monthly fee for professional monitoring, though). Ring also offers products such as the Alarm Flood & Freeze Sensor, Alarm Smoke and CO Listener, and Dome Siren.
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Vivint
Vivint offers the latest smart devices for creating a home security system — and its fully compatible with Google. You can pick from a number of thermostats, cameras, doorbells, sensors, and smart locks, or bundle multiple devices to get exactly the setup you want, which is ideal if your house is a little short on smart devices. You’ll want to have the Vivint system professionally installed, so this option is great for people who are wary of doing it themselves.
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Nest Secure
Are you a devoted DIY enthusiast? Are you okay with skipping the monitoring services for a system that you don’t have to pay for every month? Nest has one of the best solutions on the market for those who are already comfortable with managing their own smart homes.
Nest Secure provides a hub with a motion sensor and a satellite Detect sensor for guarding windows, doors, and other areas. There’s also a separate Tag device that lets people or pets pass by the sensors without setting them off. Buy as many sensors as you need, add some Nest cameras, and put together your own system. But keep in mind the initial costs for buying Nest devices can be high.
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Abode
Abode has one of the easiest (and most beautiful) starter kits we’ve seen in a home security system. The kit includes a hub device, door sensor, motion sensor, and key fob for easier entry. Set up these wireless devices where you need them, download the app to monitor for alerts, and add more Abode devices like cameras as needed. The monitoring services are also pleasantly versatile, with three-day, seven-day, and monthly options you can pick from to save money.
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ADT
ADT remains one of the most traditional home security brands on the market, but the company has updated its packages with a Pulse line of smart home devices. They’ve also partnered with other brands like Nest and Samsung SmartThings, so it’s easy to find what type of home security system you’re looking for. They’ve also been known to add in perks like free installations for low-tier packages, and freebies like a Nest Thermostat with the right video setups. However, reading the fine print is important: ADT monitoring has some of the most restrictive contracts in the business.
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Link Interactive
Link is a strong choice for those who want a traditional security system with professional monitoring, locks and detection devices, and packages that take care of the process for you. Link also features monitoring and controlling from an app. To this, Link features some advanced protection, like an electrical setup that keeps the system active if a burglar tries to disable it. Many traditional security brands have tried to update their offerings with smart home tech, and Link is one of the most successful.
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Scout
Scout has a far more flexible model than many other security brands. You can build your own system, including the components you want and the color and finish you want. Or, you can purchase a kit from somewhere like Amazon. The monitoring is month to month, so there are no long-term contracts, but it’ll cost you an additional $20 per month. The app is easy to use though, and it gives you quick alerts if alarms go off.
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Protect America
Protect America offers customizable plans that allow you to add all kinds of smart gadgets to your system, from door sensors to Amazon Echo devices. It all ships at once, and they install everything for you. Prices vary, but tend to big a bit on the low side, and rates are locked in. If the other, more traditional home security brands don’t do much for you, Protect America is worth a look.
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Honeywell Smart Home Security System
The Honeywell Smart Home Security System starter kit comes with the camera base station, two access sensors for windows and doors, and a remote-control key fob. The base station includes an HD camera, siren, and Alexa smart speaker. There’s also features like facial recognition and motion detection. But there’s also support for Google Assistant, IFTTT and Z-Wave Plus. This is a completely DIY system with no professional monitoring. For those who don’t want to deal with contracts and want to manage their own security, this could be a good pick.
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