Best Home Security Systems in 2024
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A reliable home security system provides all-encompassing safety that goes well beyond burglary prevention. Protection from floods, fires, and even dangerous gasses is what top home security systems offer to concerned homeowners or renters. But how to pick one that suits your needs best?
With the help of the Cybernews research team, I have grabbed the opportunity to review a wide range of home security systems. I studied dozens of expert home security system reviews, honest first-hand opinions, brand reputation, and feature availability.
I can't tell which home security is best for you because it significantly depends on personal needs. However, in this guide, I'll provide an in-depth review of the current best home security systems based on their performance, reliability, ease of use, features, and pricing. Let's dive in!
Top 5 home security systems – shortlist
- Vivint – best overall home security system
- Abode – best affordable home security system
- SimpliSafe – reliable no-contract home security
- Xfinity – super security system for smart homes
- ADT – top home security equipment quality
What features to look for in a home security system?
Choosing a home security system is one of the most important decisions. After all, those walls protect your private property and ensure all family members are safe from harm. Here are essential home security system features you should look for:
- Monitoring. I recommend choosing a professional home monitoring system whenever possible. It means that human employees are reviewing your home alarm notifications around the clock. Alternatively, self-monitoring can save you money if you are always able to verify issues yourself.
- Smart home integration. Smart technologies are about automation, comfort, and control. Integrating a security system for home with Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant gives you the ability to issue voice commands, remote control, and check its status all from the comfort of your couch.
- Mobile app. A simplistic and intuitive mobile app lets you control home security settings wherever you go. The best home security system must come with a mobile app that issues real-time alerts, preferably allows two-way communication, and displays live video feeds.
- Camera quality. A high-definition video feed is paramount to know what exactly happens on your private property. Not only does it record criminal activities, it can also be used as evidence to the police. Reviewed providers like Vivint and ADT offer cameras that support 1080p resolution or higher.
Reliable home security companies ensure that the features above are available, but also step an extra mile for their clients. I recommend checking for additional benefits like a battery backup, environmental disaster monitoring, and professional or DIY installation, depending on your needs.
The best home security system – our detailed list
Below is our list of the 5 best home security systems, which are highly rated by independent experts, genuine users, and professional ranking websites. The Cybernews research team has scrutinized each one to verify their robust features.
1. Vivint – the best home security equipment
| Monitoring type: | Professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Professional (difficult) |
| Equipement options: | Sensors, cameras, smart locks, thermostats, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts at approximately $400 upfront and $29.99 per month |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
Vivint is our best security system recommendation due to its outstanding equipment quality, which is well worth its steep price.
General overview. Vivint has been protecting people's homes since 1999. It focuses on smart tech, so you'll find a variety of sensors, cameras, and sirens. Vivint has an exceptionally professional setup and customer support assistants.
Equipment. Like most home security monitoring systems, Vivint lets you choose the required components. Its core package includes a control panel, indoor and outdoor cameras, window and door sensors, and motion detectors.
Monitoring. This is a professional monitoring service that boasts of a fast 10-second response time. Additionally, it has a cellular backup option to maintain security during power shortages.
Cost. You must contact Vivint directly for exact pricing details. To give you some guidelines, its waterproof outdoor camera Pro costs approximately $399.99, and professional monitoring is up to $49.99 per month, with $500 for a starting kit.
User experience. Once Vivint's professionals set everything up, you will barely have to do anything. Vivint is automation-oriented, so once you configure it accordingly it will remain vigilant in the background.
2. Abode – home security with easy setup
| Monitoring type: | Self and professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Very easy |
| Equipement options: | A central control unit, sensors, cameras, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts at $69.99 per year |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave |
Abode is among our top home security system picks due to its affordable prices, extensive DIY customization, and easy setup.
General overview. Abode has been serving clients since 2014 and focuses on DIY solutions, but also offers professional monitoring services. What sets it apart is elaborate customization options, like automation routines, notification preferences, and more.
Equipment. This provider offers a standard core equipment package. It includes a hub for centralized system control, window, door, and motion sensors, smart plugs, and cameras.
Monitoring. You can choose between self-monitoring, which costs nothing, or professional Abode monitoring at an extra charge. I recommend this as a self-monitoring DIY solution, as Abode offers highly competitive prices, but falls slightly behind professional assistance.
Cost. Abode's basic kit starts at approximately $200 but goes over $300 if you want to include cameras and additional devices. It offers a free self-monitoring service but requires a paid subscription to forward notifications to a monitoring center, which adds $69.99 or $169.00 per year if you choose the Pro plan.
User experience. User reviews outline a particularly easy installation process and a straightforward mobile app for home security control. Sometimes, users experienced connection errors, but they were promptly solved by customer support.
3. SimpliSafe – an excellent choice for small residences
| Monitoring type: | Self and professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Very easy |
| Equipement options: | Central hub, entry and motion sensors, cameras, smart locks, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts from $249.96 and $31.06/month for professional monitoring |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, August Smart Locks |
Similar to Abode, SimpliSafe offers affordable home security and a mix of professional and DIY services with a free-of-charge self-monitoring option.
General overview. SimpliSafe launched in 2008, and, as the name implies, it aims to provide a straightforward home security solution. While it lacks a touchscreen control panel, it has recently added AI-powered facial recognition for more accurate threat identification.
Equipment. This provider offers several plans, so the core components depend entirely on your choice. For example, the Starter plan offers motion and entry sensors, but a more expensive Haven plan adds water and temperature sensors and a smoke detector.
Monitoring. SimpliSafe claims to respond to alarms in less than 30 seconds, which is within recommended norms. Its self-monitoring is free, but you can opt for 3 professional monitoring plans. The Pro plan unlocks AI-powered SimpliSafe Active Guard Outdoor Protection between 8 PM and 6 AM, and the time limit is removed on Pro Plus.
Cost. Flexible no-contract plans secure SimpliSafe in a top spot among the best home security and alarm systems. The cheapest Foundation plan designed for small homes costs $249.96 in total, going up to $429.86 for the most expensive Haven plan. In between are 5 more affordable options.
User experience. This service receives praise for an easy setup, simple maintenance, and robust in and outdoor security. However, some users outline issues with customer support and the quality of the camera video stream.
4. Xfinity – security system with smart device integrations
| Monitoring type: | Self and professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Professional |
| Equipement options: | Touchscreen control, door, window, and motion sensors |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts from $10 per month plus negotiable initial equipment costs |
| Smart home compatibility: | August smart locks, LIFX lighting, Cor thermostats, and more |
Xfinity is an excellent choice for Comcast clients. Because this telecommunications giant owns Xfinity, you can get exclusive discounts, and it is also compatible with a variety of smart devices.
General overview. Xfinity is a part of Comcast Corporation, which was launched in 2010. It provides various services like cable TV, WiFi, and, of course, home security and automation. It is compatible with devices like X1 TV remote and can be combined with Xfinity WiFi network.
Equipment. Similar to other security systems, Xfinity comes with a touchscreen control panel, a variety of sensors, and cameras. It has the broadest smart home device integration options I have encountered, but it does not work with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Monitoring. You can choose between self and professional monitoring types, but unlike others on this list, Xfinity self-monitoring is a paid service.
Cost. Self-monitoring costs $10 per month, going up to $55 for Pro Protection Plus professional monitoring. Because this provider offers customizable payment plans, you'll have to check with them for setup and initial equipment costs.
User experience. The essential Xfinity benefit is its integration with numerous smart home devices, but its user-friendly app also receives positive feedback. On the downside, some users report long customer service lines and long-term contracts.
5. ADT – outstanding video recording quality
| Monitoring type: | Professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Professional (difficult) |
| Equipement options: | Touchscreen interface, Google Nest cameras, a variety of detectors and thermostats |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts at $269 plus $29.99/month |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, Zigbee |
ADT is a robust monitored security system that uses Google Nest security cameras for protection. Although pricier than others on this list, I can't deny its outstanding equipment quality and renowned brand.
General overview. You won't find a home security company as experienced as ADT, which has been protecting property since 1874. It is one of the biggest home security companies worldwide that focuses on professional installation and monitoring.
Equipment. ADT core equipment includes a touch interface, central hub, outdoor, indoor, and doorbell cameras and sensors, and motion detectors that can tell humans from pets.
Monitoring. This service does not offer free self-monitoring, so you will have to spend extra for a professional one. There are 3 plans that ensure 24/7 monitoring and cellular connection, adding device control and video verification on more more expensive tiers.
Cost. The cheapest Secure ADT plan starts at $269 plus $29.99/month for monitoring, going up to $299 plus $34.99/month for Smart, and $369 plus $44.99/month for the most expensive Complete Monitoring plan.
User experience. ADT is praised for its professional assistance in setting the home security system up and providing further explanation on how to use it. However, its US branch has experienced troubles with customer support recently, resulting in dozens of negative reviews.
Best home security systems compared
As you can see, the best home security systems are significantly different, and that's a good thing. Some offer advanced features that demand professional installation, like Vivint and ADT; meanwhile, Abode or SimpliSafe offers a more affordable DIY setup but also more responsibility. Take a look at the top security systems side-by-side comparison below.
| Home security system | Monitoring | Smart home integration | Setup | Ease of use | Additional features | Setup price | Monthly monitoring price |
| Vivint | Professional | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Professional | Easy | Automation routines, smart home integration, voice control | Negotiated per setup (approximately $400) | Starts from $29.99 per month |
| Abode | Professional and self-monitoring | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave | Easy | Easy | Automation routines, notification preferences, | Starts from $69.99 per year | Starts from $24.99 per month |
| SimpliSafe | Professional and self-monitoring | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, August Smart Locks | Easy | Easy | SimpliSafe Active Guard Outdoor Protection, flexible payment plans, video verification | Starts from $249.96 | Starts from $31.06 per month |
| Xfinity | Professional and self-monitoring | August smart locks, LIFX lighting, Cor thermostats, and more | Professional | Easy | Smart home integrations, compatibility with Comcast services | Negotiable | Starts from $10 per month |
| ADT | Professional | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, Zigbee | Professional | Easy | Video verification, AI-powered deterrence | Starts from $269 | Starts from $29.99/month |
What are home security systems?
A home security system is a group of programs and devices that safeguard a home from invasion, theft, and natural disasters. Top home security systems seamlessly integrate with other smart devices, like thermostats, speakers, or water sensors, to name a few. This allows controlling all home security aspects from one centralized app throughout the whole perimeter.
These systems generally include security cameras, entry and motion sensors, centralized control panels, smart locks, and doorbells, smoke detectors, home alarm systems, and a panic button. Software components often include a proprietary gateway application for centralized control, a mobile app, and cloud services, but they can also extend to more sophisticated privacy and security software.
Additionally, the best security system for home must have a professional and responsive customer support team. Even if you opted for DIY and self-monitoring types, you may run into hardware or software issues that demand prompt resolution.
How to set a budget for your home security system?
Although security systems for homes are becoming more affordable, they can still amount to quite a sum. What's more, some additional features may be redundant, like floodlights in well-lit areas or additional sensors for small apartments. Here's what to consider to pick the best home security system without overpaying.
Equipment cost
Start with the initial equipment cost. Basic security systems for homes include entry sensors ($10 to $20 for each), motion sensors ($10 to $30), home alarms ($20 to $30), and a control panel ($100 to $200), for an up to $400 total approximately. However, advanced equipment like smart locks, video doorbells, and high-definition cameras may increase the price well into four digits.
Installation cost
You can avoid these costs whatsoever by choosing the best DIY home security system, but that requires time, effort, and some tech skills. Professional setup costs vary, from over 100$ for an ADT security system up to approximately $200 for Vivint expert help. I recommend keeping an eye out for special installation discounts that home security companies regularly offer.
Monitoring cost
Once again, you can eliminate these costs by opting for the self-monitoring option, but that requires continuous vigilance. Otherwise, the cheapest home security monitoring starts at only $10 per month, going up to $60 per month for the more expensive options. I suggest picking one of the paid plans depending on the neighborhood's risk level.
Additional fees and discounts
It is unlikely you will encounter any hidden fees in our best home security systems list. However, consider the cost of additional cameras, smart locks, and floodlights for larger residences. Depending on country or state laws, you may also need an alarm permit, which usually carries an annual fee, for example, $26 in Los Angeles.
Our methodology
Picking the best security system is challenging as different companies offer features for various circumstances. However, it is possible to narrow the list down by comparing more objective criteria, like the total cost, equipment quality, and app design.
That's precisely what I did with the help of the Cybernews research crew. I scrutinized dozens of widely used home security systems regarding feature availability, pricing, user-friendliness, overall performance, and equipment quality. Whichever services passed the test by providing sufficient protection were further researched, including first-hand user reviews, expert opinions, and independent service ranking sites.
The result is a list of the 5 best home security systems that not only offer a plethora of useful features but also can back it up by genuine positive reviews. I also aimed to include more affordable services, even if they lack some advanced features, alongside more expensive brands for those who can afford advanced home protection.
Final word on best home security system
Whichever home security system is best depends entirely on your circumstances. Some require advanced environmental disaster protection, while others prioritize robust outdoor security in high crime rate areas. Choosing between professional and DIY solutions is also essential, as it significantly affects pricing and overall safety.
After identifying your exact demands, look for a home security company that specializes in that field. For example, ADT offers top-notch cameras, which are perfect for threat monitoring, but the service can cost an arm and a leg. On the other hand, our top pick, Vivint, is more focused on smart home integration and automation.
To summarize, seek for a balance of cost, reliability, and required equipment. There's no need to overpay for additional sensors in small flats, but spending extra for fast response time is best for large and luxurious residences.
FAQ
What is the best home security system for smart home integration?
Vivint is the best home security system for smart home integration. Not only does it offer a variety of smart devices, like thermostats, locks, and smart floodlights like Spotlight Pro, but it also focuses on easy control and automation.
How much does a home security system cost?
The cost of home security systems highly depends on initial equipment, setup, and monitoring type. A DIY basic system may amount to up to $500 with a free-of-charge self-monitoring cost. On the other hand, a professional setup with additional cameras, natural disaster sensors, and paid monitoring costs from $2000 to $5000.
Can I install a home security system myself?
Yes, you can install a security system yourself. In fact, the DIY model is becoming more popular as more companies add this option to their services. Keep in mind that this path requires some expertise to avoid faulty setup, but it's an excellent way to save money.
What happens if my home loses power?
You may lose protection if your home loses power and your security system doesn't have a backup. However, reliable providers like Vivint offer a cellular backup feature that maintains contact with the monitoring center even if you don't have electricity.
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