Best smart home security systems in 2025
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Smart home systems are an improvement over traditional home security because they allow for remote control and automation. Gone are the days when you needed to be physically at home to arm, disarm, and adjust your alarm systems. Now, you can control your smart home security system from anywhere in the world via your smartphone.
The Cybernews team and I thoroughly reviewed dozens of smart home systems and evaluated each based on various criteria, including automation, app control, and installation. The result is a definitive list of the best smart home security systems in 2025. Below, you’ll find an in-depth analysis of the best smart home systems, including descriptions of their features, costs, and customer service.
Top 5 smart home security systems - shortlist
- Vivint – overall best security system in 2025
- Abode – best DIY home security system
- SimpliSafe – affordable smart home security solution
- Xfinity – third-party-friendly smart home security
- ADT – best smart video camera for home security
What are the key features to look for in a smart home security system?
The specific criteria for choosing a smart home security system largely depend on your needs. Some users prioritize the freedom to manually install security equipment themselves, while others want a system with 24/7 professional monitoring.
Of course, there’s a baseline each security system should meet to be considered “one of the best.” Here’s what I looked for when picking the best smart home security systems.
- Smart home integration. The home system should integrate with voice assistants (like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa) to allow hands-free use.
- Mobile app control. A user-friendly and intuitive mobile app is essential, as this will be your control panel when you’re on the go. The app should be capable of issuing real-time alerts and ideally allow you to view live video streams.
- Security cameras. Your smart home system should have HD cameras for both indoor and outdoor use. Night vision is also a big plus.
- Automation features. Your security software should integrate with other smart or “Internet of Things” (IoT) technologies, such as smart lights, locks, thermostats, and more.
- Professional monitoring. While not necessary (some users prefer self-monitoring), the option for professional monitoring provides greater security and peace of mind.
- DIY vs professional installation. Ease of installation is another critical factor, especially for DIY systems.
Having options for different user preferences is a good sign that a home security provider knows the market. The best in the game will also have extra features like cellular and battery backup and disaster monitoring.
Ready to dive into which security providers met our strict standards? Keep reading below.
The best smart home security systems – our detailed list
The Cybernews research team and I pored through countless expert testimonials and customer reviews before shortlisting the best of the best. These are the best smart home security systems available today, and there’s something for every kind of client.
1. Vivint – overall best security system in 2025
| Monitoring options: | Professional monitoring |
| Smart home integration: | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Vivint smart thermostats, locks, lighting, garage door controllers, and more |
| Camera features: | 1080p Full HD, LED ring light, night vision, two-way audio |
| Installation type: | Professional installation |
| Price range: | Monitoring starts at $30.00/month, and equipment packages start at $599.00 |
Vivint is the best smart home security system in my books, thanks to its robust solutions, advanced technology, reliable equipment, and customizable packages. Vivint is the best choice for homeowners looking for professionally installed and monitored security. This provider is laser-focused on smart home automation, which makes it ideal for tech-savvy users. It also excels in tech support and customer assistance.
Equipment. Vivint offers a wide range of smart equipment, including indoor and outdoor HD cameras, motion detectors, door and window sensors, glass break sensors, and environmental sensors (for detecting smoke, carbon monoxide, and floods).
Monitoring. Vivint offers 24/7 professional monitoring but not self-monitoring. You can, however, use the mobile app to manually check camera feeds and arm or disarm the system remotely.
Cost. For accurate pricing, contact Vivint customer support. You can expect up to $30.00 per month for professional monitoring and as much as $599.00 for the starter package.
User experience. Vivint’s professional installation offers a headache-free experience. The user-friendly mobile app allows you to manage the Vivint system remotely. You can arm or disarm the system, lock or unlock doors, view live camera feeds, and receive instant push notifications via the app.
2. Abode - best DIY smart home security system
| Monitoring options: | Self-monitoring, Professional monitoring |
| Smart home integration: | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Zigbee, ZWave, and more |
| Camera features: | 1080p Full HD, night vision |
| Installation type: | DIY |
| Price range: | Monitoring starts at $169.00/year, and equipment packages start at $159.99 |
Abode is my recommended smart home security provider for homeowners who enjoy setting up their own security systems. Installing this security system is easy, and third-party integration is seamless. It also comes with a user-friendly app.
While it’s a relatively new brand in the market, Abode has quickly risen to the top owing to its straightforward DIY approach to home security and advanced automation options.
Equipment. Abode’s standard core equipment package includes a system control hub, smart plugs, cameras, and motion, window, and door sensors.
Monitoring. The Abode home security system includes free self-monitoring. However, 24/7 professional monitoring is available at a fee.
Cost. Abode’s Smart Security Kit starts at $159.99 and includes 1 smart security hub, 1 door/window sensor, 1 motion sensor, and 1 keyfob. Self-monitoring is free, but you need a paid subscription to forward notifications to a monitoring center (an additional $169.99 per year).
User experience. Abode scores high marks for its easy installation, user-friendly mobile app, and responsive customer support.
3. SimpliSafe - affordable smart home security system
| Monitoring options: | Self-monitoring, Professional monitoring |
| Smart home integration: | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| Camera features: | HD video quality, AI-powered motion detection, two-way audio |
| Installation type: | DIY |
| Price range: | Monitoring starts at $1.06/day, and equipment packages start at $100.00 |
When it comes to affordability, SimpliSafe is tough to beat. This provider offers the option to pay in installments, and you can opt for refurbished equipment at lower costs. Plus, SimpliSafe has a 60-day money-back guarantee and one month of free professional monitoring.
SimpliSafe is a popular choice due to its low price tags. It’s also known for its ease of use, flexibility, and DIY-friendly installation.
Equipment. SimpliSafe has a wide range of equipment, including keypads, entry sensors, motion sensors, key fobs, sirens, smoke detectors, water sensors, temperature sensors, cameras, and panic buttons.
Monitoring. SimpliSafe makes professional monitoring affordable. You also get a backup cellular connection in case of a power outage.
Cost. SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring plans range from $1.06/day to $2.66/day. Its equipment packages start at $100.00 and are highly customizable, so you can build a setup with as much or as little equipment as you want.
User experience. SimpliSafe stands out for its easy setup and low prices, though I found some reports about issues with customer support.
4. Xfinity - smart home system with many third-party integrations
| Monitoring options: | Self-monitoring, Professional monitoring |
| Smart home integration: | August smart locks, GE lighting, Yale locks, Cor thermostats, and more |
| Camera features: | AI-powered motion detection, weather resistance, night vision |
| Installation type: | Professional installation |
| Price range: | Monitoring starts at $55/month, and equipment packages start at $360.00 |
Xfinity home security’s integration with third-party providers makes it an excellent option for users who want a fully automated smart home. However, its lack of support for voice assistants is a glaring issue.
Xfinity, a part of Comcast Corporation, offers a wide range of services, including TV, streaming, and WiFi. If you’re already subscribed to Xfinity, Xfinity Home Security is a good pick.
Equipment. Xfinity offers a touchscreen control panel, window/door sensors, pet-friendly motion detectors, indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, and more.
Monitoring. Xfinity is unique in that its self-monitoring option requires a paid plan. Professional monitoring is also available for a cost.
Cost. Self-monitoring with Xfinity Home Security costs $10.00/month, while professional monitoring costs $55/month. You also need to purchase equipment separately and pay an installation fee.
User experience. Xfinity has an impressive list of third-party integrations and is relatively easy to use. However, I found a few complaints about its pricing, marketing, customer service, and tech support.
5. ADT – best smart video camera for home security
| Monitoring options: | Professional |
| Smart home integration: | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave, Zigbee |
| Camera features: | HD video, night vision, 30 days of video history, custom alerts, video backup |
| Installation type: | Professional installation |
| Price range: | Monitoring starts at $29.99, and equipment packages start at $454.29 |
ADT utilizes Google Nest security cameras for your home protection, so its equipment is pricier, albeit higher in quality.
Despite being around since 1874, ADT has modernized its home security service while maintaining its professional monitoring expertise.
Equipment. ADT's core equipment includes a touch interface, central hub, outdoor and indoor cameras and sensors, and motion detectors.
Monitoring. While it doesn’t offer self-monitoring, ADT offers professional monitoring that comes with a backup cellular connection.
Cost. ADT plans start at $269.00 for equipment and $29.99/month for professional monitoring.
User experience. ADT is known for its professional installation and a long-standing reputation for security. This home security system is generally easy to use; however, there are occasional customer support issues.
The best smart home security systems compared
Each smart home security on our list offers unique features because we want every user to find the right security system for their home. Whether you prefer DIY installation and self-monitoring or professional installation and monitoring, we have a recommendation for you.
The table below shows the top features of these security systems for easy comparison:
| Home security system | Monitoring | Smart Home Integration | Installation | User-friendliness | User-friendliness |
| Vivint | Professional | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Professional | Easy | Monitoring starts at $30.00/month, and equipment packages start at $599.00 |
| Abode | Professional and self-monitoring | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave | DIY | Easy | Monitoring starts at $169.00/year, and equipment packages start at $159.99 |
| SimpliSafe | Professional and self-monitoring | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, August Smart Locks | DIY and Professional | Easy | Monitoring starts at $1.06/day, and equipment packages start at $100.00 |
| Xfinity | Professional and self-monitoring | August smart locks, LIFX lighting, Cor thermostats, and more | Professional | Easy | Monitoring starts at $55.00/month, and equipment packages start at $360.00 |
| ADT | Professional | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, Zigbee | Professional | Easy | Monitoring starts at $29.99, and equipment packages start at $454.29 |
What is a smart home security system?
A smart home security system protects your home from would-be intruders and warns you of security incidents and environmental disasters. It uses various smart devices to provide remote control, automation, and real-time monitoring.
Unlike traditional security systems, which rely on physical alarms and basic sensors, smart systems allow you to manage and monitor security remotely through your smartphone or voice assistants. Key components of these systems include smart cameras, doorbell cameras, motion sensors, smart locks, and environmental sensors (like smoke or carbon monoxide detectors).
These systems also offer automated routines (e.g., arming the system when you leave), alerts sent directly to your phone, and remote access to live video feeds. Additionally, they can integrate with other smart home devices, such as lights and thermostats.
Smart systems are often customizable and scalable, and they provide greater flexibility than traditional systems.
Pros and cons of smart home security systems
Here are the biggest advantages and drawbacks of smart home security systems:
Our methodology
Before reviewing various home safety systems for this article, we first set our criteria for judging and scoring these services. Afterward, we compiled a list of security providers and evaluated them based on our established standards. Here’s a glimpse into the criteria we used to select the best smart home security systems:
- Equipment quality: We assessed the equipment each provider offers based on user reviews and expert opinions.
- Total cost: We calculated both the upfront cost and any monthly fees.
- Installation process: We analyzed key features, focusing on smart home integration, mobile app functionality, and automation.
- Customer support: We considered customer reviews and how well providers respond to technical issues and service requests.
Next, we shortlisted the 5 best home security systems and verified all information to ensure accuracy and fairness.
Other home security systems you might be interested in:
A final word on the best smart home security systems
Selecting the right smart home security system in 2025 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize professional monitoring, DIY setup, affordability, or advanced automation, there’s a system designed for you.
Vivint offers top-tier smart integration and professional monitoring, so it’s ideal for homeowners who prefer a fully managed service. Meanwhile, Abode and SimpliSafe provide great options for those who want flexibility with self-monitoring. Xfinity and ADT excel in third-party integrations and offer high-quality cameras.
Smart home security systems offer far more than basic protection — they integrate seamlessly with other smart devices, automate everyday tasks, and provide remote control for peace of mind. Despite higher upfront costs, their ease, customization, and security make them a worthy investment for homeowners. Ultimately, finding the best system for you involves balancing features, budget, and the level of control you want over your home security.
FAQ
Can I install a smart home security system by myself?
Yes, many smart home security systems are designed for DIY installation. Systems like Abode and SimpliSafe offer easy-to-follow setups with minimal tools required. However, some providers, like Vivint and ADT, require professional installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
Do smart home security systems work without Wi-Fi?
Yes, but smart home security systems generally rely on Wi-Fi, especially for remote control, live video streaming, and real-time notifications. Some systems, like Vivint and ADT, offer cellular backup, which can keep the system working during a Wi-Fi outage. Without Wi-Fi or cellular backup, certain features may be limited.
Are smart home security systems safe from hacking?
Yes, smart home security systems use encryption and secure protocols to protect data. No system is entirely immune to hacking, but smart home security systems. Your system's security also depends on your actions, like setting strong passwords and using two-factor authentication. Vulnerabilities can arise if devices are not regularly updated or if weak security practices are followed.
Do smart home security systems require a monthly fee?
Yes, most smart home security systems have monthly fees, particularly for professional monitoring services. For instance, Vivint, ADT, and SimpliSafe offer plans that include 24/7 monitoring at a monthly fee.
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