The Best Home Security Systems and Alarm Companies of 2024

After over 4K hours of real, in-home testing of 25+ security systems and alarm companies, evaluating over 20 data points in 5 categories, we picked Vivint as the best home security system of 2024.

Best professional home security
Vivint
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
Starts at$29.99/mo
  • pro
    Pro installation
  • pro
    Smarter security cameras
  • pro
    Advanced smart home features
Best DIY home security with optional subscription
simplisafe security yard sign in grass in front of house
SimpliSafe
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Starts at$21.99/mo
  • pro
    DIY or pro installation
  • pro
    Efficient dispatch technology
  • pro
    Live video feed
  • Icon Emoji  Fire
Trusted brand name
adt sign in front of grey house
ADT
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Starts at28.99*/mo
  • pro
    Pro installation
  • pro
    Longest money-back period
  • pro
    Google Nest cameras
Best customer rating
Cove
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at$17.99/mo
  • pro
    DIY or pro installation
  • pro
    60-day trial period
  • pro
    LiveAssist service
  • Icon Emoji  Fire

Info current as of publish date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *ADT $28.99 for landline system only. Full ADT disclaimer.

Original SafeWise safety & security research featured in:

Why you can trust SafeWise
products considered
250+
research hours in 25+ in-home tests
10k+
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176+
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10M+

For over 11 years, SafeWise experts have conducted independent research and testing to create unbiased, human reviews. Learn how we test and review.

With over 30 years of experience as a journalist, outlets like NPR, Forbes, The Today Show, and several podcasters, journalists, and researchers seek out Rebecca's expert advice.

What is a home security system and how does it work?

A home security alarm system is a network of integrated devices linked to a central control panel that helps protect against burglaries and other intrusions. The system typically includes:

  • A control panel or base station
  • Sensors for doors and windows
  • Motion sensors
  • Glass break sensors
  • Security cameras

These components monitor entry into your home and trigger an alarm after a short delay if unauthorized access is detected. This delay allows time to disarm the system to prevent false alarms. If the system is monitored, a professional service contacts you when the alarm is activated.

Home security systems operate in a coordinated manner, with each component communicating its status to the control panel. This information is then relayed to your smartphone and, if subscribed, to a monitoring station. The control panel acts as the central hub, connecting all the components. It can connect via Wi-Fi or cellular data. Hardwired systems use electrical wiring to connect components, while wireless systems utilize radio frequencies or mesh networks for communication.

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How much should home security monitoring cost?

The average home security monitoring fee costs an average of $31.65 a month across the 170 national and local security providers we've researched over the past two years.

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What is the best home security system available in the U.S.?

For over 10 years, SafeWise has researched, reviewed, compared, met with and ranked the best home security systems on the market to help you confidently protect what matters most in your life.

Vivint is our top pick for professional home security because it's the leading company actively innovating to deter crime, not just record it. Vivint's state-of the-art Outdoor Pro and Doorbell Pro cameras are designed to scare off bad actors before they break in or snatch a package off your porch. Vivint's proactive Smart Deter lurker protection includes strobing lights, whistles and even pre-recorded messages that let burglars know they picked the wrong house. Plus, every Vivint alarm system comes with professional monitoring, professional installation, advanced smart home integration, and an in-home security assessment. For top-shelf home security from a name you trust, we also recommend ADT.  

SimpliSafe is our top pick for best DIY home security because of its streamlined, affordable DIY home security system that comes without a contract and an optional subscription after your first month (if you'd prefer self-monitoring). SimpliSafe offers stress-free online shopping and has low monthly monitoring fees. Plus, it is the only company on our list that gives you the freedom to start and stop professional monitoring, switching to self-monitoring whenever you like. Our next favorite DIY home security system is Cove, thanks to its super-simple installation and rave reviews from customers.

Whether you want to protect a big house with lots of land or a smaller home or apartment, we've got a security solution that will work. From security systems that come contract-free, have no monthly fees, or deliver white glove professional service from purchase to installation, here's our complete list of the top home security systems of 2024—and tips to help you choose the right one for you. 

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Are home monitoring systems worth it?

In order to determine if a security system is worth it for your family, start by asking yourself what would make it worth it to you. There’s no question that alarm systems deter crime and can increase the odds of catching a burglar if your home does get broken into.


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Home security systems help prevent break-ins

Did you know that the average cost of a break-in is almost $3,000?1 According to a 2018 survey of people convicted of burglary2, over 65% said they would not target a home that is protected by visible security equipment. 

Compare: What is the best home security brand?

Brand
Installation
Monthly cost Icon Tooltip  Dark
Best for
Self-monitoring option
Starter equipment price
Contract required
Smart home compatibility Icon Tooltip  Dark
Learn more
ProfessionalBest professional home security
Icon No  LightNo
$599.00No *Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
DIY or ProBest DIY home security
Icon Yes  LightYes
$249.96NoAmazon,
Google
ProfessionalMost trusted security brand
Icon No  LightNo
$0.00YesGoogle,
Z-Wave
DIY or ProBest customer rating
Icon No  LightNo
Quote required
Online quiz
No *Amazon, Google

Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer. *ADT $28.99 for landline system only. Full ADT disclaimer


Average prices for home security in the United States

To help you find a home security system that fits your budget, we gathered prices from 21 top national security companies. We calculated the average costs for monthly professional monitoring, installation and activation fees, and equipment to help you compare your options.

Professional monitoring Icon Tooltip  Dark
Installation fee Icon Tooltip  Dark
Activation fee Icon Tooltip  Dark
Equipment packages Icon Tooltip  Dark
All equipment Icon Tooltip  Dark
$31.85/mo
$94.10$99.00$325.13$101.36

The averages presented in this table reflect data SafeWise gathered from 21 national home security companies in the United States. These figures do not represent all home security companies or services available, and pricing may vary based on the specific provider, location, and service level chosen.

Video: The Best Home Security Systems of 2024

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Check out this week's home security sales!

🔥 SimpliSafe is offering 60% off + a FREE outdoor camera with any new system with professional monitoring.

🔥SafeStreets (an ADT authorized provider) is offering a free Nest Doorbell (battery) plus a $100 Visa Gift Card.

🔥 Cove's is offering 70% off equipment, a FREE system, AND a free indoor camera!

🔥 With Frontpoint up to 82% off and packages starting as low as $69! Plus, you can get one month of free monitoring when you call.

Info current as of publish date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.


1. Vivint: The best professional security system

Best theft-prevention professional home security
Vivint home security
SafeWise rating
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
Professional monitoring
Starts at$29.99/mo
Equipment
Starts at $599.00
Installation
Professional
Self Monitoring?
No
pro
Pros
pro High-end equipment
pro Advanced smart home features
pro Smart Deter lurker detection
pro Free in-home security consultation
con
Cons
con Higher overall cost
con No trial period

When Vivint switched its focus from smart home to smart security, it was a game changer. If you’re on the hunt for a smart home security system that doesn’t require you to lift a finger, Vivint is the best of the bunch. Vivint’s high-end equipment with pro installation, 24/7 monitoring, smart home features, and state-of-the-art security tech make it the best wireless security system available. 

Here's why Vivint is our top pick

We love Vivint home security for so many reasons:

Standout feature: Vivint's security cameras with Smart Deter lurker detection are a staff favorite. We love the video doorbell with AI and proactive features (like the whistle) that scare away porch pirates. Learn all about it in our Vivint cameras guide.

vivint banner

Image credit: Vivint

Like any luxury item, you’d expect Vivint to come with a luxury price tag. It’s a balance: its equipment is pricey, but Vivint’s monthly monitoring fees remain in line with other top security companies (the U.S. average is $31.99/mo.) The Smart Home Video plan gives you video, smart home control, and integration for about $40 per month.

Vivint testing

A screenshot from our Vivint Car Guard review showing installation footage.

Image credit: SafeWise

We are conducting a long-term test of Vivint in the home of one of our experts. We've also met with Vivint for demos and a behind-the-scenes look at their product development process. We talk to Vivint often about how their system works, what customers think, and what we want them to do next.

“Vivint is fantastic at what they do. I have had the system for 7 years now and haven’t had any major issues with the system at all. The thing I love the most would be the doorbell camera for my wife and I. I would highly recommend the system to anyone looking for a hassle-free experience.”

—Garth, Vivint customer review

See everything that’s got us revved up about Vivint—read our full Vivint review.


The best home security system for you in 2024

2. SimpliSafe: Best DIY home security system with optional subscription

Best do-it-yourself security system
SimpliSafe home security
SafeWise rating
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Professional monitoring
Starts at$21.99/mo
Equipment
Starts at $249.96
Installation
DIY or Professional
Self Monitoring?
Yes
pro
Pros
pro No contracts
pro Live feed and video recording available
pro Affordable monitoring
pro Great option for renters
pro 60-day trial period
con
Cons
con Basic smart home compatibility
con Limited third party integration

Our readers have spoken—and they love SimpliSafe’s affordable, straightforward cellular security system. SimpliSafe’s name says it all.

Its security systems are simple—and so is its pricing. SimpliSafe has some of the cheapest monthly monitoring fees available. Plus, you have the flexibility to start or stop your monthly monitoring subscription whenever you like.

If you prefer self-monitoring without a subscription, you can change your plan after the first month—just make sure to call to cancel or change your plan before the 30-day mark. 

Here's what makes SimpliSafe a fan favorite

SimpliSafe does home security on its own terms. That means ditching some things that turn off customers: brash salespeople and lengthy contracts.

  • You choose the equipment and monitoring level you want
  • No-pressure online shopping
  • Professional monitoring service on demand—no contracts
  • Rapid SOS gets you help faster
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

Standout feature: SimpliSafe has SimpliSafe Active Guard Outdoor Protection. AI and security agents watch over your home and work to scare away intruders before they make any trouble. The only other security system that offers this type of service on our list is Ring.

SimpliSafe base station on desk, lit up

Image credit: Alina Bradford, SafeWise

We recommend the Core plan for pro monitoring. You can control your SimpliSafe security system through a mobile app for just over $30 per month. Plus, you'll get email and text alerts, and access to live video if you add a home security camera.

SimpliSafe testing

Image credit: Katie McEntire, SafeWise

To date, we've tried SimpliSafe in four different homes and in lab tests (once I accidentally scared everyone in the office with the siren that I couldn't turn off). We also talk to SimpliSafe representatives regularly about current and upcoming product offerings and follow SimpliSafe's customer forums.

"I like that SimpliSafe was easy to install on our own rather than requiring professional installation. I also like the affordability of the monitoring system . . . it feels like a good value . . . and the response time is great. We had a false alarm once and they reached out to us immediately."

—Vannessa W., SimpliSafe customer review

Get the rundown on SimpliSafe’s offerings in our full SimpliSafe review.


3. ADT: Most trusted home security system

Trusted home security brand
ADT home security
SafeWise rating
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Professional monitoring
Starts at$28.99/mo
Equipment
Starts at $0.00
Installation
Professional
Self Monitoring?
No
pro
Pros
pro 6-Month ADT Money-Back Guarantee
pro 150 years of experience
pro 6 monitoring centers
pro Free whole-home risk assessment
con
Cons
con Long contracts with no trial period
con High termination fees

Money-back service 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 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.

ADT is the most experienced security company in the country. If you’ll sleep better knowing that a well-known, tried-and-true company is watching over your home, ADT is worth the money.

This is why ADT’s experience matters

No one can beat ADT’s experience.

  • Top-notch protection delivered for 150 years
  • ADT Home Security looks out for more than 8 million people across the globe
  • 6 professional monitoring centers
  • Partnerships and integration with tech from Google Nest and Ford
  • 6-month service guarantee (the longest money-back period in the industry)

Standout feature: ADT Home Security has six redundant monitoring centers. If one monitoring station goes down, your home’s protection transfers to another center. That’s 24/7 protection that you can rely on, even when Mother Nature does her worst.

Image credit: SafeStreets

If you’re going with one of the best home security providers out there, you may as well go all in. The Video and Control bundle includes home automation controls, wireless equipment, and video monitoring, starting around $65 per month (Vivint starts at $45 for similar features). That works out to about $775 a year.

If you have a three-year contract, that's around $2,300 over three years. That may seem steep, but keep in mind that the average loss from one burglary is around $2,600.

ADT testing and ADT self setup

Nest Cam Battery Unfamiliar Face Detection

Image credit: Katie McEntire Nest Cam footage, SafeWise

We keep tabs on how ADT security systems perform in both the short- and long-term. We've tried out equipment in testing lab scenarios, followed long-term and new ADT customers to document what they like (and don't like), and gone through an ADT installer crash course to understand what you can expect when an installer comes to your home.

“I had a break-in attempt at my house, and ADT's security system immediately alerted me and the authorities. Within minutes, police arrived, and the perpetrator was caught. Thanks to ADT, my family and I feel safe again.”

—Emily, ADT customer review

Learn more about what ADT has to offer in our full ADT review.


4. Cove: The highest customer-rated security system

Best customer rating
Cove home security
SafeWise rating
4 out of 5 stars
4
Professional monitoring
Starts at$17.99/mo
Equipment
Custom quote required
Installation
DIY or Professional
Self Monitoring?
No
pro
Pros
pro Free upgrades
pro No-hassle cancellation
pro Great customer reviews
pro 7-in. touchscreen panel
pro 60-day trial period
con
Cons
con Limited third party integration
con No Z-wave, Zigbee, or IFTT compatibility

If you’re motivated by good customer service, Cove will make you all warm and fuzzy inside. Cove told us its policy is to be “more than fair” with customers. That’s probably why Cove has a whopping 98%* customer retention rate. Customers love Cove, and we do too.

Here's how Cove puts customers first

Cove provides low-cost monthly monitoring without a contract and allows easy cancellation if the system doesn't suit your needs. Cove sets you free without punishing penalties and fees, unlike other security solutions that charge 75% to 100% of your remaining contract.

Cove has some more customer-forward goodies we love:

  • Large 7-inch touchscreen panel that comes with every package
  • InstaText service that lets you confirm an emergency through a quick text message
  • LiveAssist service that calls you through the control panel (no phone needed!)
  • Rapid response with RapidSOS to get you help sooner
  • Cove Equipment Rewards that let you to upgrade to the newest safety equipment or smart home device for free
  • Lifetime equipment warranty (only one other brand on our list offers a lifetime warranty)
  • Rate-lock guarantee that keeps your monitoring price the same

Standout feature: Cove sets itself apart with something it calls “done-with-me installation.” This combo of professional and DIY lets you install the system yourself, with help.

The touchscreen walks you through installation with large, easy-to-follow illustrations. We’ll take this guidance any day over installation booklets or tiny illustrations on an app.

cove home security system in box

Image credit: SafeWise

When it comes to monitoring, the Cove Plus plan is our pick. For $28 per month, it includes video recording and monitoring and smart device integration plus a lifetime extended warranty.

Cove testing

Image credit: Katie McEntire, Cove video footage, SafeWise

We've had two of our testing experts set up and live with Cove in their homes. We also meet with Cove regularly for demos, customer feedback, and insights about current and new product offerings. 

"After using Cove for around a month in my home, here's my take: The new version of Cove is easy to install and fully customizable. [When there was water leaking from the washing machine,] I got a text, I got a call, and the alarm itself sounded. Cove really wants to make sure you get the alert when something goes wrong, even if it's a leak in the basement . . . I loved seeing how fast Cove responded to its sensors detecting trouble.”

—Katie McEntire, SafeWise security tester

Dig into more of what Cove has to offer in our full Cove review.

*Information provided by an interview with Cove representatives in October 2021.


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Are you worried about your safety?
  • Nearly 1 in 2 Americans told us they worry about their safety on a daily basis.1
  • Property crime is the most-concerning safety issue in the US.
  • Less than half of Americans feel safe in their state.
  • Around 3 in 10 people told us they experienced a property crime in the past 12 months.2
  • Almost 3 in 4 people think crime is increasing.

5. Frontpoint: Best DIY equipment options

Best do-it-yourself equipment options
Frontpoint home security system starter kit equipment
Frontpoint home security
SafeWise rating
3.8 out of 5 stars
3.75
Professional monitoring
Starts at$24.99/mo
Equipment
$386.93*
Installation
DIY
Self Monitoring?
No

*Starter equipment package valued at $386.93 starts at $69 with contract.

pro
Pros
pro Wide equipment options
pro Crash & Smash protection
pro Live video feed
pro ID theft protection
pro 30-day trial period
con
Cons
con Higher monitoring fees

Frontpoint delivers all the bells and whistles of full-service professionally installed systems but puts all the control (and installation) in your hands. For those who like the independence of DIY but don’t want to compromise on equipment options or features, Frontpoint fits the bill.

icon of the safewise owl icon with a banner saying deals
Frontpoint deals

🔥 HOLIDAY DEALS: Frontpoint is offering up to 82% off and packages starting as low as $69! You can also get one month free monitoring when you call.

Info current as of publish date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. 
For new customers. Limited time offer, while supplies last.

Here's why Frontpoint dominates DIY home security

Frontpoint delivers all the perks you want from any home security company:

  • Smart home integration
  • Lots of equipment to choose from
  • Mobile smartphone app control
  • Indoor and outdoor cameras
  • 24/7 video recordings
  • Surveillance footage you can access on your television
  • Video verification to reduce false alarms
  • Rapid response 24/7 professional monitoring with centers on each coast
  • No pushy sales and in-home consultations
  • Extras in its entry-level plan like CO and smoke detector monitoring
  • No wires for burglars to cut on this wireless alarm system

Standout feature: Every system comes with Frontpoint ID Protect powered by AllState Identity Protection. Yep, this smart system protects your home, those you love and your identity—plus you get this service for free.

frontpoint hub on table next to plant

Image: SafeWise

Frontpoint testing

Shows video footage from Frontpoint security cameras: an indoor camera with night vision activated, and an outdoor camera overlooking a backyard on a sunny day.

Image credit: SafeWise, Frontpoint outdoor camera footage.

We got to experience the Frontpoint home security system firsthand. Through our in-house tester we learned about customer service, the company's refund policy, installation, and the system's daily performance. 

"Frontpoint offers lots of options if you have specific security needs. Plus it's easy to install and expand as those needs change...The whole system is really easy to control and keep an eye on...Overall, I would say Frontpoint is good for anyone who wants a DIY system that doesn't feel DIY."

—Katie McEntire, SafeWise security tester

Learn about Frontpoint's plans, packages, and equipment in our review. Also, find out how simple it is to install with our installation guide.


6. Ring: Best cheap home security system

Best budget-friendly security
Ring alarm featured image
Ring Alarm
SafeWise rating
3.8 out of 5 stars
3.75
Professional monitoring
Starts at$19.99/mo
Equipment
$199.99
Installation
DIY
Self Monitoring?
Yes
pro
Pros
pro Ring Alarm Pro (the 8-piece kit) has a built-in eero WiFi 6 router
pro Wide camera selection
pro Affordable monitoring plan
pro 30-day trial period
con
Cons
con No cameras included with kits
con Up-front equipment cost

Ring is the best Wi-Fi security system for building your home’s protection around cameras.

This is why Ring is security camera royalty

Even the best systems seem to slack when it comes to security cameras. Many brands tend to offer a basic selection with basic features. Not Ring. It has everything from Ring doorbell cameras to Ring floodlight cameras with excellent video quality and advanced features:

  • Geofencing
  • IFTTT compatibility
  • 3D motion detection
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi
  • Motion tracking
  • Advanced noise cancellation
  • Loud sirens

Standout feature: For $100 more than the basic 5-piece starter kit, the Ring Alarm Pro 8-piece kit comes with a built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router. The router stabilizes Wi-Fi with speeds up to 900 Mbps and covers up to 1,500 square feet. Plus, your Ring system has 24/7 backup internet to keep it connected during a power outage.

Ring alarm equipment spread out on a desk, including sensors, base station, window sticker, cords, etc.

Image credit: SafeWise

Ring Alarm security kits are affordable. You can buy Ring's five-piece set and receive one year of monthly monitoring for approximately $400. This is cheaper than purchasing equipment alone from other DIY companies.

Ring Alarm testing

Image credit: SafeWise

We have a Ring Alarm system and our tester is using it at home to see how it works every day.

"Ring Alarm is stripped down and basic [home security], but its prices reflect that. And it gets the job done. Plus, you also have options to upgrade your Ring system with its other product lines that range from Ring doorbells to smart security lights. ”

—Rebecca Edwards, SafeWise security expert

Read all about Ring alarm equipment and prices in our full Ring Alarm review.

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How do Americans protect their homes?
  • 7% of Americans said they increased security measures in the past 12 months.1,2
  • 3 in 4 people told us they use some form of property protection.
  • Security cameras are the top pick for home security, followed by a guard dog, firearms, and home security systems.
  • One quarter of Americans don't do anything to secure their property, even though nearly 30% experienced a property crime in the past 12 months.2

Things to consider before you buy a security system

You don't have to guess when it comes to home security. Here are the top things to consider before you decide on a system. 

  1. What are you protecting? Are you most worried about your property, your pets, your people, your packages, or all?
  2. Where are you protecting it? Do you need to keep an eye on things outside or are you more focused on seeing what's happening inside your home?
  3. What kind of property are you protecting? Stand alone houses and apartments have different security vulnerabilities. Consider things like the number of ground-level doors and windows, multiple floors and entrances, and outbuildings—like a garage or shed.
  4. What's your budget? I always say that you shouldn't have to risk financial security to have home security. Identify your budget before you shop and stick to it. 
  5. How hands-on do you want to be? Do you want a system that does everything for you—from installation to professional monitoring? Or is a DIY system more your style, where you can install it and monitor it yourself using a mobile app? Or do you want a little bit of both?

Home security system FAQ

What is the best do it yourself home security system?

SimpliSafe is our pick for the best do it yourself (DIY) home security system on the market today. We like SimpliSafe's no-pressure sales, optional subscription, and straightforward security options. Not only does SimpliSafe alert you—and the authorities—if there's an emergency like a break-in or fire, but it uses RapidSOS to make sure you get the help you need as fast as possible.

Home security systems that are 100% do it yourself  let you pick the security products (like an entry sensor, smart lock, window sensor, cameras), set them up, and monitor them—all on your own. 

Related questions

Is a home security system worth it?

Yes, a home security is worth the investment over time. It would take around six years of paying for a home security system to match the cost of being burgled just one time. According to the FBI, the average loss from a burglary is over $2,600.

With the average annual cost of a home security system coming in around $400 after equipment, it’s a preventative measure that’s worth it. Plus, you can get discounts on home owners insurance, and most burglars say they’d skip a house that has a security system.

How much does a home security system cost?

The average monthly monitoring cost for a home security system is just under $32 per month. Home security system equipment can range from around $200 up to more than $1,000 depending on how many sensors and cameras you need.

Based on our comparisons of home security monthly fees, you can find pro monitoring for as little as $8 per month, but that's for the basics, and doesn't usually include video monitoring. Plans that include perks like smart home integration and video monitoring can run between $40 and $60 per month.

That adds up to around $720 or less per year, but it's far less than the cost of a break-in. The average loss from a burglary is nearly $3,000. Keep in mind that the more features and security devices you add to your system, the bigger the price tag. 

 Related questions

What is the best self-monitoring security system?

The best self-monitoring security system is Eufy, which operates effectively without a subscription. It features local storage for security footage and supports a variety of cameras. The HomeBase 3, Eufy's latest base station, includes advanced smart detection capabilities like recognizing people, vehicles, animals, and even facial recognition.

While professional monitoring is optional through Eufy's Protection Plan Plus for about $10 per month, you can get solid home security from Eufy without paying extra. 

To learn more, check out the pros and cons of self-monitoring home security systems.

Do I have to sign a contract for a home security system?

It depends on which security company you choose. Many professionally monitored home security systems require a contract, and contract length can range from three to five years. But you’ll find more home security options than ever before that offer shorter contracts and month-to-month (contract-free) terms—especially if you can pay for equipment up front.

Most home security companies will charge you around 75% of the remaining term of your contract if you cancel early—and some require 100%.

Related questions

How we review the best home security systems

person testing home security system

Image: SafeWise. Getting "hands-on" with home security equipment.

Every month, more than 1 million visitors look to us for home security information and recommendations. Our honest reviews and expert insights come from thousands of hours of hands-on tests, interviews with real customers, and meetings with technical pros, owners, and CEOs of large and small home security companies.

How we test and choose our top picks

We put in the time to help you find out which home security systems are worth your time, money, and confidence.

We perform hands-on testing and research each system in our roundup. We also talk to the tech teams, CEOs, and other innovators at the companies we review. 

We test security systems in our homes, our friends' homes, and our extended family's homes. We scour customer reviews to capture their experiences and feedback. We compare how each one performs in different settings and to meet different needs. We line up the pricing—upfront, monthly, and over time—to see how much investment you really have to make. 

  • 3.9k+ hours of research and testing
  • 23 in-home tests
  • 21 security systems considered for our top picks

The security systems that make it on our best-of list come from tried and true home security, security camera, or smart home brands. Because home security isn't one size fits all, our best security systems represent a variety of options for homeowners and renters, work for different budgets, and demonstrate a consistent interest in customer and expert feedback.

While our strongest recommendation is for security systems with professional monitoring, we also value systems that offer easy, affordable, and reliable self-monitoring options. 

Our home security system ratings methodology

While we test and research, we look at five primary factors that matter most for protecting your home and family:

  1. Costs and contracts
  2. Response time and monitoring options 
  3. Security features and smart home integration
  4. Customer service and reputation
  5. Ease of installation and use

Learn more about our rigorous testing process in our full methodology.


The Best Security Systems to fit Your Lifestyle

This page gives you a comprehensive overview of the top home security systems available in the U.S. However, if you are looking for more specific advice based on your unique living situation, check out these other guides to home security:

Find safety and home security resources in your area

To help you stay safe at home and in your community, we’ve put together national and local resources, including a home security finder by state, to make sure you know where to turn before the unexpected happens. Click on your state below to get resources for your area.

Beautiful house with freshly cut grass

Sources

1. SafeWise, State of Safety Survey, Fielded January 9–24, 2023. Accessed November 19, 2024.

2. "The past 12 months" refers to the 12 months prior to the survey being fielded. 

Disclaimers

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.

†Google, Google Nest Secure, Google Home, Google Nest Protect, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

ADT: $99.00-$199.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required starting at $59.99 per month ($2,159.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required starting at $59.99 per month ($1,439.76) for California. Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Smoke Detectors not available in all states. Services not available in all states.

Google Nest is a trademark of Google LLC. The Nest Hub Max requires a Wi-Fi network, a nearby electrical socket, and a compatible (Android, iOS) mobile device. A Google Account is required for full access to features. Minimum OS requirements are available at: Requirements for Google Nest and Chromecast devices - Android - Google Nest Help . iOS is a trademark of Cisco and is used under license.

Money back service 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 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.

Rebecca Edwards
Written by
Rebecca is the lead safety reporter and in-house expert for SafeWise.com. She has been a journalist and blogger for over 25 years, with a focus on home and community safety for the past decade. Rebecca spends dozens of hours every month poring over crime and safety reports and spotting trends. Her expertise is sought after by publications, broadcast journalists, non-profit organizations, podcasts, and more. You can find her expert advice and analysis in places like NPR, TechCrunch, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, The Miami Herald, HGTV, MSN, Reader's Digest, Real Simple, and an ever-growing library of podcast, radio and TV clips in the US and abroad.

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