10 Best Home Security Systems of 2023

Finding the best home security system can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. To help you find the right home security system, we tried them all. After thousands of hours of tests and research, we picked Vivint as the best home security system of 2023.
Best overall
Vivint yard sign
Vivint
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
Starts at
$29.99
/mo
  • pro
    Pro installation
  • pro
    Smarter security cameras
Best DIY security
simplisafe sign
SimpliSafe
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Starts at
$19.99
/mo
  • pro
    DIY installation
  • pro
    Efficient dispatch technology
  • Icon Emoji  Fire
Trusted brand name
ADT
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$28.99
/mo
  • pro
    Pro installation
  • pro
    Longest money-back period
Best customer experience
Cove
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$17.99
/mo
  • pro
    DIY installation
  • pro
    No-hassle cancellation
  • Icon Emoji  Fire
Self monitored pick
ADT Self Setup
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$19.99
/mo
  • pro
    DIY installation
  • pro
    No contract
  • Icon Blank

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

SafeWise experts have years of firsthand experience testing the products we recommend. We may earn money when you click buy links. Learn how we test and review.

Over the past decade, we’ve researched, reviewed, compared, and ranked the best home security systems on the market to help you confidently protect what matters most in your life.

Vivint stands out as our pick for the best security system because it's the leading company out there actively innovating to deter crime, not just record it. Vivint's state-of-the-art proprietary equipment, advanced smart home integration, and theft-deterrent features are a cut above the average system. Plus, every Vivint alarm system comes with professional monitoring.

But high-end, high-tech home security isn't what everybody needs. 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—even full-on DIY systems like SimpliSafe. Whether you want a system that comes contract-free, has no monthly fees, or lets you self monitor your home, here's our complete list of the top home security systems of 2023—and tips to help you choose the right one for you.


Check out this week's home security deals!

🔥 SimpliSafe is offering 45% off when you sign up for Fast Protect™ monitoring + a free camera.

🔥 Cove is offering 65% off equipment + a free HD camera.

🔥 Abode is offering $20 off its NEW security kit.

🔥 Frontpoint is offering 25% off sitewide for new customers + free shipping.

Things to consider before buying a home 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. 

Are you most worried about your property, your pets, your people, your packages, or all of it?

Do you need to keep an eye on things outside or are you more focused on seeing what's happening inside your home?

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.

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. 

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 install it and self monitor using a mobile app? Or (third option!) do you want a little bit of both?

Compare the best home security systems

Brand
Best for
Monthly cost Icon Tooltip  Dark
Starter equipment price
Contract required
Smart home compatibility Icon Tooltip  Dark
Learn more
Best overall$599.00
Icon Yes  LightNo *
Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best DIY security$245.00
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon,
Google
Most experienced$0.00
Icon No  LightYes
Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best customer experienceQuote required
Icon Yes  LightNo *
Amazon,
Google
Best self monitoring$199.15
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best for Apple fans$279.00
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon, Apple, Google, Z-Wave, Zigbee
Quality DIY pick$129.00
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Best budget-friendly pick$199.99
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Most gadgets$99.99
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon,
Google
Best sensors$199.99
Icon Yes  LightNo
Amazon,
Google,
Apple

*Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.

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Learn more in our best home security system reviews

Now that you have an idea of what to look for—and how our top 10 brands stack up against each other—we've broken down the nitty gritty for each security system. These reviews highlight the main pros and cons, starting costs, standout features, and contract info. If you want to know more to make your decision, you'll find a link to our in-depth reviews in each section. 

1. Vivint: The best overall home security system

Best overall
vivint home security system on desk
Vivint security
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
Starts at
$29.99
/mo
  • pro
    High-end equipment
  • pro
    Advanced smart home features
  • pro
    Smart Deter lurker detection
  • pro
    Free in-home security consultation
  • con
    Higher overall cost

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. 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 monitoring plan delivers everything you could want—video plus smart home control and integration—for around $40 a month.

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

“When Vivint switched its focus from smart home to smart security, it was a game changer. I can't get enough of the video doorbell that’s loaded with AI and proactive features (like the whistle) that actually shoo porch pirates away.”

—Rebecca Edwards, SafeWise security expert

How we tested Vivint

vivint doorbell screenshot of package being delivered

Image: Vivint Doorbell Cam Pro in action, courtesy of SafeWise YouTube channel

We got our hands on Vivint equipment, went through demos with Vivint technical experts, visited Vivint's headquarters for a behind-the-scenes look at how Vivint tech is developed, and participated in multiple interviews with Vivint representatives.

We didn't just test our Vivint   system once, though—it's undergoing long-term testing in a real home.


2. SimpliSafe: The best DIY home security

Best DIY
simplisafe-base-lit-up-on-table
SimpliSafe security
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Starts at
$19.99
/mo
  • pro
    No contracts
  • pro
    Live video feed available
  • pro
    Affordable monitoring
  • pro
    Great options for renters
  • con
    Basic smart home compatibility

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, and you can start or stop it whenever you want to.

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
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
  • New outdoor security camera (finally!)

Standout feature: SimpliSafe features RapidSOS (only one other system has this fast-response feature) to speed up help in an emergency. It skips sending information to a monitoring center and sends it directly to 911 dispatchers so first responders get to you (wherever you are) faster.

Image credit: Alina Bradford, SafeWise

What SimpliSafe monitoring do we recommend? Go with the Fast Protect™ plan. It gives you mobile app control of your SimpliSafe security system and includes email and text alerts—for around $30 per month. You can also access live video if you add a home security camera.

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

Thumbs Up
SimpliSafe's outdoor home security camera

We're thrilled that SimpliSafe finally added an outdoor camera. We think having an eye on the front door is important for home security, and SimpliSafe was too simple for its own good for a while. Glad to see them catching up and offering protection both inside and outside your home!

How we tested SimpliSafe

person holding simplisafe equipment

Image: SimpliSafe base and doorbell, courtesy of SafeWise YouTube channel

We've installed and used the system in four homes to date. We evaluated how easy it was to set up, how convenient it was to arm and disarm, and how well its sensors and cameras performed.

We also met with SimpliSafe, got feedback from our readers, visited the SimpliSafe forum, and even tried jamming our SimpliSafe system.


3. ADT: The most trusted security brand

Trusted brand name
ADT Shield
ADT security
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$28.99
/mo
  • pro
    6-Month ADT Money-Back Guarantee
  • pro
    147 years of experience
  • pro
    9 monitoring centers
  • pro
    Free whole-home risk assessment
  • con
    Long contracts with no trial period
  • con
    High termination fees

Money-back guarantee applicable for system problems during the first six months that ADT is unable to resolve. 

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 147 years
  • ADT Home Security looks out for more than 8 million people across the globe
  • 9 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 more monitoring centers than any other home security company. 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.

adt product bundle

Image credit: ADT

If you’re going with one of the best home security providers out there, you may as well go all in. The Complete plan includes home automation controls, wireless equipment, and video monitoring, starting around $60 per month (Vivint starts at $45 for similar features). That works out to just under $800 a year. If you have a three-year contract, that's around $2400 over three years. That may seem steep, but keep in mind that the average loss from one burglary is around $2,600.

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

How we reviewed ADT

Image: ADT security review, courtesy of SafeWise YouTube channel

We conducted hands-on testing, met with ADT for demonstrations and to ask questions, and even visited an ADT technician training center. We grilled friends and family who have ADT systems and watched how ADT equipment and monitoring performs on both a daily and long-term basis.


4. Cove: The best customer experience security

Best customer experience
Cove security
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$17.99
/mo
  • pro
    Free upgrades
  • pro
    No-hassle cancellation
  • pro
    7-in. touchscreen panel
  • pro
    Great customer reviews
  • con
    Limited smart home compatibility
  • con
    No Z-wave, Zigbee, or IFTTT integration

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

On top of offering affordable monthly monitoring prices—that you can get without a contract—Cove makes it painless to cancel if the system isn’t for you. 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!)
  • 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 pro 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 it 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 monitoring and smart device integration plus a lifetime extended warranty.

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

“I’ve consistently been impressed with the customer-first focus from Cove. As a newer DIY security system, Cove is up against bigger players like SimpliSafe. It stands out with customer-first policies, seeks out feedback, and then responds to feedback (more camera options, please!) so it can deliver a better security system.”

—Rebecca Edwards, SafeWise security expert

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

How we tested Cove

Cove came out and met with us to explain who they are, why they do what they do, and what makes their DIY security system stand out from the rest. (We’ve met with the company multiple times since our initial testing).

Plus, we got to try out Cove’s equipment. We ran a system through the setup process and tested all the sensors to see how they worked. And our YouTube safety guru Katie McEntire lived with the system in her house and reported all her findings.


5. ADT Self Setup: The best self-monitoring security

Best self monitoring
ADT Self Setup starter system product bundle
ADT Self Setup
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$19.99
/mo
  • pro
    No contract
  • pro
    Self-monitoring option
  • pro
    Reliability of ADT
  • pro
    Many equipment and camera options
  • con
    Glitchy mobile app
  • con
    Bulky equipment

If you’re looking for flexibility with the experience of ADT, look no further. ADT Self Setup offers the best of both worlds—easy DIY home security with pro or self monitoring backed by trustworthy pro monitoring from ADT.

Here's why ADT Self Setup is different

ADT Self Setup gives you the experience of ADT and its dedicated, redundant monitoring centers without the contracts, mandatory professional installation, and in-home consultations.

If you want to go pro, the professional monitoring plan sets you back about $20 per month, and there are no contracts or commitments. And if you opt for self-monitoring, you won’t lose camera cloud storage. We love that.

Image credit: ADT Self Setup

We initially ranked this system higher, but after a year of upgrades from other DIY companies, we bumped it down. We’re excited to see what this newcomer does next.

Read more in our full ADT Self Setup review.

Standout feature: Big system under $300

ADT Self Setup carries an enormous 15-piece system for just under $300. It includes an indoor camera and a gaggle of sensors and motion detectors. It’s hard to beat this price for what you get.

How we reviewed ADT Self Setup

adt yard sign in bushes

Image: ADT security review, courtesy of SafeWise YouTube channel

We tested the previous Blue by ADT system and loved its easy setup and simple, no-nonsense devices. But since re-branding as ADT Self Setup, we haven't had a chance to finish testing all the new goodies ADT is rolling out. We'll update this review as we get more hands-on experience with ADT Self Setup's latest offerings.


6. Abode

Best for Apple fans
Abode security
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$21.99
/mo
  • pro
    Apple HomeKit compatibility
  • pro
    Zigbee and Z-wave compatibility
  • pro
    Easy setup
  • pro
    Ideal size for apartments or dorms
  • con
    Up-front equipment costs
  • con
    Limited function for bigger houses

If you’re all about smart home automation, then Abode is the best smart home security system for you. It’s the only smart system on our list that works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Z-Wave, and Zigbee. It lets you connect to almost any smart home device on the market, and this flexibility can’t be beaten by any other system on our list.

Why Abode is smarter than the average DIY system?

Abode can protect your home with its more traditional Smart Security Kit or its sleek all-in-one Abode Iota hub. Whichever way you go, Abode adds smarts to your security setup with voice control through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. In fact, it’s one of the only home automation security systems out there that caters to Apple devotees.

abode iota on shelf next to books

Image credit: Celeste Tholen, SafeWise

On top of voice control, you can add smart lighting, smart locks, smart speakers, and smart smoke and CO detectors to your Abode system. Plus, pro monitoring starts at a around $20 per month.

Get the total rundown on Abode in our full Abode review.


7. Frontpoint

Quality DIY pick
Frontpoint products
Frontpoint security
3.8 out of 5 stars
3.75
Starts at
$34.99
/mo
  • pro
    Wide equipment options
  • pro
    Crash & Smash protection
  • pro
    Live video feed
  • pro
    ID theft protection
  • con
    Higher monitoring fees
  • con
    No pro installation options

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.

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
  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • 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 and those you love and your identity—plus you get this service and its nifty features for free.

Light Bulb
Pricing alert

Frontpoint recently shook up its pricing structure. Now you can get Frontpoint's professional monitoring starting at just $24.99 a month, with upfront equipment purchase starting at $399. (That could save you $120 per year!)

frontpoint hub on table next to plant

Image: SafeWise

Get all the details about Frontpoint’s plans, packages, and equipment in our full Frontpoint review, and see how easy Frontpoint is to install in our complete installation guide.


8. Ring: Best budget-friendly home security

Best budget-friendly security
ring security system installed on wall
Ring security
3.8 out of 5 stars
3.75
Starts at
$20.00
/mo
  • pro
    Built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router
  • pro
    Wide camera selection
  • pro
    Affordable monitoring plan
  • con
    No cameras included with kits
  • con
    Up-front equipment cost

Ring is the best Wi-Fi security system if you want to build 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. Brands often 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

Image credit: SafeWise

We love that you can power most of these cameras with solar accessories. Ring’s optional security lights are solar too: the perfect solution if you hate charging equipment or changing batteries.

Plus, Ring Alarm security kits are affordable. You can buy Ring’s five-piece kit and add monthly monitoring for a year for around $400—cheaper than buying just equipment with most other DIY companies.

Standout feature: Each Ring Alarm Pro system 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.

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


9. Wyze

Most gadgets
wyze home monitoring system on desk
Wyze security
3.8 out of 5 stars
3.75
Starts at
$9.99
/mo
  • pro
    Lowest monthly monitoring price
  • pro
    Affordable equipment
  • pro
    Fantastic budget cameras
  • pro
    Wide equipment selection
  • con
    Weak smart home support
  • con
    No cellular backup

Wyze Home Monitoring has just about every smart home gadget you can think of in its accessory line-up. Some of its offerings include security cameras, smartwatches, video doorbells, scales, a gun safe, and even a remote control car camera.

This is why Wyze wows

Not only does this security system pick have gobs of equipment, it's also affordable. Wyze security kits and monitoring are the lowest we’ve seen. You can get Wyze Home Monitoring for less than $10 per month and a base security kit for around $100. While the base kit includes only two entry sensors, a motion sensor, keypad control panel, and base station, it’s still competitive with starter kits from other top companies on our list.

Wyze has been one of our favorites when it comes to budget security cameras. Wyze Cams are jam-packed with features you don’t find on cameras twice the price. (Most Wyze cameras are under $50.) You can imagine how jazzed we were to see a monitored Wyze security system.

wyze home monitoring system on desk

Image: John Carlsen, SafeWise

While we love Wyze, its monitoring is new, so we hesitate to move it up in our rankings. We’re watching and waiting to see how it performs over time.

Read more in our full Wyze Home Monitoring review.


10. Arlo

Best sensors
""
Arlo Home Security System
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at
$24.99
/mo
  • pro
    Variety of bundles
  • pro
    No contracts
  • pro
    Lots of equipment chioices
  • pro
    One sensor has eight functions
  • con
    One year warranty

Arlo rolled out its security system in 2022, but don't let that scare you. We have long been a fan of Arlo's cameras, which have been going strong since 2018. Arlo has straightforward pricing and equipment packages that make it a good choice for home security newbies. We particularly love its eight-in-one sensors and outstanding security cameras.

How Arlo innovated with the security system sensor

Every Arlo system comes with sensors to detect if a door or window is opening or if there's motion. Arlo decided to take these very basic devices and make them more useful. 

An Arlo sensor detects eight different things instead of just one:

  • Motion Detection
  • Open/Close Detection
  • Water Leak Detection
  • Freeze Detection
  • Tilt Detection
  • Light Detection
  • Smoke Listening (requires monitoring plan)
  • CO Alarm Listening (requires monitoring plan)

This means that you don't have to buy a particular type of sensor for each of your needs. It's one and done. 

""

Image credit: Arlo

And Arlo, like Ring, offers a wide range of camera types, from indoor to outdoor, plus spotlight, floodlight, and more. Check out all the details in our full Arlo security camera review.


Home security system related questions

Vivint is our pick for the best home security system on the market today. We like that Vivint's equipment works as both an alarm system and a deterrent. Not only does Vivint alert you—and the authorities—if there's an emergency like a break-in or fire, but it also helps deter bad actors before they breach your home or swipe a package. 

It would take around six years of paying for a home security system to match the cost of being burgled just one time. 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, most burglars say they’d skip a house that has a security system.

That depends on your budget and comfort with risk. Based on our comparisons of home security monthly fees, the median cost of professional monitoring is lower than ever at less than $30 a month. Some plans, like Wyze Home Monitoring, cost $10 or less each month.

A $40 or $50 per month monitoring fee can seem steep, but that adds up to $600 or less per year. Keep in mind that the more features and security devices you add to your system, the bigger the price tag.

Some top-tier packages cost upward of $60 per month. That’s still significant, but it’s a lot less than the average loss of a break-in. While the rate of burglaries nationally has decreased, the average loss remains high—around $2,600 per incident.

Related questions

A professionally monitored security system has trained professionals keeping an eye on your home 24/7. Monitoring centers contact you if the alarm is triggered, and they can dispatch emergency services to your home. We recommend professional monitoring because it’s your most direct line to help if something happens.

With a self-monitored system, you and other authorized household members check in to make sure everything’s okay at home. Depending on the security system you choose, that may or may not include motion detector alerts, outside security camera alerts, and life-saving alerts like notifications that your smoke alarm went off.

You can save money with self-monitoring by avoiding monthly monitoring fees. But that can leave your home more vulnerable because you won’t have experts watching around the clock.

Related questions

Wireless refers to the use of wireless technology like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for monitoring and connecting the components of your system. Wired refers to a home security system hardwired into your home’s electrical system.

Both protect your home just fine, but wireless home security systems have more flexibility if you move or don’t want to put holes in walls. A hardwired system could be the perfect option if you want a complete smart home or if you can incorporate the installation into a renovation or new construction.

Related questions

What are the pros and cons of wired and wireless security systems?

Yes. Most insurance companies offer a discount when you install a security system. Depending on your insurance,  24/7 professional monitoring may qualify you for as much as 15% off your premium. When you’re looking for the best home security system to buy, verify that you’ll get a certificate to submit to your home insurance company after installation.

Related questions

Can purchasing a home security system decrease my homeowners insurance?

Yes. Thanks to wireless technology, it’s now easy to add security to your home—whether you own, rent, or live in a dorm or with roommates. Many of our top home security systems have packages that meet renters’ security needs. To make it even easier, we also ranked the best security systems for renters.

Related questions

I rent an apartment. Should I still consider 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

The best home security systems use tools and technology to help keep you, your family, and your property safe—think burglar alarms, security cameras, entry sensors, motion sensors, and reinforced door locks. Home automation uses technology to automate everyday activities like locking the doors, turning up the thermostat, or starting the coffee pot.

Combined with home security, home automation can help increase your home’s energy efficiency, remotely control your alarm system, and let you check in on kids or pets when you’re away from home.

Related questions

The difference between a traditional alarm system and a smart one is that different components can communicate with one another. Not only does smart technology give you the ability to control and monitor your home alarm system from anywhere—it also makes your system able to respond to your habits and routines.

Related questions

Home security systems that are 100% DIY 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. Brands like Frontpoint offer DIY installation with professional monitoring. Find some of our favorites on our full list of the best DIY home security systems.

Related questions

Sometimes you don’t have a choice. High-end home security companies like Vivint and ADT offer only professional installation. But most of the other best security companies on our residential security services list give you a DIY option.

Alarm systems that require wiring and sensor or camera placement benefit from professional installation companies—especially if an incorrectly placed motion sensor, door sensor, or security camera could lead to false alarms, or worse, an intruder. But there are some downsides to a pro install—primarily the necessity to schedule an appointment and have someone come into your home.

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 chose 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 test security systems in our homes, our friends' homes, and our extended family's homes. 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
  • 15 in-home tests
  • 20 security systems considered for our top 10

The security systems that make it on our top 10 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:

How much will it cost you upfront and over time? We look at how monitoring fees compare from brand to brand and in contrast with the national average of $31.99/month. We also consider the pros and cons of long-term contracts, how flexible companies are, and what kinds of penalties you get if you cancel.

Because we believe the best home security includes professional monitoring, we pay close attention to what each security company offers and if they do anything extra to get customers help faster. Because we don't want to get fined for calling emergency services as a test, we evaluate response times based on customer input, and how quickly the monitoring center responds when we trigger an alarm.

All security systems come with the same basics—a base, a motion sensor, and couple entry sensors. We look to see what security systems offer beyond that, and we love to see innovation that aims to stop criminals before they break in. And because we're obsessed, we also check out which other smart gadgets out there will work with each system (especially voice control).

Even though home security is one of the most vital and personal services you'll ever invest in, the industry hasn't always had the best reputation. We grill brands about how they treat their customers and then we check with real customers to see if the company line holds water. We examine policies to see if they're customer-first or if you need to watch out. And we keep an eye on how each security company is doing in the headlines, the courts, and customer reviews.

We like to have multiple people install and test the same system so we can find out where all the pitfalls are. We want to save you from our mistakes. We look at everything from how easily we can unbox the system to how intuitive the app and other controls are. Then we put it to the test with triggers, arming, disarming, video capture, and more.

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

Contributing writers:

Alina Bradford

John Carlsen

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.

Rebecca Edwards
Written by
Rebecca Edwards
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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