The Best Home Security Systems of 2025

Home security is something you want to get right the first time. Trusting a home security company with your home and loved ones takes a lot. We get it. That’s why we won’t recommend a security system we wouldn’t rely on to protect our families. To find the most trustworthy and effective home security system for our homes and yours, we conducted over 4,000 hours of short- and long-term tests.

I’ve always believed that when it comes to security, it’s better to be proactive than reactive, and that’s what pushed SimpliSafe to the top of our list of the best home security systems of 2025. SimpliSafe’s Active Guard monitoring can actually help stop a break-in before it happens, unlike other systems that may only record what happens. It’s simply the cherry on top for SimpliSafe, which already offers affordable equipment and optional professional monitoring. 

But that’s not to say that SimpliSafe is the right choice for every situation. If you have a large property to cover, it may be more effective and affordable to go with ADT. For smart home aficionados, you can't get smarter security than Vivint. And if you want a system that customers can’t stop raving about, Cove is worth a look. We’ve sussed out the best security systems for all of these situations and more. Find out which one is the best fit for your home.

• Go ahead and get SimpliSafe home security if you're looking for no-contract home protection that may stop a break-in before it happens.
• Keep shopping if you have a large property to protect (that needs multiple cameras) and a budget to keep.

Our readers have spoken—they love SimpliSafe’s affordable, straightforward security system. And we agree. After meeting with SimpliSafe to get an inside peek at its latest offerings, we're impressed. With Active Guard Outdoor Protection, SimpliSafe has doubled down on protecting its customers—implementing live guard monitoring that aims to stop a break-in before it happens.

Its security systems are simple, and so is its pricing. SimpliSafe has some of the cheapest monthly monitoring fees available—even for plans with trained, human security monitors watching over your home. Plus, you have the flexibility to start or stop your monthly monitoring subscription whenever you like.

If you prefer self-monitoring without a subscription, no problem. SimpliSafe gives you the first 30 days of monitoring for free when you activate your system, but there's no obligation. You can change your plan after the first month—with no hassle, no penalties, and no fees. 

SimpliSafe does home security on its own terms. That means ditching some things that turn off customers: brash salespeople and lengthy contracts. But wait—there's more:

• You choose the equipment and monitoring level you want
• No-pressure online shopping
• Professional monitoring service on demand—no contracts
• Triple-threat monitoring and dispatch technology with video verification, Rapid SOS, and Active Guards that get you the help you need faster
• 60-day money-back guarantee

SimpliSafe strikes a balance between simplicity and innovation. Its sleek, modern Gen 3 components were a major upgrade from the company's original system, though it keeps things streamlined by skipping extensive smart home integrations. While the sensor lineup isn't massive, it covers all the essentials—including smoke/CO detectors, water sensors, and temperature sensors.

You can build your system piece by piece or choose a bundle (but don't expect a discount—sales are the best way to save, with deals up to 50% off). SimpliSafe also offers add-ons like cameras and a smart lock, and (I know you might be sick of hearing this, but . . . ) its Outdoor Camera with Active Guard is a standout. Just be mindful of how many cameras you need; at around $200 a piece, the cost can add up fast.

In our tests, the system performed as expected—with only minor quirks like a quieter siren and some issues connecting the smart lock to the app. Overall, it's a solid choice for reliable home security.

Want more details? Check out our full breakdown of SimpliSafe's equipment.

SimpliSafe offers flexible monthly monitoring options ranging from $0 to $80, with no contracts or hidden fees. Its top-tier Pro Plus plan delivers 24/7 Active Guard Outdoor Protection—where trained agents monitor outdoor cameras, engage with intruders in real time, and call for help if needed. If $80 per month feels steep, the $50 Pro plan delivers overnight-only protection (8 p.m.–6 a.m.). SimpliSafe told us this is their most popular plan right now—you can pay more for less with some other security companies.

To unlock Active Guard, you’ll need at least one Outdoor Camera Series 2, but you can also connect a Video Doorbell Pro for added surveillance. SimpliSafe’s AI-powered system supports up to three cameras, alerting live agents when potential threats appear. From there, professionals can:

• View a live feed and talk through two-way audio
• Activate sirens and spotlights to deter intruders
• Record footage for evidence
• Contact emergency services

While Pro and Pro Plus cost more than SimpliSafe’s standard plans, they’re still more affordable than security guard-style services like Deep Sentinel (starting at $100/mo.) Plus, top-tier plans include a lifetime equipment warranty and a 10% accessory discount.

I know that when it comes right down to it, cost matters. Across the U.S., the average cost for professional monitoring is $32.23 as of February 2025. Simplisafe has plans that are below and above that average. To make it easy for you to compare, here's a breakdown of equipment and monitoring costs.

SimpliSafe equipment packages:

• The Foundation ($249.96): Base station, keypad, 1 entry sensor, and 1 motion sensor 
• The Starter ($279.94): Everything in the Foundation, plus 2 more entry sensors
• The Hearth ($409.91): Everything in the Starter, plus a siren and smoke detector
• The Lighthouse ($479.93): Everything in the Starter, plus an Outdoor Security Camera
• The Knox ($489.87): Everything in the Hearth, plus 3 more entry sensors and 1 more motion sensor, and a key fob remote
• The Haven ($529.86): Base station, keypad, fob, 4 entry sensors, 2 motion sensors, siren, panic button, temperature sensor, water sensor, and smoke detector
• The Beacon ($729.90): Base station, keypad, 4 entry sensors, 2 motion sensors, 2 Outdoor Security Cameras

SimpliSafe monitoring plans:

• Self-monitoring with camera recordings: $9.99/mo.
• Standard monitoring: $21.99/mo.
• Core plan: $31.99/mo.
• Pro plan: $50.00/mo.
• Pro Plus plan: $80.00/mo.

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

• Go ahead and get Vivint if you want the reassurance of professional installation, robust smart home security, and expert-guided customization.
• Keep shopping if you want to "try it before you buy it" and avoid a long-term contract.

Vivint takes smart security to the next level with high-end equipment, professional installation, and 24/7 monitoring—all seamlessly integrated into one powerful system. If you want a hands-off (no elbow grease needed!), fully customizable home security experience, Vivint is just about as good as it gets.

Unlike DIY systems, Vivint's professional installers handle everything, ensuring all of your home's security vulnerabilities are considered. While its premium equipment comes at a higher price, the month-to-month contract option and $0 down financing make it more accessible. Vivint has also aligned its monitoring fees with industry standards, so you're not overpaying for professional protection.

The biggest advantage of Vivint is its total customization. Along with one of Vivint's home security experts, you can build a system specially designed to protect your home. We're big fans of Vivint's advanced security tech and smart home integrations—and we've seen behind the curtain, further cementing our faith in Vivint's security-first proprietary equipment.

We love Vivint because it's a worry-free security system with proactive equipment designed to help prevent a break-in. If you need more reasons, here they are:

• Most affordable professional installation ($49)
• $0 down financing
• Free in-home security assessment and consultation
• Smart home security smartphone app
• Full proprietary equipment line (Vivint doesn’t just rely on other folk’s tech)
• Three-time TMA Center of the Year award winner

Vivint is a smart security leader, offering high-tech equipment that goes beyond the basics. From security cameras and smart lighting (my fave!) to automatic locks, Vivint smart home brings a full suite of home automation devices under one system. Its Smart Hub, an evolution of its game-changing SkyControl Panel, is the brains of the entire system, and it can support up to six cameras without slowing down your Wi-Fi—solving a major issue for multi-camera setups.

As I've mentioned before, Vivint’s security cameras are its most proactive devices (pardon me while I gush!), with the Outdoor Camera Pro and Doorbell Camera Pro showcasing the brand’s innovation and ability to stay ahead in a competitive market. Since Vivint designs and manufactures its own equipment, you’re getting top-tier quality, but at a higher price—one of the biggest trade-offs of the system.

Another thing we like about Vivint is the host of sensors and devices that protect more than the front porch. From smart locks and thermostats to automated garage door and lighting control, Vivint helps make your life safer and more convenient.

Want to learn more? Go to our detailed examination of Vivint's cameras.

Vivint offers three professional monitoring plans with a $49 installation fee—the cheapest one around.

The Smart Security Monitoring plan starts at $29.99 monthly, giving you access to the Vivint app for system control. Stepping up to Smart Home Monitoring at $39.99 per month unlocks voice control, smart home automation features like a smart thermostat, smart lighting, and smart door locks. For complete protection, the Smart Home Video Monitoring plan starts at $44.99 per month, adding live video streaming and Smart Deter package protection to the mix—you picked the wrong house, Porch Pirate!

Vivint’s monitoring costs are competitive for a premium security system, offering a balance of smart home automation and professional protection. The only catch is contracts. You'll be in a contract unless you can pay for your equipment up-front. The plus is that you can get your system for $0 down with financing and a contract. The minus is how long Vivint's contracts are (up to five years) and its cancellation fee. If you want to cancel, you'll need to pay 100% of the remainder of your contract.

Vivint may be a luxury security system, but its monthly monitoring fees are surprisingly in line with industry averages. For around $45 per month, you can get the Smart Home Video plan, which includes everything: video surveillance plus smart home control and integration (ADT's similar plan is about $20 more). 

Here's what you get for your money with Vivint's monitoring plans: 

• Smart Security ($29.99/mo.): 24/7 pro monitoring, Vivint app
• Smart Home ($39.99/mo.): 24/7 pro monitoring, Vivint app, voice control, smart device control
• Smart Home Video ($44.99/mo.): All Smart Home features plus Smart Deter Package Protection and live video

You have two payment options: pay for your equipment upfront and go month-to-month with monitoring, or finance it through Vivint Flex Pay—which could mean a 60-month contract. Financing requires a hard credit check, but Vivint offers $0 down for those who qualify, making it easier to get started with no upfront cost. If you do end up financing your equipment, that cost will be added to your monthly bill, so you'll pay more than the $29.99 or $44.99 monitoring fee.

Comparing Vivint’s equipment prices to DIY brands is tricky because Vivint develops its own proprietary devices rather than using generic, off-the-shelf components. A basic starter package (including a touchscreen panel, two door sensors, a motion sensor, and a water sensor) costs around $600. While that’s higher than the median equipment package price of $300, many lower-cost systems rely on white-labeled equipment, whereas Vivint’s hardware is built in-house by security experts with one goal—to protect your home.

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

• Go ahead and get ADT home security if you want the most trusted name in the industry and like the advanced smarts you get with Google Nest cameras.
• Keep shopping if you're a renter or unsure about committing to your security system for three years.

If you’ll sleep better knowing that a well-known, tried-and-true company is watching over your home, ADT is worth the money and the commitment. After 150 years, the ADT systems we've got in action today are a far cry from the first ones I tested 12 years ago. Although ADT keeps it fairly old school, with mandatory contracts and a required subscription, I've been thrilled to see it embrace smart home with a Google Nest partnership and get innovative with the Trusted Neighbor feature.

If you've got dog walkers or cleaners who come to your home regularly, Trusted Neighbors' advanced facial recognition will know who they are and let them in when paired with one of ADT's Yale smart locks. You won't have to pass out spare keys anymore—plus, you can see them take Fido out, so no more questions about whether or not he got his walk.

And we continue to appreciate ADT's award-winning monitoring—which is what it really comes down to with a full-service professional security system.¹  ADT owns and operates six 24/7 monitoring centers—the most in the industry. What does that mean to you? That ADT's got you covered no matter what—power outages, extreme weather, or anything else that could put a single monitoring center down. Six centers means you've got backup.

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)
• Secure home access with Trusted Neighbor

ADT delivers a professionally installed, high-tech security system with a starter kit designed to lower upfront costs. Each package includes a touchscreen control panel, a motion detector, three contact sensors for doors or windows, and the famous ADT yard sign and window decals—a deterrent even burglars recognize.

ADT is the only security provider offering video monitoring with Google Nest cameras—and I love that. Cameras are one area where ADT hasn't always shined, but the decision to work with Google Nest was genius. In my opinion, this partnership cancels out what used to be one of ADT's only weaknesses.

Cameras aren't the only components you can add to your ADT system. You can bulk up your security with additional sensors, smoke and CO detectors, smart locks, the Google Nest thermostat, and more. With so many gadgets and gizmos, this is where the in-home risk assessment really helps—the technician will help you make the best decisions to address your home's security weaknesses.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our full ADT security cameras guide and Nest cameras review.

ADT has several monitoring plans, starting from around $30 to $65. Each tier adds more features and equipment, so you can pick the one that matches your overall security goals. Are you set on smart home integration, or is video surveillance and storage your top priority?

Plans range from basic landline security to fully integrated smart home protection with live video surveillance. If you're interested in a landline plan, you may have to ask for that option as it's no longer a standard offering. And keep in mind that you'll give up some crucial features like cellular backup.

We recommend ADT's Video and Control bundle, which includes home automation, wireless equipment, and video monitoring, starting at around $65 per month. That may seem steep, but it works out to around $775 per year. Over a three-year contract, you'll pay about $2,300, but considering that the average loss from a nighttime break-in is nearly $4,500, ADT's protection can be well worth the investment.²

Over the years, ADT has had a reputation for being more expensive, especially compared to DIY home security systems. But ADT's model (even though it comes with contracts) has some benefits. For one, you don't have to fork out a big wad of cash to get your equipment. ADT includes equipment costs in your monthly payment, so there's no pressure to blow through your savings to protect your home and family.

Your total monthly payment will depend on the equipment and features you choose, and while ADT has equipment bundles, they're not individually priced, and you could get away without putting any money down. One thing you will have to pay for is installation. Here's a look at ADT's monitoring plans' starting prices and the installation costs that go with them.

• Landline plan: $28.99/mo. with $99 installation fee
• Entry-level plan: $45.99/mo. with $99 installation fee
• Low-tier plan: $52.99/mo. with $99 installation fee
• Mid-tier plan: $59.99/mo. with $99 installation fee
• Top-tier plan: $64.99/mo. with $199 installation fee

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

• Go ahead and get Cove home security if you like free perks and want a company that puts customers first.
• Keep shopping if you don't want a monthly subscription or advanced home automation.

I remember the first time I learned about Cove, meeting them in the startup section at CES. And for a company that was the new kid on the block, this DIY security company has established its place among the best options out there. I've tested every iteration of Cove's security system, and I've been consistently impressed with how this company incorporates feedback to improve its offerings and the user experience.

With Cove, it really comes down to how they treat their customers. If you’re motivated by good customer service, you may as well just click on Cove now. The company once told us its policy is to be “more than fair” with customers, and we've seen that in action. That’s probably why Cove has a whopping 98% customer retention rate*. From customer-first policies and rewards to super-simple setup and affordable pro monitoring, Cove is a great DIY home security choice.

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

Over the years, Cove has made big upgrades to its equipment. I especially like the separate hub and control panels, which means you can have up to four panels throughout your home—so helpful if your home has multiple floors.

Overall, Cove is reminiscent of SimpliSafe, with straightforward equipment that is focused only on protecting your home. The downside is a lack of IFTTT and Z-Wave compatibility. That means this isn't the system for sophisticated smart home integration. But the security equipment is solid.

I'd be remiss if I didn't recommend the water leak sensor. We once asked Cove employees what they think is the best part of its security system, and they ALL shouted, "the flood sensor!" We all got a good laugh (what about the high-tech touchscreen panel?), but it made sense. We get leaks in our homes far more often than intruders. To protect your home from the nightmare of water damage, don't skip this vital sensor when you put your Cove system together.

This is another thing that Cove makes easy for customers. You only have to decide between two monitoring plans: Cove Basic and Cove Plus. Cove's monitoring tops out at $30 per month, making it one of the most affordable security subscriptions out there. The current average for monthly monitoring is $32.23 across the U.S. The only catch is that you must pay a monthly fee; the Cove system doesn't work without it.

Both plans come with app control (something that used to require an upgrade), environmental monitoring for smoke, CO alarms, and the famous flood sensor, and Cove's emergency communication trifecta that connects you to the monitoring center via text, phone, and your control panel.

If you opt for Cove Plus, your equipment warranty bumps from 1-year to lifetime, plus you get video support and voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. But the best part is the $5 equipment credit you earn every month. This perk lets you add sensors or new equipment without breaking the bank. No other company actually pays you back for your monthly monitoring fee. We think that's pretty cool.

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 is one of the most affordable home security options on the market. It only has two monitoring plans, and both come in below the national average for security monitoring:

• Cove Basic: $19.99/mo.
• Cove Plus: $29.99/mo.

When it comes to equipment, Cove offers à la carte pricing, so you only pay for what you need. A basic setup with a hub, base, and sensor starts around $300, making it easy to customize your system to fit your home. If you’re unsure where to begin, Cove’s website has a quick and easy quiz to help guide you toward the right setup. And if you don't want to install the system yourself, you can get professional help starting at $129.

Here's a look at Cove equipment prices:

• Hub: $150.00
• Touchscreen panel: $150.00
• Door/Window sensors: $15.00
• Motion detector: $50.00
• Glass break sensor: $50.00
• Flood sensor: $50.00
• Eufy cameras: $59.99–$129.99
• Key fob: $30.00
• Panic button: $30.00
• Smoke and CO detectors: $95.00 each

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

Frontpoint is the closest to a full-service security system I've seen in a DIY package. It comes down to the equipment and features. Systems like SimpliSafe and Cove have all the home security essentials you need, but Frontpoint offers extras that you typically see only with companies like Vivint or ADT.

With more equipment options than most DIY competitors, Frontpoint makes it easy to secure your entire property—inside and out. It offers nearly every sensor you could need, and for years, it was the only DIY system with outdoor cameras. You can also get full smart home integration thanks to Z-Wave compatibility.

And I really appreciate how easy it is to get the system up and running in the app. Frontpoint's app-guided setup is one of the easiest I've experienced.

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 or in-home consultations
• No wires for burglars to cut on this wireless alarm system

I've already talked about how robust Frontpoint's equipment options are, and you can either pick a pre-selected package or create your own customized system. It's been nice to see Frontpoint expand its offerings to include proprietary equipment designed with customer feedback in mind. That's one thing this company does really well—listen to its customers. 

Some of the extras you can get from Frontpoint include a garage sensor, an outdoor smart plug, and multiple outdoor and doorbell cameras. It's rare to see DIY systems that offer a nice selection of outdoor protection options.

Frontpoint's professional monitoring covers everything from break-ins to fire alarms, and it was one of the first companies to include Crash & Smash protection with every plan. That means the monitoring center is alerted if an intruder tries (or succeeds) to damage your control panel—you're still connected to help even if the bad actors do their worst.

This is another DIY system that doesn't give you the option to monitor the system yourself. You'll have to pony up for professional monitoring if you want the advantages of Frontpoint's vast equipment options.

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

Ring is the best Wi-Fi security system if you want to build your home’s protection around cameras. And now, video footage is easier than ever to sort through, thanks to Smart Video Search. I got a demo of this feature (currently in beta) at CES, and I was impressed. It was intuitive, accurate, and fast. If you need to rely on your Ring footage in the event of package theft or to catch that cute home-from-school dance your kiddo did, this feature makes it simple to get exactly what you want.

After gushing about SimpliSafe's Active Guard Outdoor Protection, I have to do the same for Ring's Virtual Security Guard. The fact is, Ring did it first. You can have specially trained security pros monitor the action on your cameras and actively work to scare off any suspicious characters. That's top-notch proactive security!

There are a lot of changes coming from Ring that I'm excited about, but one recent change I don't like is its monitoring plans and pricing structure. Ring used to be super simple, and with its great prices, the system was a slam-dunk. Maybe I'm just struggling with change, but if I have to go over it multiple times so I can explain it to you, I fear customers may not understand what they're signing up for. Fortunately, there aren't any contracts or penalties, so even if you don't get what you want, it's easy to change it.

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
• Virtual Security Guard with Rapid Response
• Smart Video Search (in beta)

It's not surprising that one of the world's first doorbell cameras gave rise to a full-on home security setup, but it is impressive. With that undeniable little blue ring, Ring is one of the most recognizable brands out there. Ring Alarm has had a slow evolution, but it seems to be making up for lost time with recent additions and upgraded features.

While Ring delivers all the basics you want in a DIY system (base station, keypad, motion detector, and entry sensors), it's the cameras that elevate it above the competition.  There are seven different cams to choose from, and five of those work to keep an eye on the outside of your home (where the lurkers are!).

One of the things I've criticized Ring for is not making its equipment backward-compatible when it adds new features or new devices. Word is, those days are gone. When I was hanging out with Ring at CES, being dazzled by its new AI features, I had to know if current Ring customers were going to miss out. With a laugh and a commiserating nod, I was assured that they won't.

Perhaps best of all, Ring Alarm security kits are affordable. You can buy Ring's five-piece set for $200 and its largest set, with 14 pieces, tops out at $380.

I'm going to do my best to make this short and simple. Ring has three different plans and a couple of add-ons. The tricky thing is that none of the plans include 24/7 professional monitoring—that's now an add-on. So, if pro monitoring is what you're looking for (it's what I recommend), your monthly cost will be either $19.99 or $29.99 per month.

Those are still great prices and come in under the national average of $32.23. Where it gets cost-prohibitive is the Virtual Security Guard. That's $99 per month on top of the $10 or $20 you're paying for the Standard or Premium plan. With SimpliSafe's Active Guard coming in at $50 or $80 per month (with no add-ons), Ring's price is hard to swallow. But it's still cheaper than Deep Sentinel, which offers a similar service starting at $100 per month to monitor one camera.

Here's a rundown of Ring's current plans and its add-on services:

• Basic ($4.99/mo.): Covers one camera with 180 days of event history, smart alerts, and 10% off selected Ring products.
• Standard ($9.99/mo.): Everything in Basic; covers all devices at 1 location; extended live view and advanced video features/alerts; cellular backup; extended warranties.
• Premium ($19.99/mo.): Everything in Standard; 24/7 recording; Smart Video Search; 24/7 backup internet, micro SD storage option, SOS Emergency Response.
• Alarm Professional Monitoring Add-on ($10.00/mo.): 24/7 professional monitoring.
• Virtual Security Guard add-on ($99.00/mo.): Trained security pros watch your home and actively work to prevent a break-in or theft before it happens.

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

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. 

Installation: DIY or professional?

• DIY systems (like SimpliSafe or Cove) are easy to set up, cost less, and work well for smaller homes.
• Professional installation (like Vivint or ADT) includes expert setup and consultation but comes with higher fees.

Home size matters

• Larger homes need more sensors and cameras to cover all entry points.
• Smaller homes and apartments can save money with fewer devices.

Budgeting beyond the price tag

• Compare upfront equipment costs and monthly monitoring fees.
• Consider the total cost of a contract.
• Watch for hidden fees like cancellation charges or moving costs.

Must-have features

• Security equipment – Cameras, alarms, and sensors to deter intruders.
• Smart home automation – Control lights, locks, and access remotely.
• Environmental monitoring – Get alerts for smoke, leaks, or extreme temperatures.

We take home security seriously, and that's why we thoroughly evaluate every system before making our recommendations. We put products and services to work in homes and other real-life situations. Over the past 12 years, we've put in over 4,000 hours of hands-on testing, observed systems over time in 23 tester homes, and tried 21 different home security systems.

During tests, we assess all of the following, as applicable:

• Installation (is setup easy, how long does it take, is it easy to get help?)
• Function (does the product or service deliver what it promised?)
• Features
• Compatibility
• Mobile app
• Image quality, video streaming, etc.
• Alerts/notifications

First, we break down the cost. We compare upfront equipment costs, monthly monitoring fees, and long-term value to see how each system stacks up. Over the past decade we've amassed a large data set that gives us insights into security systems cost trends, average prices, and the the ability to quickly tell if any company is charging too much for what they offer. We also check for hidden fees, contract requirements, and cancellation policies. While some brands offer month-to-month flexibility, others lock you into long-term agreements with penalties for early termination. We look at the fine print, so you don't have to.

Professional monitoring is one of the most important aspects of home security, so we test how well each system keeps you protected. We evaluate monitoring plans, how alerts are sent (landline, internet, or cellular), and how quickly the monitoring center responds when an alarm is triggered. We also look for extras that security companies offer, like Rapid SOS, live guard monitoring, and advanced AI notifications and alerts—anything that means you get the help you need faster and more accurately. While we don't call emergency services as part of our tests (that can get you fines!), we factor in customer reviews and direct interactions with monitoring centers to gauge response times and reliability.

A great security system does more than just sound an alarm—it should actively help prevent break-ins. We test the standard equipment like motion and entry sensors. Still, we also look for advanced features like glass break sensors, security cameras with smart alerts, and smart home compatibility. If a system integrates with voice assistants, smart locks, or automation platforms, we put those features to the test to see how seamlessly everything works together. And if you can control it all from one app instead of switching—even better!

A security system is only as good as the company behind it. We evaluate customer support by reaching out with questions via phone, email, and live chat to see how responsive and helpful they are. We also examine policies—like warranties, trial periods, and return policies—to determine if they truly put customers first. In addition, we research customer reviews, complaints, and even legal actions to get a complete picture of each brand's reputation.

Whether a system is DIY or professionally installed, we test the setup process from start to finish. We have multiple team members install and use each system to uncover any common pitfalls. We have testers go through the entire process for professionally installed systems like Vivint. From unboxing to app navigation, we assess how intuitive and user-friendly each system is. Once installed, we put each system through its paces with real-world scenarios—arming, disarming, triggering alarms, setting up smart automations, and using mobile controls—to ensure it works as expected.

Choosing a home security system is important; we're here to help. Through our testing process and strong relationships with home security companies, we strive to provide real, expert-backed recommendations—and we want to make sure you know what we don't like as well. Whether you're looking for professional monitoring, smart home integration, or a budget-friendly system, our goal is to make sure you find the right fit for your home and family.

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

1. Security Sales & Integration, "ADT Wins 2022 Police Dispatch Quality Award," June 17, 2022. Accessed February 22, 2025.
2. Veera Korhonen, Statista, "Average value of property stolen during burglaries in the United States in 2023, by location," December 12, 2024. Accessed February 21, 2025.
3. SafeWise, State of Safety Survey, Fielded August 2024. Accessed February 21, 2025.