Best Smart Security System in 2026

Q: What's the difference between a wired and wireless alarm system?

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.

After hundreds of hours of tests and research, we picked ADT as the best smart security system in 2026 with professional installation and monitoring. SimpliSafe is the best do-it-yourself smart security system.

4.25

Starts at$28.99/mo

Pro installation
High Quality Google Nest Cameras

See packages

855 641-7233

4.5

Starts at$29.99/mo

Pro installation
Smarter security cameras

See packages

855-313-2503

Starts at$19.99/mo

DIY installation
60-day trial period

See packages

4.75

Starts at$22.80/mo

DIY or pro installation
Advanced dispatch technology

See packages

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

product considered

250+

research hours in 25+ in-home tests

10k+

years of combined experience

176+

homes and people protected

10M+

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'll only recommend a security system we would rely on to protect our families.

ADT and Vivint are excellent choices for a smart home security system if you want full-service, professional installation and monitoring, and an advanced smart home system with monthly financing options. If you're set on professional monitoring with do-it-yourself installation, Cove is the best value.

Thanks to its live monitoring, affordable equipment, and optional subscription, SimpliSafe is a great option if you want to install your system yourself. Seeing how SimpliSafe’s Active Guard monitoring works to help stop a break-in before it happens impressed us.

To help you find the best smart security system for your needs, we tried them all. Our team has spent thousands of hours testing 20+ security systems in real homes over the past 12 years.

How much does a smart alarm system cost?

Home security equipment costs can range from $99 for a self-monitored system to $599 or more for a monitored smart alarm system. Monthly monitoring subscriptions range from $19.99 to $60. Our data gathered from over 30 home security providers shows that $29.97 is the median price for home security subscriptions in the U.S.

How much does a smart alarm system cost?

Home security equipment costs can range from $99 for a self-monitored system to $599 or more for a monitored smart alarm system . Monthly monitoring subscriptions range from $19.99 to $60. Our data gathered from over 30 home security providers shows that $29.97 is the median price for home security subscriptions in the U.S.

Compare the best smart home security

Brand	Self-monitoring?	Pro monitoring price	Starter equipment price	Installation	Learn more
ADT Safe Streets	No	$28.99/mo.	$0.00	Professional	See packages
Vivint	No	$39.99/mo.	$599.00	Professional	See packages
Cove	No	$19.99/mo.	Quote Required	DIY or Pro	See packages
SimpliSafe	Yes	$22.80/mo.	$250.96	DIY or Pro	See packages

Info current as of post date. Monitoring and equipment prices vary based on plan. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimers.

1. ADT: Best smart security with 24/7 monitoring

Also: Runner-up for older adults, Runner-up for real-time crime deterrent

4.75

Starts at$28.99/mo

Professional installation
6-Month ADT Money-Back Guarantee
150 years of experience
6 monitoring centers
Trusted Neighbor feature
Google Nest cameras
Convenient touchscreen control panel
Long contracts with no trial period
High termination fees

See Packages

SafeWise tester Katie McEntire gets an image alert from the Nest Cam she tested as part of the ADT security system. Image: Katie McEntire, SafeWise

Why we recommend ADT and its security cameras

After more than 150 years in the game, ADT still knows how to evolve. Its partnership with Google Nest brings next-level smarts to one of the most established security brands around. Think: Nest cameras, facial recognition, and automation that makes your home feel futuristic — without losing that tried-and-true ADT reliability.

We’re especially impressed by the Trusted Neighbor feature, which uses facial recognition to let in familiar faces (like your dog walker) and keep everyone else out. It’s the kind of smart, secure convenience we didn’t expect from an old-school system — and it works.

ADT pricing snapshot

ADT has a bit of a reputation for being pricier, especially compared to DIY security systems. Monthly fees range from $28.99 (for a landline system) to $64.99 or more (depending on your equipment). There's no question — you’ll probably pay more monthly than you would for a self-installed setup. But there are some upsides baked into the model.

For one, you don’t have to fork over a pile of cash to get started. Instead, ADT includes equipment costs in your monthly payment, which helps spread out the expense and makes budgeting easier.

You will need to pay for professional installation ($99–$199), but considering you get an expert walk-through of your home’s vulnerabilities during setup, it’s not a bad deal.

Monitoring: Starts at $28.99/mo
Installation: $99–$199 (includes professional setup + risk assessment)
Contract: Typically 36 months
Equipment: Included with plan

Katie McEntire testing Nest Cam with an ADT security system. Image: SafeWise

We recommend the $65/month Video and Control package, which gives you wireless ADT equipment, Google Nest cameras, and automation features. That price may seem steep, but it works out to around $775 per year. Over a three-year contract, you'll pay about $2,300. Considering that the average loss from a residential break-in is around $5,500, ADT's protection can be well worth the investment.

Customer insights

Customers praise ADT's professional installation and fast response times, highlighting positive experiences with knowledgeable technicians and responsive support. Frustrations tend to focus on contracts and billing issues. The newest ADT+ app gets much better reviews than previous versions, garnering 4.8★ on iOS and on Android.

Real customer review

“I had a different security system that I wasn't happy with, which is why I went with ADT. I have been with them for at least 10 years, and the good part is that it works. I forgot I had the alarm on when I came back home, and it went off within five minutes. There were two officers there and they were asking for my security code."

—Sandra, ADT customer review, ConsumerAffairs, February 2026

Bottom line

ADT may not be the cheapest or most flexible system, but it’s dependable, modern, and smarter than ever thanks to Google Nest. If you want a trusted name with professional installation and advanced smart features, ADT’s a solid pick.

Keep shopping if you want concierge service without a long-term contract (consider Vivint's no-contract option instead) or you want a system that's compatible with Amazon Alexa.

Visit ADT's website

Call 855-641-7233

2. Vivint: The best smart home security system, installed by pros

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.

Vivint control panel. Learn all about Vivint's security system and pricing on Vivint's website.

Vivint control panel showing what it looks like when the system is disarmed, how many doors are open and unlocked.

“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

Why Vivint is the smartest monitored home security system

Vivint's engineers are constantly working on more ways to help prevent a break-in. We love Vivint for so many reasons:

Most affordable professional installation ($49)
$0 down financing
Free in-home security assessment and consultation
One app to rule them all—you don't have toggle between multiple apps to protect and control your home
Full proprietary equipment line (Vivint doesn’t just rely on other folk’s tech)
Theft-deterrent features
24/7 professional monitoring
Three-time TMA Center of the Year award winner

Standout feature: Vivint's security cameras with Smart Deter lurker detection to help prevent break-ins.

Shows a line-up of sample equipment found in a Vivint home security system: video doorbell, indoor camera, control panel, thermostat, and smart lock.

Editor's take: Vivint's cameras scare away lurkers

Since I first tested one, Vivint's security cameras with Smart Deter lurker detection have been a favorite. I love the video doorbell with its AI and proactive features (like the whistle) that scare away porch pirates. The absolute best part is watching startled lurkers scamper off into the night! You can learn all about it in our Vivint cameras guide.

Rebecca Edwards, Managing Editor

Go with Vivint if you want the reassurance of professional installation, robust smart home security, and expert-guided customization. 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 Smart Home Video monitoring plan delivers video plus smart home control and integration for around $40 a month.

Visit Vivint's website

3. Cove: The best value smart home security

We've tested every iteration of Cove's security system, and we've been consistently impressed with how this company incorporates feedback to improve its offerings and the user experience.

Unboxing the Cove home security system, showing the control panel and yard sign in the box. Image credit: SafeWise staff.

"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

Why Cove is the customer-favorite DIY system

Cove is a great value, with low-cost monthly monitoring that doesn't require 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 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

Cove security system equipment, including control panel, sensors, cameras, keyfob and smart smoke alarm. Image credit: Cove

Editor's take: Cove makes DIY installation even easier

I really like Cove's “done-with-me installation.” It's kind of a combo of DIY and pro install. The touchscreen walks you through installation with large, easy-to-follow illustrations. For me, this was so much better than relying on installation booklets or tiny illustrations in an app (I have older eyes!). This made setup so easy, and there was no back-and-forth from screen to screen or screen to book.

Rebecca Edwards, Managing Editor

Standout feature: When it comes to monitoring, Cove is the most affordable, starting at $17.99/mo.

The Cove Plus plan is the one we recommend. For $28 per month, it includes 24/7 professional monitoring, video recording and monitoring, and smart device integration. Plus, a lifetime extended warranty!

Visit Cove's website

4. SimpliSafe: Best DIY smart home security

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.

Alina testing SimpliSafe home security system.

Alina is currently testing the latest SimpliSafe system with Active Guard monitoring. Setting up the base station. Image credit: Alina Bradford, SafeWise

"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

Why SimpliSafe is the best security system of 2026

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
New outdoor security camera (finally!)
Optional monthly subscription (after first month)
60-day money-back guarantee

Standout feature: Triple-threat monitoring and dispatch technology with video verification, Rapid SOS, and Active Guards that get you the help you need faster.

Editor's take: SimpliSafe helps deter burglars

I haven't always been impressed by SimpliSafe's simple approach to home security. But SimpliSafe Active Guard Outdoor Protection takes this DIY security system to the next level. Advanced AI and trained security agents watch over your home with a mission to scare away intruders before they make any trouble. This is proactive home security like never before! Ring is the only other system on our list that offers this type of service.

Rebecca Edwards, Managing Editor

What SimpliSafe monitoring do we recommend? Go with the Interactive plan. It gives you mobile app control of your SimpliSafe security system and includes email and text alerts. You can also access live video if you add a home security camera.

Visit SimpliSafe's website

Smart Home and Security related questions

Yes, smart home systems are 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. 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.

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.

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%.

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 using an app on your phone—it also makes your system able to respond to your habits and routines.

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.

How we picked the best smart security systems

Person testing home security equipment eq

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

Every month, more than 1 million visitors look to us for home security information and recommendations. Our honest reviews and expert insights come from hundreds 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.

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

Cost and contracts
Response time and monitoring options
Security features and smart home integration
Customer service and reputation
Ease of installation and use

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

Why we recommend SimpliSafe home security

We recommend SimpliSafe for its smart, outdoor live monitoring, affordable gear, and no-pressure plans.

🔥 Get deal on SimpliSafe security

Disclaimers

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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.