7 Best Home Security Systems of 2025 | Reviewed and Tested by Experts

Trusted by millions of readers and backed by proprietary research data, SafeWise experts test and compare the best home security systems so you can protect your home confidently.

We’ve spent thousands of hours living with these systems, setting them up in real homes, and putting them through all kinds of real-life scenarios. So when we say SimpliSafe is our best security system for 2025, it’s not just based on hype or slick marketing — it’s because it actually works before a break-in happens. Its Active Guard monitoring can step in to help stop a crime in progress, which most systems just can’t do. And with affordable equipment and optional pro monitoring, it hits that sweet spot between protection and price.

That said, one size doesn’t fit all. SimpliSafe might not be the best choice if you’ve got a big property to cover (ADT might suit you better) or if you want cutting-edge smart home devices (hello, Vivint). If you’re after a budget-friendly system that still makes customers happy, Cove is a sleeper hit. And you can't do better than Abode if you want a security system that works with all your smart home devices (even Apple Home).

We’ve tested them all — so you don’t have to. Let’s find the right fit for your home.

SimpliSafe’s come a long way from its “set it and forget it” roots. With Active Guard monitoring, it doesn’t just alert you — it steps in to deter break-ins in real time. Active Guard monitoring uses AI and live agents to spot intruders, shout warnings, and call for help — all in real time. While no security system is 100% foolproof, SimpliSafe provides protection that acts before a break-in happens.

Setup is quick (under an hour) and truly DIY-friendly (but they have Expert Home Installation available if you'd rather leave it to the pros). The system’s design is sleek, the cameras are sharp, and the app is intuitive. You can start with self-monitoring for free or opt into professional monitoring whenever you need it — even just for a vacation.

One of my favorite things about SimpliSafe is how transparent they are. There are no contracts, no penalties for canceling, and no pressure to buy more than you need. Self-monitoring starts at $0 (really), and even the top-tier plan is cheaper than many competitors.

Here's a quick peek at SimpliSafe's current prices:

Equipment packages start around $280 and go up to around $730, depending on how much gear you want.

Monitoring plans range from $0 to $80/month:

• $0: Self-monitoring without video recordings
• $9.99: Self-monitoring with video recordings
• $31.99: Standard (pro monitoring without video recordings)
• $49.99: Pro ( Active Guard 8pm–6am)
• $79.99: Pro Plus (24/7 Active Guard)

Get all the details in our SimpliSafe cost guide.

Overall: Smooth setup, solid performance, and surprisingly smart monitoring for the price.

This isn't the same SimpliSafe we tested five years ago. It's grown up — and it's gone from "set it and forget it" to "set it and scare the pants off potential intruders." SafeWise contributor and technology tester Alina Bradford installed the newest version in her home to see if the buzz around its Outdoor Camera with Active Guard was legit. Spoiler: it is.

This table provides an overview of Alina's most recent testing experience with SimpliSafe, including details about installation, quality, and alarm system responsiveness. We go into more detail below the table.

Installation: Easy and frustration-free

• True plug-and-play setup — took under 45 minutes to install.
• Sensors and base station paired quickly with no tech support needed.
• The smart lock gave us minor hiccups in past tests, but recent updates fixed most issues.
• Easy for homeowners or renters to install.

Performance: Smart, strong, and proactive

• Outdoor cameras: Surprisingly sharp video, and the two-way audio is crystal clear.
• Alarms: Alerted me when it should, stayed quiet when it should, and gave me zero false alarms during my testing period.
• Active Guard monitoring: Live agents reacted instantly when I tested responsiveness.
• App experience: Intuitive, with easy access to support if you run into any issues.
• Minor wish list: Louder siren and more advanced motion settings.

SimpliSafe earns strong praise for easy setup and budget-friendly flexibility. Some users report mixed app experiences, but overall satisfaction remains high — with 4.8★ on iOS and 4.5★ on Android.

SimpliSafe hits the sweet spot between simplicity, powerful proactive protection, and subscription flexibility. It’s perfect if you want an affordable system that can deter intruders before they get inside — without locking you into a contract.

👉 Read our full SimpliSafe review for more testing insights and gear details.

Vivint delivers luxury-level protection with brains to match. From smart sensors to proactive Smart Deter cameras that flash and whistle to scare off lurkers, this system goes beyond traditional monitoring — it actually helps stop intrusions before they happen.

Setup is stress-free thanks to Vivint’s $49 professional installation — the cheapest pro install we’ve seen — and the technician walks you through every feature before leaving.

Vivint gives you options when it comes to monthly monitoring and paying for your equipment. You can purchase your equipment outright, allowing you to opt into professional monitoring without a contract. But if you don't want to make a big upfront payment, your equipment costs can be included in your monthly fees. Just be aware that you'll need to sign a contract (which could last up to 60 months) if you're financing your equipment.

Monitoring:

• Starts at $39.99/mo.
• Add $5.00/mo. per camera (up to 6 total)
• 24/7 recording: $6.99/mo. (or $299.99 one-time fee)

Equipment:

• $49.00 installation fee
• $599.99 starter pack
• Buy outright or finance with a contract up to 60 months

Get all the details in our Vivint cost guide.

Overall: Premium protection that blends smart tech, pro setup, and real human monitoring into one powerful package.

In April, our eminent tester Alina had Vivint’s full catalog installed — cameras, sensors, the works — to see if it still lives up to its reputation as the smartest security system on the block.

For $49 (the cheapest pro install fee we’ve seen), a technician showed up, sized up Alina's home, and set up the system in a few hours. No manuals, no call-in for troubleshooting, no panic-drilling into drywall (they did the drilling for us).

The table below gives an overview of Alina's experience testing a Vivint home security system.

Installation: Seamless and customized

• Professional installation handled everything — no drilling, pairing, or setup stress for me.
• The technician customized placement and walked me through every feature before leaving.
• Hidden door sensors and clean camera installs mean the system doesn't draw attention or detract from the aesthetic of my hone.

Performance: Reliable and responsive

• Vivint’s Smart Hub and app made it easy to control everything — from locks to lights to garage doors.
• Cameras like the Outdoor Camera Pro and Video Doorbell Pro delivered crystal-clear video and smart motion alerts were reliable and accurate.
• Smart Deter tech reacted to suspicious movement with lights and warning tones.
• I didn't see any false alarms during my tests. 

Vivint earns kudos for its white glove installation process and smart home ecosystem. Some customers call out billing or app issues, but overall, Vivint's service gets high marks for reliability and professionalism. Vivint's app is well-reviewed, earning 4.6★ on iOS and 4.4★ on Android.

Vivint is smart, sleek, and serious about protection. It costs more upfront, but it delivers smart burglar deterrence and a truly connected home. If you want expert setup and proactive security, Vivint’s a standout pick.

👉 Read our full Vivint review for more details on equipment and monitoring options.

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 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

Overall: ADT proves that experience still counts. With top-tier monitoring, smart Google Nest integration, and professional installation that actually feels professional, this legacy brand shows it can still hang with the new kids.

We've tested ADT multiple times over the years and interviewed long-term ADT customers to get a solid grasp of how well this popular alarm system performs. Our results are a compilation of all the ADT tests and customer interviews we've conducted over the past decade.

The table below gives a high-level overview of ADT's performance.

Installation: Leave it to the pros

• You'll pay $99–$199 for pro install with ADT.
• Full in-home risk assessment.
• Installation tailored to fit your security priorities and counter your home's  vulnerabilities.
• May not be the best fit for renters.

Performance: Smart tech meets reliability

• Google Nest partnership expands smart home capabilities.
• Nest Doorbell and indoor/outdoor cameras deliver crisp video and clear audio.
• New ADT+ app is a big improvement over other iterations.
• Trusted Neighbor facial recognition feature is convenient, especially when paired with a Yale smart lock.
• ADT's iconic yard signs still make burglars think twice.

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.

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.

👉 Read our full ADT review for more details on pricing, equipment, and monitoring plans.

Cove built its reputation on listening to customers — and it shows. This DIY-friendly system is simple to install, easy to use, and refreshingly human in how it treats you. From no-hassle cancellation to a 60-day trial and $5 monthly reward credit, Cove turns home security into something that actually feels customer-first.

During testing, we loved the done-with-me installation — a touchscreen panel that walks you through setup step-by-step like a friendly tech-savvy guide. It’s quick, clear, and beginner-proof.

Cove offers clear, simple pricing for professional monitoring and equipment is à la carte. Overall, Cove is one of the most budget-friendly ways to get real protection — especially considering the lifetime equipment warranty you can unlock with Cove Plus.

• Monitoring plans:
  • Cove Basic: $19.99/mo
  • Cove Plus: $29.99/mo (adds smart integrations, video, warranty, and rewards)
• Equipment: Starts around $300
• Installation: DIY or pro install from $129

Overall: Cove proves that “DIY” doesn’t have to mean “do it alone.” With its guided setup, responsive sensors, and standout customer-first perks, this system delivers pro-level protection without the stress.

Cove's setup experience is one of the best I've tested. Thanks to a 7-inch touchscreen panel that walks you through every step, it feels more like having a technologically adept friend helping you out than wrestling with tiny instruction manuals. Our tester, Katie McEntire, lived with the system in her home for 30 days and shared her experience. Learn all about it in her video on our YouTube channel.

Get a closer look at our testing results in the table below.

Installation: DIY with a helping hand

• Touchscreen channel walked me through every step.
• Clear, on-screen instructions, with confirmation when you're successful.
• All devices were preconfigured and ready for installation at my home.
• We had a little trouble with some of the adhesive failing to stick (a smoke detector fell) and another contact sensor peeled some paint. (It could be user error, but wanted to let you know.)
• The doors in my older house were tricky for the entry sensors, but we made it work (watch the video to see how we made it happen).
• You can add pro installation (starting at $129) if you don't want to DIY. 

Performance: Fast alerts and reliable response

• Sensors were fast, accurate, and reliable during testing.
• I got a call, text, and a loud alarm from the system when a water leak was detected.
• Eufy cameras are an upgrade to Cove's original cameras, delivering reliable, clear audio and video.
• We appreciate the extra reassurance of RapidSOS, which connects directly to emergency dispatchers for faster help.

With more than 6,300 customer reviews and an average rating of 4.2★, Cove is the highest-rated system on our list. Customers love its easy setup, transparent pricing, and friendly support, though some mention occasional app or camera hiccups.

Cove doesn’t try to be everything — it just focuses on what matters most: simple setup, quick response, and genuine customer care. It’s a smart pick if you want reliable protection without contracts or hidden fees.

👉 Read our full Cove review for more on pricing, equipment, and features.

Abode is the smart home lover’s security system. It was the first to work with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, and Zigbee, and it’s still one of the most flexible systems you can buy today.

You can self-monitor for free, pay for professional monitoring full-time, or even grab a 3- or 7-day plan when you’re out of town. That kind of flexibility is rare — and a big reason Abode keeps earning a spot on our list.

At first glance, Abode's equipment appears to be a bit pricier than SimpliSafe's or Cove's, but its lower monthly fees help balance it out. Abode offers a variety of equipment choices, including pre-packaged security kits and à la carte options, ranging from motion sensors that start at $40 each to security cameras starting at $60.

• Self-monitoring: Free
• Standard Plan: $7.99/mo (automation + video storage)
• Pro Plan: $25.99/mo (adds 24/7 monitoring + AI alerts)
• On-demand monitoring: $8 for 3 days or $15 for 7 days
• Equipment: $160–$800 depending on your setup

Overall: Abode stands out for its smooth DIY setup, flexible monitoring, and unmatched smart home compatibility — making it a perfect pick for tech-savvy users who want options.

Abode continues to be a personal favorite. I've used it in stand-alone houses and apartments (currently), and I love the flexibility, easy setup, simple control through the app, and reliable sensors and alerts. It really makes me feel safer after having recently moved to downtown Spokane, where things are known to get sketchy. 

Check out the table below for a snapshot of my testing experience with Abode.

Installation: Fast, guided, and frustration-free

• Setup took less than an hour, with step-by-step in-app instructions.
• Sensors were easy to pair and I had no problems connecting to the hub.
• The adhesive mounts worked well, nothing falling off the walls.
• Ideal for small to mid-sized spaces — the Iota and two contact sensors cover my current apartment perfectly.

Performance: Smart, steady, and customizable

• Worked well with existing smart devices — from Alexa to Philips Hue lights.
• It was easy to build custom automations (like lights turning on when the front door opens).
• Cameras and sensors performed reliably, with quick notifications and no false alarms.
• The app was better than in the past, but I still had occasional delays when loading live video. 

Abode has fewer reviews than some competitors, but fans love its smart home flexibility and helpful support. Most complaints focus on slow replacements and occasional app glitches. The mobile app continues to be hit-and-miss, with current ratings of 4.2★ in the Apple App Store and 2.4★ on Google Play — although I expect those to improve as more people use the latest version.

Abode is the go-to choice if you want smart home control without a contract. It’s not the cheapest system out there, but it’s easily the most flexible — especially for Apple users or renters who want to self-monitor most of the time.

👉 Read our full Abode review for more on hubs, pricing, and automation options.

Frontpoint sits in a sweet spot between DIY convenience and professional polish. You get top-tier equipment, reliable monitoring, and an app-guided setup that makes installation easy — no tech headaches, no installers, no pressure.

It’s one of the few DIY systems that feels as robust as a traditional alarm system. Frontpoint doesn’t mess around with half-measures. Their professional monitoring covers everything from break-ins to fires to medical emergencies, and every plan includes Crash & Smash protection. That means even if someone tries to rip your control panel off the wall, Frontpoint’s monitoring center still gets the alert.

Frontpoint’s pricing is refreshingly simple: pay for your equipment upfront (usually around $300–$600 for a good setup) and then a flat monthly fee for professional monitoring. If you can't afford a big initial payment, the company also offers financing options.

• Equipment: Around $300–$600, or $69 with contract
• Monitoring: From $24.99/mo (typically $49.99–$59.99 with video)
• Installation: DIY or pro install starting at $129
• Trial: 30 days risk-free

Overall: Frontpoint combines the simplicity of DIY with the sophistication of pro-level systems. It’s flexible, fast to install, and offers some of the best hardware variety in the category.

Get an overview of our experience with Frontpoint in the table below.

Installation: DIY made easy

• The Frontpoint app walked us through each step with large, clear prompts.
• Everything connected on the first try.
• No need for tools or phone calls — just plug, pair, and stick sensors where you need them.
• Pro installation is available (starting at $129), but we didn’t need it.

Performance: Reliable and feature-rich

• Sensors, cameras, and control panel performed consistently in testing.
• Fast alerts and stable connections.
• Integrated easily with smart plugs and outdoor lights.
• We liked the Personalized Emergency Response feature, which shares medical info with first responders.

Customers highlight the easy setup, expandable equipment, and friendly support that makes troubleshooting simple. The app earns solid marks too (4.3★ on iOS, 3.7★ on Android).

Common frustrations include billing issues and contract renewals, but longtime users say the system remains reliable and flexible.

Frontpoint is a great pick for anyone who wants DIY setup with professional-level hardware and monitoring. It’s easy to install, easy to expand, and tough to outgrow — ideal for homeowners or renters who want more than the basics.

👉 Read our full Frontpoint review for pricing details and setup tips.

If you’re building your home security system around cameras, Ring is hard to beat. The company that invented the video doorbell now offers a full suite of cameras, sensors, and monitoring options that make home protection simple and flexible.

At CES 2025, we got a first look at Smart Video Search, a new feature that lets you instantly find the footage you need — no more endless scrolling. It’s fast, intuitive, and makes reviewing video feel effortless. And while Virtual Security Guard (a $99/mo add-on) is pricey, it’s one of the only DIY options with trained agents who can monitor your cameras in real time and deter intruders before they act.

Cameras are one of Ring's strengths, but they can also add up, especially if you need multiple to watch over a larger property. You can pick up Ring cameras starting around $80 for the Stick-Up Cams, up to $270 for the Floodlight Cam Wired Pro.

• Equipment: $200–$420 kits; cameras $80–$270 each
• Standard plan: $9.99/mo (covers all devices, adds cloud storage + alerts)
• Premium plan: $19.99/mo (adds 24/7 recording, Smart Video Search)
• Alarm Pro monitoring add-on: +$10/mo
• Virtual Security Guard: +$99/mo (optional)
• Trial: 30-day free monitoring included

Overall: Ring continues to lead the DIY camera game, with fast setup, excellent video quality, and growing smart features — though its pricing plans could use a cleanup.

Ring remains one of the easiest systems to install. The Ring Alarm kit comes pre-paired — just plug in the base station, connect to Wi-Fi, and stick sensors where you want them. The process took under 30 minutes during testing, with no tools or tech experience required.

Ring’s cameras — from doorbells to floodlights — deliver clear, reliable video with fast motion detection. The new Smart Video Search beta impressed us with quick, accurate results, and Virtual Security Guard adds real-time, human-assisted deterrence for those who want extra protection.

We also appreciated the improvements in app navigation and footage playback. Get a overview f our Ring test results in the table below.

We've followed Ring's relationship with law enforcement and it policies about sharing customer footage and information for years. After walking such policies back, Ring has once again changed its mind.  If you’re considering Ring for your security system, it’s important to know about a 2025 change in how Ring handles law-enforcement access to your video footage — and how it could impact your privacy.

What’s changing

• Ring partnered with Axon Enterprise, Inc. (maker of TASER and law-enforcement tech) to re-enable police requests for Ring user camera footage. 
• Under the new system, law-enforcement agencies can request footage from Ring users through Axon’s digital evidence platform. Users must optionally consent to share the footage. 
• Axon told "The Verge" that when users consent for their footage to be shared, it will be "encrypted and securely added to the case file," and that Ring won't share any information about users who decline to share.

Potential benefits:

• Law enforcement could respond more quickly to crimes where your camera footage is relevant.
• Maintains user choice — you’re not forced to share footage unless you opt in.
• Adds a layer of real-world utility for homeowners wanting “smart neighborhood” features.

Considerations

• Even though sharing is optional, the system enables law-enforcement access to your footage — something some users may prefer to avoid.
• Ring has a past of privacy controversies, including a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for user-data issues. 
• You’ll want to check how the request process works, what constitutes “relevant footage,” and whether your local agency uses the system.
• The “optional” nature of sharing doesn’t remove the fact that your device may be part of a network that can provide footage — in practice, this may affect how you view your camera’s presence and purpose.

What to do if you pick Ring

• Review your privacy settings: Ensure you know how to disable or limit participation in footage-sharing programs.
• Stay updated on Ring’s terms of service and local law-enforcement agency partnerships.
• Consider whether you’re comfortable with this trade-off: Enhanced security features vs. increased potential for data access by others.
• If you’re especially privacy-sensitive, compare how other brands handle law-enforcement partnerships and footage requests.

Bottom line: Ring’s renewed collaboration with law-enforcement agencies may add a meaningful “public safety” layer — but it also re-introduces important privacy trade-offs. If you use Ring, you should be informed about these changes and decide whether this feature aligns with your comfort level.

Ring Alarm users praise the easy setup, great camera quality, and strong value. Complaints focus on customer service and subscription changes that limit free features.

Ring is ideal if your top priority is video coverage on a budget. The system is affordable, easy to install, and camera-focused — perfect for DIYers who want great visuals without a steep learning curve. Just be ready to pay a bit more each month if you want full monitoring.

👉 Read our full Ring Alarm review for a closer look at plans and camera options.

After testing all the top systems in real homes, SimpliSafe stands out as the best overall home security system for 2025. It offers the perfect balance of affordable protection, easy DIY setup, and pro-level monitoring — without locking you into a contract. Its new Active Guard monitoring feature goes a step further than most systems by helping stop break-ins while they’re happening. And with flexible equipment options and pricing that stays below the national average, SimpliSafe gives you serious security that fits nearly any home or budget. 

Choosing a home security system is important, but it can be confusing. Through our testing process and strong relationships with home security companies, we 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.

And if a complete home security system isn't the best match for your current situation, we also test and recommend security cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, and personal safety alarms that add extra security to any home or living situation.

Full list of home security FAQs

This article gives you the big picture of the best home security systems in the U.S. But if you’re looking for advice that’s a little more tailored to your setup, we’ve got you covered — check out these guides based on different home types and lifestyles:

• Best Do-it-Yourself Home Security
• Best No Monthly Fee Home Security
• Best Renter-Friendly Home Security
• Best Wireless Security Systems

This vulnerability isn’t a new phenomenon. A research article published in 1980 concluded that people feel a “sense of insecurity caused by the knowledge that threatening strangers have entered one’s home, a place considered to be one’s private territory under personal control” after experiencing a burglary. A more recent study found that 10% of people couldn’t bear to be home alone after a break-in. 

No one wants to feel this way, so it’s no surprise that our 2025 survey found that 72% of people who buy home security systems have never experienced a burglary firsthand. Instead, they’re proactively protecting themselves from the shock and cost of a break-in.

Prevention is a smart approach — the mere sight of security equipment may be enough to deter some burglars, while blaring alarms may cause them to rush and take fewer items. Even the clever use of smart gadgets can make burglars think twice about entering your home just in case you’re around. 

But not all home security systems are created equal. We know from more than a decade of hands-on experience and research that connection failures, battery problems, grainy video footage, notification delays, quiet alarms, narrow fields of view, inadequate coverage, and improper installation can seriously compromise a home security system. 

If a burglar thinks the reward (your stuff!) is worth the risk of getting caught, they might poke around and look for vulnerabilities in your system. And if they know you chose a sub-par security brand, good luck. 

That’s why we take our home security reviews seriously. Here’s how we do it.

We’ve been reviewing home security systems for 12 years. During that time, we’ve:

• Put in over 4,000 hours of hands-on testing
• Installed and tested 21 home security systems in 23 homes
• Surveyed over 30,000 people about their crime experiences, perceptions, and preventions
• Surveyed 2,500 home security buyers 
• Analyzed more than a decade of national and statewide crime data
• Met with dozens of industry leaders
• Interviewed criminologists, police officers, dispatchers, and first responders
• Read hundreds of real customer reviews
• Toured one professional monitoring center

Our testers use their home security systems for 30–180 days and take notes every step of the way.

Shopping experience: Does the company pressure us to buy an upgraded package? Are we given false information during the sales pitch? Can we easily customize how much and what kind of equipment we buy? Are we given any guidance about how to fully protect our home?

Installation: If it’s done by professionals, did they arrive on time? Clean up after themselves? Fully explain the system’s features? If it’s a DIY installation, were the instructions easy to understand? How long did it take? Was it easy to contact customer service for troubleshooting?

Reliability: Does the equipment work as it should? How quickly does the monitoring center react when an alarm is triggered? Does the mobile app crash? Is the video footage clear? Does the alarm seem loud enough to draw attention? Does the equipment seem durable and well-made? Does it really connect to cellular data when Wi-Fi isn’t available?

Compatibility: If the equipment integrates with a smart home assistant like Amazon Alexa, is it easy to connect? Do the extra functions add significant value to the system? Do you have to control some of your smart home equipment through a separate app?

Mobile app: Is it easy to find what you need on the smartphone app? Does it load quickly? Do you have to leave it running in the background to get alerts? Does the camera footage and audio come through clearly? Does using the app drain the phone’s battery?

Alerts and notifications: When an alarm is activated, how long does it take to get an alert on your phone? Can you also get a text or phone call? Is the phone call automated, or is a real person on the line? How many other people can receive alerts? Can you adjust the alert sensitivity of the camera? Can you set up custom PINs to disarm the system so you know who has entered your home? 

In addition to our hands-on testing, we gather data about each brand, find industry averages, and look for unique offerings. Here’s what we take into consideration when making our recommendations.

Cost

People are willing to skimp on many things, but not home security. When we surveyed 2,500 home security users in 2025, 84.8% said they spent up to $1,000 on their equipment and installation. The most popular price range was $251–$500. In terms of monthly fees, $26–$50 was most common, but 82.3% of respondents paid up to $75 per month. We use this proprietary information to recommend systems that fit people’s budgets.

Over the past decade, we’ve amassed a large amount of cost data for dozens of brands. We know exactly which companies sell the most affordable motion detectors and which ones over charge for entry sensors. We know which companies raise their monitoring prices each year and which ones offer more stability to their customers. This helps us pinpoint exactly which brands to recommend to budget-conscious buyers.  

We also use this data to calculate industry averages for equipment, monitoring, and installation. We prefer companies that land in the sweet spot—not too cheap and not too expensive. And if we think a company is overcharging consumers based on what they offer, you can bet we don’t recommend them.

Contracts

We go through a mystery shopping process and talk to each brand’s customer service department to uncover hidden fees, contract requirements, and cancellation policies that may be difficult to understand or to find on a company's website. We look at the fine print so you know what to expect.

Our survey shows most people (62.24%) have security contracts that last one year or less, so we prioritize security companies that offer flexible, month-to-month contracts and annual contracts.

We’re always looking for home security innovations. In recent years, we’ve seen the launch of Rapid SOS, porch pirate deterrents, live guard monitoring, and advanced AI alerts. All of these are designed to help people get help faster and to make sure first responders are prepared for what’s ahead.

That said, we aim to cut through the marketing fluff and find out if these features are actually worth it. We test everything that doesn’t require an actual call to emergency services (that can get you in big trouble!). For example, we trigger alarms but cancel them before first responders are dispatched. When we can’t test something first-hand, we gauge response times and reliability by reading customer reviews.

Smart home integration

According to our survey, most people (58.6%) don’t buy add-ons like smart home equipment, medical alert buttons, or identity theft protection. They’re mainly focused on security, so they stick to the essentials.

However, smart home products are the most popular add-ons (especially smart locks), and Amazon Alexa is the most popular smart assistant. So although we don’t ding a brand for not offering smart home integrations, we’re sure to point it out for those who are interested. And we test all integrations to make sure things work seamlessly.

Customer service and reputation

We evaluate each brand’s customer service through direct interactions via phone, email, and live chat. We prefer brands that don’t put us on hold (at least not for long), don’t make it difficult to reach a real person, and don’t simply read from an unhelpful script. Often, we’re not just testing their service for the sake of testing it—we've dealt with troubleshooting, connectivity problems, and installation issues and needed real help. If we find customer service lacking, we let the company know so they can improve the user experience.

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.

Overall, the home security industry seems to be meeting people's expectations. According to our survey, around 70% of home security users are satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of their equipment, installation process, and customer service. However, cancellation seems to cause headaches for people and is usually the chief complaint in customer reviews, so we pay close attention to each brand's cancellation policies, procedures, and penalties.

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. 
2. FBI, "Crime Data Explorer," October 21, 2025. 
3. SafeWise, State of Safety Survey, Fielded August 2024. 

SafeWise 2025 State of Home Security survey: SafeWise fielded a survey of 2,500 people in all 50 states (at least 50 in each state) to learn more about why people invest in security systems, how much they spend, which features and brands they trust the most, and more. Fielded via Pollfish in April 2025.

Weighted averages: To calculate the weighted average for customer reviews, we use the following formula: 

(R1×N1)+(R2×N2)+(R3×N3) / N1+N2+N3

R = Avg. star rating from review site
N = Total number of reviews

Cove customer ratings from third-party sites like Consumer Affairs, Trustpilot, and the BBB.