Best Security Systems with Cameras in 2026

Our experts tested and compared top security systems, naming SimpliSafe our best overall pick thanks to live monitoring, affordable gear, and no-commitment plans.
SimpliSafe Security with Outdoor Camera
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.75
  • pro
    Active Guard helps deter break-ins
  • pro
    30-day free trial for professional monitoring
  • pro
    No contracts
  • pro
    DIY installation
🔥 Get 20% off*
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*Deal ends soon. Deal valid on new system with professional monitoring. 

products considered
250+
research hours in 25+ in-home tests
10k+
years of combined experience
176+
homes and people protected
10M+

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 top pick for home security in 2026, it’s not just based on hype or slick marketing — it’s because it actually works before a break-in happens.

If we made a list of the most useful products for home security, security cameras would easily claim the top spot. We like SimpliSafe's outdoor camera because it features Active Guard monitoring capabilities, which can help prevent a break-in. You can get a 30-day free trial to try it out! 

If you have the budget for a professional monitoring plan, using a security system with cameras is the best way to protect your home 24/7. If can't pay for professional monitoring every month, we like SimpliSafe's flexible plans- you switch to self-monitoring whenever you want.

What are the best security camera home alarm systems?

  1. SimpliSafe cameras: Best outdoor camera
  2. Vivint cameras: Smart home integration
  3. Cove: Popular Eufy cameras
Vivint Outdoor Camera on home
Why we love SimpliSafe's outdoor security camera
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Compare our favorite home security systems with cameras

Brand
Top camera
Self-monitoring option
Monthly cost Icon Tooltip Dark
Package price w/camera Icon Tooltip Dark
Break-in deterrent(s) Icon Tooltip Dark
Smart home compatibility Icon Tooltip Dark
Learn more
SimpliSafeSimpliSafe
Outdoor camera
Icon Yes LightYes
$31.99/mo.$482.93Active Guard, AI detection, Live agent intervention, SirenAmazon,
Google		View packages
VivintVivint
Doorbell camera
Icon No LightNo
$39.99/mo.$599.00Smart Deter lurker detection, Lights, Sounds Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave		View packages
CoveCove
Solar camera
Icon No LightNo
$19.99/mo.CustomMotion sensors/cameras, Glass break sensor, SirenAmazon, GoogleView packages

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

SimpliSafe security w/outdoor camera

SimpliSafe strives to simplify the home security experience, and its cameras deliver on that promise. They're easy to install and set up, and using them is as easy as opening the SimpliSafe app. Fortunately, simple doesn't mean poor quality. You'll enjoy crisp images, clear night vision, and good audio quality without being bogged down by too many settings.  

SimpliSafe's Active Guard Outdoor Monitoring equipment, including cameras, a motion sensor and the app is SafeWise's pick for the Best Porch Pirate Defense in 2025.
SimpliSafe security
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.75
  • pro
    Active Guard monitoring helps deter break-ins*
  • pro
    No contracts; 60-day money-back guarantee
  • pro
    30-days free monitoring; optional after trial ends
  • pro
    Easy DIY setup
  • con
    Basic smart home features
View packages

*Available feature with outdoor cam using eligible professional monitoring plan.

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

Vivint security w/doorbell camera

Vivint have some of the most advanced home security cameras, showcasing its ability to innovate and stay relevant in a competitive home security marketplace. Because Vivint designs and manufactures all of its equipment, it passes on research and development costs to customers. This makes Vivint equipment some of the best and also some of the most expensive you can buy. 

Vivint security
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
  • pro
    Smart deter lurker detection with doorbell*
  • pro
    Free in-home security consultation
  • pro
    Financing options available
  • pro
    Cheapest pro install ($49)
  • con
    No trial period
View packages

*Available feature with doorbell cam using eligible professional monitoring plan.

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

Cove security w/solar camera

Cove's security cameras are a great addition to the alarm system, and the brand's partnership with Eufy means you have access to some unique battery-powered cameras, like the solar-powered Eufy Outdoor Camera. Beyond that, Cove offers security cameras that have HD video, competitive prices, and AI-driven motion recording. They're a good combination with Cove's user-friendly security systems with professional 24/7 monitoring.

Cove security
4 out of 5 stars
4
  • pro
    Solar-powered outdoor camera
  • pro
    No contracts; 60-day trial period
  • pro
    Cheap monthly price for professional monitoring
  • pro
    Easy DIY setup
  • con
    No self-monitoring option
View packages

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

The benefits of using security cameras with a home alarm system

There’s no question that alarm systems deter crime and can increase the odds of catching a burglar if your home does get broken into, especially with cameras.

Many emergencies are too serious for you to deal with by yourself. In most cases, you’ll want police, fire, or medical professionals on the scene as soon as possible. Around-the-clock professional monitoring is an essential feature offered by the majority of home security providers.

Let's take a look at the benefits and unique perks you get when getting security cameras as part of a home security system.

VIew SimpliSafe packages
Icon Check Shield Dark
Prevent crime before it happens

The mere presence of a home security camera sends an unmistakable message that someone's watching or recording you.  The security cameras we recommend work with cameras using a bright spotlight to deter would-be thieves at night, and also include either live guard monitoring, or audible components like sirens and two-way audio to scare away uninvited guests.

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Detect and identify intruders

A surveillance camera's biggest strength is the ability to record footage for later review. Every frame contains loads of information, like actions, clothing, and physical characteristics, that can help identify a careless burglar. With many security systems, the camera triggers your alarm when detecting an intruder—giving you and the monitoring center valuable warning time.

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Document your possessions

A security camera system can't guarantee to prevent a burglary. If you do have the misfortune of a break-in, security cameras can help you spot any items a burglar took. With recordings, you'll have an easier time filing police reports and insurance claims. You can compare older recordings with the aftermath to see what's different.

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Video verification

Video verification means the monitoring center can review recent recordings when an alarm triggers to verify that you need assistance. Video verification is a feature unique to a home security system with professional monitoring, which is why we recommend using security cameras as part of a monitored home alarm system.

How we picked the best home security systems with cameras

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 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
Notepad

Is a home security system worth it in 2026?

Yes, a home security system is worth it to help deter break-ins, get help faster, and capture evidence. The average loss from a residential burglary is around $5,500, according to the FBI's most recent data. With the average cost of a monitored home security system coming in around $700 a year, including equipment, it’s a preventative measure that we think is worth it.

Why we recommend SimpliSafe home security with outdoor camera

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.

VIew SimpliSafe packages