Best Home Security Systems of 2023
A home security system can be critical to keeping your home and family safe. According to a study from UNC Charlotte, over 80% of burglars surveyed said an alarm system was a possible deterrent, and 50% said they would stop an attempted burglary if they heard one.
They can also help outside of emergency situations, like if you’re setting up home automations or checking what your dog is doing while you’re not home.
With that in mind, our research team compared 26 home security companies and chose five top picks to help you find the right system.
- Our pick for professionally installed systems: ADT
- Our pick for home automation: Vivint Smart Home
- Our pick for easy DIY installation: Frontpoint
- Our pick for systems with no monthly fee: SimpliSafe
- Our pick for value: Ring
All prices are accurate as of publishing. Our picks may be Authorized Partners who compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. For more details on how we selected our top picks, read our full methodology.
- Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
- 4,243,660 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
- We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
- We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
- Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
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Rating | 4.2 | 4.7 | 3.9 | 3.7 | 3.4 |
# of reviews | 14,623 | 29,175 | 8,054 | 395 | 101 |
Our pick for | Professional installation | Home automation | Easy DIY installation | No monthly fee | Value |
Installation | Free professional installation on online purchases | Free professional installation on online purchases | DIY | DIY or professional ($99+) | DIY or professional ($129.99 to $259.99) |
Monitoring | Required | Required | Required | Optional | Optional |
Mandatory commitment* | Not available | Not available | Not available | None (month-to-month with monitoring) | None (month-to-month with monitoring) |
Equipment package costs before customization | $599 to $1,387 (financing available) | $997.99 to $2,827.92 (financing available) | $402.96 to $790.91 (financing available) | $244.96 to $699.90 (financing available) | $199.99 to $449.99 (financing available) |
Monitoring costs | $45.99 to $59.99 per month | Start at $19.99 per month | $49.99 per month | $17.99 to $27.99 per month | Start at $20 per month |
Read Reviews | Read Reviews | Read Reviews | Read Reviews | Read Reviews |
Compare our top 5 home security companies
- Equipment package costs: Start at $599 to $1,387
- Monitoring costs: $45.99 to $59.99
- Installation: Professional (included with online purchases)
- Commitment: 36 months (24 for Californians)
ADT is our pick for a traditional, professionally installed home security system with monitoring. While these systems often cost more than do-it-yourself (DIY) options, many people appreciate the confidence that having their system installed by a knowledgeable technician provides.
ADT has a track record in the security industry that’s over 145 years old, and it offers all the features and equipment we expect from a modern home security company.
- What we like
- All ADT systems come with an ADT command panel, entry sensors, motion detectors, a security key fob, yard signs, window decals and 24-hour professional monitoring. Packages include a six-month money-back guarantee. Plus, if a burglary occurs while the system is armed, ADT will pay $500 of your insurance deductible (terms and conditions apply).
To take advantage of what ADT can offer, we recommend customizing the Video & Smart Home package to fit your needs. At a base level, this package includes:
- A touch-screen panel
- Three door or window sensors
- A motion detector
- A smart door lock
- An outdoor Google Nest Cam
- A Google Nest Doorbell
At the time of publishing, the Video & Smart Home package costs $810.60 upfront or as little as $13.51 per month (for 60 months) with financing, not including monitoring. Significant discounts may be available.
It’s worth noting that ADT doesn’t discount its pre-configured packages, so you can build your system from scratch without missing out on any deals. We just think this kit is a helpful starting point for people new to home security systems.
- What to consider
- Professional installation is required, and you have to sign a three-year contract for monitoring service in most states.
- What reviewers say
- People like ADT for its reliable service and helpful installation technicians. “The app is easy and convenient, too,” according to a reviewer in Connecticut. On the downside, some people complain about long wait times when trying to reach customer service and difficulty getting certain issues fixed.
- Equipment package costs: Start at $997.99 to $2,827.92
- Monitoring costs: $19.99-$29.99+
- Installation: Professional (included with online purchases)
- Commitment: Month-to-month
Vivint might be the right choice if you’re looking for comprehensive home automation along with your security system. Like ADT, its systems require professional installation (which comes free with your system), but there’s no long-term commitment required if you purchase your system upfront.
- What we like
- Vivint offers an especially broad range of home automation and smart-home technologies, including smart hubs, smart locks, garage door controllers, smart thermostats, smart lighting, car security devices, and compatibility with Google Home devices, Amazon Echo devices and Nest thermostats. (For more, see how Vivint compares with our top picks for smart security systems.)
Consider starting with Vivint’s Premium Plus Package to access these home automation capabilities. Before customization, this package includes:
- A Vivint Smart Hub control panel
- A flood/water damage sensor
- Three door or window sensors
- A motion sensor
- A doorbell camera
- An indoor camera
- Two outdoor cameras
- A smart lock
- A Vivint key fob
- A smart thermostat
- A smart garage door controller
- A yard sign and window decals
While the regular price for this system is around $2,800 in Vivint’s online store, it’s on sale at the time of publishing for $2,429.92. Sixty-month financing is also available if you prefer to pay over time.
Like ADT, Vivint doesn’t offer special discounts on its pre-configured equipment packages, so you can build your system from Vivint’s Starter Package to fit your needs.
- What to consider
- Vivint’s equipment packages are generally more expensive than what our other top picks offer, but we think Vivint is still a good pick for those who are OK with paying extra for quality products and extensive home automation features.
- What reviewers say
- Vivint generally gets good marks from reviewers, and people like its smooth installation process and thoughtful reps. “Having the peace of mind is worth the investment,” a reviewer in Utah said. “Being able to keep an eye on the house while we are away is a nice change.”
- Equipment package costs: Start at $402.96 to $790.91
- Monitoring costs: $49.99 per month
- Installation: DIY
- Commitment: 36 months
As we read consumer reviews, Frontpoint stood out because of how often people praised its simple DIY installation process. DIY wireless systems like those available from Frontpoint are good for both homeowners and renters, and they make it easier to take your security system with you when you move.
- What we like
- Frontpoint’s Home Shield package makes a good starting point for most equipment needs, and you can add gear as necessary. It comes with:
- A hub
- A keypad
- An indoor camera
- A motion sensor
- A smoke and heat sensor
- A flood sensor
- Three window or door sensors
- A selection of yard signs and stickers
As of publishing, it starts at $678.91 when you pay in full or as low as $8.68 per month if you qualify for financing. However, significant discounts of over 50% off are sometimes available.
- What to consider
- Unlike some other security companies selling DIY systems, Frontpoint doesn’t let you self-monitor, so you can’t avoid a monthly payment.
Frontpoint’s monitoring is also a little more expensive than some of its competitors' services, and you have to sign up for a three-year commitment. For other DIY options with more affordable monitoring and month-to-month terms, check out SimpliSafe or Ring.
- What reviewers say
- “The setup was easy, the instruction was very clear, and they have a lot of tutorial videos to help you,” reported a reviewer in New Jersey.
A reviewer from Alabama told us that setup “took 30 minutes, and the quality of the equipment is great. … It's been there for 15 years. Over the time, I would have thought a lot more sensors would have gone bad, but everything in the house is perfectly covered and there are no issues.”
A few reviewers mention difficulties with Frontpoint’s cancellation policy or trying to reach technical support after installation is complete, though.
- Equipment package costs: Start at $244.96 to $699.90
- Monitoring costs: $0-$27.99
- Installation: DIY or professional ($99+)
- Commitment: None (month-to-month with monitoring)
If you’re looking for a security system but want to avoid paying a monthly fee, SimpliSafe might be the company for you.
SimpliSafe doesn’t require you to sign up for monitoring services when you buy your system, so it’s a good option if you’re looking to avoid ongoing costs. However, not having monitoring means you need to be comfortable with notifying the authorities yourself when your alarm goes off.
- What we like
- SimpliSafe is a low-cost, low-commitment option for people who want to be notified about possible home intrusions and avoid paying a monthly fee.
Its products and services are also more customizable than what many other security companies offer. Monitoring and professional installation are optional, and if you do eventually want monitoring, you can choose from multiple levels of monitoring service and sign up with only a month-to-month commitment.
While SimpliSafe offers several equipment packages, they don’t provide any savings over building your own system, so it’s probably a better idea to buy your equipment a la carte and avoid paying for things you don’t need.
- What to consider
- Some of SimpliSafe’s features and services aren’t available to customers who self-monitor their systems. That means things like smart home integration aren’t available if you don’t pay a monthly fee, even if your equipment is technically capable of doing so.
We recommend that people interested in SimpliSafe also check out Ring. Both companies have some very similar offerings, and which is right for you might come down to personal preference.
- What reviewers say
- At the time of publishing, SimpliSafe has a generally positive rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars on ConsumerAffairs. However, our review analysis showed a theme of complaints about the quality of SimpliSafe’s equipment, especially its cameras.
A ConsumerAffairs reviewer from Houston told us: “I researched a lot of companies before settling on SimpliSafe. Ultimately, I'll say that I chose SimpliSafe because the price was right. … The problem, of course, is that shopping on a budget means that you often get budget products.”
It’s worth noting that SimpliSafe has a strong 60-day return policy, though, so you can return your equipment for a full refund if it doesn’t live up to your expectations.
- Equipment package costs: Start at $199.99 to $449.99
- Monitoring costs: Start at $20 per month
- Installation: DIY or professional ($129.99 to $259.99)
- Commitment: None (month-to-month with monitoring)
Like SimpliSafe, Ring offers home security systems that you can install on your own without any long-term monitoring contract. However, Ring also offers some unique equipment and service options (like online security tools) that make it a good option if you’re looking for an affordable security system — even if you do want monitoring or professional installation.
- What we like
- Ring offers two kinds of alarm systems, but we like its Alarm Pro kits because they combine physical home security equipment with a built-in Wi-Fi router for network security. Ring’s eight-piece Alarm Pro kit includes:
- An Alarm Pro base station (with built-in Wi-Fi router)
- A keypad
- Four door or window sensors
- A motion detector
- An alarm range extender
At the time of publishing, this package costs $299.99 upfront, but 12-month, interest-free financing is available for qualifying customers.
If online security is important to you, consider signing up for Ring’s Protect Pro monitoring, which can provide 24/7 backup internet and other online security features.
- What to consider
- While base alarm kit packages are relatively inexpensive and often a good value, some of the add-on accessories can get pricey. If your budget is tight, we recommend pricing out your system on Ring’s website and comparing it against your other options before you buy.
- What reviewers say
- The majority of Ring customers we talked to said they would recommend the company to a friend. A reviewer in North Carolina said that the “video and sound quality are great” and “the price is very affordable.”
Most complaints that we’ve seen are related to the company’s customer service.
Read home security company reviews | ||||||
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| Monitoring costs $45.99 to $59.99 per month. Online purchases come with professional installation. Equipment packages cost $599 to $1,387, with financing available. Requires a 36-month commitment. Six-month money-back guarantee. | ![]() | Get a Quote Call Center Open (844) 369-9967 | |||
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| Monthly monitoring fees start at $19.99 per month. Professional installation included with online purchases. Typical commitment is 60 months with financing; month-to-month available with upfront equipment purchase. | ![]() | Get a Quote Call Center Open (833) 830-7970 | |||
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| DIY-install security system. Prepackaged equipment options or build your own bundle. Highly customizable with add-on equipment options. Includes 90-day, limited warranty. Free self-monitoring or paid professional monitoring. | ![]() | Get a Quote Call Center Open (888) 259-3601 | |||
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| Professional monitoring starts at $39.99 per month. DIY installation with $100 activation fee. Equipment costs vary. Contracts range from three to five years. Comes with mobile access through the Alder app. | ![]() | ||||
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| Monitoring costs $49.99 per month. Equipment packages start at $402.96 to $790.91, with financing available. DIY installation only. Comes with a three-year warranty. Risk-free trial for 30 days. | ![]() | Get a Quote Call Center Open (833) 419-5396 | |||
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| Pro monitoring costs $17.99 to $27.99 per month. Upfront costs vary. Free DIY installation. 60-day money-back guarantee. No long-term contract required. Military, first responder and teacher discounts available. | ![]() | ||||
Monthly fees range from $29.99 to $39.99. One-time activation fee of $99. Customizable equipment packages. Professional installation only. Available in 16 states. 24/7 professional monitoring on an encrypted network. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Minimum cost is around $500. Financing available with credit approval and a contract agreement. Requires professional installation. Video monitoring supports up to four cameras. Not available in all states. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Monthly monitoring fees range from $30.99 to $47.99 per month. Upfront costs vary. Free DIY installation. Contracts run between 12 and 36 months. 30-day money-back guarantee. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Authorized ADT provider offering professional alarm monitoring nationwide. Monthly fees start at $36.99. Most contracts run 36 months. Charges $99 to $199 for installation services. Same-day installation available in most states. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent |
How to choose a home security system
With so many options and new technologies available, choosing a security system can feel daunting. If you don’t know where to start, follow these steps to find the right security system for you.
- Decide if you want professional monitoring
- Whether or not you want monitoring will affect most of your other choices when picking a home security system, so it’s good to decide what you want early on.
Professionally monitored home security systems connect to response centers that dispatch emergency responders when an alarm is triggered. Depending on your subscription terms, operators can contact the police, fire department or medical services to ensure the appropriate response.
With an unmonitored system (sometimes called a “self-monitored” system), there's no monitoring center watching for an alert from your security system. Your alarm can still make noise when triggered and send alerts to your phone when the sensors detect something, but it’s up to you to contact first responders. The upside to self-monitoring is that it can help you avoid monthly fees.
Here are some tips on who each type of system is best for:
- Unmonitored alarm systems are better for people on a budget, and they might work well enough if someone in your household can consistently monitor the system and respond to alerts in an emergency. They’re not as useful if you panic in high-stress situations or don’t consistently check your phone, though.
- Monitored alarm systems provide an extra layer of security when you’re away from home or asleep, so they’re a better option for people who feel safer with a professional watching for alerts 24/7. You’ll likely need to pay a monthly fee for this service, though, and your contract may require a multiyear commitment.
- Evaluate your connection options
- There are two main ways home alarm systems communicate with the outside world:
- Nationwide cellular networks: Cellular security systems may require professional installation, but they need little upkeep. With a battery backup, the system can even work during power outages. However, the cellular signal might not be strong enough to be effective, depending on where you live.
- Home Wi-Fi networks: These systems are easier to install and easier to take with you if you move. However, they might not work during power failures. In larger homes, the signal also might not cover all rooms.
Many top home security cameras are wireless and run on a cellular network connection, making them ideal for remote locations without Wi-Fi access. Hard-wired cameras are another option — though they require cables for power and video transmission, they provide reliable high-definition video that’s less susceptible to interference.
If you have a large house, make sure your Wi-Fi is strong enough to reach devices in every room. If it’s not, consider getting a wired system (or installing some boosters to strengthen your Wi-Fi signal).
Residential security cameras typically use 128-bit or 256-bit AES encryption, which is versatile and easy to work with but can still be hacked. The California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services recommends choosing an alarm company that provides “firmware, an encrypted network, or a strong firewall to prevent hackers from obtaining access to your video feed.” Otherwise, you risk cyber intrusions.
- Consider how it will be installed
- Home security systems have two common installation options: professional or do-it-yourself (DIY). If you purchase a wireless home security system, you usually have the option to set it up yourself. Most hard-wired systems require professional installation.
Which type of installation is best? It depends on the following:
- How handy are you? Installing a wired security system requires some drilling and home modifications, and even wireless systems can require a little elbow grease. Those who are allergic to ladders and screwdrivers might be better off with a professionally installed system.
- What’s your schedule like? It's not difficult to set up your own system, but it can be time-consuming. If you value your personal time, it might be worth paying a professional to install your system in a few hours while you work on things you’d rather be doing.
- How big is your house? Larger homes are often good candidates for professional installation. (Running around installing sensors in a dozen rooms may not be a good use of your time.) On the other hand, an apartment should be an easy DIY job.
As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of installation. A DIY home security system is a great choice for renters because it’s portable. Plus, you can often get one with a short-term contract or no obligation. The best DIY home alarms are also generally less expensive than those that require a professional technician to install, but many homeowners feel safer with a wired system.
Some also consider hard-wired security systems more reliable since their peripheral devices don’t require batteries to operate. However, they can still be disabled during a power outage or by a thief with scissors.
For more, compare costs and monitoring options for DIY vs. professional systems.
- Prioritize what equipment and features you want most
- Some home security companies only sell equipment piece by piece, while others offer bundled packages. Most companies offer a little bit of both, but the right combination of equipment for you depends on your personal security goals.
Someone in a 12th-floor studio apartment will likely have very different equipment needs than someone in a large home out in the country. Think about your home and what it will take to protect it from intruders as you shop.
Most packages come with at least a base station, entryway sensors and motion detectors, plus some yard signs and stickers. Of course, the more devices and features you want — like surveillance cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, motion sensors, glass-break sensors and other equipment — the more the system usually costs.
For example, high-tech extras like touch screens and vanishing sensors cost extra — sometimes up to $300 or more. A package with video monitoring will likely cost more because you’ll need the features to stream and store footage.
If you’re not sure exactly what you need, look for a system that’s expandable so you can add to it in the future.
- Compare home security company reviews
- Reading alarm system reviews is the best way to find out what to expect from a company before you sign up for service. Home security customers are usually vocal about unfair fees and durability issues in reviews.
By reading home security service reviews, you can also learn more about a company’s monitoring operators, installation technicians and customer service representatives.
- Read the fine print
- It’s important to make sure you understand all the terms before you sign anything. Even some of the top-rated home security companies get negative customer feedback regarding their cancellation policies, so look for companies that offer a free trial period or money-back guarantee.
For more on finding the best home security system for your situation, here are important questions to ask when you talk to a representative.
Home security system costs
Home security costs often include upfront equipment and setup charges plus monthly fees if you want monitoring services. However, some companies offer free or discounted equipment as long as you commit to paying monitoring fees for a long term.
Simple security systems usually cost $300 to $600 to set up, and monthly charges seldom exceed $60. However, some of the cheapest home security systems can get you started for under $100 (or $0 if you finance your equipment costs), with monthly fees of around $10.
Factors that impact the cost of your home security system
When comparing home security system price factors, consider the cost of equipment, monitoring, installation, activation, cancellation and local alarm permit fees.
- Equipment costs: Expect to pay a few hundred dollars for a basic system and $1,000 or more for top-of-the-line systems with a multitude of devices. Many security companies provide financing or rental options to help make these costs more affordable.
- Monitoring fees: Rates range between $10 and $65 per month. Fees can also vary based on the type of system you have — for example, monitoring for a system with smart video capabilities costs more than monitoring for one without a camera.
- Installation costs: A wireless system should be simple to install, and often you can do it yourself for free. Professional installation costs start at around $100, and installation costs for extensive residential camera systems are generally higher — up to around $500.
Some companies that require professional installation waive these fees, though, and free installation is often included in temporary sales or promotions.
- Activation fees: Some companies charge a one-time activation fee of up to around $100 to get the system working. Others include the activation fee in the price of installation.
- Municipal fees for alarm permits: Some cities charge a yearly permit fee, usually $30 to $100, for local police to respond to emergency calls triggered by monitored home security systems.
- Termination fees: Costly termination fees could apply if you break your home security contract. Depending on the company, you might be on the hook for the balance of your equipment costs, even if the equipment was advertised as free.
Are home security systems worth it?
As you shop, it’s not uncommon to find yourself wondering if buying, installing and using a security system is worth the effort. However, our research has found that they're often great additions to a home for multiple reasons — and experts agree.
I think security systems are worth it, but the said truth is most people don’t realize it until after something bad has happened.”
"I think security systems are worth it, but the sad truth is most people don't realize that until after something bad has happened," Rebecca Edwards, lead safety expert of SafeWise.com, said. "It's a little bit like preventive health care — we all know we should do it, but if we feel fine it can be easy to put off."
First, and maybe most obvious, security systems are a great way to deter potential burglars. The study from UNC Charlotte cited earlier found that 83% of the burglars surveyed would try to see if a home had an alarm system before attempting to break in, and 60% of burglars surveyed said they would find another home to burglarize if a security system was present. That deterrence can add up to savings.
"When you look at the cost of not having a home security system, it's definitely worth it," said Edwards. "The average loss from a burglary in the US is around $2,600, and that's just the monetary cost. That doesn't even touch the emotional cost and losing your sense of safety in your home, which should be your sanctuary."
The average loss per burglary is $2,661, according to the FBI.
Second, even if a security system doesn't deter a burglar, the alarm can alert neighbors to trouble, and the monitoring center can call for the authorities. This is particularly useful if you're not at home or you can't get to your phone to call for help.
Third, security systems can provide more than just burglar detection. The constant smart camera monitoring and home automation services can offer comfort and a little peace of mind.
Many security system providers have smartphone apps that let you see through your security cameras no matter where you are. That means you can watch your kids or pets play outside while you cook dinner or check in with the nanny while you're at work. You can even watch for that pesky neighbor that likes to let their dog relieve itself in your yard.
Privacy and security
Like any other internet-connected device in your home, a security system does come with privacy concerns.
Because most security systems connect to your Wi-Fi, bad actors can potentially access it through your home network. These hackers can access your system's cameras, disable your alarms and worse. A good way to protect yourself is to follow privacy best practices for any smart device in your home:
- Use a strong password for your router. Incorporate capital letters, symbols and numbers to make your password stronger.
- Make access codes hard to guess. Don't use 1234 or 1111 as your system's PIN.
- Use two-factor authentication. This option makes it harder for someone to access your security system's app or your online account without one of your other devices, like your phone.
Also, investigate how the security company collects your data and what they do with it. (Most companies have a data collection policy accessible online.) While you're at it, check to see if your security company has access to your camera's footage, when they access it and how they store the footage.
Home security FAQ
What equipment typically comes with a home security system?
Basic home security equipment generally includes window and door sensors, door locks, and a central panel and base station that arms and disarms the alarm system.
Optional devices frequently include video doorbells, indoor and outdoor cameras, glass-break sensors and home automation features, which are available at an additional cost. Home alarm companies typically include a set of yard signs and window stickers for free — research shows these are effective in deterring potential intruders.
Many burglar alarm companies’ monitoring packages also come with a mobile app that integrates smart-home automation features. You can use the app to self-monitor for emergencies and control household items like smart lights and smart locks.
What are the different types of home security systems?
There are many types of home security systems, but the main splits in the industry are between wired and wireless systems, DIY and professionally installed systems, and monitored and unmonitored alarms.
Wireless systems use Wi-Fi to send signals between their control panels and the various cameras, sensors and other accessories around your home. A wired security system connects through wires within the walls. Sometimes, a system can be a hybrid of wired and wireless technology. For example, the control panel and cameras may be wired, but the sensors and motion detectors may be wireless.
Most wireless systems are easy to install. However, wired systems almost always require professional installation. Even if a system is considered a DIY installation, many security companies offer professional help if you don't have the skills or the time to do it yourself.
The home security market also lets you choose between monitored and unmonitored systems. When the alarm is triggered on a monitored system, it connects to emergency operators who can dispatch local police, firefighters or medical services.
When an unmonitored system is triggered, it makes noise and sends alerts to an app on your phone (like a monitored system), but no one outside your household is notified. That means emergency services probably won't get called if you can't check your phone or hear the alarm when something happens.
Generally, you can save money with a self-installed, unmonitored system since there are no monthly fees or upfront installation costs. However, you'd lose the added security that comes from 24/7 monitoring. For more, compare our top self-monitored home security systems.
How much does a home security system save on insurance?
Many home insurance providers offer discounts (sometimes up to 20%) if you get a monitored alarm system. For example, if you pay $1,000 for your homeowners insurance annually and get a 10% discount, you’ll save $100 each year on insurance simply by having a monitored security system. For more, learn about other ways you can save money on homeowners insurance.
Can you change alarm monitoring companies?
You can change alarm monitoring companies either by breaking your contract or choosing not to renew it. You may incur fees for early termination, though, so make sure you’re familiar with the cancellation terms of your current contract.
Depending on your previous provider, you might be able to keep using your existing security equipment. If you’re happy with your current equipment, look for a new monitoring provider that will work with those devices.
Can I install a home security system if I rent?
Installing a wireless system in your rented home is a good idea —as long as your landlord permits it. To keep your security deposit, try to install the system without screws or damaging your walls. For example, you can attach sensors to windows and door frames using double-sided tape.
Is there a security camera that works without Wi-Fi?
Yes, some security cameras work without Wi-Fi. Cellular surveillance cameras work with a cellular network connection, making them ideal for remote locations without Wi-Fi access.
Hard-wired cameras are another option. They require cables for power and video transmission, but they provide reliable, high-definition video that’s less susceptible to interference.
Methodology
ConsumerAffairs carefully collects in-depth, verified reviews to tell each customer’s experience with a company. We believe customer experiences are a crucial indicator when evaluating companies, so these reviews are a significant factor when selecting our top picks.
To choose our top home security providers, we started with a list of the 26 companies on this guide at the time and analyzed the more than 81,000 reviews for them on our site. To narrow our list down, we first eliminated those with overall satisfaction ratings below 3.5 stars (as of Dec. 18, 2022). To ensure we considered experiences from a diverse range of customers, we also eliminated any company that had fewer than 30 ratings in the past year at that point.
We then compared the nine remaining companies on multiple factors, including:
- Availability: We made sure our top picks operate in the majority of the U.S. states and are accessible without an undue burden for new customers. (That means we didn’t think you should have to sign up for another service just to purchase your security system.)
- Unique offerings: We prioritized companies that aren’t primarily dealers for other brands on our list.
- Costs: We gave preference to companies that priced their equipment and services to provide better value.
- Installation methods: Both professionally installed and user-installed systems have their place in the industry, but we used this as a benchmark for identifying a company’s ideal customer.
- Mandatory commitments: We researched each company’s contract terms to identify how long consumers were locked into monitoring agreements.
- Features and technology: We evaluated each company’s products and services to make sure they meet industry standards.
We used these factors to identify whether these companies met our standards and how these companies could serve different consumers’ needs. That analysis informed the highlighted headline for each of our top picks as well as our write-ups.
Notes
The information in our write-ups is based on the following editorial guidelines:
- We don’t consider video doorbells or stand-alone camera systems to be true “home security systems.” If a company offered those products, we did not include that information in our price ranges or service details unless otherwise noted.
- The prices we publish are accurate at the time of publishing but do not include sales, discounts or other possible savings unless otherwise noted. Temporary promotions are often available from home security companies, so it’s worth checking current prices whenever you’re ready to buy.
- The equipment costs presented for our top picks are generally based on each company’s pre-configured equipment packages. Many home security companies allow you to build your own system or customize pre-configured packages, so your costs may vary.
- Equipment costs are based on the price of new equipment. (Some home security companies offer used or refurbished equipment at discounted prices.)
- Monitoring costs are based on the monthly costs users can expect to pay when purchasing monitoring services on the shortest term possible. (Some home security companies offer discounts when you pay for several months at a time.)
- Sources
- ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. To learn more about the content on our site, visit our FAQ page. Specific sources for this article include:
- UNC Charlotte, “THROUGH THE EYES OF A BURGLAR - STUDY PROVIDES INSIGHTS ON HABITS AND MOTIVATIONS.” Accessed Dec. 31, 2022.
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), “Crime Data Explorer.” Accessed Feb. 1, 2023.
- Pew Research Center, “What the data says (and doesn’t say) about crime in the United States.” Accessed Aug. 17, 2021.
- California Bureau of Security & Investigative Services (BSIS), “Consumer Guide to Alarm Companies.” Accessed Aug. 17, 2021.
- Connectivity Standards Alliance, “Building the Foundation and Future of IoT.” Accessed Aug. 17, 2021.
- FBI, “Robbery.” Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
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| Professional monitoring costs $44.95 to $69.95 per month. Upfront costs start between $0 and $149, including installation. Specializes in security cameras, smart-home devices and alarm systems. One-year warranty on equipment. | ![]() | ||||
Monthly rates start at $29.95. Systems are customizable via additional purchases. Offers security cameras with smart-home integrations. Requires professional installation and monitoring agreement. | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | |||||
Rates start at $45.99 per month. Requires $149 equipment purchase. Professional installation included in all packages. Contracts are typically 60 months with financing. Month-to-month options available. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Professional monitoring packages cost $29.99 to $39.99 per month. Designs its systems for DIY installation. Offers three levels of Self-Install Kits. Not available in all states. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Offers security packages with smart-home features and professional monitoring. Monthly costs start around $15 to $40. Discounts available for bundling packages and services. Not available in all areas. | ![]() | Compare Offers | ||||
Self-monitoring option for no monthly fee. Professional monitoring costs $17.99 to $27.99 per month. Packages start at $244.96 to $699.90. DIY or professional installation. Month-to-month commitment for monitoring. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Offers security solutions with professional monitoring starting around $30 to $40 per month. View HD footage and customize alerts through the app. Financing available with a 24-month contract. Requires professional installation. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Monitored security packages come with a 36-month contract. Charges $99 for professional installation. Includes touch-screen control panel, door and window sensors, and a motion sensor with standard equipment. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Free self-monitoring. Professional monitoring starts at $20 per month. Equipment packages start from $199.99 to $449.99. Month-to-month commitment for monitoring. Includes a one-year limited warranty. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Offers home alarm and fire monitoring systems with smart automation features. Professional and DIY installation options. Comes with a mobile app. Provides yearly on-site checkups. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Smart-home tech company offering alarm systems and other devices. Core security system package is about $80. DIY monitoring can be free, but professional monitoring starts at $9.99 per month. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Choose a preconfigured package or customize a system to fit your needs. Equipment includes smart lights, wireless doorbell cameras and video doorbells. Requires professional installation. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Offers home security systems that consist of a single device. Three camera options available. Professional monitoring plans start around $8 per month. Provides free shipping and a 60-day refund policy. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Monitoring rates range from $39.99 to $49.99 per month. Upfront costs range from $199 to $699. Requires 36-month contracts. Optional professional installation available. 30-day risk-free trial. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Offers flexible monitoring plans without long-term contracts. Self-monitor through the app or choose professional monitoring for about $7 per month. Get discounts for paying yearly. Equipment costs vary. Financing options. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
Choose between wireless or wired security cameras. DIY install wireless cameras. Active monitoring starts at $100/month with a one-year commitment. 24/7 AI monitoring. Personal guards on stand-by to intercede in a threat. | ![]() | Chat with a ConsumerAffairs decision guide Live agent | ||||
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| Offers monitored and unmonitored options. Designed for DIY installation. Charges $229 to $549 for packages, with monitoring starting at $9.99 per month. Includes a 60-day money-back guarantee and a three-year warranty. | ![]() | Shop Now |
Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.
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