Affiliate Disclosure: This Old House‘s Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services. To support this business model, This Old House may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website.
If you’re uneasy about leaving your home unattended or can’t fall asleep at night due to the possibility of a break-in, consider investing in a home security system. Protection with professional equipment can give you peace of mind, and you can opt for technology that’s convenient in other ways—some systems have smart home integration, and others have cameras with two-way talk.
There are a lot of home security systems on the market in Kansas City, MO, but they all come at different prices with different features. Some companies offer more packages and different equipment than others, and systems vary in terms of comprehensiveness. The This Old House Reviews Team has evaluated the best home security systems in Kansas City on key metrics to help you determine the best fit for your home.
Top 6 Home Security Systems in Kansas City
- ADT Home Security: Best Overall
- Vivint: Best for Smart Home Integration
- SimpliSafe: Best for Easy Installation
- Frontpoint: Best for Smartphone Integration
- Abode: Best for Customization
- Alder: Best for Medical Alerts
Compare Home Security Systems
ADT Home Security
ADT is The This Old House Reviews Team’s top recommendation—our pick for the Best Overall home security system. The provider stands out with over 140 years of industry experience, a six-month money-back guarantee, and the largest network of professional monitoring centers in the U.S. It services millions of customers across the country.
ADT Package Comparison
| Feature | Secure | Smart | Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Professional Monitoring | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Intrusion Detection | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 24/7 Fire, Flood, & Carbon Monoxide Monitoring | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ADT Go Mobile App | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Touchscreen Panel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Alexa Guard / Voice Control Integration (with Amazon Alexa) | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| ADT Mobile App and Remote Access | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Video Surveillance (Motion activated + alerts) | – | – | ✔ |
| Stored Video Clips (Up to 8 cameras) | – | – | – |
| Smart-Home Automation | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Feature | Secure | Smart | Complete |
You can add on this extra equipment at an additional charge:
- Touchscreen keypad
- Indoor and outdoor cameras
- Video doorbell camera
- Smoke detector
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Glass break sensor
- Flood sensor
- Panic button
ADT Pricing
| Pricing | Secure | Smart | Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront | $599-$899 | $919-$1,219 | $1,049-$1,449 |
| Monthly for 60 months | $55.97-$60.97 | $65.31-$70.31 | $75.47-$82.14 |
| Professional Monitoring | $45.99 per month | $49.99 per month | $59.99 per month |
| Pricing | Secure | Smart | Complete |
Learn more: ADT Home Security Review
Vivint Home Security
Sophisticated home security system Vivint provides seamless smart home and smartphone integration. The provider makes it very easy to connect to third-party devices like the Philips Hue smart light and Nest thermostat. Vivint’s technologically advanced equipment includes features like advanced camera analytics to notify you when people and packages arrive at your door.
Vivint Package Comparison
| Feature | “SkyControl Starter Kit” Package | “Home Security System” Package | “Smart Home Control” Package | “Video Security” Package | “Smart Complete” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SkyControl Panel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smart Entry Sensors (2) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Voice Control | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smart Smoke Detector | – | ✔ | ✔ | – | ✔ |
| Element Thermostat | ✔ | – | ✔ | ||
| Smart Lock | ✔ | – | ✔ | ||
| Smart Garage Door Opener | ✔ | – | ✔ | ||
| Doorbell Camera | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Outdoor Camera | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Ping Indoor Camera | ✔ | ||||
| Feature | “SkyControl Starter Kit” Package | “Home Security System” Package | “Smart Home Control” Package | “Video Security” Package | “Smart Complete” Package |
Vivint offers a range of five home security packages. The Smart Complete Bundle Package offers the most comprehensive protection, including outdoor cameras.
- “Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit” Package: The starter package features all of the essentials, including a touch screen panel that you can control through the mobile app. It also includes one water sensor, one motion sensor, a pair of entry sensors, and The Smart Hub, along with $100 toward purchasing more sensors.
- “Home Security System Bundle” Package: This package includes all of the equipment found in the Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit, alongside a smart smoke detector that you can integrate with the security system to unlock smart locks if the smoke alarm system gets triggered.
- “Smart Home Control Bundle” Package: This bundled package includes all of the devices from the prior two packages, plus a smart door lock, smart thermostat, and smart garage door opener. A Vivint Smart Home Video Plan is required to use this package.
- “Video Security Bundle” Package: This package combines the features of the Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit with video surveillance, including an indoor camera, video doorbell, and outdoor security camera. It also features Wi-Fi-enabled storage that archives all playback recording. You’ll need a subscription to the Smart Home Video Plan to use this package.
- “Smart Complete Bundle” Package: This smart package provides the most comprehensive protection, combining the automation from Vivint’s Smart Home Control Bundle with all of the Video Security Bundle’s equipment.
Vivint Pricing
| Pricing | “SkyControl Starter Kit” Package | “Home Security System” Package | “Smart Home Control” Package | “Video Security” Package | “Smart Complete” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $599.00 | $709.98 | $1,049.95 | $1,379.95 | $1,789.92 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | $9.98 | $11.83 | $17.50 | $23.00 | $29.83 |
| Pricing | “SkyControl Starter Kit” Package | “Home Security System” Package | “Smart Home Control” Package | “Video Security” Package | “Smart Complete” Package |
Learn more: Vivint Home Security Review
SimpliSafe Home Security
SimpliSafe is a flexible system that requires no contract. You can choose between straightforward DIY installation and expert professional installation, depending on your budget and preference. Seamless smart home integration is available for third-party devices like Apple Watch, Amazon Alexa, and more, and SimpliSafe’s system has a battery life of 10 years or more.
SimpliSafe Package Comparison
| Feature | “The Foundation” Package | “The Essentials” Package | “The Hearth” Package | “The Knox” Package | “The Haven” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Station | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Keypad | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Entry Sensor | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 6 included | ✔ 4 included |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 2 included |
| Siren | – | – | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Keyfob | – | – | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smoke Detector | – | – | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Panic Button | – | – | – | – | ✔ |
| Temperature Sensor | – | – | – | – | ✔ |
| Water Sensor | – | – | – | – | ✔ |
| Feature | “The Foundation” Package | “The Essentials” Package | “The Hearth” Package | “The Knox” Package | “The Haven” Package |
SimpliSafe offers a range of five home protection packages, plus a customizable package that lets you pick the precise equipment you want.
- “The Foundation” Package: The basic starter package gives you all the primary equipment you need, like a base station, entry sensor, motion sensor, and keypad.
- “The Essentials” Package: Building on top of The Foundation Package’s devices, The Essentials includes additional entry sensors.
- “The Hearth” Package: This package includes all of The Essentials Package’s features, along with extras like a key fob, siren, and more.
- “The Knox” Package: The Knox includes all of the security equipment included within The Hearth Package and doubles the amount of entry sensors to six total.
- “The Haven” Package: This package offers the most comprehensive SimpliSafe protection, featuring all of the primary equipment, water sensor, temperature sensor, and panic button.
You can tailor your SimpliSafe security package to your specifications by following these three steps:
- Begin with your base station and wireless keypad.
- Select your protection sensors (smoke detectors, water sensor, carbon monoxide sensor, and temperature sensor) and burglary sensors (entry sensors, glass break sensors, motion sensors, SimpliCam, and panic button).
- Choose any optional add-on equipment to round out the package (extra keypad, key fob, extra 105db siren, extra yard sign, and pro setup help).
SimpliSafe Pricing
| Pricing | “The Foundation” Package | “The Essentials” Package | “The Hearth” Package | “The Knox” Package | “The Haven” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $229.00 | $259.00 | $374.00 | $449.00 | $489.00 |
| Pricing | “The Foundation” Package | “The Essentials” Package | “The Hearth” Package | “The Knox” Package | “The Haven” Package |
The Standard Monitoring Plan costs $14.99 per month, while the Interactive Monitoring Plan costs $24.99 per month.
Learn more: SimpliSafe Home Security Review
Frontpoint Home Security
This DIY home security system does not require a long-term contract and features convenient and customizable smartphone notifications, ideal for customers on the go. The Frontpoint system is durable—its crash and smash protection guarantee promises that customers will continue to be notified when a motion sensor is activated or a door opens, even in the event that the control panel is destroyed or damaged.
Frontpoint Package Comparison
| Feature | “Safe Home Starter” Package | “Safe Home Everyday” Package | “Safe Home Select” Package | “Safe Home Preferred” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hub and keypad | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included |
| Door/Window Sensor | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 4 included | ✔ 5 included |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 2 included |
| Glass Break Sensor | – | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smoke and Heat Sensor | – | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Indoor Camera | – | – | – | ✔ |
| Feature | “Safe Home Starter” Package | “Safe Home Everyday” Package | “Safe Home Select” Package | “Safe Home Preferred” Package |
Frontpoint offers your choice between four home security packages. Each of them includes a hub, keypad, one or more motion sensors, and two or more door/window sensors. The Safe Home Starter or Safe Home Everyday package might be the best option if you aren’t interested in an indoor camera or smoke and heat sensor.
- “Safe Home Starter” Package: The most basic package includes essential equipment like a keypad, a hub, one motion sensor, and two door/window sensors.
- “Safe Home Everyday” Package: This package includes all of the starter package’s devices, plus an extra door/window sensor and motion sensor.
- “Safe Home Select” Package: This package gives extra peace of mind with features like a glass break sensor and a smoke and heat sensor.
- “Safe Home Preferred” Package: The preferred package offers the most comprehensive protection, joining together all features from the preceding packages and adding an extra camera.
Frontpoint Pricing
| Pricing | “Safe Home Starter” Package | “Safe Home Everyday” Package | “Safe Home Select” Package | “Safe Home Preferred” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $99.00 | $295.94 | $383.92 | $479.90 |
| Monthly Financing Cost | $17.00 | $25.00 | $32.00 | $40.00 |
| Pricing | “Safe Home Starter” Package | “Safe Home Everyday” Package | “Safe Home Select” Package | “Safe Home Preferred” Package |
You can choose between paying for your Frontpoint security equipment upfront or financing the devices through the payment service Affirm with a three-, six-, or 12-month payment plan.
Learn more: Frontpoint Home Security Review
Abode Home Security
Abode is a versatile home security system that can connect up to 160 different devices for comprehensive protection. There is no contract required, giving you a lot of flexibility and convenience. Abode offers simple, straightforward monitoring, making it a solid fit if you prefer DIY monitoring and would rather not pay for professional monitoring.
Abode Package Comparison
| Feature | “Smart Security Middle” Package | “Iota Kit Middle” Package | “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package | “Iota Kit Elite” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keypad | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Key Fob | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Sticker | ✔ | – | ✔ | |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 included | – | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 1 included |
| Door/Window Sensors | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 4 included | ✔ 4 included |
| Smart Device integration | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Built-in Motion Detector | – | ✔ | – | ✔ |
| Wi-Fi-Enabled | – | ✔ | – | ✔ |
| Type of Gateway | Gen 2 | Iota | Gen 2 | Iota |
| Feature | “Smart Security Middle” Package | “Iota Kit Middle” Package | “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package | “Iota Kit Elite” Package |
Abode offers a range of four home security packages, which include all levels of protection to make sure you find a security package that matches your home’s needs.
- “Smart Security Middle” Package: The most streamlined package includes Abode’s Gen 2 Gateway, one keypad, one key fob, one sticker, one motion sensor, and three door/window sensors.
- “Iota Kit Middle” Package: This package builds on the foundation of The Smart Security Middle Package. It features the iota All-In-One Gateway, one keypad, one key fob, and three door/window sensors.
- “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package: This package is centered on the Gen 2 Gateway and includes one keypad, one key fob, one sticker, two motion sensors, and four mini door/window sensors.
- “Iota Kit Elite” Package: This extensive package offers comprehensive security, including Abode’s All-In-One Gateway, a keypad, a key fob, a motion sensor, and four mini door/window sensors.
Abode Pricing
| Pricing | “Smart Security Middle” Package | “Iota Kit Middle” Package | “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package | “Iota Kit Elite” Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $342 | $379 | $389 | $445 |
| Pricing | “Smart Security Middle” Package | “Iota Kit Middle” Package | “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package | “Iota Kit Elite” Package |
Learn more: Abode Home Security Review
Alder Home Security
A unique home security system, Alder uses a different format than most companies in the space. While many providers offer a variety of preset packages with defined types of devices, Alder allows you to customize your own package. You can tailor-make your own package by choosing the exact devices you want and leaving out anything you don’t. Another benefit: Alder has a 3.4-second response time—among the quickest average response times in the industry.
Alder Packages & Equipment
You can pick and choose the exact pieces of equipment you want to make your own Alder security package.
- Touchscreen Panel: The panel is the foundation of the home security system and uses a cellular connection—that means that it remains functional even if the internet goes out.
- Indoor Security Camera: The camera’s benefits include a wide-angle lens, night vision, and two-way talk. It can detect the sound of a baby crying and notify you when someone inside the home requires special attention.
- Outdoor Security Camera: This camera features benefits like night vision and a specialized wide-angle lens that can monitor a large area with a single camera. Mobile notifications, two-way audio, and motion detection are included as well.
- Motion Sensor: These operate with infrared technology, detecting when someone moves inside the home. If a motion sensor is tripped, it will notify the control panel, alerting both the customer and the monitoring center.
- Door/Window Sensor: These multi-use sensors send notifications when a door or window is opened when the system is armed. When the system isn’t armed, the base station will make a chiming sound when the sensors detect a window or door opening.
- Smart Smoke Detector: These are designed to alert you before smoke signals start to go off. Also, they are able to detect carbon monoxide.
- Medical Alert Pendant: Ideal for customers with medical conditions and seniors who live alone, the medical alert pendant will alert emergency services when the button is pressed.
- Flood and Freeze Detectors: These detectors alert you once they detect excess water in the home. Most people place the detectors near sinks, appliances that use water, and major piping in the basement.
- Doorbell Camera: This device allows you to view the live stream of your door. It sends alerts as soon as someone arrives and lets you talk to visitors in real time.
Alder Pricing
Alder’s pricing information isn’t publicly available on the site, but you can contact Alder representatives by phone to talk about the cost. Alder requires a three-year contract, and monthly monitoring prices start at $39.99.
Learn more: Alder Home Security Review
Our Conclusion
After evaluating many different home security systems, The This Old House Reviews Team decided that ADT, Vivint, Alder, SimpliSafe, Frontpoint, and Abode are the best home security systems in Kansas City. Each of these providers offers unique benefits alongside must-haves like indoor security cameras, professional monitoring, and more.
We always recommend you reach out to multiple providers to get a variety of quotes to help identify the security system that matches your needs. You can use the tool below to contact each home security service we recommend.
What to Consider When Choosing a Home Security System in Kansas City
- Reputation: Learn all you can about the home security provider’s pros and cons by chatting with family and friends who have the home security systems and read online reviews for a more in-depth look.
- Types of equipment: Home security providers offer different types of equipment. Before you choose a home security system, you should make sure it offers all of your preferred equipment.
- Installation method: Not all providers give you the choice between professional installation and DIY installation. Keep in mind there is usually a fee for professional installation.
- Cost: Before you purchase a home security system, make sure the costs—for equipment, installation, and professional monitoring—are within your budget.
- Smart home integration: Some home security systems can be integrated with smart home devices like Nest thermostat and Philips Hue smart lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Security Systems in Kansas City
What is the best home security system available?
We believe ADT is the best home security system available, with more than 140 years of experience, the largest network of professional monitoring centers, a six-month money-back guarantee, and more.
What is better, SimpliSafe or Ring?
SimpliSafe is one of our top choices with easy DIY installation and seamless smartphone integration. Ring is a solid option as well, with affordable and streamlined equipment, but it is not in our top recommendations.
What is the best wireless security system to buy?
We have created an in-depth breakdown of the best wireless security systems. Our choices include ADT, Vivint, Alder, SimpliSafe, and Abode.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Reviews Team is committed to providing comprehensive and objective reviews to our readers. This means earning your trust through transparent reviews and having the data to back up our ratings and recommendations. Our rating system for home security providers is on a 100-point scale based on 10 factors:
- Number of systems (5)
- Special features (10)
- Installation options (5)
- Connectivity and smart home automation (15)
- Pricing (15)
- Contract period (5)
- Warranty (15)
- Trial period (15)
- Usability (5)
- Trustworthiness (10)
Our Reviews Team reviewed 32 companies and spent 744 hours researching and testing out products to help us compare home security systems on key factors such as package options, cost, reliability, and ease of use. Read more on our methodology here.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.