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Home security systems can give you peace of mind that your home is protected while you’re away. A home security system is more than 24/7 professional monitoring and video surveillance. The top home security systems offer perks high-tech outdoor cameras and home automation, which allows you to control smart devices like the Nest thermostat and Amazon Alexa.
There are a wide range of home security providers available in Tucson, but they differ in the packages and equipment they offer, how they’re installed, their cost, and more. To help you decide on the best security solution for your Tucson home, the This Old House Reviews Team evaluated the best home security systems in the area. Read on to find out about our top home security recommendations in Tucson, Arizona.
Top 6 Home Security Systems in Tucson
- ADT: 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
ADT Home Security
ADT is the This Old House Reviews Team’s top choice for a home security system. ADT has nearly 150 years of industry experience and offers a six-month money-back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction. The provider has the largest network of professional monitoring centers in the U.S. and serves millions of customers nationwide.
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 buy this optional add-on equipment at a one-time charge:
- Touchscreen keypad
- Indoor and outdoor cameras
- Video doorbell camera
- Smoke detector
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Flood sensor
- Glass break 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
Vivint is a straightforward home security system. Its seamless smartphone and smart home integration are a major plus, helping customers streamline their lives. You can integrate your system with smart devices like the Philips Hue smart light, Nest Thermostat, and Kwikset smart lock. Technologically-advanced equipment is also offered, including security cameras that use camera analytics to notify you as soon as people and packages arrive at your doorstep.
Vivint Package Comparison
| Feature | “Vivint Smart Hub 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 | “Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit” Package | “Home Security System” Package | “Smart Home Control” Package | “Video Security” Package | “Smart Complete” Package |
Vivint offers five home security packages. If you’re interested in all of the bells and whistles associated with smart home automation and video surveillance, consider investing in the Smart Complete Bundle Package.
- “Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit” Package: The starter kit operates with a touch screen panel that’s controllable through the mobile app. It includes the Smart Hub, a water sensor, a motion sensor, and two entry sensors. With this package, Vivint gives you $100 toward purchasing additional sensors.
- “Home Security System Bundle” Package: This bundle includes the devices offered in the Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit, plus a smart smoke detector that you can integrate with the system to control smart locks if the smoke alarm system is triggered.
- “Smart Home Control Bundle” Package: This package contains all of the equipment noted so far, along with a smart lock, smart thermostat, and smart garage door opener. Customers need a subscription to the Smart Home Video Plan to fully use this package.
- “Video Security Bundle” Package: This combo package contains the Vivint Smart Hub Starter Kit’s equipment and video surveillance, including an indoor camera, doorbell camera, and an outdoor security camera. The package also offers Wi-Fi-enabled storage that archives playback recordings. A Vivint Smart Home Video Plan is needed to fully use this package.
- “Smart Complete Bundle” Package: The most comprehensive package combines the devices from the Video Security Bundle and the automation of Vivint’s Smart Home Control Bundle.
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 offers flexible home security plans and customer-friendly DIY installation with no installation fee. However, the company can provide professional installation if you prefer. The provider requires no contracts, and its systems have a long battery life of 10 years or more. Third-party smart devices like smartphones, Apple Watch, and Amazon Alexa can also be integrated with SimpliSafe systems.
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 five preset home security packages and one customizable package that lets you design a kit to your exact specifications. The Haven Package offers the most protection, with all of the basic devices you need, plus a panic button.
- “The Foundation” Package: The starter package features all of the primary devices like a base station, key pad, motion sensor, and entry sensor.
- “The Essentials” Package: The Essentials provides two additional entry sensors as an extra security measure.
- “The Hearth” Package: The Hearth Package features added equipment for extra protection, including a key fob and a siren.
- “The Knox” Package: The Knox Package is the second-most comprehensive package, providing all of the security equipment included in The Hearth Package. It has a total of six entry sensors, the most of any package.
- “The Haven” Package: This comprehensive package contains all of the basic equipment, plus a temperature sensor, water sensor, and panic button.
You can design your SimpliSafe security package by following these three steps:
- Start with the core of your system—a base station and a wireless keypad.
- Choose your protection sensors (smoke detectors, temperature sensor, water sensor, and carbon monoxide sensor) and burglary sensors (motion sensors, entry sensors, glass break sensors, SimpliCam, and panic button).
- Select any optional add-on equipment to round out your package (pro setup help, key fob, extra keypad, extra 105db siren, and extra yard sign).
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 |
SimpliSafe’s Standard Monitoring Plan costs $14.99 per month and the Interactive Monitoring Plan costs $24.99 per month.
Learn more: SimpliSafe Home Security Review
Frontpoint Home Security
Frontpoint is a DIY home security system that offers customer-friendly and customizable smartphone notifications to keep you in the loop when you’re out and about. The security system is durable, and it can stay functional even when the control system is destroyed or damaged with the company’s crash and smash protection. Frontpoint requires no long-term contract.
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 four security packages of varying levels and costs. The Safe Home Everyday Package is a solid choice for individuals who want more than the most basic package but don’t want additional cameras.
- “Safe Home Starter” Package: The starter package includes all of the essential security equipment: a hub, a keypad, a motion sensor, and two door/window sensors.
- “Safe Home Everyday” Package: This package includes all of the starter package’s equipment, along with an extra door/window sensor and a motion sensor.
- “Safe Home Select” Package: This package provides an even greater degree of security with a glass break sensor and a smoke and heat sensor.
- “Safe Home Preferred” Package: The preferred package includes the most extensive protection with all of the equipment above, along with an additional 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 either pay for your Frontpoint equipment upfront or finance the devices through the payment service Affirm with a 3-, 6-, or 12-month payment plan.
Learn more: Frontpoint Home Security Review
Abode Home Security
Abode offers versatile, highly-customizable home security systems that can connect to 160 different security devices for personalized protection. The DIY monitoring plan is straightforward and user-friendly. Customers who like flexibility might like that Abode requires doesn’t require a contract.
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 | – | ✔ | – | ✔ |
| Wifi-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 four security packages. Each one is founded around one of two gateways—the standard Gen 2 or the more technologically-advanced Iota All-in-One Gateway. For the most comprehensive protection, consider the Iota Kit Elite Package.
- “Smart Security Middle” Package: This starter kit works with the basic Gen 2 Gateway and contains one sticker, one keypad, one key fob, one motion sensor, and three door/window sensors.
- “Iota Kit Middle” Package: This package uses the sophisticated Iota All-In-One Gateway. The package includes one keypad, one key fob, and three door/window sensors.
- “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package: The elite package is built around the Gen 2 Gateway and includes one keypad, one key fob, two motion sensors, four mini door/window sensors, and one sticker.
- “Iota Kit Elite” Package: The most complex package features advanced protection with the Iota All-In-One Gateway, a keypad, a key fob, four mini door/window sensors, and one motion sensor.
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
Alder takes a different approach to home security. Instead of offering a range of preset packages like many other providers, Alder lets you create your own unique package. You can choose the exact devices you want so that you don’t end up paying for anything you don’t need. Alder also has a quick average response time of 3.4 seconds, one of the fastest in the industry.
Alder Packages & Equipment
You can tailor your package to your needs by mixing and matching different Alder devices. An Alder representative can guide you toward a plan over the phone if you want a professional opinion.
- Touchscreen Panel: The touchscreen panel is Alder’s core device. It operates with a cellular connection to remain functional even if the internet goes out.
- Indoor Security Camera: The indoor security camera uses two-way talk, night vision, and a wide-angle lens. The camera is sophisticated and even offers baby crying detection. It also sends alerts when someone in the house requires special attention.
- Outdoor Security Camera: The outdoor security camera has advanced protection features, including a wide-angle lens, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, and mobile notifications.
- Motion Sensor: The motion sensors detect movement using infrared technology. When a motion sensor is tripped, the system sends a notification to the control panel, alerting you and the monitoring center of a potential threat.
- Door/Window Sensor: If the system is armed and a door or window is opened, the sensors will send you an alert. When the security system isn’t armed and a door or window is opened, the base station will chime.
- Smart Smoke Detector: The smart smoke detectors send alerts before smoke signals start and double as carbon monoxide detectors.
- Medical Alert Pendant: Designed for people with medical issues and seniors who live alone, the pendant contacts emergency services when the button is pressed.
- Flood and Freeze Detectors: The detectors send alerts when they pick up excess water. Good spots for installation include near sinks, appliances that use water, and major piping in the basement.
- Doorbell Camera: The doorbell camera shares a livestream of your door and sends an alert when it detects a visitor.
Alder Pricing
We spoke to an Alder customer service representative to get a recommendation for the equipment we would need for a three-bedroom home. You can find the recommended devices below. The activation fee was quoted at $89, with a monthly monitoring charge of $44.99.
- 1 touchscreen panel
- 1 motion sensor
- 2 door sensors
- 1 monitored fire sensor
- 1 outdoor wireless camera with two-way audio
Learn more: Alder Home Security Review
Our Conclusion
The This Old House Reviews Team evaluated a wide variety of home security providers on a range of key metrics and found that the best home security systems in Tucson are ADT, Vivint, Alder, SimpliSafe, Frontpoint, and Abode. Each of these providers ranked highly because of their available security packages, equipment, installation ease, and more.
We always recommend reaching out to multiple providers to find the best security system for your home. You can use the tool below to contact some top home security providers:
What to Consider When Choosing a Home Security System in Tucson
- Reputation: Before purchasing a home security system, it’s wise to learn all you can about a provider’s benefits and drawbacks. Consider talking to friends and family who have invested in the system and read online reviews.
- Types of equipment: Different home security systems provide a variety of equipment. If you require specific devices, confirm that the provider offers them.
- Installation method: Some customers prefer DIY installation because it can be done on your own schedule and has no associated fee, but not all providers give you that option.
- Cost: Confirm that the costs of installation, equipment, and monthly monitoring work within your budget.
- Smart home integration: Not all security systems can be integrated with smart home devices like the Philips Hue light and Nest Thermostat. If this is a priority, chat with a customer service representative before signing a contract.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Security Systems in Tucson
What is the best home security system available?
We rank ADT as the best home security system available because they offer a six-month money-back guarantee, have more than 140 years of experience, and operate the largest network of professional monitoring centers in the US.
What is the best home security system with no monthly fee?
Home security providers like Vivint allow self-monitoring at no additional monthly cost.
How much does it cost to get a home security system installed?
This depends on the home security provider you select and the security equipment you want. Often, companies will offer specials to lower the cost.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Reviews Team is committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased 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.
More on Home Security Systems:
- SimpliSafe vs ADT
- Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe
- Frontpoint vs Vivint
- Abode vs SimpliSafe
- SimpliSafe vs Vivint
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.