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9 Best Home Security Systems

Investing in a home security system can improve home safety and help protect your home from break-ins and theft. Keep reading to learn about the best home security systems and find a solution that’s right for you.

By This Old House Reviews Team 3/6/2023

A home security system can improve overall home safety, protecting you and your family from potential home intruders. Top home security systems protect you from unexpected break-ins and allow you to keep an eye on your home remotely.

With so many providers out there, it can be hard to figure out which one has the best home security system for you. That’s where the This Old House Reviews Team comes in. We’ve compared packages, pricing, contracts, installation options, and warranties to help you find the most secure system for your home.

*Requires 36-month monitoring contract. Early termination and installation fees apply. New customers only. Reward card issued by Pathward, N.A., Member FDIC. Card terms and expiration apply. Read full terms and conditions.

9 Best Home Security Systems

Based on our research, the best home security systems include the following:

Compare the Best Home Security Systems

Product Image Best For Star Rating Monthly Cost Link
ADT ADT Best Overall
$35.99+ VISIT SITE
SimpliSafe SimpliSafe Best for Easy Installation
$14.99+ VISIT SITE
Vivint Vivint Best for Smart Homes
$29.99+ VISIT SITE
Alder Alder Best for Medical Alerts
$39.99 VISIT SITE
Abode Abode Best for Renters
$6.00+ VISIT SITE
SimpliSafe
Vivint
Alder
Abode
ADT
Product Image ADT
Best For Best Overall
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $35.99+
VISIT SITE
SimpliSafe
Product Image SimpliSafe
Best For Best for Easy Installation
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $14.99+
VISIT SITE
Vivint
Product Image Vivint
Best For Best for Smart Homes
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $29.99+
VISIT SITE
Alder
Product Image Alder
Best For Best for Medical Alerts
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $39.99
VISIT SITE
Abode
Product Image Abode
Best For Best for Renters
Star Rating
Monthly Cost $6.00+
VISIT SITE

ADT Home Security

ADT offers one of the best home security systems in the industry. The company has more than 145 years of experience and serves millions of customers nationwide. It also provides 24/7 professional monitoring, giving customers peace of mind that their home is protected at all times. Due to its comprehensive package options, professional installation process, and competitive pricing, ADT is our No. 1 pick for the best home security system.

ADT Best Overall
4.6

Pros and Cons of ADT Home Security

Pros Operates the largest national network of professional monitoring centers with more than nine centers Gives customers access to a range of smart-home devices, with some packages offering mobile app remote control
Cons Requires minimum 36-month contract for professionally installed systems (24 months in California) Doesn’t professionally install stand-alone devices; pro-installation requires full system purchase

ADT Packages & Pricing

Feature Basic Secure Smart Video Complete

24/7 Professional Monitoring

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Intrusion Detection

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

24/7 Fire, Flood, & Carbon Monoxide Monitoring

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

ADT+ 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

–

–

✔

–

✔

Note: The packages and prices listed are for ADT’s professionally installed systems.

If you’d like more details on ADT’s offerings, read our ADT home security system review or check out the following brand comparisons:

Get a Quote: If you’d like to get a quote from ADT, call 888-285-6952 or fill out this simple form.

To Learn More: ADT Home Security Review

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is an affordable, no-contract alternative to other top home security systems like ADT. It’s easy to install on your own and integrates with a variety of smart-home devices. SimpliSafe is ideal for renters since installation doesn’t require you to drill into walls or doors.

SimpliSafe Best for Easy Installation
4.9

Pros and Cons of SimpliSafe Home Security

Pros Can arm or disarm the system from your phone, Amazon Alexa, Apple Watch, etc. System batteries last 10+ years Monthly payments with no contract required Easy to install on your own
Cons Remote control and alarm alert options only offered with more expensive monitoring SimpliCam has no facial recognition and may send false alerts May be difficult to use for customers who aren’t tech-savvy

SimpliSafe Packages & Pricing

Feature “The Foundation” Package “The Essentials” Package “The Hearth” Package “The Knox” Package “The Haven” Package

Equipment Cost

$229

$259

$374

$449

$489

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

–

–

✔

✔

✔

Key Fob

–

–

✔

✔

✔

Smoke Detector

–

–

✔

✔

✔

Panic Button

–

–

–

–

✔

Temperature Sensor

–

–

–

–

✔

Water Sensor

–

–

–

–

✔

Check out how the company compares to other top home security companies in detail with these brand comparisons:

Get a Quote: To get a quote for SimpliSafe Home Security, visit the company’s website.

To Learn More: SimpliSafe Home Security Review

Vivint

Vivint has more than 20 years of experience, with an emphasis on smart-home integration and automation. It’s ideal for homeowners who want to integrate their security system with existing smart-home technology gadgets. Vivint’s system easily integrates with popular smart-home platforms, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and the company can provide assistance with features like smart air control and smart lighting.

Vivint Best for Smart Homes
4.7

Pros and Cons of Vivint Home Security

Pros In-house professional monitoring includes live video monitoring, medical alert monitoring, and carbon monoxide (CO) detection Customizable package model with affordable, high-end equipment System is controllable by mobile app, key fob, or voice Integrates with third-party smart-home devices like Nest thermostat, Philips Hue smart lights, etc.
Cons Expensive up-front equipment costs and lengthy financing plan There’s no DIY installation option Has an extremely short cancellation policy of three days for a full refund

Vivint Packages & Pricing

Feature “Smart Hub Starter Kit” Package “Home Security System” Package “Smart Home Control” Package “Video Security” Package “Smart Complete” Package

Equipment Cost

$599

$709.98

$1,049.95

$1,379.95

$1,789.92

Monthly Monitoring Cost

$9.98

$11.83

$17.50

$23.00

$29.83

SkyControl Panel

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Smart Entry Sensors (2)

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Voice Control

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Motion Sensor

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Smart Smoke Detector

–

✔

✔

–

✔

Element Thermostat

–

–

✔

–

✔

Smart Lock

–

–

✔

–

✔

Smart Garage Door Opener

–

–

✔

–

✔

Indoor/Outdoor/Doorbell Camera

–

–

–

✔

✔

See how Vivint compares to other smart-home security systems with these comparison guides:

Get a Quote: To get a quote with Vivint Home Security, call 855-740-4217 or visit their website here.

To Learn More: Vivint Home Security Review

Abode

Founded in 2014, Abode is a relatively new home security company in the industry. However, it provides a wide selection of home security system devices and monthly monitoring packages that don’t require a long-term contract. We find Abode the best for customization due to its Build My System option. This option involves working with an Abode representative to create the perfect home security system package for protecting your home.

Abode Best for Renters
4.8

Pros and Cons of Abode Home Security

Pros Doesn’t require a long-term contract Abode Cue integration connects and controls smart-home devices On-demand professional monitoring available
Cons Limited devices included in starter kits 4G cellular backup only available with Pro Plan

Abode Packages & Pricing

Feature “Smart Security Middle” Package “Iota Kit Middle” Package “Smart Security Kit Elite” Package “Iota Kit Elite” Package

Equipment Cost

$342

$379

$389

$445

Keypad

✔

✔

✔

✔

Key Fob

✔

✔

✔

✔

Sticker

✔

–

✔

–

Motion Sensor

✔ 1 included

–

✔ 2 included

✔ 1 included

Door/Window Sensors

✔ 3 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

You can also see how Abode compares with top providers with these brand comparisons:

Get a Quote: To get a quote from Abode, visit their website here.

To Learn More: Adobe Home Security Review

Frontpoint

Frontpoint provides one of the best DIY systems in the industry. It comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, no long-term contracts, and highly customized smartphone notifications. Frontpoint sends the equipment straight to your door. All you need to do is connect the monitoring hub and sensors to your Wi-Fi.

Note: Frontpoint includes yard signs, window decals, and door stickers with all home security systems.

Pros and Cons of Frontpoint Home Security

Pros Highly customized smartphone notifications No contract required 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons Expensive professional monitoring Monitoring plan required for full functionality No professional installation available

Frontpoint Packages & Pricing

Feature “Safe Home Starter” Package “Safe Home Everyday” Package “Safe Home Select” Package “Safe Home Preferred” Package

Package Price

$129.00

$295.94

$383.92

$479.90

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

–

–

–

✔

When analyzing customer service and sales calls, we observed that customers who did not own a smartphone or were concerned about using a smartphone had difficulties setting up their systems. If you’re uncomfortable with smartphones and apps, you should let Frontpoint know in advance and be sure to have a tech-savvy friend or family member on hand to help.

To Learn More: Frontpoint Home Security Review

Alder

Alder Home Security is a basic home security system that is ideal for those who are new to home security systems. Alder helps you create a customized package based on your needs and the size of your home. Alder’s medical alert pendants and buttons paired with its professional monitoring make it an excellent choice for those concerned about medical emergencies.

Alder Best for Medical Alerts
4.6

Pros and Cons of Alder Home Security

Pros Simple and straightforward home security panel Most plans include 24/7 professional monitoring and mobile app access One of the quickest average response times on the market (3.4 seconds)
Cons Lengthy 36-month initial contract required Difficult to cancel a contract

Alder Packages and Pricing

Alder provides only custom packages, unlike most home security companies. It offers a touchscreen panel, indoor/outdoor cameras, door/window sensors, motion detectors, medical alert buttons, doorbell cameras, and other items. You can expect to receive two-way audio with Alder’s indoor cameras.

Alder’s custom package pricing will vary depending on the items you choose. However, professional monitoring fees start at $39.99 per month.

Get a Quote: To get a quote for Alder Home Security, call 844-431-0264 or visit its website here.

To Learn More: Alder Home Security Review

Canary

Canary Home Security is a great option for those looking for top-tier technology in their home security system. Each of Canary’s packages comes with a video camera that alerts you to activity inside the home, records video, and automatically adjusts its security mode based on home activity. Canary can also assist with smart-home integration to help monitor temperature and air quality.

Canary Best for Two-Way Audio
4.5

Pros and Cons of Canary Home Security

Pros Cameras have night vision capabilities Alarm modes automatically change based on home activity Users can receive two-way communication with Canary Premium Service Devices are free, so customers only pay a monthly service fee
Cons Doesn’t offer professional monitoring services Doesn’t offer window or door sensors Can only access one day of video history with the free plan

Canary Packages & Pricing

Feature Canary View Canary Pro Canary Flex

Cost

$99

$169

$199

Motion Detection

✔

✔

✔

Night Vision

✔

✔

✔

90 Decibel Siren

✘

✔

✘

Temperature, humidity, and air monitoring

✘

✔

✘

Weatherproof

✘

✘

✔

Wireless

✘

✘

✔

Camera

HD Camera with 1080p image sensor

HD Camera with 1080p image sensor

HD Camera with 1080p image sensor

Field of View

147-degree wide-angle lens

147-degree wide-angle lens

116-degree wide-angle lens

Get a Quote: See what home security system package Canary can provide you by visiting here.

To Learn More: Canary Home Security Review

Scout

Scout Alarm provides another great option for DIY home security systems that allows you to avoid a long-term contract. The Scout Elements Package comes with the best alarm system with disaster prevention tools such as a smoke alarm and water sensor to help you catch fires or flood damage early. The company also provides some great perks, such as a 60-day return policy and a three-year warranty.

Scout Best for Disaster Prevention
4.7

Pros and Cons of Scout Home Security

Pros 60-day free returns 3-year warranty on equipment Compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons Charges for self-monitoring through the Scout app Limited devices offered in most basic package Doesn’t offer professional installation

Scout Packages & Pricing

Feature Scout Small Pack Scout Large Pack Scout Elements Pack Scout Architect Pack

Price

$222

$319

$349

$549

Scout Hub

✔

✔

✔

✔

Door Panel

✔

✔

✔

✔

Smart Lock

✗

✗

✗

✔

Glass Break Sensor

✗

✗

✗

✔

Water Sensor

✔

✗

Yard Sign

✔

✔

✔

✗

Motion Sensor

✔ 1

✔ 2

✔ 1

✔ 1

Access Sensors

✔ 1

✔ 5

✔ 4

✔ 4

Key Fobs

✔ 2

✔ 2

✔ 2

✔ 2

Get a Quote: See how Scout can help with your home’s disaster prevention by learning more on the company’s website here.

To Learn More: Scout Alarm Home Security Review

Blue by ADT

Blue by ADT is ADT’s DIY home security service and is a great starting place for those interested in going the DIY route. With its base package, customers receive two security cameras, a video doorbell, and an optional sensor. Customers can also take advantage of other useful features, such as local video storage options and facial recognition technology.

Blue by ADT Packages & Pricing

Blue by ADT offers four package options. Each package features a number of security cameras, alarm sensors and other equipment that you can mix and match to fit your home’s security needs.

Blue by ADT costs $109.19 to $349.99 up-front for an equipment package. Customers decide on either $2.99 or $12.99 per month for cloud storage. Customers can either self-monitor for no additional cost, or they can opt for a monthly $19.99 professional monitoring service.

Our Take on Blue by ADT

  • Superlative: Best for Beginners
  • Recommended Package: We suggest you look into the Build-Your-Own Package with Blue by ADT. This option gives you some control over your total equipment cost and allows you to choose the right equipment for your home and family’s security needs.

Blue by ADT is a great option for anyone starting with home security. The company offers simple package options with plenty of customization and flexibility. Customers get access to a user-friendly mobile app, ADT monitoring service without the lengthy contract, and a 30-day free trial for professional monitoring. Blue by ADT’s equipment is simple and easy-to-use making it a prime choice for home security beginners.

To Learn More: Blue by ADT Review

Additional Home Alarm Systems

Of course, the listed providers are only some of the best home security companies to choose from. Here are a few other home security companies that may have an alarm system that’s right for you.

  • Ring: Known primarily for its video doorbell cameras, Ring also offers a range of cameras and other security equipment. Ring may be best for those on a budget looking for the best home alarm systems, since the company offers some of the most affordable systems in the industry.
  • Google Nest: Google offers home alarm systems that easily integrates with its other smart home products, which is great if you rely on your Google Assistant for home automation.
  • Blink: If security cameras are your main concern, check out Blink’s products for night vision, motion activation, indoor/outdoor monitoring, and more.
  • Xfinity Home: Xfinity customers can receive a discount by bundling the company’s best security system with its phone, internet, and cable services. If you only want to pay one bill for all of the above, you may want to give this company a shot.

Ongoing Deals

Check out some of the current deals offered by some of the top home security system providers:

  • ADT: $100 Visa® Reward Card with purchase
  • SimpliSafe: save 20% with 24/7 professional monitoring, get one free month of professional monitoring, and a free HD camera with your package
  • Abode: 15% off accessories with purchase of a starter kit
  • Alder: 50% off an outdoor camera
  • Canary: Free HD camera with night vision in every package
  • Blue by ADT: First month of 24/7 professional monitoring free with purchase of a plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Which home security system is best?

After our analysis, we ranked ADT as the best home security system available because they offer the largest network of professional monitoring centers, have more than 140 years of industry experience, and provide a six-month money-back guarantee. Overall, ADT forms the most comprehensive system for those looking to secure their homes.

Get a quote from ADT.

Is there a better security system than ADT?

For those looking for a home security system without a contract, we recommend SimpliSafe. SimpliSafe is designed to be self-installable, but the company does offer professional installation for a separate fee. Additionally, while ADT offers four packages, Simplisafe offers five packages based on the size of your home and the amount of equipment you need, as well as two monitoring plans.

Get a quote from SimpliSafe.

How do I set up a home security system?

It depends on the provider. Some systems come with professional installation where the company will set up your system for you. Other companies offer DIY systems that require self-installation and set up. SimpliSafe is known to be an easy system to install, although the company offers professional installation as well.

Our Rating Methodology

The This Old House Reviews Team backs up our home security recommendations with a detailed rating methodology that we use to objectively score each provider. Our research includes analyzing product specifications, reviewing service and plan information, speaking with customer service representatives, and analyzing customer reviews. We then score the provider against our review standards for system options, special features, installation options, connectivity and smart-home automation features, pricing, contract terms, warranty, usability, availability of a trial period, and trustworthiness to arrive at a final score out of 100.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.

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