Figuring out which home security system is perfect for you doesn’t have to be stressful. From DIY to professional security systems that work with AI, here are our top 7 smart home security systems for 2020.
SimpliSafe
| Pros | Cons |
No long-term contracts to sign Easiest installation of any system Affordable monitoring plans | Pricey up-front equipment Limited home automation capabilities No outdoor security camera |
SimpliSafe makes it easy and affordable to install a smart home system for everyone. The best thing about SimpliSafe is SmashSafe technology. So, if someone tries to disable your system, the monitoring service will know and alert the police automatically. Another cool feature is Heartbeat, which continuously checks your security system to see if it’s working as intended.
The full price for the SimpliSafe system is $244. Plus, professional monitoring is optional and starts at only $14.99 per month. SimpliSafe starter set includes:
- A base station
- A wireless keypad
- A keyring remote
- One motion sensor
- Two entry sensors
On the other hand, DIY monitoring is always available with the free SimpliSafe app. Additionally, you don’t need to worry about setting up the SimpliSafe system because all equipment is freestanding or attached to surfaces with removable adhesive.
Cove
| Pros | Cons |
Support Google Assistant and Alexa 60-day money-back guarantee Lifetime warranty available | Third-party security cameras only Limited smart home compatibility |
Cove might be the new kid on the block, but it knows exactly what customers want from DIY home security. The best thing about this home security system is that during emergencies, Cove’s team can actually text their users, which could be really helpful in many situations. That’s one of the reasons why Cove’s response rate is surprisingly faster than most competitors.
Unlike other security companies that usually charge from 75% to 100% of your remaining contract, Cove sets you free without punishing penalties and fees.
Vivint
| Pros | Cons |
One app for everything Smart Deter lurker detection Customizable smart security packages Free in-home security consultation | Higher overall cost Steep termination fees No DIY option |
Vivint is known for its amazing home automation technology. But, the new innovative home security features are really what makes us excited. With its Smart Sentry for intelligent detection, if someone lingers for too long on your property, the Outdoor Camera will alert by a warning tone. Also, this triggers a Smart Sentry alert on your phone, allowing you to view images of the person, engage in a two-way conversation, or activate the camera’s security siren.
In addition, with AI support and the latest security tech, Vivint is beyond any average home security system when it comes to today’s most pressing security concerns. Plus, this high-end security system is more accessible now with its new consumer financing policy.
ADT
| Pros | Cons |
Fast response times Free whole-home risk assessment Outstanding customer guarantees | Long contracts with no trial period High termination and monitoring fees |
This home security company has delivered top-notch home protection for nearly 145 years and looks out for more than 8 million people across the globe. And, the best thing about ADT is its nine-monitoring centers, which are way better than any security company. The coolest part is that your pro monitoring service never goes offline, even if it faces a power outage or natural disaster.
In case one monitoring station does go down, your home’s protection will be transferred instantly to another center. That’s the 24/7 protection you can rely on! So, if you want a home security sign that offers the best protection, then nothing can’t do better than the ADT.
Frontpoint
| Pros | Cons |
Easy DIY installation No contracts for monitoring Free 30-day trial Outstanding customer service | Higher monitoring fees No pro installation options |
Although it’s easier for people to find a DIY home security system nowadays, not every option on the market is actually good. Luckily, Frontpoint delivers all the perks you want from a home security system: indoor/outdoor security cameras, smart home integration, mobile app control, and 24/7 pro monitoring. Plus, you get it all without pushy sales, in-home consultations, or exorbitant equipment prices.
Besides, Frontpoint offers 2 monitoring plans (start at $99) to make it easier for customers to pick the right plan for their home and family. So, for those who like the independence of DIY, Frontpoint’s Build Your Own option is ideal here.
Abode
| Pros | Cons |
Advanced smart home compatibility Simple and quick setup Ideal size for apartments or dorms | Up-front equipment costs Limited function for bigger homes |
Abode can protect your home with its traditional Smart Security Kit or the new all-in-one Iota security hub. No matter what you choose, Abode still provides you with smart voice control through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. In fact, it’s one of the only security systems out there that cater to Apple devotees.
Besides voice control, you can add smart lighting, smart locks, or smart smoke detectors to your Abode security system. Plus, pro monitoring starts at a mere $20 per month. On top of that, all packages come with free mobile app access. And, you can choose self-monitoring or pay Abode’s professional securities to watch over your home.
Overall, Abode is a great choice if you want to max out your home automation options. Plus, it’s also ideal for small houses or apartments.
Ring Alarm
| Pros | Cons |
3 equipment packages under $350 Monitoring for $10/month Works with Ring video doorbells and cameras | No cameras included with Ring Alarm security kit Up-front equipment cost |
You can buy Ring’s 8-piece security kit and add monthly monitoring for a year at just around $300. Honestly, that’s cheaper when compared to competitors out there.
The Ring Alarm delivers reliable, basic home security with one of the best alarm systems. But, keep in mind that this one is no-frills home security. So, if you’re looking for is intrusion detection, Ring Alarm will give you a great start.
On the other hand, if you want to add extras like cameras or security lighting, the up-front equipment price gets steeper. However, Ring’s $10 price tag is hard to beat. Actually, Ring Alarm is our choice for the best budget smart home security system on the market right now.
Which smart home security system is your favorite here? Also, let us know in the comments below!
