Monitoring from around $20/mo. Sales often cut hardware costs.
Quick Comparison
System
Best for
Install
Monitoring
Contract
From
Pro monitoring
DIY or pro
Pro or self
Optional
~$25/mo
DIY, no contract
DIY or pro
Pro or self
None
~$23/mo
Automation
Pro only
Pro only
Yes
~$30/mo
Cameras & video
DIY
Pro or self
None
~$10/mo
Budget value
DIY or pro
Pro
None
~$20/mo
In-Depth: Best Home Security Systems
1. ADT — Best Professional Monitoring
ADT’s 12 monitoring centers and long track record make it our top choice for 24/7 professional monitoring. You get Nest cameras, smart home integration, and flexible DIY or pro installation.
SimpliSafe stands out for Intruder Intervention and Active Guard: monitoring agents can see and speak through your cameras to deter break-ins. Setup is DIY-friendly and there are no long-term contracts.
Pros
Intruder Intervention & Active Guard
No contracts, flexible plans
Simple DIY install
Cellular backup
Cons
Fewer camera and smart home options
Pro install is outsourced
3. Vivint — Best Home Automation
Vivint offers a full smart home ecosystem with a touch-screen hub, indoor and outdoor cameras, and rich automation. It’s pro-install only and tends to be pricier, but the experience is top-tier.
Ring pairs its alarm with a wide range of doorbells and cameras, all in one app. It’s a solid choice if video and outdoor coverage matter most, with optional pro monitoring and no contract.
Pros
Many camera and doorbell options
Affordable monitoring and cloud storage
Easy DIY setup
No contract
Cons
Cameras need a subscription to record
Limited smart home gear
5. Cove — Best Value
Cove focuses on low-cost equipment and monitoring. Monitoring starts around $20/month, and sales often cut hardware costs. It’s a good fit if you want solid pro monitoring on a tight budget.
Pros
Low monitoring and equipment costs
Frequent discounts
DIY or pro install
No contract
Cons
Pro monitoring required
Fewer equipment and integration options
How We Chose These Systems
We evaluate systems on equipment quality, monitoring (response times, features), cost (upfront and monthly), installation, and ease of use. We emphasize professional monitoring, flexible plans, and clear pricing. Our rankings balance performance and value so you can choose what fits your home and budget.
Equipment (35%): Sensors, cameras, hubs, and smart home options.
Monitoring (35%): Speed, reliability, and features like video verification and intruder deterrence.
Price & value (30%): Upfront costs, monthly fees, contracts, and what’s included.
FAQs
Which home security system is best overall?
ADT is our top pick for its monitoring network, Nest equipment, and flexibility. SimpliSafe is best if you prefer DIY and no contract; Vivint is best for full home automation.
Do I need professional monitoring?
We recommend it for 24/7 response and features like video verification. Self‑monitoring is possible with most DIY systems if you prefer to handle alerts yourself.
How much does a home security system cost?
Equipment often runs $200–$1,000+; professional monitoring is typically $20–$50/month. DIY systems like SimpliSafe and Ring can be cheaper; pro‑install systems like ADT and Vivint cost more upfront.
What’s the best DIY home security system?
SimpliSafe is our top DIY choice for its Intruder Intervention features and contract‑free plans. Ring Alarm is also strong if you want more cameras and doorbells.
Smart.Homes may receive compensation from providers listed on this page. Such compensation can affect location and order. Our reviews and rankings are independent. We only recommend systems that meet our standards. Learn more.
