Best Home Security Systems

Do you know what’s going on at home while you’re away? According to the FBI, a burglary takes place roughly every eighteen seconds — and so there’s a chance your home may be the next target on a burglar’s list. With that being said, it’s important to take precautionary measures to prevent a break-in. Just locking the front door isn’t enough: approximately only 34% of burglars enter through the front door.

They’re getting bolder, too: stealing packages directly from front porches and disguising themselves as professionals to gain access to local homes.

To keep burglars at bay, consider setting up a neighborhood watch, getting a guard dog, or even installing a fence around the perimeter of your property. You can also invest in a home security system to give you an extra layer of security.

A security system can give you peace of mind, especially while you’re at work or away on vacation. Here are seven of the best home security systems to compare.

1. ADT: Probably the most recognizable name on this list, ADT has been part of the home security system industry for almost 145 years. Each ADT security system has a range of equipment options like home security keypads, motion detectors, and sensors for your doors and windows. Their smart system takes preventative measures, like turning off your thermostat if a fire breaks out.
2. Scout Alarm: For a do-it-yourself, contract-free security option, Scout Alarm will fit the bill. Choose either the Arctic or Midnight Hub, then add any additional sensors, keypads, or smoke detectors that you want. The system plugs directly into your existing router and comes with 4G cellular backup and battery backup. From there, you can set customizable actions or alerts through the mobile app.
3. Ring Alarm: Never worry about setting up a service appointment again with this do-it-yourself home security system. They have packages or individual products depending on your needs. You also have the option to purchase flood and freeze sensors to keep your home monitored on all fronts. Plus, you can either monitor the system yourself or sign up for the Protect Plus option with 24/7 professional monitoring.
4. Frontpoint: This do-it-yourself system can be easily installed in your home, with no manual programming, drilling, or wiring required. Everything comes pre-programmed for ease of use. It’s entirely customizable so you can personalize the system to fit your lifestyle. Frontpoint also provides a price-lock guarantee, and their system is guaranteed for life.
5. Vivint: From cameras to smart locks, Vivint has what you’ll need to create a smart, secure home. Remotely monitor everything through Vivint’s fully-featured mobile app, where you can view and record video or simply adjust your home thermostat. Within the home, you can control the system with a Smart Hub or even Google Home. They even have a solar panel installation option if you’re looking to utilize eco-friendly power options.
6. SimpliSafe: An out of the box system, SimpliSafe includes a base station, keypad, and sensors depending on the size of your home. The company prides itself in its backup protection methods: if someone smashes the keypad, the cops are called. If there’s a power outage, the backup battery automatically kicks in. It’s an additional way they provide coverage in the event of an unforeseen circumstance.
7. Abode: As one of the more affordable options on this list, Abode combines home automation with security. At the heart of their system is the Custom Engine (CUE) which aids the user in setting up customizable actions or notifications. Their product line includes door and window sensors as well as smoke and water sensors. They also have indoor and outdoor sirens so you can sound the alarm from anywhere.

Ultimately it comes down to the size of your home and the type of coverage you want. Are you looking for 24/7 professional monitoring or just something you can check in on while you’re out of town?

Pricing will also play a factor in your decision, and well as installation costs or even long-term contracts.

There’s certainly a lot to consider before signing on the dotted line. What it comes down to is this: get a system that provides you with the best tech and coverage for your lifestyle.