10 Best Home Security Systems for 2021

One of the top DIY home security systems, SimpliSafe monitors your property for floods, fires, break-ins, and even medical emergencies. It does this without requiring a contract. You can also pick and choose the hardware and add-ons that best suit your needs.

The system operates on either cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, requiring you to plug in the base unit somewhere within 400 feet of the sensors and 100 feet from the controlling keypads. Then simply press the pairing buttons on each component and create a pin number. 

A series of paired sensors should be placed on every window and door to detect entry, motion, fire, carbon monoxide, water, etc. All you have to do is set the system to Away Mode when you leave your home, activating entry and peripheral sensors. Choose Home Mode when you’re in – it only focuses on external window and door entry, along with any other extras you’ve set. Test Mode is an alarm-free mode that allows you to check if the various sensors are working.

You have 30 seconds to enter your pin and deactivate a pending alarm. If you have a monitoring plan, failing to do so contacts SimpliSafe’s external team who will contact you by phone, ask your password and determine if it was a false alarm or not. If they cannot reach you, your password was incorrect, it’s apparent that there is an intruder or you’re in any other dangerous situations. They will contact the necessary emergency services.

A SimpliSafe home security system ranges from $183.00 to $391.00. They now also include a Simplisafe camera in every set, though its performance is fairly poor compared to the best-rated home security camera systems. There’s also no local storage. 

Monitoring starts at a reasonable $14.99. You can also self-monitor with any of the SimpliSafe packages. This does however mean you’re locked into a subscription to use the app.

You can also check out our detailed SimpliSafe review.

Vivint is a well-integrated home security system that utilizes sensors and cameras to keep a close eye on your property. It has a mobile app for iPhone and Android to monitor and control things on the go.

If you’re not the most tech-savvy, the company offers a free home installation. That’s why we put it on our Best Home Security Systems list. However, if you want any more support it will cost you. Professional camera monitoring will set you back between $49.99 a month for two cameras and $59.99 for a maximum of four. Furthermore, if you move home there’s a fee to have the system reinstalled.

Depending on the size of your home you can choose between different sets of components. The base set includes:

• the SkyControl touchscreen panel
• motion sensors (entry and glass breakage)
• smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• a video doorbell
• smart lock
• one indoor camera

This is perfect for a small home or apartment.

Setting up is comparable to other security systems. SkyControl panel walks you through the process of pairing components and activating the sensors and alarm systems. The panel also doubles as a live streaming screen for your cameras.

The doorbell camera is fully weatherproof, has facial recognition and two-way audio, though it can only manage 720p. You can also pay extra for a full outdoor cam with a 4K video. The indoor cam is a crisp 1080p with a 155-degree viewing angle to monitor a large living area and infrared to capture clear footage in the dark. Overall, these are some of the best rated wireless home security camera systems.

Meanwhile, Kwikset’s smart lock allows you to remotely control your front door and assign up to 30 unlock codes to friends and family.

Overall, Vivint is one of the best security home systems. However, if you do not pay for a monitoring plan, you won’t get the app.

ADT security is one of the most established providers of home security systems with the best monitoring services. The current incarnation integrates well with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Z-Wave. 

Whether you want a bunkered down fortress with full smart technology or some basic sensors on your doors and windows, ADT has all the components you need. 

The catch is that they don’t actually have a set-price list. The amount you are charged can vary depending on your location and which subcontracted installer is in charge of your system. 

Still, we know from experience that equipment is similarly priced to other systems and the real costs are for the professional monitoring subscription.

This ranges from $27.99 to $62.99 per month, depending on the level of monitoring and whether you want a landline or cellular connection. The latter is the best option since criminals are known to cut phone lines. You’ll also want to throw in smart home support if you want good integration and the mobile app. 

Unfortunately, ADT still operates on the old industry standard contract length of 36 months. However, you can forgo all monitoring if you simply want a local alarm system.

So, what do you actually get? There’s: 

• entry and motion sensors
• smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• smart locks 
• indoor and outdoor cameras
• a doorbell cam with two-way audio but no facial recognition 

All of this can be controlled with their portable touchscreen panel and mobile app, but you’ll need the ADT Command plan to get this.

Because ADT home security systems use third parties, your customer experience may vary. Overall, you’ll get a solid system once you get past the complexities of their packages and pricing.

FrontPoint is one of many providers that now offer DIY home security systems where you do not have to commit to a contract. Still, if you want the best experience, a subscription is necessary. You won’t get to use the mobile app without it.

There are lots of good components to choose from here. The smart technology is well integrated with the likes of Alexa and Google Assistant. The system centers around the smart hub and a keypad for you to control things. Connectivity can be wired or Wi-Fi; you can also pay extra for a touchscreen panel. 

Exactly what components you include beyond these are up to you. Mix and match or select a pre-configured package. The $99 Safe Home Everyday set is the entry-level package and includes three door/window sensors, two motion sensors, and a yard sign to warn people that the home is secured. The Safe Home Plus ($319.94) adds glass break sensors, the Safe Home Select ($383.92) adds more sensors and a smoke and heat detector. The Safe Home Preferred ($479.90) adds even more sensors and an indoor camera.

If you’re looking for DIY home security camera systems, their standard indoor camera has a 1080p resolution, a 113-degree viewing angle, two-way audio, and motion detectors. The premium cam has an impressive 180-degree viewing angle that can scope an entire large room. You can also add a doorbell and outdoor cam to your package.

The mobile app allows you to tune in to your cameras and control your locks and alarm. If you want it you’ll need to pay at least $44.99 per month for the Interactive Plan. Quite a bit more than SimpliSafe. But it also includes 24/7 professional monitoring and mobile alerts, so it’s worth it.

Overall, while pricey for a subscription, the system is easy to install. It has all the components you need and is one of the best smart home security systems.

The Link Interactive security system has a wide variety of components with easy smart home integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple TV, and Z-Wave. It’s also simple to install, so no need for hefty professional installation fees. 

But. 

While you do get a 30-day money-back guarantee, if you want to move forward you will be locked into a contract for at least a year. There’s no self-monitoring only option. 

The components you choose are up to you. At the base level, you will need the control panel and cell module to get everything hooked up, some door and window sensors to detect breaches and the smart lock which can be assigned multiple unlock codes.

Optional cameras include a 1080p V522IR Indoor Camera with two-way audio and night vision, and the Skybell Slim Line Video Doorbell camera with 720p video, an impressive 180-degree field of view, night vision, and doorbell triggered recording. This is a good choice if you’re looking for the best home security surveillance camera systems.

Other equipment includes:

• glass break sensors
• touchscreen control panels
• outdoor sensors 
• a panic button
• smart LED lights
• garage door controller
• smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors 

Professional monitoring starts at $30.99 a month. However, you’ll need the $39.99 Gold plan to get the remote app. You won’t get camera monitoring unless you pay for the $44.99 a month Elite plan.

The app is very user-friendly – it lets you do everything the home control panel does while on the go. This includes system control, two-way audio via the cameras, live camera monitoring, etc. You’ll also get notifications if, for example, sensors or alarms have been triggered.

Overall, Link Interactive is one of the best security systems for home use. However, you’ll need to sign at least a 12-month contract and pay for monitoring to get the most out of it, which knocks off a star.

Google has finally entered the home security market with its Nest cameras, producing one of the best home security and automation systems. All thanks to its integration with Google Assistant. 

It is also very much at the forefront when it comes to innovative technology, even though other companies have dominated this space for years. Their sensors, for example, cover a much broader area and combine motion and entry – a simple but effective improvement.

At the system’s core is the Nest Guard base station. It connects to your Wi-Fi and pairs with all of your security components. It also doubles as the keypad and has its own sensors –  if you leave home and forget to arm the alarm it will send you a notification on the app. To quickly arm or disarm the system, all you need is one of the small Nest Tags which you can add to your key fob and tap much like a keyless car entry. 

Another handy little feature is Pathlight. It senses when you walk past in the dark and sets off some LED lights to guide you. Quiet Open can also detect whether your pet wants to leave or enter, allowing you to temporarily disable the alarm. We’d expect those from the best home security systems.

Of course, where Google really stands out is the Nest Cam itself. It includes two indoor and two Nest cam outdoor models. The premium IQ range has 4K video, HDR, facial recognition, and object tracking, night vision. It also has tonnes of other features that your average home security system overlooks. Google has gone all out to provide the best home security systems with cameras.

The only catch is you’ll need a Nest Aware subscription to unlock the best features and cloud storage. It costs between $6 and $12 a month. This is on top of the regular Nest Secure professional monitoring plan, which costs $29 a month or $19 a month if you commit to a 3-year contract.

Abode’s DIY home security systems are one of the most compatible on the market. It integrates with Homekit, Alexa, Google Home, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and up to 150 individual products. You’ll be looking at either the ‘Smart Security Kit’ for $199, which includes the main hub, door and window sensor, a motion sensor, and a key fob. Or the ‘IOTA Kit’ for $279.

The IOTA includes the Gateway Hub with a built-in camera and motion sensor with alarm, key fob, door and window sensor, and a second separate motion sensor. While the hub is wireless, battery life is only about 2 hours. It is only really intended as a temporary backup if your power goes down. You can add more sensors and components at any time for extra expenses. 

Worthwhile add-ons include the vibration glass sensor to detect window-smashing and the water sensor to detect leaks and flooding. These, however, will not pair with any of your voice control devices.

Abode is one of the best non-monitored home security systems, letting you monitor it yourself free of charge, with live camera viewing and push notifications. There is, however, no timeline of events, video storage, or remote controls. For just 20 cents a day you get these features. For 60 cents a day the Pro Plan offers cellular connectivity and 24/7 professional monitoring, one of the cheapest on the market.

The control panel or app is very easy to use, allowing you to set it to Away, Home, Standby, and Night. There’s also a quick key fob and you can also set things to run automatically. 

Overall, Abode home security is affordable with good components and easy DIY setup. All things considered; they provide some of the best home security systems available.

The Ring security system takes many of its excellent stand-alone security devices and pairs them together in a competent and affordable Wi-Fi system. All of this, without requiring a contract. The only downside is that the free plan only includes the main Base Station, Keypad, and sensors. To use any cameras with cloud storage, you’ll pay at least $3 a month. 

For professional monitoring, it’s only $10 a month, making it the cheapest of the security systems we’ve reviewed. This plan also features discounted equipment, making it one of the best deals on home security systems.

If you’re looking for unmonitored home security systems, Ring also fits the bill. It gives you full access to app alerts without having to pay a monthly fee.

The $199.99 Starter Kit includes: 

• the Base Station which connects everything together and houses the alarm
• a keypad to control and arm the system
• one motion sensor for a room or entrance
• one contact sensor for a window or door
• a range extender to accommodate larger homes  

The $249.99 kit adds two more contact sensors and one more motion sensor. The $329.99 kit has a total of 8 contact sensors, 2 keypads, and 2 motion sensors. 

While any Ring camera can be a costly addition to your package, this is where the company stands out from others. These smart Wi-Fi cams include the Floodlight with powerful motion sensor lighting and alarm, the Spotlight Cam with LED spotlights, the Video Doorbell with night vision, and the flagship Stick Up Cam which works indoors or outdoors. These make for some of the best wireless outdoor security camera systems for your home.

Other than the Spotlight cam, all cameras also feature two-way audio and good HD video. They are powered with quick release lithium batteries. You can tune in to the live feeds via the mobile app, which also allows you to fully control the security system and receive detection notifications. Furthermore, Ring home security systems use the Neighbourhood feature. You can also get anonymized reports from other Ring users, so you know if criminals have been targeting the area.

The only real downside with Ring is that there are no extras like glass break sensors or smoke detectors.

Looking for DIY home security systems with cameras? Brinks has you covered. With professional monitoring from $29 for standard and $39 to include video, the Brinks system isn’t the cheapest. However, it has good equipment and a user-friendly app and controls. Furthermore, unlike some traditional home security providers, Brinks lets you move your system to a new home without any extra hassle or fees. 

The equipment itself is competitively priced, with the Smart Security Essential costing $199. This includes the touchscreen control panel, 2 sensors for a window and door, 1 motion sensor for the interior, and a yard sign to warn people that the property is secured.

For $499 you get an extra door/window sensor and motion sensor, along with an indoor camera. The Ultimate package costs just over $1,000 and adds a doorbell camera and outdoor camera, as well as including professional installation.

The indoor camera is competent at 1080p with night vision and 113-degree field of view, though there are no alarms or two-way audio. The outdoor camera has similar performance but is let down by its small 88-degree field of view. In practice, it’s best suited to pointing down from a corner of the front doorway. The doorbell cam is a bit more impressive, providing a 180-degree viewing angle and two-way audio to talk with people at the door, though it only functions at 720p.

Extra components you can add to your bundle include smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, water sensor for leaks and flooding, and garage door sensors. 

Brinks uses the Alarm.com app that several other companies use. It works well, allowing you to receive notifications, arm and disarm the system, and watch your cameras.

If you’re looking specifically for professional monitoring, Brinks offers one of the best rated wireless home security systems.

Scout is one of the best security systems home users can customize, though it’s still less of a hassle to purchase a pre-set pack of equipment. The ‘Small’ entry-level pack includes the core hub, which handles all the connectivity via your home Wi-Fi or via backup 4G and houses the 105dB alarm. 

You also get a door control panel, one motion sensor, two access sensors for doors or windows, and two key fobs for quick access. It will set you back $229, while the $319 ‘Large Pack’ adds one more motion sensor and three more access sensors. The $349 Scout Elements pack adds a smoke alarm and water sensor to the mix. The $549 Architect pack includes a glass break sensor and a smart lock.

Cameras must be added separately and include a 1080p indoor cam with zoom function and night vision and a 1080p doorbell cam. These can be viewed live via the app. Sometimes you might experience some lag, especially if you have a slow internet connection. 

The app also receives notifications whenever motion or other sensors are set off. Some users report delays that could potentially mean you won’t be warned in time. When it does work, it’s one of the best self-monitored home security systems. Professional monitoring starts at $19.99 a month. If you want a cellular backup, cloud camera storage, and all the alert options without professional monitoring, this starts at $12.88.

Scout Alarm has gone back to the drawing board, providing home security systems that are simple, affordable, and as their crowd-funders requested, compatible. It can integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, Yale, Kwikset, Nest, LIFX, Hue, IFTTT, and lots of other smart home tech. Yet, while it does so many things right, it passes over some basic features like two-way audio, wide camera viewing angles, and they do not offer their own outdoor cam. The app also has its issues.