The Best Home Security System
Achieving peace of mind for your home doesn’t have to be pricey or difficult. Traditional home security systems often require long contracts and expensive pro installation, but with most smart versions you can install them yourself and pay for a monitoring plan only when you want it. SimpliSafe is the most reliable, comprehensive, and easy-to-use DIY home security system we’ve tested, and includes the option to use professional monitoring without locking you into a contract.
Our pick
SimpliSafe
The best DIY security system
The latest SimpliSafe kit is affordable and easy to install and use. It also supports Alexa and Google Assistant, although functionality is limited.
SimpliSafe is an easy-to-use DIY security system, with add-ons such as an indoor video camera, a doorbell camera, a smart lock, and smoke and other sensors. The 24/7 live-monitoring fees are competitive with those of other DIY systems. It also works with voice-control systems Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa (but not Apple HomeKit). Unfortunately, SimpliSafe does not offer any outdoor cameras or self-monitoring options (without a subscription, the system will only work locally); and outside of smart speakers, the only non-SimpliSafe devices it’s compatible with are August locks. Still, for anyone wanting a reliable system that’s easy to use, with a good selection of add-ons, we think the SimpliSafe setup is the best option.
Runner-up
Abode Smart Security Kit
The best security system for smart-home enthusiasts
Abode offers more smart-home integration than any other security system we tested, with support for Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Z-Wave, and Zigbee.
Abode is for the person who wants a security system that can integrate with smart lighting, thermostats, voice control, and other smart-home devices—and doesn’t mind going through the steps to create that system. Abode supports both Z-Wave and Zigbee-enabled devices, as well as Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and IFTTT (If This Then That). We found Abode starter packages and most accessories to be more expensive than our main pick, but we like that it can function as a self-monitored system if you don’t want to pay for monitoring all the time.
Budget pick
Ring Alarm (2nd Generation)
The cheapest no-contract security system
The Ring setup doesn’t have as many add-ons as our main picks, but it provides peace of mind at a steep discount.
Our top pick has a more established reputation when it comes to security, but Ring Alarm is still an excellent budget pick. It’s an easy-to-use DIY security system with the least expensive live-monitoring plan ($10 per month) and the option to self-monitor for no extra cost. It doesn’t have a dedicated glass-break sensor, and because it works only with Amazon Alexa, it doesn’t have as much smart-home support as our other two picks. We are currently reevaluating Ring cameras and doorbells, as well as privacy and security changes to the Ring app, and we will revisit and update this guide, as needed.
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