Best Home Security Systems Of

The Best Home Security System of 2024

Home security technology has advanced rapidly over recent years, leading to a proliferation of new products, features and brands—and a confusing and overwhelming shopping experience, to say the least.

We know the security of your home and family is top priority, but if you need a little help getting started, we’ve got you covered. From what to look for in a system to lists of the top brands and features, plus answers to all the most frequently asked questions about home security systems, we’ve to everything you need to make a smart and informed purchase decision.

Best Home Security Camera System: What to Look For

First thing first: Let’s review the main factors to consider when choosing a home security system:

• Installation: There are many DIY brands on the market today, all of which are geared toward easy self-installation with pre-programmed systems and adhesive mounting. Professional installation can be costly, and is usually only required if you choose a wired security system.
• Connection Type: Wireless systems are very reliable, and as the technology has advanced, they’ve surpassed hardwired systems as the top choice for both professional installation and DIY companies.
• Capabilities: All security systems guard against burglary, but some can also alert you of high carbon monoxide levels, leaks, floods, high temperatures and fires through specialized environmental sensors.
• Monitoring Type: This is a big factor in the overall cost of your system. Professional monitoring comes with a monthly fee in exchange for round-the-clock monitoring and help in an emergency. Self monitoring avoids the fee, but puts the responsibility of monitoring and emergency response solely on you.
• Smart Home Automation: Many systems have the capability to double as smart home hubs, allowing you to automate and control connected lights, locks, thermostats and more, all from an app on your smartphone.
• Additional Components: Consider whether you’d benefit from add-ons like glass-break sensors, garage-door sensors, environmental sensors, sirens or panic buttons.

Best Security System for Home

The best home security system with cameras should offer high-resolution video, wide coverage, night vision capabilities and reliable motion detection. 

Arlo security cameras excel with 4K HDR video, delivering an ultra-wide viewing angle, dual motion detectors, two-way audio and full-color night vision. Arlo security systems are highly customizable and allow you to choose individual equipment or build a bundle, and choose your monitoring plan or opt for self monitoring. 

This mix of customization and robust features to choose from make Arlo a standout choice for your home security needs.

Best Home Security System Without Subscription

A home security system without a subscription should be equipped with self-monitoring features, real-time alerts and local storage options, ensuring no ongoing costs while maintaining high security.

Lorex camera systems are a great option for those seeking a subscription-free service. Lorex smart home cameras connect to your local WiFi network. Local storage keeps your data with you and free of monthly fees. These camera systems are self-monitored and allow you to view live and recorded camera footage and receive motion notifications. With smart home features and advanced technology like facial recognition and two-way audio, Lorex is a great pick for anyone looking for a self-monitored option without a monthly subscription.

Best Wireless Home Security System

The best wireless home security camera system is easy to install, portable and offers reliable wireless connectivity. These systems are ideal for renters or those who move frequently.

SimpliSafe is our top pick for wireless security systems. You can choose from their pre-selected security bundles, or take an online quiz to help determine your equipment needs. SimpliSafe offers professional or DIY installation, and all of their kits come pre-programmed and require no drilling for installation. They have a variety of different cameras to choose from, as well as motion sensors, glass-break sensors and environmental sensors. You can choose 24/7 professional monitoring for less than a dollar a day, or opt for self-monitoring. With all of the customizable features, easy self-installation and reliable reputation, we put SimpliSafe at the top of our list for best wireless home security system.

Best Smart Home Security System

A great smart home security system will integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, offer automation features and provide user-friendly controls for managing your security. 

The Vivint smart home security system is the best option for those who want a fully integrated system. Vivint pairs smoothly with Alexa and Google Home and also works with z-wave technology, which expands its compatibility to more than 4,000 smart products, including smart locks, lightbulbs, thermostat control and more. Vivint cameras can tell the difference between people, animals and packages, and delivers customized alerts accordingly. With free professional installation on most systems, top-tier equipment and professional monitoring with every plan, Vivint offers best-in-market smart home features coupled with top-notch security.

Best Monitored Home Security System

For those who want ultimate peace of mind, a monitored home security system is the way to go, and ADT is at the top of our list in this category.

A top name in home security for more than a century, ADT now offers both professionally installed systems as well as DIY self-installed systems. They have a wide variety of cameras, sensors and smart home integrations to customize to your home’s needs, but where ADT truly excels is with their SMART monitoring technology. When an alarm is triggered, ADT sends a text via Alarm Messenger, which allows you to verify or cancel the alarm in a group text format with other members of your household. In the event of an emergency, ADT notifies dispatch electronically, saving time and getting help to you quicker. It’s this level of innovation that makes ADT a contender for best monitored home security system.

Best Self-Monitored Home Security System

For those who want to take control of monitoring their home security system, or are looking to save money on monthly monitoring fees, a self-monitored system is the choice for you. 

The best self monitored home security system is one that provides real-time alerts, remote access and local storage, without requiring monthly monitoring fees. 

Eufy offers high-quality security without the monthly fees, providing self-monitoring features and local storage options. Their cameras deliver 4K resolution for clear and detailed images day and night, and are powered by BionicMind AI to differentiate between family and strangers. With no mandatory monthly fees and expandable local storage, Eufy provides a flexible and cost-effective solution for self-monitoring.

Best Home Video Security System

A superior home video security system should offer continuous recording, high-definition footage and reliable storage options, ensuring comprehensive video surveillance. 

Ring is a strong choice for the best home video security system. They offer a wide variety of equipment, from single video doorbells to complete whole-home security systems, and a host of smart home integrations like smart locks, thermostats, switches and dimmers. Ring products are easy to set up and monitor on your own, and for those looking for an extra layer of security, Ring also offers professional monitoring services for a monthly fee.

Best Affordable Home Security System

If you have a limited budget, like most of us, you’ll want to look for a few key features to find the best affordable home security system: Easy DIY installation, self-monitoring or affordable professional monitoring and affordable equipment. Bonus points for equipment that can be financed and paid monthly instead of one lump sum upfront.

Wyze security products offer excellent value. Their options include wireless cameras, video doorbells and smart home products such as smart locks, plugs and nightlights that can be integrated into the security hub. The system is easy to install and offers both self-monitoring and optional professional monitoring for a low monthly fee, making Wyze the best budget-friendly option.

Best Wired Home Security Camera System

Most security systems these days are wireless, and for good reason—they’re easy to install and move around and offer advanced features powered by their wireless connection, such as smartphone control, live video monitoring and smart home automation. 

However, a hardwired home security system can be the best choice in several situations, including homes that are pre-wired for security systems, or homes in areas where the internet connection is spotty. 

To find the best wired home security system for you, you’ll want to compare installation requirements and fees, since most wired systems will need to be professionally installed. You’ll also want to consider monitoring capability and monthly fees.

At the top of our list in the hardwired category is ADT. ADT’s biggest strength is in their monitoring capabilities, with nine monitoring centers equipped with back-up generators, servers and communication lines, which aligns well with ADT’s equipment that also comes with a 24-hour backup battery and backup communication via cellular connection.

Best Professional Home Security System

With so many great DIY home security systems on the market providing ease for self-installation, home security installation has really become a matter of preference. 

That said, if you happen to prefer having a pro do the job, then a professionally-installed security system is the best choice for you. Here’s what to look for: Affordable installation, quality equipment and a good company reputation.

Vivint nails all three with free professional installation for most systems, top-of-the-line equipment and smart home integration, and a good reputation for quality and service within the industry. Their outdoor cameras can tell the difference between a car, pet and human, notifying you accordingly, and the Smart Deter function sounds a warning tone if it detects someone lingering on your lawn for more than a minute. Add to the list professional monitoring and a user-friendly smart home hub, and Vivint easily tops the charts for best professional home security system.

Disclaimers

ADT

Disclosure:

By clicking See Details, I authorize security companies including ADT, Alarm Advisors, Alliance, BRINKS Home Security, FrontPoint, LifeShield, Protect America, Protect Your Home – ADT Authorized Premier Provider, SafeStreetsUSA – ADT Authorized Dealer, Vivint, their dealers, home services companies and marketing partners to contact me about security offers by phone calls, emails and text messages to the number and email I provided above. I authorize that these marketing communications may be delivered to me using an automatic telephone dialing system or by a prerecorded message even if my number is on the “Do Not Call” list. I understand that my consent is not a condition of purchase and that standard message and data rates may apply. I agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.”