Jane
Picking a home security system is a big decision. It’s about more than just price tags and how the equipment looks once set up. You want something that blends seamlessly into your home while giving you peace of mind. After all, this system is meant to protect what matters most, so choosing one that fits your needs and lifestyle is important. Beyond aesthetics and cost, the real question is how well it will keep you and your home safe. The best home security system should be reliable, easy to use, and responsive when needed. Whether it’s smart features, professional monitoring, or a simple DIY setup, finding the right balance of protection and convenience is key to making the right choice.
Best Home Security Systems: Our Top Picks of 2025
1. ADT
ADT continues to lead the way in home security, and its latest system, ADT Plus, proves why. It features some of the most advanced equipment on the market, including security cameras from Google Nest with built-in facial recognition. The peace of mind this brings is invaluable. It sets us up to watch over our backup keys and instantly notifies us if an unfamiliar face appears. If you’re looking for top-tier security with professional monitoring, ADT is a solid choice. While it has become more flexible, offering DIY installation and self-monitoring options, it still shines as a full-service system. With a professional setup and 24/7 monitoring, you get a reliable, hands-off experience that protects your home.
2. SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe brings flexibility that ADT doesn’t, making it a great choice for those who want options. You can install the system yourself or have a technician handle it. Even if you go the DIY route, SimpliSafe is incredibly user-friendly and easy to expand as your needs grow. It’s our favorite DIY security system right now because of how simple and hassle-free it is to set up. One of the best parts?
You can monitor your SimpliSafe system yourself without paying for professional monitoring. Just select the free plan on their website. Initially, the basic plan sufficed, but the upgrade to the Core plan provided enhanced security features, such as Intruder Intervention and video verification. Knowing you can start with the basics and scale up when needed is nice.
3. Vivint
Vivint stands out with its sleek, high-tech equipment, such as its tablet-style, wall-mounted control panel, which goes beyond basic security. Unlike SimpliSafe, Vivint is more of a smart home security system packed with automation features that seamlessly integrate with your home. With that level of sophistication, professional installation is necessary, ensuring everything is set up correctly for maximum protection and convenience.
Over the years, Vivint has remained consistently reliable, offering a hands-on approach to home security. The process starts with an expert consultation, where a technician assesses key areas that need protection. From there, they handle the installation, making sure everything works perfectly. If you’re looking for a security system that keeps you safe and adds smart home convenience, Vivint is a solid choice.
4. Alder Security
Alder might not be the most well-known name in home security, but it’s a great choice for those who want professional monitoring without the high price tag. It strikes a nice balance by offering DIY installation, which helps keep costs down while providing one of the fastest monitoring response times in the industry. That quick response can make all the difference in an emergency, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Unlike SimpliSafe, Alder doesn’t manufacture its own equipment and has fewer device options than Vivint. Its cameras, sourced from eufy, are solid performers, though they don’t quite match the premium Nest Cams that ADT uses. Still, Alder is worth considering if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, professionally monitored security system with fast response times.
5. Cove
A great security system doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag, and Cove proves that better than any other option. It’s one of the most budget-friendly choices, offering solid protection without unnecessary extras. Unlike some DIY systems, Cove requires professional monitoring, which ensures quick response times when it matters most.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss security setup that won’t drain your wallet, Cove is worth a closer look. That said, Cove’s equipment selection is more limited than other brands, making it a better fit for renters than homeowners who need a more extensive setup. Still, if affordability and reliability are your top priorities, it’s hard to find a better deal on home security.
6. Abode Wireless Smart Security Kit
Abode makes home security affordable with frequent deals, offering starter kits for as low as $100, one of the cheapest options. Suppose you’re willing to spend a little more. In that case, the smart security kit is a significant upgrade, adding a motion sensor and expanding compatibility to Apple Home/Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Apple users, in particular, will appreciate how rare it is to find a budget-friendly system that integrates seamlessly with the Apple Home app. The setup is simple, with a compact hub that fits easily into any space and a tool-free installation perfect for renters. Despite its low price, Abode doesn’t cut corners, offering key features like battery backups to protect your home even during power outages.
7. Ring Alarm 8-Piece Kit
Ring makes home security simple and customizable, perfect for those who prefer a hands-on approach. With an eight-piece starter kit, you get everything you need to secure your home, including four essential sensors, a base station, a keypad, a motion detector, and even a range extender to keep your Wi-Fi connection strong. It’s an excellent setup for those who want flexibility in choosing add-ons and placing devices exactly where needed.
Since Amazon owns Ring, its devices offer excellent Alexa integration, making voice control and automation a breeze. The Ring app is user-friendly and intuitive—if you’ve ever set up a smart home device before, you’ll feel right at home managing your security system. Whether you’re a first-time DIYer or a smart home enthusiast, Ring provides an easy and effective way to protect your home.
8. Arlo Home Security System 5-Piece
Arlo takes a unique approach to home security with its versatile all-in-one sensors, which stood out in our tests. Unlike standard security kits, these sensors can be customized for different tasks, whether detecting motion, sensing when a door opens, monitoring temperature changes, or even checking for leaks. With five of these multi-functional sensors included, you can tailor the system to fit your home’s needs, all at a more affordable price than most competitors.
While Arlo does offer a free plan with basic features, you’ll need a subscription if you want professional monitoring or 24/7 emergency response. The system still delivers plenty of value, especially when paired with other Arlo devices like the Arlo Doorbell or the brand’s new key fob for quick and easy disarming. Arlo is worth considering if you’re looking for a flexible and affordable security setup.
9. Frontpoint
Frontpoint takes a different approach to home security by requiring a professional monitoring plan for its equipment to function. Frontpoint locks you into a three-year contract, which might not be ideal for everyone. However, if you opt for professional monitoring, the long-term commitment may not be a major concern. What sets Frontpoint apart is its dedication to customer service. It was known for its customer-friendly policies and has only improved since then. Adding live chat support and extended phone support hours makes a huge difference, especially for a DIY system. When setting up and managing everything yourself, having easy access to helpful support can make all the difference.
10. Brinks Home Security
Brinks was a household name in home security in the ’90s, and after some time out of the spotlight, it’s making a strong comeback. Today, Brinks offers modern wireless security systems focusing on smart home integration, bringing its legacy of protection into the digital age. Testing the Brinks system provided complete control over home security with smart displays, making monitoring everything at a glance incredibly convenient. Whether checking in remotely or adjusting settings, Brinks has embraced the latest technology to make home security easier and smarter than ever.
11. Ring Alarm (2nd Generation)
The original Ring security system is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy and budget-friendly setup. It’s designed to be user-friendly, making installation a breeze even if you’re new to DIY home security. What sets Ring apart is its extensive selection of camera add-ons. Among tested systems, none offer as many options, providing the flexibility to customize the setup to individual preferences. Whether you need a simple indoor camera or a more advanced outdoor system, Ring has you covered.
12. Deep Sentinel – Best Video Monitoring
Deep Sentinel takes a unique approach to home security, focusing entirely on outdoor protection. Instead of offering a full range of sensors, indoor cameras, or video doorbells, it simplifies things by selling only high-quality outdoor security cameras and base stations. While this may seem limiting initially, there’s a solid strategy behind it. By concentrating on securing the perimeter of your home, Deep Sentinel aims to stop threats before they ever reach your front door.
Deep Sentinel’s combination of advanced camera technology and professional video monitoring sets it apart. The system isn’t just about recording footage. It’s designed to deter intruders in real time actively. With live surveillance agents monitoring your property, it offers security beyond traditional alarm systems. If you’re looking for a streamlined, proactive approach to home protection, Deep Sentinel’s focus on exterior security might be exactly what you need.
Find Your Perfect Home Security Solution
Finding the right home security system is about balancing protection, convenience, and affordability. Whether you want a full-service setup like ADT, a flexible DIY option like SimpliSafe, or a budget-friendly system like Cove, there’s something out there to fit every lifestyle. Smart home integration, professional monitoring, and real-time video surveillance have all become game-changers in the industry, making it easier than ever to keep your home safe. The key is choosing a system that meets your security needs and blends seamlessly into your daily routine.
No matter which option you select, investing in home security gives you more than just protection; it gives you peace of mind. From traditional alarm systems to AI-powered cameras like Deep Sentinel, technology has evolved to offer more innovative, faster, and more reliable ways to keep threats at bay. Whether you’re looking for top-tier monitoring or a simple DIY solution, the best security system is the one that makes you feel safe, secure, and in control of your home.
