U.S. News & World Report published its first 360 review of home security systems. The review compares both professionally installed and DIY systems, including Vivint Smart Home, ADT, Xfinity Home, Nest Secure and Ring Alarm.
U.S. News & World Report: “ Best Home Security Systems of 2019 ” by Brad Berman
The Top Home Security Systems of2019 Vivint Smart Home : Best for a complete package of home security and automation Abode : Best overall DIY security solution ADT Security : The brand with the most monthly subscribers and biggest monitoring network SimpliSafe : A full-featured, self-contained DIY alarm solution Frontpoint : A solid DIY platform for home security but requires a long-term contract Brinks Home Security : Discounted equipment and well-established network of monitoring centers Xfinity Home : Best for integration with home internet and cable TV Nest Secure : Best for month-to-month, no-contract monitoring Ring Alarm : Best for a low-cost, video-oriented security plan Scout Alarm : Best app-based security system Finding the Right Home Security System forYouThe goal of a home security system is to provide peace of mind. Achieving that goal is easier than ever, thanks to new wireless technologies and smartphones. As a result, you have an unprecedented number of options for alarm and home automation. As we embarked upon our months-long research into the available systems, we encountered the same questions that you might face: How do these alarm systems work? Which features are most important? What are the relative pros and cons of different types of components and systems? What’s a good price?
U.S. News & World Report applied our unique 360 Review methodology to answer these questions. Learn more: How we evaluated home security systems using the U.S. News 360 Review methodology.
To identify the best alarm systems, our research revealed one overarching theme: There is no one-size-fits-all solution to home security. Every system has its chief advantages and its trade-offs regarding design, cost and level of service. Yet, there are key differences between one security system and another ― and those distinctions guide our recommendations for a system that could best meet your needs and budget.
Your first decision is to choose between the traditional alarm companies offering professional installation and the new breed of DIY security solutions. You might also base your decision on how security cameras, including wireless cameras and the new doorbell cameras, integrate into the home security system.
Best Home Security Systems byCategory Best Pro Installed SecuritySystemsFor years, consumers had a single option for home security: hire a dedicated alarm company to run wires through your home and install a keypad-based control panel near the door. Traditional home security companies, which have mostly shifted to wireless systems, continue to offer expertise and technical capabilities to consumers who want a full-service solution. These companies have also expanded to offer a wide range of home-automation products, like smart locks and app-controlled lighting and thermostats. If you prefer to work with an experienced installer ― and are willing to commit to a multiyear contract for monitoring ― then take a look at our guide to the Best Professionally Installed Home Security Systems.
Vivint Smart Home
Other Pro Installed systems
Best DIY Installed SecuritySystems
More than a decade ago, technology-minded entrepreneurs started to disrupt the home security market. They were inspired by the capabilities of wireless sensors and mobile apps ― and motivated by a desire to free consumers from onerous and expensive multiyear security contracts. Many of us these days are familiar with setting up a broadband router and connecting computers, phones and other devices to our home Wi-Fi network. It’s an easy task for tech-savvy consumers to take it one step further by adding entry sensors, motion detectors and webcams to your home.
Do-it-yourself alarm companies make the process quick and easy by providing clear instructions, online tutorials and phone-based customer support. Our guide to the Best DIY Home Security Systems describes the products that enable you to install high-quality, remote-monitored alarm protection on your own, but at a lower cost than the pro-installed systems and without an expensive long-term contract.
Abode
Other DIY Home Security Systems
Best Home Security Systems withCameras
Executives from alarm companies told us that they commonly include multiple cameras when they install an alarm system. Many camera units are multifaceted, including such components as motion-triggered lights, two-way audio, sirens and even the capability to detect human faces. Given these capabilities and the strong demand for cameras, including video doorbells, we created a guide to the Best Home Security Systems with Cameras .
Vivint Smart Home
Other Home Security Systems with Cameras
How to Choose a Home SecuritySystem How do I find the best home security company and the right package for my home?The first decision is whether to work with a company that pr