In This Review: Company Comparison | ADT | SimpliSafe | Abode | Vivint | Frontpoint | Alder | Canary | Scout | Blue by ADT | Deals | Methodology
A home security system can improve overall home safety, protecting you and your family from potential home intruders. Top home security systems protect you from unexpected break-ins and allow you to keep an eye on your home remotely.
With so many providers out there, it can be hard to figure out which one has the best home security system for you. That’s where the This Old House Reviews team comes in. We’ve compared packages, pricing, contracts, installation options, and warranties to help you find the most secure system for your home.
Top 9 Best Home Security Systems
- ADT Home Security: Best Overall
- SimpliSafe: Best for Easy Installation
- Vivint: Best for Smart Home Integration
- Abode: Best for Customization
- Frontpoint: Best for Smartphone Integration
- Alder: Best Medical Alert System
- Canary: Best Two-Way Audio System
- Scout: Best for Disaster Prevention
- Blue by ADT: Best System for Beginners
Provider |
Best For |
Monthly Cost |
Equipment Cost |
Contract Length |
Installation Options |
Trial Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall |
$35.99+ |
Varies |
Varies |
DIY or Professional |
N/A |
|
Easy Installation |
$14.99+ |
$229+ |
1 month |
DIY or Professional |
60 days |
|
Smart Home Integration |
$29.99+ |
$599 |
Varies by financing |
DIY or Professional |
3-15 days |
|
Medical Alerts |
$39.99 |
Varies |
36-60 months |
DIY or Professional |
30 days |
|
Smartphone Integration |
$45.00+ |
$129+ |
1-36 months |
DIY |
30 days |
|
Customization |
$6.00+ |
$199+ |
None required |
DIY or Professional |
30 days |
ADT Home Security
ADT offers one of the best home security systems in the industry. The company has more than 145 years of experience and serves millions of customers nationwide. It also provides 24/7 professional monitoring, giving customers peace of mind that their home is protected at all times. Due to its comprehensive package options, professional installation process, and competitive pricing, ADT is our No. 1 pick for the best home security system.
ADT Packages & Pricing
| Feature | Basic | Secure | Smart | Video | Complete |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Professional Monitoring | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Intrusion Detection | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 24/7 Fire, Flood, & Carbon Monoxide Monitoring | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ADT Go Mobile App | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Touchscreen Panel | – | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Alexa Guard / Voice Control Integration (with Amazon Alexa) | – | – | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ADT Mobile App and Remote Access | – | – | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Video Surveillance (Motion activated + alerts) | – | – | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Stored Video Clips (Up to 8 cameras) | – | – | – | ✔ | – |
| Smart Home Automation | – | – | ✔ | – | ✔ |
Note: The packages and prices listed are for ADT’s professionally installed systems.
If you’d like more details on ADT’s offerings, read our ADT home security system review or check out the following brand comparisons:
To Learn More: ADT Home Security Review
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe is an affordable, no-contract alternative to other top home security systems like ADT. It’s easy to install on your own and integrates with a variety of smart-home devices. SimpliSafe is ideal for renters since installation doesn’t require you to drill into walls or doors.
SimpliSafe Packages & Pricing
| Feature | "The Foundation" Package | "The Essentials" Package | "The Hearth" Package | "The Knox" Package | "The Haven" Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $229 | $259 | $374 | $449 | $489 |
| Base Station | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Keypad | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Entry Sensor | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 6 included | ✔ 4 included |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 2 included |
| Siren | - | - | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Key Fob | - | - | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smoke Detector | - | - | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Panic Button | - | - | - | - | ✔ |
| Temperature Sensor | - | - | - | - | ✔ |
| Water Sensor | - | - | - | - | ✔ |
Check out how the company compares to other top home security companies in detail with these brand comparisons:
- SimpliSafe vs. ADT
- Ring vs. SimpliSafe
- SimpliSafe vs. Vivint
- Frontpoint vs. SimpliSafe
- SimpliSafe vs. Nest
- Abode vs. SimpliSafe
To get a quote for SimpliSafe Home Security, visit the company’s website.
To Learn More: SimpliSafe Home Security Review
Vivint
Vivint has more than 20 years of experience, with an emphasis on smart-home integration and automation. It’s ideal for homeowners who want to integrate their security system with existing smart-home technology gadgets. Vivint’s system easily integrates with popular smart-home platforms, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and the company can provide assistance with features like smart air control and smart lighting.
Vivint Packages & Pricing
| Feature | "Smart Hub Starter Kit" Package | "Home Security System" Package | "Smart Home Control" Package | "Video Security" Package | "Smart Complete" Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $599 | $709.98 | $1,049.95 | $1,379.95 | $1,789.92 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | $9.98 | $11.83 | $17.50 | $23.00 | $29.83 |
| SkyControl Panel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smart Entry Sensors (2) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Voice Control | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smart Smoke Detector | - | ✔ | ✔ | - | ✔ |
| Element Thermostat | - | - | ✔ | - | ✔ |
| Smart Lock | - | - | ✔ | - | ✔ |
| Smart Garage Door Opener | - | - | ✔ | - | ✔ |
| Indoor/Outdoor/Doorbell Camera | - | - | - | ✔ | ✔ |
See how Vivint compares to other smart-home security systems with these comparison guides:
To Learn More: Vivint Home Security Review
Abode
Founded in 2014, Abode is a relatively new home security company in the industry. However, it provides a wide selection of home security system devices and monthly monitoring packages that don’t require a long-term contract. We find Abode the best for customization due to its Build My System option. This option involves working with an Abode representative to create the perfect home security system package for protecting your home.
Abode Packages & Pricing
| Feature | "Smart Security Middle" Package | "Iota Kit Middle" Package | "Smart Security Kit Elite" Package | "Iota Kit Elite" Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Cost | $342 | $379 | $389 | $445 |
| Keypad | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Key Fob | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Sticker | ✔ | - | ✔ | - |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 included | - | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 1 included |
| Door/Window Sensors | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 4 included | ✔ 4 included |
| Smart Device Integration | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Built-in Motion Detector | - | ✔ | - | ✔ |
| Wifi-Enabled | - | ✔ | - | ✔ |
| Type of Gateway | Gen 2 | iota | Gen 2 | iota |
You can also see how Abode compares with top providers with these brand comparisons:
To get a quote from Abode, visit their website here.
To Learn More: Adobe Home Security Review
Frontpoint
Frontpoint provides one of the best DIY systems in the industry. It comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, no long-term contracts, and highly customized smartphone notifications. Frontpoint sends the equipment straight to your door. All you need to do is connect the monitoring hub and sensors to your Wi-Fi.
Note: Frontpoint includes yard signs, window decals, and door stickers with all home security systems.
Frontpoint Packages & Pricing
| Feature | "Safe Home Starter" Package | "Safe Home Everyday" Package | "Safe Home Select" Package | "Safe Home Preferred" Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package Price | $129.00 | $295.94 | $383.92 | $479.90 |
| Hub And Keypad | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 1 included |
| Door/Window Sensor | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 3 included | ✔ 4 included | ✔ 5 included |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 included | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 2 included | ✔ 2 included |
| Glass Break Sensor | – | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smoke And Heat Sensor | – | – | ✔ | ✔ |
| Indoor Camera | – | – | – | ✔ |
When analyzing customer service and sales calls, we observed that customers who did not own a smartphone or were concerned about using a smartphone had difficulties setting up their systems. If you’re uncomfortable with smartphones and apps, you should let Frontpoint know in advance and be sure to have a tech-savvy friend or family member on hand to help.
To Learn More: Frontpoint Home Security Review
Alder
Alder Home Security is a basic home security system that is ideal for those who are new to home security systems. Alder helps you create a customized package based on your needs and the size of your home. Alder’s medical alert pendants and buttons paired with its professional monitoring make it an excellent choice for those concerned about medical emergencies.
Alder Packages and Pricing
Alder provides only custom packages, unlike most home security companies. It offers a touchscreen panel, indoor/outdoor cameras, door/window sensors, motion detectors, medical alert buttons, doorbell cameras, and other items. You can expect to receive two-way audio with Alder’s indoor cameras.
Alder’s custom package pricing will vary depending on the items you choose. However, professional monitoring fees start at $39.99 per month.
To Learn More: Alder Home Security Review
Canary
Canary Home Security is a great option for those looking for top-tier technology in their home security system. Each of Canary’s packages comes with a video camera that alerts you to activity inside the home, records video, and automatically adjusts its security mode based on home activity. Canary can also assist with smart-home integration to help monitor temperature and air quality.
Canary Packages & Pricing
| Feature | Canary View | Canary Pro | Canary Flex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $99 | $169 | $199 |
| Motion Detection | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Night Vision | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 90 Decibel Siren | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Temperature, humidity, and air monitoring | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Weatherproof | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Wireless | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Camera | HD Camera with 1080p image sensor | HD Camera with 1080p image sensor | HD Camera with 1080p image sensor |
| Field of View | 147-degree wide-angle lens | 147-degree wide-angle lens | 116-degree wide-angle lens |
See what home security system package Canary can provide you by visiting here.
To Learn More: Canary Home Security Review
Scout
Scout Alarm provides another great option for DIY home security systems that allows you to avoid a long-term contract. The Scout Elements Package comes with the best alarm system with disaster prevention tools such as a smoke alarm and water sensor to help you catch fires or flood damage early. The company also provides some great perks, such as a 60-day return policy and a three-year warranty.
Scout Packages & Pricing
| Feature | Scout Small Pack | Scout Large Pack | Scout Elements Pack | Scout Architect Pack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $222 | $319 | $349 | $549 |
| Scout Hub | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Door Panel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smart Lock | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✔ |
| Glass Break Sensor | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✔ |
| Water Sensor | ✔ | ✗ | ||
| Yard Sign | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ |
| Motion Sensor | ✔ 1 | ✔ 2 | ✔ 1 | ✔ 1 |
| Access Sensors | ✔ 1 | ✔ 5 | ✔ 4 | ✔ 4 |
| Key Fobs | ✔ 2 | ✔ 2 | ✔ 2 | ✔ 2 |
See how Scout can help with your home’s disaster prevention by learning more on the company’s website here.
To Learn More: Scout Alarm Home Security Review
Blue by ADT
Blue by ADT is ADT’s DIY home security service and is a great starting place for those interested in going the DIY route. With its base package, customers receive two security cameras, a video doorbell, and an optional sensor. Customers can also take advantage of other useful features, such as local video storage options and facial recognition technology.
Blue by ADT Packages & Pricing
Blue by ADT offers four package options. Each package features a number of security cameras, alarm sensors and other equipment that you can mix and match to fit your home’s security needs.
Blue by ADT costs $109.19 to $349.99 up-front for an equipment package. Customers decide on either $2.99 or $12.99 per month for cloud storage. Customers can either self-monitor for no additional cost, or they can opt for a monthly $19.99 professional monitoring service.
Our Take on Blue by ADT
- Superlative: Best for Beginners
- Recommended Package: We suggest you look into the Build-Your-Own Package with Blue by ADT. This option gives you some control over your total equipment cost and allows you to choose the right equipment for your home and family’s security needs.
Blue by ADT is a great option for anyone starting with home security. The company offers simple package options with plenty of customization and flexibility. Customers get access to a user-friendly mobile app, ADT monitoring service without the lengthy contract, and a 30-day free trial for professional monitoring. Blue by ADT’s equipment is simple and easy-to-use making it a prime choice for home security beginners.
To Learn More: Blue by ADT Review
Additional Home Alarm Systems
Of course, the listed providers are only some of the best home security companies to choose from. Here are a few other home security companies that may have an alarm system that’s right for you.
- Ring: Known primarily for its video doorbell cameras, Ring also offers a range of cameras and other security equipment. Ring may be best for those on a budget looking for the best home alarm systems, since the company offers some of the most affordable systems in the industry.
- Google Nest: Google offers home alarm systems that easily integrates with its other smart home products, which is great if you rely on your Google Assistant for home automation.
- Blink: If security cameras are your main concern, check out Blink’s products for night vision, motion activation, indoor/outdoor monitoring, and more.
- Xfinity Home: Xfinity customers can receive a discount by bundling the company’s best security system with its phone, internet, and cable services. If you only want to pay one bill for all of the above, you may want to give this company a shot.
Ongoing Deals
Check out some of the current deals offered by some of the top home security system providers:
- ADT: $100 Visa® Reward Card with purchase
- SimpliSafe: save 20% with 24/7 professional monitoring, get one free month of professional monitoring, and a free HD camera with your package
- Abode: 15% off accessories with purchase of a starter kit
- Frontpoint: Save 25% on monthly payments and get a free doorbell camera
- Alder: 50% off an outdoor camera
- Canary: Free HD camera with night vision in every package
- Blue by ADT: First month of 24/7 professional monitoring free with purchase of a plan
Frequently Asked Questions
More on Home Security Systems
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Reviews team is committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased home security system reviews to our readers. This means earning your trust through transparent reviews and having the data to back up our ratings and recommendations.
Our Reviews Team reviewed 32 companies and spent 744 hours researching and testing products and services to help us compare home security systems. We compare key factors such as package options, cost, reliability, and ease of use. Our rating system for home security providers is on a 100-point scale based on 10 factors:
- Number of systems (5): Does the company offer a variety of systems? Do they restrict their package options due to a lack of diverse equipment? Does the company allow the customer to build their own system?
- Special features (10): What features does the company offer that set it apart from other home security systems or providers? Is there anything included in the company’s monitoring services that other providers do not offer?
- Installation options (5): Does the company offer professional installation? Does the company require professional installation? Can the customer install the system themselves?
- Connectivity and smart-home automation (15): Can the security system integrate with popular smart-home platforms such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa? Does the company offer equipment to assist with smart-home automation features including smart thermometers and smart lighting?
- Pricing (15): Does the company offer competitive pricing for its equipment and services when compared with other companies on the market?
- Contract period (5): Does the company offer a short contract period? Does it require a long contract period? Can the customer avoid a contract altogether?
- Warranty (15): What warranties or guarantees does the company place on its equipment? How many warranties are included for each customer, and how long do the warranties last?
- Trial period (15): Does the company offer a trial period? If so, how long is that trial period? Is the trial period long enough for the customer to learn if they enjoy the security system or not?
- Usability (5): Are the company’s equipment and services user-friendly enough for the average consumer to use them without hassle?
- Trustworthiness (10): How long has the company been in business? What do popular customer review sites state about the company? Does the company have any pending legal action?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.