Our Top Pick
Customized wireless alarm systems and automation solutions that fit your lifestyle.
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Best Home Automation
The oldest—and possibly the most trusted—home security provider in the U.S.
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Table of Contents
Frontpoint
Rating: 4.2
- Basic Protection Plan: $34.99 a month. Includes 24/7 monitoring, fire protection, and environmental protection.
- Interactive Plan: $44.99 a month. Allows you to use the mobile app to remotely control your system and receive text and email alerts.
- Ultimate Plan: $49.99 a month. All of the features of Interactive in addition to live video streaming, cloud storage for old video, and home automation features.
Pros
- Simple DIY installation
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Cellular and email alerts
- Option of indoor/outdoor cameras with more expensive plans
- Home automation
- Disaster protection
- Large array of sensors and cameras
Cons
- Hard credit check
- Wireless only
- No pay-as-you-go plan
- High cancellation fees
- Poor customer service in regards to contractual details
- Live and recorded video only available for high end plans
SimpliSafe
Rating: 4.0
Easy-to-setup. Small, powerful, and stylish. No
middlemen. No contracts.
1-800-548-9508
With no lock-in contracts and optional monitoring, SimpliSafe is one of the top home security solutions for customers without a ton of money to spend. The company has been in business for 12 years and boasts an A+ rating with BBB. SimpliSafe’s good reputation with customers stems from its sleek, user-friendly, self-manufactured equipment, flexible pricing and optional monitoring.
SimpliSafe’s equipment comes with a three-year warranty and is 100% wireless. Homeowners can choose between a landline, broadband or cellular connected system, and the system is controlled through a base station rather than through a keypad on a control panel like most home security systems. This gives you added defense against clever crooks who know how to disable a system through damaging the control panel. Devices that come with the SimpliSafe system include the SimpliCam, an indoor camera with a motion sensor and HD video quality, and a keychain remote used to arm or disarm the system. Simplisafe does not include home automation features, other than Nest integration, which may be a turn off for some.
Unlike a majority of home security providers, SimpliSafe has no contracts. After you buy the initial package, with options ranging from $99 for one SimpliCam to $489 for the deluxe Haven package, the system is yours to do what you like with it.. Installation is DIY, but you can opt for a $199 professional installation if you want. Optional monthly monitoring plans cost $14.99 (no mobile control) and $24.99 (mobile control).
By making a conscious effort to right the wrongs of other home security providers by being transparent and not tricking people into long-term lock-in contracts with hidden stipulations, SimpliSafe has earned a reputation as a great choice for homeowners. While more home automation features and additional hardware options would sweeten the pot, you will likely be satisfied with Simplisafe as your home security solution.
Pros
- Contract-fee
- Simple DIY installation, with installation option
- Wireless equipment
- Environmental disaster protection
- Affordable rates
- 60-day trial
- Landline, broadband and cellular options
- Optional monitoring
Cons
- Pricey initial equipment costs
- No outdoor camera support
- No home automation support
Abode Security
Abode Security is the new kid on the block. The company started a few years ago, and took on many of the benefits offered by SimpliSafe, by offering a system that’s easy to install and doesn’t lock customers into contracts for professional monitoring. To buy a system, homeowners start with a basic package and then add components to get the coverage wanted. Adobe set up the add-on shopping process on purpose in hopes of giving homeowners the ability to add pieces over time rather than saddle them with large up-front equipment costs.
The company offers different plans for video storage as well. There is a free, three-day option, but the longer video is kept, the more expensive the monthly fee is. Adobe systems work with several home automation systems, including Nest thermostats and voice control units like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Pros
- Professional, self, and on-demand monitoring available
- Easy to install
- 30-day money back guarantee
Cons
- Add-ons required for full coverage
- Some add-ons are included in competitor's starter package
Link Interactive
Rating: 4.6
A veteran in the industry with 60 years in the home security business, Link Interactive has garnered a great reputation with customers evidenced by its A+ rating on BBB and favorable reviews on sites such as Yelp. The chief positives Link Interactive brings to the table are the wealth of security options offered for different homeowner needs and flexible price points. You can choose which equipment you need and select between three plans of ascending cost. The flexibility extends to the contracts, as well: customers have the option of selecting between 1,2, and 3-year contracts, or having no contract at all. Furthermore, Link Interactive offers a 30-day money back guarantee with no questions asked.
Let’s talk about the equipment: Link Interactive is unique in that it doesn’t force customers to select between pre-set packages (although you can choose one, if you like), instead allowing them to hand pick between fairly-priced individual items through the website. Their equipment comes from reputed manufacturers like 2GIG, Honeywell, and GE, and includes control panels, door and window sensors, automated door locks, environmental sensors, sirens, yard signs and window decals. Basically, anything you’d need to protect your home is available if you’re willing to pay for it.
As mentioned before, plans include the Standard ($30.99 a month, professional monitoring, fire and intrusion alarms, two-way voice to monitoring stations), Gold ($35.99 a month, everything that comes with Standard in addition to home automation features like lights, locks, and a remote control app), and Elite ($40.99, all of the Gold features with added HD video monitoring) plans. Customers get the choice of 12, 24, and 36 month contracts, or a pay-as-you-go option. While you can receive a full refund within 30-days, if you cancel any time after, you must pay 75% of your remaining contractual balance.
Overall, Link Interactive is a great choice for home security compared to some of the bigger names in the industry due to the wide range of equipment options and pricing flexibility.
Pros
- Wireless equipment
- 30-day trial
- Equipment comes with three-year warranty
- Simple installation
- No installation or activation fees
- Home automation
- Multiple contract options: 1, 2, or 3 years
- Indoor/outdoor cameras coupled with two-way audio
- Three-year rate lock
- Equipment is yours
Cons
- No professional installation
- Large frontend equipment costs
- No landline or broadband option
Brinks
Rating: 3.9
Brinks Home Security, one of the established names in the industry, recently received a facelift after MONI Smart Security purchased the name rights to the company and gave the company a serious overhaul. The new and improved Brinks Home Security uses MONI monitoring and Livewatch DIY security systems for a more modern package. In terms of cost, Brinks is somewhere in the mid-range: not the cheapest, but not the most expensive, either.
The equipment you receive through Brinks is based on which plan you choose. The company offers two options. The Home Complete Model that comes with a Brinks Home Touch display, three wireless home sensors, one wireless motion sensor and a yard sign for $29 a month with a $249.50 equipment fee. The premium Home Complete Model costs $39 a month (equipment $299.50) adds video and cloud video storage. All the equipment you purchase through Brinks Home Security works through the smart home hub, which is compatible with a majority of smart home devices.
While the prices for both packages are reasonable given what they provide, many customers have left dissatisfactory reviews on Yelp and elsewhere, complaining of poor customer service and deceptive marketing tactics. So, be advised in reading the small print on the contract before signing. However, the 30-day risk free offer and 2-year warranty should alleviate concerns, somewhat. Overall, Brinks Home Security provides a quality product for a decent price in a crowded market.
Pros
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Home automation support
- Easy DIY installation
- Live video streaming with cloud video storage
- Rate-locked contracts
- Intuitive, easy to control system
Cons
- Long-term contracts
- High cancellation fee
- Poorly rated customer service
Scout
Rating: 4.0
Designed based on your needs. No contracts, no hardwiring, no hassle.
1-800-447-9239
A relative newcomer to the home security industry given a boost through crowd funding its first product line, Scout is refreshingly transparent with its service compared to its competitors that often require long-term contracts with harsh cancellation penalties. Though some homeowners may prefer a more elaborate, professionally installed system, Scout is great for the more hands-on inclined customer with its highly customizable equipment and systems. You can opt for either self-monitoring or professional monitoring plans, and neither will set you back too much.
All of the equipment you use with a Scout system is self-manufactured and purchased upfront through the website. The equipment ships with a 60-day full-refund return policy and a 1-3 year limited warranty with few exceptions. Scout security systems are run through the Scout hub, a keypadless device that plugs directly into your router. Instead of the keypad, homeowners control the hub through the Scout Alarm mobile app. Through the app, you can view the status and regulate all of your installed devices: sensors, door panels, and motion detectors. The system is also compatible with home automation devices such as Amazon Alexa devices, Google Home, Nest, and other Z-Wave and Zigbee compatible devices.
After the initial high expense of purchasing equipment, Scout offers two month-to-month subscription plans depending on whether you opt for self or professional monitoring. Always On, the self monitoring plan, costs just $9.99 a month and comes with 4G LTE cellular and battery backup, while AlwaysOn+ goes for $19.99 and includes 24-hour professional monitoring.
Though not as extensive as some of the security solutions offered by market competitors, Scout is a great company with a solid product. Older homeowners might be put off by the lack of a keypad in the central hub, however many customers should be perfectly comfortable controlling everything through their mobile phones.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Straightforward DIY installation
- Money-back guarantee
- Support for Z-Wave and Zigbee
- Can opt for contract or contract-less plans
- One-to-three year warranty
- WiFi with cellular backup
- Modern, streamlined design
- Support for smart assistant integration
Cons
- Heavy reliance on mobile app
- No professional installation
- Requires subscription for self-monitoring with mobile app
- No proprietary camera
There was a time when home security systems were only installed by professionals, but times have changed. Today, installing a security unit can be as simple as plugging in a camera and connecting it to the internet. Homeowners don’t need electrical skills to tap into wiring or tech skills to network devices together. Many DIY systems come with pre-configured devices, tabletop cameras, and peel-and-stick sensors that make installation a snap.
Realizing the growing market for DIY home security systems, many companies now offer DIY starter security kits meant to enable homeowners to handle the entire install. From a simple, all-in-one security cameras to a more complex unit with cameras, a motion sensor, carbon monoxide sensors, and a keypad, homeowners are now able to protect their house without calling in professionals.
To help homeowners understand what to expect when installing a system on their own, Alarms.org has created a guide to offer advice and suggest specific DIY home security systems that are highly ranked.
What is a DIY home security system?
Before discussing security brands, it’s important to understand what a DIY security system is. A DIY security system is a series of connected devices that are used inside and outside the home to offer protection. The DIY aspect of the system means that a homeowner or renter will install the components themselves.
Why opt for a DIY home security system?
There are many reasons homeowners choose to install a security system on their own, but the main reason is cost. Homeowners who install a system themselves can save on costly installation fees, which can average $696, according to Home Advisor. Of course, installation costs vary based on the company and equipment selected.
A DIY alarm system is also ideal for renters who don’t want to install anything permanent in a temporary home. Renters tend to select simple, all-in-one camera systems with an installation process that includes plugging in a camera and connecting it to Wi-Fi.
With a DIY unit, equipment is purchased by the homeowner. With some professionally installed units, the equipment is rented and must be returned to the security company at the end of a contract. Equipment ownership is another benefit to opting for a DIY security system.
Combine a security system with insurance for complete protection
A DIY security system can help discourage thieves and vandalists. But it won’t protect you from accidents, fires, or other emergencies. And if a thief manages to get past your security, you could still be on the hook for any stolen items or damages caused.
For this reason, it’s important to have insurance to protect your home. If you own your own house, you need homeowner’s insurance. If you rent, you should have renter’s insurance.
These insurance policies provide financial reimbursement for damages caused by theft, fire, accidents, and more. They may be required by your mortgage provider or landlord; but even if they’re not, insurance is well worth the investment.
If you’re in the market for insurance, consider Lemonade. Lemonade is a popular insurance provider that offers low-cost renter’s insurance (starting at $5/month) and homeowner’s insurance (starting at $25/month).
Lemonade’s modern offerings are all managed through the website or smartphone app. Signing up takes minutes, and you can get a hassle-free quote instantly.
For the ultimate protection, you should have both insurance and a quality home security system. This will provide you with valuable peace of mind.
What to look for in a DIY security system
When searching for a DIY security system it’s easy to get overwhelmed by choices. There are a lot of companies with different products at various price points.
Wireless connection
When it comes to installation, wireless home security systems are easiest. Wireless systems are plugged in and connected to the internet. Some all-in-one wireless systems only have an indoor camera to set up, which makes installation a breeze. Other wireless systems include more components like indoor and outdoor security cameras, a keypad, sensors, and a base station. Wired systems must be hardwired into a home’s electrical grid to function. A homeowner must drill into the wall to connect and hide wires, hand keypads, mount cameras, and install sensors. A wired system isn’t ideal for a DIY install.
Easy connectivity
For a security system to work properly, all of the components have to “talk” to each other, which is usually the case. Many systems are pre-configured and networked so they work right out of the box. Many of the systems run on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signals, which offers easy connectivity. Systems often utilize a mobile app and tools like a key fob that must be connected as well.
Simple sensors
Many security systems include sensors. The most basic sensors are window sensors and door sensors that attach via peel-and-stick adhesive. These small sensors attach to doors and windows and trigger an alarm if they’re opened or broken when the system is armed.
Indoor cameras with a solid field of view
To keep an eye on things indoors, a series of indoor cameras is ideal. Some homeowners choose to set up one camera that covers the main room and front door, while other homeowners place cameras in every room for more complete coverage.
Indoor cameras that are attached to motion sensors can record video or snap pictures when motion is detected. A camera with a motion detector as a recording trigger cuts down on the amount of video storage needed. Some companies charge a monthly fee to store security video digitally, so storage space is something to consider. Some cameras can be controlled (pan, tilt, zoom) via an app as well.
Durable outdoor cameras
To monitor the exterior of a home, durable cameras are needed. Cameras have an IP rating that tells homeowners how tough they are in poor weather conditions. Look for cameras with an IP rating of at least 44 to maintain optimum camera function outdoors. Like indoor cameras, outdoor cameras can be controlled by an app as well.
Monitoring options
A homeowner can choose to monitor the home themselves or have it professionally monitored. Self-monitored systems are watched by the homeowner. If there’s a problem, it’s up to the homeowner to call for help. In this case, homeowners opt for a security system that sends alerts to a smartphone when there’s a disturbance. The homeowner can access the problem and call the authorities if necessary.
A system with professional monitoring is monitored by a security company at a monitoring center. If there’s a problem, the company reaches out to both the homeowner and the police to alert them of the problem. A monitored system provides a fail-safe in case homeowners are unable to call for help. However, a monitoring service often requires a contract and a monthly fee, whereas self-monitoring is free.
Some companies offer on-demand monitoring as well. On-demand monitoring means homeowners can request professional monitoring as needed. For example, if a homeowner is leaving town, he or she may want additional eyes on the home while away. In this case, the homeowner only pays a set fee for the monitored time.
An easy-to-navigate mobile app
Most systems are controlled through a mobile app. Before selecting a DIY system, research the app that’s tied to it. Read reviews to make sure the app is easy to navigate and doesn’t have any glitches. The app should give homeowners control of alerts, allowing homeowners to customize the notifications sent. Some apps send a lot of notifications, so customization is key. Wireless systems often have battery-operated sensors, which need to be changed regularly to work. An app that tells homeowners when battery power is low is a handy feature as well.
Battery backup
If the system selected is connected to power, it’s important to consider a battery backup. If the power is out or a criminal tries to cut the power to a home, a system with a battery backup will still work.
An equipment warranty
Many of the DIY systems require homeowners to buy the equipment upfront, which can be a big investment. To provide reassurance, some security companies offer a warranty on the equipment. Look for at least a one year warranty on equipment and a 30-day money back guarantee in the event the system doesn’t meet expectations. Of course, every company is different, so inquire about warranties with each company.
Specific smart home integrations
If you use a home automation tool like Amazon Alexa to control lights and the thermostat, look for a DIY system that integrates with it as well. While Amazon’s automation tools are most popular, many systems work with some kind of smart home device, so investigate this feature before selecting a system.
DIY installation tips
Many DIY security companies say their system can be installed in an hour or less. While that may be true for some systems, homeowners should expect to spend several hours installing a new system on their own.
To make sure the installation process goes smoothly, Alarms.org has compiled a few tips to help:
- Outdoor cameras don’t have to be hidden: While many assume that outdoor cameras are most effective when they’re hidden, that’s not true. Sixty percent of burglars say they look for surveillance equipment on a home before selecting it as a target, and 40% say the presence of a camera would deter them from entering, according to research from UNC Charlotte.
- Check a camera’s field of view before installation: Before drilling holes or mounting any cameras, download the system’s app and check the camera’s field of view. It’s important to see what the camera can see before hanging it up permanently.
- Consider outdoor camera height: Homeowners should install outdoor cameras at a height that’s out of reach, so criminals can’t destroy or disconnect it. However, if the camera is too high, the image quality could suffer. Find a happy medium between the two.
- Test outdoor camera placement twice: If a camera is placed next to a bright light, it can cause a lens flare that results in white, unrecognizable footage. Before mounting an outdoor camera, use the app to check the camera feed for flares twice, once during the day and once at night. During the day, check for flares caused by the sun, and at night check for flares caused by street lights or the neighbor’s outdoor lights. Mount the camera at a downward angle to minimize the light.
- Cover more than one entry point: The easiest systems to install include a single camera that monitors a main room and the front door. While they’re simple to set up, they don’t provide the best coverage. Burglars see back doors and side windows as a target as well. Consider adding cameras to these vulnerable spots as well. Many companies offer a starter kit and sell add-ons that can be purchased separately. Even if a homeowner starts with the basic setup, additional components can be added at a later date.
- Power source may dictate placement: There are a few 100% wire-free systems on the market, but many security units require a wall socket as a power source. If the system selected requires an outlet, that could dictate where cameras are mounted. Wire-free systems do provide the most flexibility in terms of camera placement; however, most run on rechargeable batteries that must be replaced regularly. There are a few options on the market that include solar-powered outdoor cameras, but again, placement may be limited based on the sunlight.
- Internet capabilities: A system that relies on Wi-Fi to function could be a problem for people in more rural areas. Rural areas may not have a strong enough internet connection to run a security system. Research shows 66% of Americans have broadband internet, but only 54% of rural Americans have the same option, according to the Pew Research Center. Before selecting a DIY system, research its internet usage and check with internet providers to make sure the system will work in the home. A home’s internet range may also be a problem, especially for outdoor cameras. Homeowners that have a problem detecting an internet signal on exterior cameras might consider a range extender to boost the signal outside.
Best DIY home security systems
To help narrow the search for the best DIY home security system, Alarms.org has reviewed dozens of options and reviewed the top six choices that can fit the needs of any homeowner. The best DIY home security systems are:
Additional DIY home security measures to take
A home security system is one of the best ways to protect a home from a break-in, but there are additional precautions that can be taken too. Here are some simple, affordable steps that homeowners can take to improve their home security:
Trim trees and hedges
Tall shrubs and trees are helpful to criminals. Unruly bushes can provide a great hiding spot, while tall trees provide a natural ladder to windows or the roof. Well-maintained yards eliminate these problems.
In addition to keeping the yard tidy, some homeowners choose to put in “offensive plants” that deter intruders from coming in, like thorny bushes and cactus.
Store keys near the bed
Many homeowners hang keys near a door or keep them close to an entry point for convenience. However, placing keys near the bed provides an additional safety precaution.
If a homeowner hears a noise outside or sees suspicious activity on a security camera, car keys can activate the car alarm and scare criminals away.
Keep windows obscured
Before bed, close all of the blinds and curtains. Sometimes, burglars like to look inside a home before entering to see what kind of valuables are within reach upon entry. Dark windows take this option away from criminals.
Shred important papers and bills
Property crimes aren’t the only security problem facing homeowners. Identity theft has become a big problem. Criminals who obtain social security numbers, bank account information, and credit card details can rack up debt and sabotage a homeowner’s credit.
To avoid identity theft, be sure to shred all important information rather than toss it in the trash.
Install timed lighting
If you plan to leave your home for a vacation or business trip, consider installing lights on timers. If a criminal is staking out homes in the neighborhood, the lights going on and off gives the illusion of someone inside the home.
If smart home applications are in place, the homeowner can control lights remotely through a smartphone app. If your lights can’t be remotely-controlled, there are simple devices that sit on top of a light switch and flip it on and off based on an internal timer.
Be mindful of social media updates
Seven out of ten Americans use social channels, according to Pew Research Center. While daily updates are common for many, it’s important to consider safety concerns when posting.
Avoid posting vacation pictures as it tells criminals that a home is vacant. In addition, avoid showing people any valuables that might be of interest to burglars like new jewelry or antiques.
Don’t put the key under the mat
Hiding a key under the welcome mat or a garden gnome is like giving burglars the key to the front door. Get more creative with hiding places. Bury a key in a flower bed on the side of the house or under landscaping rocks outback.
A DIY home security system is a great option for any homeowner. Security systems have become very easy to install with pre-configured components, easy-to-use apps, and no tools needed. While installation is fairly simple, it’s important to research different systems and look for features that best suit a homeowner’s needs. With features in mind, a homeowner can review the list of the best DIY security systems compiled by Alarms.org to help make an informed purchase decision.
