Peace of mind doesn’t have to be pricey. Home security systems often require long contracts and pro installation, but there are smart home security systems you can install yourself that include a monitoring plan to keep tabs on it—and only when you want that.
2019 Best Smart Home Security Systems
To identify the best home security systems, our research revealed one overarching theme: There is no one-size-fits-all solution. 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.
Once you decide what type of system you need and determine your budget, your next task is to choose between the traditional alarm companies offering professional installation and the new breed of DIY security solutions.
SimpliSafe Home Security
SimpliSafe’s easy-to-install, easy-to-use system is well-positioned as one of the best values in home security. It offers a comprehensive set of features, security cameras, and a very good mix of battery-powered sensors, all of which performed reliably well in our tests. Starter kits begin at about $230, or you can build your own custom system with the exact mix of devices you’re interested in.
Nest Secure
This DIY option from Google-owned Nest works great, but the upfront cost of $399 is much higher than the competition. It’s a decent system, but really only worth it if you’re looking to lock yourself into a Google smart home ecosystem.
Ring Alarm
A subsidiary of Amazon, Ring’s Alarm security kit is quick to install and easy to use. Aside from a new “Works with Ring” program to bring compatible smart locks and other third-party gadgets into the fold, there’s nothing all that innovative about it, though Alexa users will appreciate that they can arm and disarm the system using voice commands and that they can use Ring’s sensors to trigger Alexa routines.
Vivint
If the idea of installing your own home security system leaves you cold, professionally-installed options are still available. While Vivint certainly isn’t the cheapest platform around, you can tailor the system to your needs, selecting from a comprehensive range of high-quality security devices that includes thermostats, cameras, doorbells, lighting, sensors, smart locks and more.
Wink Lookout Review
The Wink Lookout starter kit gives you everything you need to start monitoring your home using your smartphone.
Honeywell Smart Home Security Starter Kit Review
Honeywell’s Smart Home Security Starter Kit is a DIY system that includes Amazon Alexa service, a built-in 1080p camera, motion detection, face recognition, and more. There’s no option for professional monitoring, however.
Graves Development Resources | Land Developer in Omaha, Nebraska
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