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Top 10 Home Security Systems of 2024

The Modernize experts rank the best home security systems of 2024.
Here are our findings.

In the U.S., a home burglary occurs every 13 seconds. The average cost to the homeowner is $2,661 in stolen property — and that does not even include the damage to the home. Even with these frightening statistics, only 38% of American households have a home security system. Installing a home security system is more important now than ever. The first step towards better home security is finding the company and system that best works for your home and needs.

When determining the best home security systems, it’s important to consider not only upfront installation and monthly subscription prices. When it comes to your safety, be sure to also consider security technology, professional monitoring services, emergency response times, smart home compatibility and remote monitoring (if this is a priority for you), and customer service. The following security systems can help keep your property safe and protect the lives of those who live in your home. The Modernize experts went to work in finding the best home security systems for homeowners in 2024 — below we rank the top 10 security system options.

Top 10 Home Security Systems in 2024

In choosing the best home security systems, our experts considered important factors - including monthly subscription and installation costs, monitored vs. unmonitored services, brand reputation and reviews, smart home compatibility, and noteworthy homeowner benefits. We considered both wireless and wired options.
Note: monthly service fees, installation fees, and other costs can fluctuate. What you see on this page is a guideline but not a bottom line. Be sure to connect with a professional in real time to get an accurate quote.
1
  • Average Installation Cost : $199+
Quick response times
Customer guarantee
Free home risk assessments
Tends to be more expensive than some competitors
Often requires a long-term contract

ADT

Best For: Full-service Professional Monitoring

What We Love

With over 140 years in the home security industry, ADT offers comprehensive security packages and a six-month money-back guarantee, ensuring homeowners receive robust, risk-free protection through a wide array of features, including intrusion and environmental hazard monitoring.

Cost Information

ADT’s security services come with an initial installation cost starting at $199 and a monthly subscription of $45.99, providing homeowners with a professionally installed and managed security solution that offers round-the-clock protection and support, ensuring both home and peace of mind are securely guarded.

Best Feature

ADT’s comprehensive monitoring, covering intrusion, fire, flood, and CO, stands out, offering homeowners a multi-faceted security solution that safeguards against various potential home threats. The universal inclusion of a touchscreen control panel and voice control integration across all basic packages enhances user-friendliness and system management, ensuring intuitive use and control.

2
  • Average Installation Cost : $50–$399
High-end technology
Financing options
Free consultations
Higher upfront and monthly costs
Long-term contracts or expensive month-to-month

Vivint

Best For: Customizable Systems

What We Love

Vivint offers a customizable, smart-integrated security system, providing a control panel that also acts as a smart hub and allowing users to build a tailored security setup without being confined to standard packages.

Cost Information

Vivint requires an installation cost between $50 and $399 and a monthly subscription of $29.99. Despite potentially pricy equipment, financing options up to 60 months are available for those choosing a long-term contract, making the system financially accessible.

Best Feature

The dual-function control panel stands out, serving as both a security system manager and a smart hub, facilitating centralized control and streamlined operation of the user’s entire smart home ecosystem.

3
  • Average Installation Cost : $229+
No contract required
DIY options
Custom plans and equipment
Limited smart home integration capabilities
Some equipment can be pricey upfront

SimpliSafe

Best For: Smart Home Automation

What We Love

SimpliSafe offers notably flexible and user-friendly home security, providing easy DIY installation and the option for self-monitoring to avoid monthly fees, ensuring comprehensive protection that’s accessible and straightforward.

Cost Information

With a $229 installation cost and a $14.99 monthly subscription for professional monitoring, SimpliSafe presents an affordable, yet comprehensive home security solution, making robust protection financially accessible to various homeowners.

Best Feature

The SimpliSafe app stands out, allowing remote monitoring, live streaming, and seamless integration with Google and Amazon for enhanced voice control, offering users convenient and constant oversight of their security system.

4
  • Average Installation Cost : $199–$329
Low monthly subscription price
No contract required
Remote monitoring
Has faced criticism and lawsuits over privacy issues
Only available in certain areas

Ring

Best For: Low-Cost Remote Monitoring

What We Love

Ring, popular among homeowners desiring hands-on, visible security, offers easy DIY installation and the flexibility of self-monitoring or professional monitoring, providing a straightforward and accessible security solution that can be managed anytime, anywhere.

Cost Information

Ring requires an installation cost between $199 and $329 and offers a notably low monthly subscription of $10, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking to gradually build a comprehensive security system without a hefty initial investment.

Best Feature

Ring’s doorbell security system is particularly notable, providing simple yet effective surveillance that is widely recognized and appreciated, offering users an affordable and direct way to oversee their property, especially while away.

5
  • Average Installation Cost : $99+
DIY installation available
Great customer service
Smart home integration
Higher monthly monitoring fees
Some equipment packages can be expensive

Frontpoint

Best For: Indoor + Outdoor Security

What We Love

Frontpoint appeals to DIY enthusiasts with self-installation but ensures security with mandatory professional monitoring. The system offers a range of surveillance options, including various cameras and smart equipment, all manageable via an inclusive mobile app, and is backed by a commendable customer service reputation and a 30-day trial period.

Cost Information

Frontpoint comes with an installation cost starting at $99 and a monthly subscription of $44.99. The brand facilitates user investment by offering financing options to mitigate upfront equipment costs, making it a financially accessible and reliable home security solution.

Best Feature

Frontpoint’s customer service and monitoring are standout features, being renowned for their rapid response times and exemplary service, ensuring users receive prompt and effective support and action in security situations.

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6
  • Average Installation Cost : $130+
Text alerts when alarms are triggered
Two-way communication with emergency pros
DIY installation option
Fewer options for smart home integration
Less established than competitors

Cove

Best For: Easy-to-Use Technology

What We Love

Cove offers a straightforward DIY home security solution, enabling users to install and personally monitor their system via text through InstaText and LiveAssist, providing direct, immediate alerts and communication with emergency services. With a 60-day risk-free trial and no requirement for a contract, Cove provides a simple, commitment-free security option for those desiring basic protection without the complexity of larger systems.

Cost Information

Cove has an installation cost starting at $130 and a monthly subscription fee of $14.99 for professional monitoring. Without requiring a contract and offering a risk-free trial, Cove presents a financially accessible and low-risk security option for those seeking straightforward, uncomplicated home protection.

Best Feature

Cove’s three-factor authentication, which activates when an alarm is triggered, stands out, providing an additional layer of security and ensuring that alerts and responses are thoroughly verified, enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of the system in critical situations.

7
  • Average Installation Cost : $199+
Great brand reputation
2-year equipment warranty
Quick response time
May require a contract for certain plans
Some users report issues with customer service

Brinks Home

Best For: DIY Installation With Professional Monitoring

What We Love

Brinks, with over 160 years in security, provides Brinks Home, blending traditional professional monitoring with DIY installation, backed by a two-year equipment warranty and acclaimed customer service.

Cost Information

With installation starting at $199 and a monthly fee of $29.99, Brinks offers a reliable security solution, albeit with requisite contracts, ensuring users benefit from its extensive security expertise and reputation.

Best Feature

Notably, Brinks excels in providing exceptionally rapid response times during emergencies, ensuring users receive swift, effective action when it’s most crucial.

8
  • Average Installation Cost : $360+
Extensive home automation
Low monitoring fees
Cellular back-up for power outages
Only available to Xfinity internet customers
Some features require additional purchases

Xfinity

Best For: Home Automation

What We Love

Xfinity offers a seamlessly integrated smart home and security system for its cable and internet users, providing top-notch professional monitoring and a range of compatibility with IoT companies, all managed through a powerful app, ensuring comprehensive and cohesive home management and security.

Cost Information

With an installation cost starting at $360 and a modest monthly fee of $15, Xfinity provides a seamlessly integrated and robust security solution, though it does require a standard two-year contract and professional installation of all sensors.

Best Feature

The system’s powerful app and options for home, car, and pet detection stand out, offering users a versatile and comprehensive security management tool that is particularly beneficial for those frequently on the move.

9
  • Average Installation Cost : $49.99+
Customizable to your home
Affordable to install and use
Cloud storage for one camera
Not as comprehensive as other systems
Some users report issues with camera hardware

Wyze

Best For: Low Budgets

What We Love

Wyze stands out for its affordability and simplicity, offering professional monitoring, no contracts, a free starter kit, and cost-effective security cameras, presenting a straightforward and economical security service that provides essential protection and peace of mind.

Cost Information

With an installation cost starting at $49.99 and a minimal monthly fee of $4.99, Wyze offers one of the most budget-friendly security solutions on the market, allowing users to access essential security features and add on system components as desired without breaking the bank.

Best Feature

The notable affordability of Wyze, including its low-cost professional monitoring and the option for users to handle monitoring themselves to save on monthly fees, makes it a standout feature, providing basic security without a hefty price tag.

10
  • Average Installation Cost : $399
Proactive security
Human monitoring around the clock
No risk of hacking
One of the pricier options available
Some users find the cameras obtrusive

Deep Sentinel

Best For: Advanced Technology

What We Love

Deep Sentinel leverages advanced artificial intelligence to preemptively deter crime by identifying suspicious activity, utilizing extensive camera kits monitored by real people around the clock, offering a vigilant, human-touch security solution.

Cost Information

With an installation cost starting at $399 and a monthly fee ranging from $29 to $79, Deep Sentinel offers a technologically advanced, human-monitored security solution, allowing users to customize kits and manage installation independently, providing a blend of high-tech and traditional security.

Best Feature

The use of AI to proactively identify and address suspicious activity before it escalates is Deep Sentinel’s standout feature, providing a proactive, preventative approach to home security that aims to thwart potential threats early.

FAQ

What factors determine the best home security systems?

Although self-monitoring may seem the most convenient, the most robust and effective home security systems involve professional human monitoring. Look for wireless systems that will continue to work even during a power outage. Also look for systems that fit your monthly subscription budget, remote monitoring options, and the ability to record videos, which can help the police if a break-in does happen.


How much do home security systems typically cost?

Each system will have a different price for installation, equipment, and monthly monitoring. Some of the up-front costs of equipment can be financed through the company if you choose a contract of a certain length. Some installation fees can be waived if you choose certain packages. Finally, some systems allow for self-monitoring, which means you do not have to pay the monthly fee (but this also comes with added risk).


What types of home security systems are available?

A home security system can be as simple or as robust as you want it to be. You can opt for one camera at your door to help you see who is delivering a package, or you can go with a system that includes interior and exterior cameras, 24/7 real-time monitoring, smart-home integration, and the ability to handle anything that might go wrong from all the way across the world.


Are there any home security brands to be avoided?

It is often best to avoid brands without any online reviews. The home security business is built on reputation; the better the reputation, the more likely the system is to do exactly what it says it will. When it comes to security, go with what you know will work. There is too much at stake to do anything else. Modernize recommends reading reviews to ensure customers approve of the brand’s service.


What are the top home security features to look for?

It’s always a good idea to look for at least a few cameras, a control panel (touchscreen or easy-use buttons), a panic alarm, and sensors on doors and windows. You can add on to these features to fit your home’s needs. Not sure what you need? Take a look at our home security checklist to help you decide.


Are there any DIY home security systems?

Yes! You can find security systems that are surprisingly robust and allow both do-it-yourself installation and professional monitoring. These systems tend to be less expensive than those that require professional installation or monitoring.


How do I find a reliable home security company?

Modernize can help you connect with home security companies in your area that can go over your options for safety and peace of mind. They can also provide you with accurate quotes so you know exactly what you will be paying for. Use Modernize to get the information you need to make an informed decision for your property and family.


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