Secure Your Peace of Mind Today
Imagine this: It's a typical Tuesday afternoon. You're at work, sipping your third cup of coffee and making headway on your latest project. Suddenly, your phone buzzes with a notification. It's an alert from your home security system. Intrigued, you open the app and see a live video feed of a delivery person at your front door, holding a package you've been eagerly waiting for.
With just a few taps, you remotely unlock the door, ask the delivery person to leave the package inside and then lock it again. All this without disrupting your workday or worrying about your package being left unattended. This isn't a futuristic dream — it's a reality made possible by the advanced home security systems of 2023.
From comprehensive solutions like Comcast Xfinity Home and Vivint Smart Home that offer complete home automation and professional monitoring to budget-friendly options like SimpliSafe and Ring Alarm Pro that provide essential security features at an affordable price, there's a system out there to suit every lifestyle and need. Let's delve into the world of home security systems and find the one that will best ensure your peace of mind.
5 Best Home Security Systems in 2023
1. Vivint
Vivint stands out as our top choice for an overall excellent security system. It appeals to a broad customer base with its system's compatibility with numerous smart home devices. The company offers budget-friendly monitoring options starting at only $29.99 monthly, delivering the best security system ownership experience.
It allows customers to purchase the system outright on a month-to-month contract or finance their system over 60 months. Vivint gives a 120-day warranty to all its system owners. Also, they offer component servicing and replacements if you choose their 5-year contract plan.
PROS
- Monthly contracts are available.
- Professional installation.
- Free consultation.
- Excellent smart home features.
CONS
- Overall costly.
- The activation fee is high.
- Self-monitoring is limited.
2. Comcast Xfinity Home
Comcast Xfinity Home is an exceptional, user-friendly and cost-effective service. It saves you thousands compared to similar offerings from direct competitors such as Vivint and ADT. Furthermore, it is compatible with various third-party smart home devices and does not bind you with a contract.
While there is some push to bundle it with other Comcast services and its home automation capabilities are somewhat limited, this wireless home security system promises to serve you effectively. The payment plan is easy to understand, with a base home security system priced at $360, which you can pay in easy $15 installments per month for 24 months.
PROS
- No contract is required.
- Equipment financing is interest-free.
- Discount deals are available.
- Self-monitory at $10.
CONS
- No DIY home installation.
- Poor customer service.
3. SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe presents a practical DIY option with an extensive range of security system choices tailored for homes of different sizes. Like other DIY security systems, it offers a host of sensors, security cameras and detectors, enabling you to build your system from scratch. SimpliSafe provides 3 monitoring plans, ranging from self-monitoring to more premium plans.
The wireless hardware is easy to install without tools, using peel-and-stick adhesive for quick setup of sensors and motion detectors. While SimpliSafe doesn't require contracts, customers choosing the Interactive Monitoring service receive a 20% discount on hardware packages. Pricing starts at $244.96, with a monthly fee of $27.99. And, in case you require installation assistance, there's an additional charge of $99.
PROS
- Very cost-effective.
- Self-monitoring is free.
- Rapid SOS implementation.
CONS
- Functionality is very simple.
- Not compatible with many smart home devices.
4. Adobe
Adobe sets itself apart in the home security industry with 3 unique features: professional monitoring in 3-day bundles, integration with Apple HomeKit and compatibility with a diverse range of sensors and camera manufacturers, allowing for a personalized experience. You can manage the Adobe system via an online PC interface, an Android or iOS mobile device. However, multiple sensors, detectors and other equipment costs can accumulate quickly in larger spaces, making it more suitable for smaller homes.
Adobe doesn't require a monthly commitment if you choose to self-monitor. It also offers a 30-day trial period to gauge if the service fits your home's needs and a one-year warranty on all hardware. While Adobe offers comprehensive kits starting at $279, customers can build their systems by selecting individual equipment pieces. Monthly fees begin at $21.99.
PROS
- No contracts.
- Warranty of 1 year.
- Plans are exceptionally affordable.
CONS
- Bad sound detection.
- Hidden cancellation fees.
5. Ring Alarm Pro
Ring Alarm Pro is hands down the best DIY security system. The Ring Alarm Pro is easy to set up and use, can be customized with a wide range of compatible add-ons and offers an optional, cost-effective monitoring plan ($20 monthly or $200 annually).
While it may integrate with fewer third-party smart home devices than our other selections, it does feature a built-in Eero Wi-Fi 6 router. This means the base station controls your security system and can replace your existing Wi-Fi router, potentially enhancing your Wi-Fi's range and performance if set up as a mesh network.
The Eero router provides backup internet access via a cellular connection (included in a Ring Protect Pro plan) during power or internet outages. However, if you already have a mesh Wi-Fi network, don't desire one or don't require backup internet, consider the original Ring Alarm instead.
PROS
- No requirement for the contract.
- Reliable security features.
- Awesome storage.
- Additional features like internet backup.
CONS
- Vague installation features.
- Device limitation.
Final Thoughts
The best home security system depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Whether it's affordability, ease of installation, smart home compatibility or professional monitoring services, each system highlighted offers unique attributes. For example, SimpliSafe provides a practical DIY option with varied plans, while Adobe stands out with its unique features and customization options. While each has its strengths, it's crucial to consider your home's size, your tech-savviness and your budget before making a decision.