Best Smart Home Security Systems 2024: Complete Protection for Modern Homes

Your home is your sanctuary, and protecting it shouldn't be complicated or expensive. Modern smart home security systems have revolutionized home protection, offering professional-grade monitoring, AI-powered detection, and smartphone control—all without the hassle of traditional alarm companies and their long-term contracts.

Whether you're protecting a small apartment or a sprawling estate, there's a perfect security solution waiting for you. Let's find it!

Why Smart Home Security Systems Matter

Peace of Mind, Anywhere

• Monitor your home from anywhere in the world
• Instant alerts when something's wrong
• Live video feeds on your smartphone
• Know your family is safe

Deter Crime Effectively

• Visible cameras discourage burglars (60% avoid homes with security)
• Alarm systems scare off intruders
• Smart lighting simulates presence
• Neighborhood watch integration

Lower Insurance Premiums

• Most insurers offer 5-20% discounts
• Monitored systems = bigger savings
• ROI in reduced premiums alone

Smart Home Integration

• Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit
• Automate lights, locks, and thermostats
• Create security routines
• Complete ecosystem control

Emergency Response

• Professional monitoring dispatches help
• Fire and CO detection
• Medical emergency buttons
• Faster response than calling 911 yourself

Understanding Security System Types

DIY Self-Monitored Systems

How they work: You install, you monitor, you respond

Pros:

• No monthly fees (or very low)
• Easy installation
• Full control
• No contracts

Cons:

• You're responsible for monitoring
• No professional dispatch
• Must respond to every alert

Best for: Tech-savvy homeowners, budget-conscious, apartment dwellers

DIY with Professional Monitoring

How they work: You install, professionals monitor 24/7

Pros:

• Lower upfront costs than traditional
• Professional response
• Flexible monitoring plans
• Modern equipment

Cons:

• Monthly fees ($10-30)
• You handle installation
• Some technical knowledge needed

Best for: Most homeowners wanting balance of cost and protection

Professional Installation with Monitoring

How they work: Pros install and monitor everything

Pros:

• Expert installation
• Comprehensive coverage
• 24/7 professional monitoring
• Often includes maintenance

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs
• Monthly fees ($30-60+)
• Often requires contracts
• Less flexibility

Best for: Large homes, those wanting turnkey solution, maximum protection

Best Smart Home Security Systems

Best Overall: SimpliSafe Home Security System - Starting at $244

Why it's exceptional:

• No contracts required
• Professional monitoring for $17.99/month (optional)
• Easy DIY installation (30 minutes)
• Excellent app with intuitive controls
• Works with Alexa, Google Assistant
• 24/7 professional monitoring option
• Fast police dispatch (under 5 seconds)
• Cellular backup (works during power/internet outages)

Equipment included (Base Station Kit):

• Base station with 24-hour backup battery
• Wireless keypad
• Entry sensor
• Motion sensor
• SimpliCam indoor camera (1080p)
• 105dB siren

Expandable with:

• Outdoor cameras
• Video doorbell
• Glass break sensors
• Smoke detectors
• Water sensors
• Panic buttons
• Smart locks

Monitoring plans:

• Self-monitoring: Free (basic alerts, no professional response)
• Standard Monitoring: $17.99/month (24/7 monitoring, cellular backup)
• Interactive Monitoring: $27.99/month (adds camera recording, smart lock control)

Real-world performance:

• Instant notifications
• Reliable sensors (no false alarms)
• Fast professional response
• Easy to arm/disarm

Perfect for: Homeowners and renters wanting flexibility, no contracts, and professional monitoring option

Why it wins: Best balance of features, price, and flexibility in the industry

Best Budget: Wyze Home Monitoring - Starting at $59.98

Why it's incredible value:

• Cheapest professional monitoring ($4.99/month)
• No contracts
• DIY installation
• Works with existing Wyze cameras
• Excellent app
• Expandable system

Starter Kit includes:

• Hub with backup battery
• 2 entry sensors
• 1 motion sensor
• Keypad

Add-on devices:

• Entry sensors ($5.99 each)
• Motion sensors ($7.99 each)
• Wyze cameras (starting at $20)
• Wyze Video Doorbell
• Wyze Lock

Monitoring options:

• Self-monitoring: Free with Wyze app
• Professional monitoring: $4.99/month (no contract)

Real-world value:

• Unbeatable price for professional monitoring
• Reliable performance
• Great for existing Wyze users
• Easy expansion

Perfect for: Budget-conscious buyers, apartment dwellers, Wyze ecosystem users

Trade-off: Fewer premium features than higher-priced systems, but excellent for the price

Best Premium: Ring Alarm Pro - Starting at $299.99

Why it's comprehensive:

• Built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router
• Works with all Ring devices
• Professional monitoring for $20/month
• Alexa integration (Amazon-owned)
• Local video storage
• 24/7 backup internet

Base Station includes:

• Ring Alarm Pro Base Station (with eero router)
• Keypad
• Contact sensor
• Motion detector
• Range extender

Ring ecosystem benefits:

• Seamless integration with Ring doorbells
• Ring cameras work perfectly
• Ring smart lighting
• Neighbors app (community safety)
• Police partnerships in some areas

Monitoring plans:

• Ring Protect Basic: $4.99/month per device (video recording only)
• Ring Protect Plus: $20/month (unlimited devices, 24/7 monitoring, extended warranty)

Unique features:

• Backup internet via cellular
• eero Wi-Fi 6 mesh router built-in
• Local video storage option

Perfect for: Ring ecosystem users, those needing Wi-Fi upgrade, Amazon/Alexa homes

Investment: Higher upfront cost justified by included router and comprehensive features

Best for Renters: Abode Smart Security Kit - Starting at $199

Why renters love it:

• No drilling required
• Portable system (take it when you move)
• No contracts
• Works with HomeKit, Alexa, Google
• Professional monitoring optional
• DIY installation in minutes

Starter Kit includes:

• Gateway
• Mini door/window sensor
• Key fob
• Motion sensor

Flexibility:

• Self-monitoring: Free forever
• Professional monitoring: $8/month or $80/year (no contract)
• Premium plan: $20/month (adds video storage, cellular backup)

Renter-friendly features:

• Adhesive sensors (no screws)
• Compact gateway
• Works in apartments
• Take everything when you move

Smart home integration:

• Best HomeKit support in the industry
• IFTTT support for automation
• Works with Alexa and Google
• Integrates with Philips Hue, Nest, more

Perfect for: Renters, frequent movers, HomeKit enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts

Bonus: Most open platform (works with more third-party devices than competitors)

Best Professional System: ADT Command - Starting at $599 + installation

Why it's the gold standard:

• 145+ years of security experience
• Fastest police dispatch
• Professional installation included
• 24/7 monitoring with human verification
• Comprehensive equipment options
• Local service technicians

What's included (varies by package):

• Control panel with 7" touchscreen
• Door/window sensors
• Motion detectors
• Indoor cameras
• Yard sign and window decals

Monitoring:

• Required professional monitoring: $45.99-$62.99/month
• Includes 24/7 monitoring, cellular backup, mobile app

ADT advantages:

• Trusted brand with proven track record
• Local technicians for service
• Comprehensive insurance discounts
• Fastest emergency response
• Professional installation ensures optimal coverage

Perfect for: Homeowners wanting maximum protection, those who prefer professional installation, large homes

Consideration: Higher monthly costs and contracts (typically 3 years), but you're paying for premium service

Best DIY Smart System: Arlo Home Security System - Starting at $199.99

Why tech enthusiasts choose it:

• Works seamlessly with Arlo cameras
• No contracts or monthly fees required
• Professional monitoring available ($4.99/month)
• Multi-mode security (Home, Away, Night)
• Excellent app with geofencing
• Expandable system

Starter Kit includes:

• All-in-One Multi-Sensor (motion, door/window, water leak, temp, tilt)
• Hub
• Keypad Remote
• Keychain Remote

Arlo ecosystem:

• Integrates with Arlo cameras perfectly
• Arlo Video Doorbell
• Arlo smart lights
• Arlo Secure app

Monitoring options:

• Self-monitoring: Free (DIY alerts and control)
• Arlo Secure: $4.99/month per camera (video recording)
• Arlo Secure Plus: $12.99/month (unlimited cameras, 30-day storage)
• Professional monitoring: Available as add-on

Perfect for: Existing Arlo users, DIY enthusiasts, those wanting flexibility

Standout feature: All-in-One Multi-Sensor combines multiple sensors in one device

Best for Smart Homes: Vivint Smart Home - Starting at $599 + installation

Why smart home lovers choose it:

• Most advanced smart home integration
• Professional installation
• Car Guard (monitors vehicle)
• Smart locks, thermostats, lighting included
• Touchscreen control panel
• AI-powered security

Comprehensive package includes:

• Vivint Smart Hub Panel
• Door/window sensors
• Motion sensors
• Doorbell camera
• Indoor camera
• Smart locks
• Professional installation

Smart features:

• Automated scenes and routines
• Voice control (Alexa, Google)
• Smart thermostat integration
• Lighting control
• Garage door control

Monitoring:

• Required professional monitoring: $29.99-$49.99/month
• Smart Home Video: $39.99-$49.99/month (includes video recording)

Perfect for: Tech-forward homeowners, those building complete smart home, large properties

Investment: Premium pricing for premium smart home experience

Best for Google Users: Nest Secure + Google Home Integration - Discontinued but alternatives available

Note: Nest Secure was discontinued, but Google now partners with ADT for "ADT Self Setup."

ADT Self Setup (Google's recommended solution) - Starting at $199.99

Why Google users should consider:

• Works with Google Home ecosystem
• Google Assistant integration
• Nest camera integration
• DIY installation
• Optional professional monitoring

Google Home benefits:

• Voice control via Google Assistant
• Routines with other Google devices
• Nest Thermostat integration
• Nest doorbell and camera compatibility

Perfect for: Google ecosystem users, Nest camera owners

Essential Components Explained

Control Panel/Hub

The brain of your system that communicates with all sensors and connects to monitoring services.

Key features to look for:

• Backup battery (4-24 hours)
• Cellular backup (works if internet fails)
• Loud siren (100+ dB)
• Touchscreen (premium models)

Door/Window Sensors

Detect when doors or windows are opened while system is armed.

How many you need:

• Minimum: All ground-floor doors and windows
• Better: All entry points including second floor
• Best: Every door and window in the home

Pro tip: Place on doors to attached garages—common entry point for burglars

Motion Sensors

Detect movement inside your home using infrared technology.

Placement strategy:

• High-traffic areas (hallways, stairs)
• Rooms with valuables
• Corners for maximum coverage
• 6-8 feet high for optimal detection

Pet-friendly options: Many systems offer pet-immune sensors (up to 40-80 lbs)

Cameras (Indoor & Outdoor)

Visual verification of alerts and recorded evidence.

Essential camera features:

• 1080p minimum resolution
• Night vision
• Two-way audio
• Motion detection zones
• Cloud or local storage

Strategic placement:

• Front door (captures 34% of break-ins)
• Back door
• First-floor windows
• Garage
• Driveway

Video Doorbell

See and speak to visitors before opening the door.

Benefits:

• Package theft deterrent
• Visitor verification
• Delivery communication
• Motion alerts

Environmental Sensors

Protect against non-security threats.

Smoke detectors:

• Monitored systems dispatch fire department
• Interconnected (one triggers all)
• Required by many insurance companies

Water leak sensors:

• Prevent costly water damage
• Place near water heater, washing machine, sinks
• Can save thousands in repairs

CO detectors:

• Life-saving protection
• Required in many jurisdictions
• Professional monitoring dispatches help

Temperature sensors:

• Prevent frozen pipes
• Monitor HVAC issues
• Protect during vacations

Smart Locks

Remote control and monitoring of door locks.

Benefits:

• Lock/unlock remotely
• Temporary access codes for guests
• Entry/exit notifications
• Auto-lock features
• Integration with security system

Glass Break Sensors

Detect the sound of breaking glass.

When to use:

• Large windows
• Sliding glass doors
• Rooms with multiple windows
• Areas where window sensors aren't practical

Coverage: One sensor can cover multiple windows in a room

Professional Monitoring: Is It Worth It?

What Professional Monitoring Includes

24/7 surveillance:

• Trained operators monitor your system
• Verify alarms before dispatching
• Multiple communication paths (broadband, cellular, landline)

Emergency dispatch:

• Police for break-ins
• Fire department for smoke/fire
• Medical services for panic buttons
• Faster response than self-calling 911

Backup systems:

• Cellular connection if internet fails
• Backup battery if power fails
• Redundant monitoring centers

Cost Breakdown

Budget monitoring:

• $5-10/month (basic service)
• Self-installation
• Limited features

Standard monitoring:

• $15-30/month
• Full alarm response
• Mobile app access
• Video storage (some plans)

Premium monitoring:

• $30-60+/month
• Professional installation
• Advanced features
• Equipment warranty
• Concierge services

Self-Monitoring vs. Professional

Self-monitoring works if:

• You're always available to respond
• You have reliable cell service
• You're comfortable calling 911 yourself
• Budget is primary concern

Professional monitoring better if:

• You travel frequently
• Want fastest police response
• Need insurance discounts
• Want peace of mind

The verdict: Professional monitoring is worth $15-30/month for most homeowners

Installation: DIY vs. Professional

DIY Installation Advantages

Cost savings:

• No installation fees ($100-500 saved)
• Lower monthly costs typically
• No contracts (usually)

Flexibility:

• Install on your schedule
• Easy to modify
• Take with you when moving
• Add components gradually

Control:

• Understand your system completely
• Customize placement
• Troubleshoot yourself

Best DIY systems:

• SimpliSafe
• Wyze
• Ring
• Abode
• Arlo

Professional Installation Advantages

Expertise:

• Optimal sensor placement
• Hidden wiring (if desired)
• Comprehensive coverage
• Professional assessment

Time savings:

• Installed in 2-4 hours
• No learning curve
• Tested and verified
• Training included

Reliability:

• Professional-grade installation
• Warranty on installation
• Service calls included (often)

Best professionally installed:

• ADT
• Vivint
• Brinks Home Security

DIY Installation Tips

Planning phase:

1. Map your home's entry points
2. Identify high-traffic areas
3. Consider Wi-Fi coverage
4. Plan hub/panel location (central, accessible)

Installation best practices:

1. Test equipment before mounting
2. Clean surfaces before adhesive sensors
3. Place sensors on door/window frames (not moving parts)
4. Mount motion sensors in corners at 6-8 feet
5. Test everything before finalizing

Common mistakes to avoid:

• ❌ Hub too far from sensors (range issues)
• ❌ Sensors on metal surfaces (interference)
• ❌ Motion sensors facing windows (false alarms from sun)
• ❌ Forgetting to test before final mounting

Smart Home Integration

Voice Assistant Compatibility

Amazon Alexa:

• "Alexa, arm the security system"
• "Alexa, show me the front door camera"
• Works with Ring, SimpliSafe, Abode, ADT

Google Assistant:

• "Hey Google, is my alarm armed?"
• "Hey Google, show the backyard camera on TV"
• Works with ADT, Nest, Vivint

Apple HomeKit:

• Siri control
• Home app integration
• Automation with other HomeKit devices
• Best support: Abode, Eve, Aqara

Automation Ideas

Arrival home:

• Disarm system
• Unlock door
• Turn on lights
• Adjust thermostat

Leaving home:

• Arm system
• Lock all doors
• Turn off lights
• Set thermostat to away mode

Bedtime:

• Arm in "night" mode
• Lock doors
• Turn off lights
• Adjust thermostat

Vacation mode:

• Arm system
• Random light schedules
• Hold mail notifications
• Temperature monitoring

Choosing the Right System: Decision Framework

Step 1: Assess Your Home

Size:

• Apartment: SimpliSafe, Wyze, Abode
• Small home (1-2 bedroom): SimpliSafe, Ring, Arlo
• Medium home (3-4 bedroom): SimpliSafe, Ring, Vivint
• Large home (5+ bedroom): ADT, Vivint, SimpliSafe Pro

Entry points:

• Count all doors and windows
• Note sliding doors
• Consider garage access
• Identify basement windows

Existing smart home:

• Alexa users: Ring, SimpliSafe
• Google users: ADT, Nest alternatives
• Apple users: Abode (best HomeKit)
• Mixed: SimpliSafe, Abode

Step 2: Define Your Priorities

Budget-conscious:

• Wyze (cheapest monitoring)
• SimpliSafe (no contracts)
• Self-monitoring options

Maximum protection:

• ADT (fastest response)
• Vivint (comprehensive)
• Professional installation

Flexibility:

• SimpliSafe (no contracts)
• Abode (optional monitoring)
• Ring (month-to-month)

Smart home integration:

• Ring (Alexa)
• ADT (Google)
• Abode (HomeKit)
• Vivint (comprehensive)

Step 3: Calculate Total Cost

Upfront costs:

• Equipment: $200-1,500+
• Installation: $0-500 (DIY vs. professional)
• Activation: $0-100

Monthly costs:

• Self-monitoring: $0-5
• Basic monitoring: $10-20
• Premium monitoring: $30-60+

Annual costs:

• Multiply monthly by 12
• Add equipment upgrades
• Consider contract penalties

Example calculations:

Budget setup (Wyze):

• Equipment: $60
• Monitoring: $5/month = $60/year
• Year 1 total: $120

Standard setup (SimpliSafe):

• Equipment: $300
• Monitoring: $18/month = $216/year
• Year 1 total: $516

Premium setup (ADT):

• Equipment + installation: $1,000
• Monitoring: $50/month = $600/year
• Year 1 total: $1,600

Step 4: Consider Future Needs

Expandability:

• Can you add cameras later?
• Additional sensors available?
• Smart home device compatibility?
• System upgrades possible?

Portability:

• Moving soon? Choose DIY
• Renting? Avoid professional installation
• Long-term home? Professional OK

Technology updates:

• Regular firmware updates?
• New features added?
• Hardware refresh cycle?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Forgetting about monitoring costs: That $10/month adds up over years

❌ Under-protecting: Don't skip second-floor windows or garage doors

❌ Ignoring smart home compatibility: Check if it works with your ecosystem

❌ Buying without testing: Take advantage of money-back guarantees

❌ Skipping environmental sensors: Smoke and water detection are crucial

❌ Poor camera placement: Don't point cameras at sun or through windows

❌ Forgetting about Wi-Fi coverage: Hub and cameras need strong signal

❌ Not reading the contract: Understand cancellation terms

Maximizing Your Security System

Best Practices

Daily habits:

• Arm system every time you leave
• Arm in "stay" mode at night
• Check camera feeds periodically
• Update access codes regularly

Weekly maintenance:

• Test sensors
• Check camera views
• Review recorded events
• Clean camera lenses

Monthly checks:

• Test backup battery
• Update firmware
• Review user access
• Check sensor batteries

Annual tasks:

• Replace sensor batteries
• Review coverage gaps
• Update emergency contacts
• Test professional monitoring response

Layered Security Approach

Layer 1: Deterrence

• Visible cameras
• Security signs
• Motion-activated lights
• Maintained property

Layer 2: Detection

• Door/window sensors
• Motion detectors
• Glass break sensors
• Camera motion alerts

Layer 3: Response

• Loud siren
• Professional monitoring
• Mobile alerts
• Automatic emergency dispatch

Layer 4: Evidence

• Recorded video
• Event logs
• Cloud backup
• Local storage

The Bottom Line

The best smart home security system protects your home, family, and peace of mind without breaking the bank or locking you into oppressive contracts. Modern systems offer professional-grade protection with DIY convenience and smart home integration.

Quick recommendations:

Best overall: SimpliSafe ($244 + $18/month monitoring) Best budget: Wyze ($60 + $5/month monitoring) Best premium: Ring Alarm Pro ($300 + $20/month) Best for renters: Abode ($199 + optional monitoring) Best professional: ADT Command ($599+ installation + $46+/month) Best DIY smart: Arlo ($200 + optional monitoring)

Your home deserves protection. Choose the system that matches your needs, install it properly, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family and property are secure!

---

What security system do you use? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!