Home security systems are important for homeowners so that they can keep their property and their families safe. A good home security system can increase the likelihood that a burglar will be caught, and it can also deter criminals from attempting to break into your home.
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, an estimated 1,515,096 burglaries were committed in the U.S. in 2016 alone. Residential burglaries accounted for 69.5 percent of all burglaries, and the victims suffered losses that totaled an estimated $3.6 billion. This data underscores the importance of having a good home security system. Here are the top five systems that you might want to consider.
1. Protect America
Protect America offers an affordable home security system that won’t break the bank while keeping your home secure. The systems are available for both landline and wireless connections. The cheapest system costs $19.99 per month, and the basic package does not charge any upfront fees. You will have to sign up for a three-year contract, however.
Protect America offers 24/7 professional monitoring. The basic system comes with a standard control panel, entry and motion sensors, window stickers, yard signs, and a do-it-yourself installation. The upgraded system offers high-definition video, control for garage doors and smart locks, integration with Alexa, and smoke and fire monitoring. The systems are customizable and allow you to add additional components for added costs.
The do-it-yourself installation is simple and saves you the money that you would otherwise have to spend to have it professionally installed. The setup is straightforward and can be completed by technophobes and tech-savvy people alike.
2. ADT
With more than 140 years in business, ADT continues to offer high-quality home security systems to protect your home and your family.
ADT is one of the most recognized names in the industry, but it is also pricey. Monitoring costs between $28.99 and $58.99 per month. The most inexpensive plan is only available if you have a landline phone. For an added fee, you can have cellular monitoring. Optional monitoring services are available for additional fees such as carbon monoxide, smoke, and fire monitoring. The most expensive plan gives you video monitoring and remote monitoring, allowing you to lock doors, turn the lights off or on, open or close your garage door, and perform other tasks remotely from your phone. ADT requires professional installation, so the setup is very easy.
If you choose ADT, you will have to sign up for a three-year contract.
3. Frontpoint
Frontpoint is known for its excellent customer service and its ease of setup. The home security systems that the company offers are do-it-yourself systems.
Frontpoint offers tiered monitoring services, and cellular monitoring is available at every label without an additional charge. The security packages also offer all-inclusive monitoring for fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide. It also offers 24/7 monitoring and is portable and expandable. The plans start at $34.99 per month, and you will also need to pay for the equipment upfront. Frontpoint offers one- and three-year contracts and a 30-day money back guarantee. The installation is simple, and you are able to do it yourself without having to wait for a technician or to pay installation costs.
4. SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe is a basic home security system that is very affordable. The plans start at just $14.99 per month. Upgraded plans cost $24.99 per month and give you access to the SimpliSafe mobile app. The plans support all-inclusive monitoring for your cell phone, and you are able to customize the alerts.
One advantage of SimpliSafe is that you do not have to sign a contract and can cancel at any time without a penalty. It also offers a 60-day money back guarantee if you are unhappy with your system. However, the upfront equipment costs are expensive. The company’s five-piece starter system costs $229.96.
SimpliSafe is very easy to set up since it doesn’t require any wiring or drilling. You are simply able to plug and play to get started. The entry-level system comes with a keypad, a base station, one motion sensor, and three entry sensors. To add more equipment or more features, you must purchase additional components or choose more expensive packages.
5. Vivint
Vivint offers high-tech home security systems that are expensive. The features of the security systems allow you to turn your home into a smart home. Plans range from $39.99 per month up to $60.99 per month.
It offers comprehensive advanced features such as touchscreen panels to control your home and integration with Amazon Echo to allow you to control your home with your voice. The system is wireless, so you won’t have to worry about drilling holes in your walls. The higher-priced plans also provide you with a video doorbell. This can be used by you to talk to people who are at your door without having to answer it. Vivint’s home security system may also be used to monitor other systems in your home, including your locks, lights, thermostat, other smart devices, and your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Vivint offers 24/7 professional monitoring and is easy to set up.
If you choose the company, you will have to sign a 42-month contract unless you pay for your equipment upfront.