‘Tis the season for gift-giving, cheer-spreading, and warm welcome home-s to family and friends alike; however, ‘tis also the season for stolen packages, home invasions, and other not-so-jolly safety breaches around the home. We hope everyone has a holly-jolly holiday season and so we have researched and scoured throughout the North Pole to provide you a list of some of the United State’s Top 5 Home Security Systems of 2024!
Home Security System vs Security Cameras
A Security Camera is an outdoor or indoor camera that sometimes has the option to pair to a hub and add other cameras to create a network of security cameras. These cameras can include other features and functions, such as floodlights, two-way audio, and motion detectors.
Home Security Systems are designed for even greater security, using independent motion sensors, door/window sensors, and may include keypads or a correlating App to disarm the system if needed. Cameras may be included in a specific security package, but it is not guaranteed. Many options also come with a home monitoring system when you are gone which can add a new peace of mind.
While all the home security systems mentioned are stellar, there does need to be a winner, and it is the…
SimpliSafe
The SimpliSafe System is rated across the board as a top security system. Their affordability and easy-to-use products have impressed many top security gurus with the only major downside being that the company has limited smart home integrations. At this time, it can only pair with Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant.
SimpliSafe includes a variety of different protection plan options that range from outdoor to indoor and you can even take a short quiz to find the best suited package for you! Who doesn’t love a little quiz? The motion detectors even process the heat signatures familiar with humans, so your four-legged family member is not tripping the alerts all day long. Their base for all the cameras is also top-tier, with deep encryption, power outage protection, and SmashSafe protection to ensure your home is protected.
The other options, which are just as phenomenal, are listed in ranking order below!
Ring
One of the most trendy home security systems out there, the Ring is a great option for those looking for a quick and simple DIY set up and something to self-monitor. Even though this system is compatible with Alexa and Google Home, it really was designed to pair best with Amazon’s Alexa. There was also a recent update to the company’s Terms and Conditions to not allow the police to access footage except with a warrant or in life-or-death situations whereas previously there were concerns about law enforcement requesting footage sometimes without the knowledge of the user.
For those looking for more professional monitoring, Ring does offer a top-tier subscription for a lower price than some competitors, at only $20 per month. This option is great for first-time apartment renters or college-aged young adults looking for something easy, cheap, and secure!
Abode
Apple fans, rejoice! The Abode Home Security system is compatible with Apple Home/Siri as well as Alexa and Google Home/Assistant and more obscure third-party compatibility. Renters will also love the no-tools installation design and the big discounts that can be found throughout the year.
Professional monitoring starts at $69.99 per year with no contracts to provide you peace of mind without the hassle of commitment but it is recommended to spring for the PRO Monitoring Plan as it includes free ground shipping on all orders over $25, Cellular backup in the event your system loses connection to the internet, and 24/7 monitoring that automatically sends alerts to the monitoring center. Their premium hub, called the Iota, also acts as a camera and motion sensor unlike the other options which have a more basic hub. This is a great option for a more tech-savvy homeowner, apartment resident, or townhouse dweller.
Some noticeable differences between Abode and the others is a lack of camera options and the lack of features if you want a basic self-monitoring system. The Starter Kits are also fairly limited and the Professional or PRO Monitoring plan is not the most budget-friendly.
Vivint
Described as the best, build-as-you-go system, Vivint provides a solid starter kit that is adaptable to multiple third-party devices and is compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa.Their packages also range from a basic starter to a premium plus package or you can do the all-popular build your own package. Their professional installation has been known to rival ADT and Vivint openly has a special program for those in the Military and their family by providing waived moving and cancellation fees and a Deferment program that allows you to pause the service if needed for up to 12 months.
One of the downsides to Vivint is a high upfront charge. While the prices are not shown online, you can quickly discover the prices by giving them a quick call. The monthly monitoring cost does range from $30-$45 per month, which is not as affordable as some on this list but it is certainly more affordable than others!
ADT
One of the longest lasting home security system companies, ADT has been around for 150 years and for good reason! The equipment has been described as one of the best and, if you choose to go the professional installation route, it has been described as the most helpful and worth the fee.
A downside to ADT is the contract, which can differ in length but canceling the contract may come with extra fees after an already spendy purchase on equipment and professional monitoring. The customer service has also been described as hit-or-miss and they do have a limited selection for cameras and doorbells. Overall, we do recommend ADT for older adults who enjoy the security of having a reliable company and need the expert installation service.
Of course, we also recommend having other staged protection around your home as well! Be sure to reach out to your local Damsel Safety Educator here for more information on how to stage your home for additional protection.
