Home Security
We know home security. Over the past five years, more than one million people have come to us for home security information and recommendations. And we’ve helped thousands of those people pick the best home security system for their homes. We test, research, and compare home security companies based on the factors that matter most when looking at security systems—cost, response time, installation, features, customer service, style/design, connectivity, and ease of use.
What Is the Best Home Security System?
The landscape of home security is changing, and finding the best home security system for your needs might include mobile app access, video surveillance with deterrence features, automatic locking, and more. Today, many well-recognized home security providers offer smart home functionality and equipment to help you double-down on protecting your home and family.
When looking for the best security system, you’ll need to determine whether or not you want a professional to install it for you or if you want to install it on your own. Self-installed security systems are better if you’re on a budget. You’ll also need to decide if you want professionals to monitor your home for you, or if you want to monitor it yourself. Self-installation is recommended if you’re looking for more cost-effective options.
Additional factors you’ll need to consider include cost, contracts, monitoring connection, equipment, smart home integrations, mobile app access, and trial period.
We’ve made the research process easier for you as we share our top recommendations, their features, and things you need to keep in mind as you look for the best provider that fits your needs.
How Do We Rank the Best?
We rank home security providers based on the following factors: value, core technology, expandable packages, installation & set-up, trial period or flexible contracts, and reputation. Here’s a look at how each factor is considered in our ranking process:
Value: We believe that home security should be affordable and provide the essential services that customers need. When we assess home security providers for value, we consider the price they’ll have to pay and the features they’ll get. Providers who are more transparent and offer good value receive a better score and ranking from us.
Core Technology: We look for the essentials in home security systems like intrusion detection, professional monitoring, and modern technologies like home automation and mobile app access when ranking providers on core technology. Providers with these core technologies and more receive a higher score and ranking from us.
Expandable Packages: Flexibility and customization strengthen a provider’s ability to meet customer needs. We value home security systems that are expandable and offer customization.
Installation & Set-Up: The installation process for a security system should be clear. We also value providers who offer both professional and DIY installation options. These are several aspects that tie in to our scores and rankings.
Trial Period or Flexible Contracts: Customer satisfaction should be a priority. Companies that offer a trial period to give customers time to test out their new security system and flexible contract options receive a higher score and ranking with us.
Brand Recognition & Reputation: We consider a provider’s longevity in the industry, Better Business Bureau grade, customer reviews, wares, and more when determining their score and ranking with us.