Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2024

1. ADT - Best Professional Monitoring

SecurityScore:

9.8 /10

855-908-4461

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Product Specs

Equipment Costs	Packages starting at $599
Monitoring Options	Professional
Monthly Monitoring Costs	Starting at $25 per month
Contract Lengths	36 months and up
Installation Options	Professional
Smart Platform Integration	Alexa and Google Home

855-908-4461

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ADT Overview

ADT has been in business for over 150 years, so you know the company knows a thing or two about security. It takes a more traditional approach with professional installation and required professional monitoring for systems installed in such a manner. However, it also offers DIY installation and monitoring now (see our ADT Self Setup review). If you want a robust system with powerful monitoring capabilities and you don’t mind paying extra, ADT will be the best wireless system for you.

ADT’s Benefits

ADT offers a powerful traditional security system, but it hasn’t lost touch with the ways the industry is evolving. ADT recently partnered with Google to integrate Google Nest products into ADT systems. And lucky for me, that includes my personal favorite security camera, the Google Nest (battery), and other versions of the Nest Cam. ADT also offers serious home automation capabilities, as it works with third-party smart home platforms like Google Nest and Alexa.

ADT’s monitoring is also a major selling point. I’ll get into more detail about that below. I also loved the professional installation service. It’s not for everyone, especially avid fans of everything DIY. But if you’re looking for a system you won’t have to install yourself, ADT is a great option.

My ADT technician walked me through the entire process and explained exactly how the system works. And at least in my experience, they keep the upselling to a minimum. When I tested the system, I constantly asked ADT’s consultant and the technician if I really needed specific pieces of equipment. They’d explain the benefits of what they were suggesting, but I never felt any pressure to purchase.

ADT’s Drawbacks

There are a couple of drawbacks to using ADT, one of which is the price. On top of the equipment fee, I paid $99 for professional installation and a $29.99 to $44.99 monthly monitoring fee. I’ll get into more detail later on.

The other drawback is the monitoring contract. If you buy an ADT system and have it professionally installed, you’re locked in for at least 36 months or up to 60 months depending on your equipment financing term. That means you’ll have to pay a cancellation fee if you want to stop using ADT while the contract is active. Fortunately, ADT has the longest money-back guarantee in the industry – six months! That somehow alleviates the risk of signing the contract.

>> Read More: ADT Frequently Asked Questions

ADT’s Costs

As promised, let’s drill a little deeper into the price. ADT offers three primary packages, which can all be customized with additional equipment to suit your needs. It also offers a build-your-own option, but prices for that will depend on how much equipment you need and the monitoring option you land on. Let’s focus on the three core packages for now. I have a lot more detail in my guide to ADT’s costs, but here’s a quick breakdown.

>> Keep Reading: The Best Professionally Installed Security Systems

If you’re not familiar with home security pricing — and who could blame you — let me tell you that those costs are a little steep. A thousand bucks for a video doorbell, an indoor camera, a smart plug, a smart lock, a motion detector, some contact sensors, and a control panel is a bit much, but it’s not totally outrageous. You’re paying for the convenience of having it all packaged for you and administered by one of the most trusted names in the industry.

>> Learn More: Most Affordable Home Security Systems

ADT’s Monitoring

ADT’s monitoring starts at $29.99 per month but can go up to $44.99 depending on what equipment you own. For packages with security cameras, the top-tier plan is required for video verification and storage.

Just to give you a point of reference, SimpliSafe is the most affordable wireless security system we recommend. Its professional monitoring plan with cloud storage costs $31.99 per month. That additional $13 cost with ADT goes to smart home automation, which SimpliSafe doesn’t offer at all.

Moreover, I found ADT’s monitoring plan more feature-rich. For example, that plan from SimpliSafe provides cloud storage for up to 10 cameras. ADT’s plan provides the same for unlimited cameras. Aside from that, it unlocks Nest Aware for the Google Nest Cams, essentially enabling facial recognition and a bunch of other smart detection features (pet detection, package detection, smart motion zones, etc.). I wouldn’t mind paying a little extra for those features.

ADT’s monitoring is essentially the Cadillac of security monitoring. For starters, ADT now has 12 monitoring facilities across the country, each with contingencies like backup generators and communications. That ensures you’ll never be out of service anytime an emergency occurs.

On top of that, ADT uses advanced monitoring and alarm response strategies like SMART monitoring. Rather than a phone call, ADT alerts you first with a text, to which you can respond to confirm or cancel an alarm. This aims to reduce false alarm dispatches. If you don’t respond within a set timeframe (30 seconds max), only then will ADT call you. SMART monitoring came handy when I accidentally tripped a window sensor during testing. With a quick text, I was able to avoid an embarrassing conversation with New York’s finest.

>> Explore More: The Best Self-Monitored Security Systems

2. SimpliSafe - Best DIY Option

SecurityScore:

9.2 /10

800-544-5942

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment Costs	Packages starting at $280
Monitoring Options	Professional and DIY
Monthly Monitoring Costs	$19.99 per month
Contract Lengths	Month-to-month
Installation Options	DIY or professional
Smart Platform Integration	Alexa and Google Home

800-544-5942

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SimpliSafe Overview

SimpliSafe came on the scene in 2006 as a security system for renters primarily, focusing on affordable equipment that could be installed easily without having to forfeit any security deposits. And ever since, it has had a strong focus on wireless equipment. That’s one of the things that make SimpliSafe easy to set up and a good choice for apartment dwellers.

>> Keep Reading: The Best Security Systems for Apartments

SimpliSafe is more than just a DIY-friendly system now, though. It has since expanded its offerings to include a larger lineup of sensors, some really high-tech security cameras, and one of the most innovative professional monitoring services I’ve seen. And don’t worry; SimpliSafe might have added a lot of new features, but it still offers lots of affordable options.

SimpliSafe’s Benefits

SimpliSafe makes durable equipment despite the low price tag. The company has impressive quality control. In fact – and I don’t recommend doing this at home – I’ve dropped its motion sensor and keypad from about table height, and they didn’t break. They can hold up to the trials of everyday life.

>> Learn More: A Review of the SimpliCam

SimpliSafe is also one of the best security systems that doesn’t require a monthly contract. Even though you have the option for full-blown professional monitoring – and even live security camera monitoring – you don’t have to commit to anything. In uncertain financial times, that freedom can be a major selling point.

I also appreciate how SimpliSafe kept things simple. Don’t get me wrong; it’s one of the most advanced systems in terms of equipment, monitoring, and features. But, it remains one of the easiest security systems I’ve used. The install took less than 30 minutes, I found the app easy to navigate, and there’s almost zero learning curve to using the system.

SimpliSafe’s Drawbacks

While SimpliSafe made major tech upgrades in the last few years, I’m surprised it still offers an analog, push-button keypad. Even worse, they require you to buy it. That’s $60 for an old piece of technology on a system you can control with your phone anyway. I prefer a touch-screen control panel like the one offered by ADT or Vivint.

>> Learn More: Best Security System With Apps

It also seems like SimpliSafe’s QA team didn’t do a lot of testing on the equipment’s mounting configurations. Most of the pieces affix to walls using sticky command strips. I get why — the company wants to appeal to DIYers who don’t want to bust out a power drill — but it can be pretty challenging to get certain pieces to stick long term. In my test, my motion detector fell off the wall and caused a false alarm.

Most pieces, however, come with anchor points so you can use more traditional hardware if you want, which I recommend if you’re going for longevity.

SimpliSafe’s Costs

I go into a lot more detail in my guide to SimpliSafe’s subscriptions and packages, but the long and short of it is that SimpliSafe has two ways of doing things. You can purchase a prepackaged system or piece one together yourself. Here’s a breakdown of the first.

One thing that immediately jumps out to me is that SimpliSafe’s largest equipment package is cheaper than ADT’s most affordable package. But, you’d have to spend more on SimpliSafe equipment upfront. ADT offers financing for up to 60 months, whereas with SimpliSafe, shoppers usually pay upfront. You need a minimum equipment purchase of $150 for SimpliSafe financing, and the maximum term is 24 months. That minimum is harder to reach than you think, because SimpliSafe is always offering deals, sometimes up to 60-percent off.

>> Compare: SimpliSafe vs. ADT

You’ll also save pretty significantly if you select one of the equipment packages as your base and then add on any additional equipment you may need. For reference, here’s everything SimpliSafe offers and how much it costs.

Who is going to keep an eye on all this security equipment? Glad you asked.

SimpliSafe’s Monitoring

SimpliSafe offers a few monitoring options, as well as the option to self-monitor. That’s what makes it one of the best security systems with no monthly fees. Check out the options below, and then I’ll give you some recommendations.

If you’re going for a good balance of affordability and protection, you should start with the Standard Plan. It’s affordable, you’ll get professional monitoring, and you’ll get all the features your security system needs to be effective. Just note that it doesn’t include any form of video storage for cameras, so if you have any SimpliSafe cameras, they won’t be able to record.

If you’re looking to significantly increase your protection, consider the Core (formerly Fast Protect) plan. It includes cloud storage that the Standard plan lacks, plus access to integrations with select smart home brands. It has unique features, too. For instance, monitoring agents can use live camera feeds to verify alerts. They can immediately relay information to authorities in real time if they spot an intruder on your premises or smoke coming out of the hallway. In theory, it should speed up emergency-response times.

There is one other Fast Protect feature that one-ups ADT that I didn’t mention earlier. It’s called Live Guard Protection, but it requires the Smart Alarm indoor camera. Instead of using live feeds to verify alerts, SimpliSafe’s monitoring agents can use the camera’s two-way talk to directly speak with intruders. A simple “You’re on camera!” or “Police are on their way!” can scare away burglars, so I think it’s a good proactive measure on SimpliSafe’s part.

3. Vivint - Best Smart Home Integrations

SecurityScore:

9.4 /10

844-922-0575

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment costs	Starting at $449
Monitoring options	Professional
Monthly monitoring costs	$40 per month
Contract lengths	Starting at 42 months
Installation options	Professional
Smart platform integration	Alexa and Google Home

844-922-0575

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Vivint Overview

Similar to ADT, Vivint takes a pretty traditional approach to home security. Its systems have to be professionally installed and monitored, and it focuses on the customer experience — which means you don’t have to lift a finger. In my experience, Vivint’s professional installation service is on par and as top-notch as ADT’s.

>> Compare: Vivint vs. ADT

That said, it’s also one of the most technologically advanced security systems out there. That’s why Vivint home automation is a favorite for folks looking to automate their homes. Vivint works with all sorts of third-party smart device manufacturers, so this may be the right system if you want to be able to control your thermostat, lights, and security cameras all from one place.

Vivint’s Benefits

The headline here is Vivint’s smart home integrations. Not only does it work with Alexa, Google Home, and, to a lesser extent, Apple HomeKit, but it also works with Philips Hue smart lights, Nest thermostats, and a whole slew of smart home equipment to modernize your life. When I was testing the Vivint system, I couldn’t get enough of controlling everything with my voice — so much so that my partner had to poke her head out of her office and politely ask me to shut my trap.

>> Read More: The Best Home Security Systems for Google Home

Aside from making you feel like Captain Kirk, Vivint’s equipment is all top of the line and outfitted with the latest and greatest in artificial intelligence analytics and other high-tech protections. I’d specifically point out Vivint’s cameras’ smart detect and deter features that identify potential lurkers and scare them off with light and sound. The feature works surprisingly well, and it noticed me every time I tried to slink up to my walkway or hop the gate to my backyard. More on that in my review of Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro.

Vivint’s Drawbacks

Similar to ADT, the primary drawback of Vivint is the eye-watering price. I’ll get into more detail below, but the systems can easily cost thousands of dollars. If that’s in your budget, then no problem. But if you’re trying to protect a bigger property with a Vivint system, expect your bill to rack up quickly — especially if you want both indoor and outdoor cameras.

>> Learn More: Best Security Systems for Large Homes

Another potential drawback is that since the majority of its equipment is proprietary, no other security provider will be able to use it. If you decide to cancel your service with Vivint, the high-tech cameras you purchased will become obsolete. That’s where ADT has a bit of an advantage, since it has a partnership with Google. Even without ADT monitoring, you can use Nest Cams as standalone security cameras.

One final thing: If you sign a monitoring contract, which most Vivint customers have to do, there’s only a three-day grace period for free cancellation. Beyond that, you have to either finish the contract or pay a hefty fee to cancel. Three days is short when there are options like SimpliSafe that offer a 60-day refund policy and ADT that offers a six-month money-back guarantee.

Vivint’s Costs

Each one of Vivint’s security systems is bespoke, which means you won’t find pricing information for packages on the website. The company says its systems start at $29.99 per month, but it’s unclear how long the contract term is or the size of the system. (Our plan cost $60 per month for five years.) If you’re interested in Vivint’s pricing, the best thing to do is request a quote. It’s free, and there’s no huge pressure to buy.

To give you an idea of what you might pay, here are the rough costs of each piece of equipment the company offers that I received when I tested the system.

At $200 to $400, just one Vivint outdoor camera costs the same as SimpliSafe’s whole midrange system. You can see how things can add up pretty quickly. Keep in mind, though, that the system is extremely powerful and extremely advanced, which comes at a premium.

>> Compare Options: Vivint vs. SimpliSafe

Vivint’s Monitoring

Similar to the equipment costs, your monitoring costs will depend entirely on the size of the system. Vivint says it starts at $40 per month, but you should expect to spend $50 to $60 monthly. But that gets you around-the-clock professional monitoring protection.

I should also point out that Vivint offers continuous video recording via its latest generation of cameras. Those cameras can store up to 10 days of rolling videos locally with or without Wi-Fi, which can be crucial if you can’t trust your Wi-Fi’s reliability. ADT also offers continuous video recording now, but at an added cost per month. With Vivint, that feature is included in your equipment purchase.

>> Read More: Vivint Sales and Deals

You can add home-automation features and video security to your monitoring package, but those options both cost more. The best option is to get in touch with Vivint, describe your security needs, and ask for a quote, and then weigh that estimate against what you see in my review. If you’re decking out your home with lots of smart home products and features, expect to pay at least $1,500 to $2,000 up front and $60 monthly.

4. Frontpoint - Easiest System to Set Up

SecurityScore:

8.9 /10

844-933-2405

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment Costs	Starting at $99
Monitoring Options	Professional only
Monthly Monitoring Costs	Starting at $49.99
Contract Lengths	1-36 months
Installation Options	DIY
Smart Platform Integration	Alexa and Google Home

844-933-2405

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Frontpoint Overview

Let’s head back over to the world of DIY home security with Frontpoint.

It’s not as big of a name as, say, SimpliSafe or Ring, but I’d argue that’s more a function of marketing than service. Frontpoint has been in the industry for over 20 years, and it’s every bit as powerful as its bigger-name competitors.

Compare Options: Frontpoint vs. Ring

Frontpoint does a good job of offering the best of both worlds when it comes to the ease of a DIY system and the power of professional monitoring. Just make sure you’re budgeting for a pretty significant monthly monitoring fee.

Frontpoint’s Benefits

One of the most interesting things about Frontpoint is how scalable it is. You can start with a very basic system and work your way up incrementally. Each system requires a monthly monitoring fee, but each system can accommodate up to 80 sensors and over 200 smart home devices. I ran up a $600 tab when I tested it because I wanted to test every piece of equipment the company offered, but you can get a perfectly reasonable system for a lot less and grow it over time. That’s its advantage as a DIY system compared to ADT and Vivint that require professional installation. Anytime you need new equipment, you can order it online and install it yourself.

>> Learn More: Frontpoint Frequently Asked Questions

Similar to Vivint, Frontpoint is very accommodating to third-party smart home technology. It didn’t feel as futuristic or expansive, but it still felt plenty entertaining to tell Alexa, “Secure the perimeter.”

Frontpoint’s Drawbacks

One minor downside of Frontpoint is that like SimpliSafe, you’re required to buy the analog keypad. But on the bright side, you have the option to buy a wireless touch screen keypad for a little over $100.

The biggest drawback of Frontpoint is that every system requires a $49.99-per-month monitoring fee. That’s a pretty tough pill to swallow when you consider SimpliSafe’s most advanced monitoring is only about half the cost, and it includes live video verification. I’d like to see a self-monitored option, but you can read more about that in my SimpliSafe vs. Frontpoint comparison guide.

Another turnoff is that nothing in Frontpoint’s tool belt really wows me. With SimpliSafe, it’s clearly the Fast Protect monitoring coupled with the cameras. With ADT, it’s the world-class monitoring. With Vivint, it’s the slick smart home integrations. Frontpoint, on the other hand, is pretty whole-wheat toast. It’s good for breakfast, but it’s nothing to get excited about. If I had to pick one thing that stood out with Frontpoint, it’s the web dashboard, where I was able to customize my system to my liking.

Frontpoint’s Costs

Despite a notable lack of a “wow” factor, Frontpoint offers solid security systems that will get the job done right. What’s more, they’re very affordable. I have more detailed information in my guide to Frontpoint’s costs, but here’s a quick rundown of its security packages. Pay no attention to that “regular price” column; I’ll tell you why in a second.

There’s a trend I’ve noticed in the home security industry, particularly with DIY providers. They like to make up exorbitant “regular” prices, and then offer deep discount “sales” that they attach artificial deadlines to, usually in the form of big banners at the top of their websites that say something like, “Ending at Midnight!”

Here’s a tip though: It never ends at midnight. I’ve been covering Frontpoint for years, and I’ve never seen its packages cost full price. Don’t feel like you have to act quickly to take advantage of savings. You’ll always get a “discount.”

Frontpoint isn’t the only offender either. SimpliSafe is guilty of it, and so is Abode. I’m sure there’s some pseudo-psychological marketing reason behind the tactic (it creates false scarcity), but it just feels a little weird to me.

>> Learn More: Abode Home Security Review

Keep in mind, though, that there are legitimate ways to save on a home security system from the company. Check out my guide to Frontpoint’s deals for more information.

Similar to SimpliSafe, Frontpoint lets you add individual pieces of equipment to any system or even build your own. Here’s a list of what it offers and the prices.

Frontpoint’s Monitoring

Here’s a breakdown of everything that comes with the Frontpoint monitoring package:

• 24/7 monitoring
• Cellular backup
• Automated system check
• Unique user codes
• Crash-and-smash protection
• Geo-location services
• Mobile alerts
• Text notifications
• Remote access and control
• Sensor history
• Live video streaming
• Video and image history
• Motion triggered alerts

That’s a pretty robust monitoring system — a lot more than SimpliSafe offers with its standard plan. Is it worth $50 per month? That’s for you to decide, but I wouldn’t consider it bare-bones by any means.