Vivint 
4.8
Review
TOP RATED
Safewise
4.5/5
U.S. News
4.1/5
Reviews.org
4.0/5
POPULAR 
PROS & CONS
Indoor Cameras
Yes
Monitoring Type
Professional
Best For
Automation
ADT
4.8
Review
TRENDING
Reviews.org
4.2/5
Angi
4.3/5
Forbes
4.5/5
DEALS & PROMOS
Special Offer 1
$100 Visa Giftcard
Special Offer 2
Nest Doorbell
Monitoring
Pro/DIY
Blue by ADT
4.4
Review
U.S. News
3.5/5
PC Mag
4.0/5
Tom's Guide
4.0/5
Install Cost
Free
Smartphone Control
Yes
Starting Price
$24.99/mo
About Home Security Systems
Investing in a home security system brings a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond mere burglary prevention. These systems provide peace of mind, knowing that your home and loved ones are safe at all times. The modern home security systems feature surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and alarm systems that detect unauthorized entry and can immediately alert the local authorities. Moreover, they often include fire and carbon monoxide detection, ensuring a safer environment against potential domestic hazards. Through remote access features, you can monitor your home real-time, even when you’re miles away. Insurance companies also recognize the value of home security systems, often offering reduced premiums for homes equipped with them. Ultimately, a home security system is a worthwhile investment that promotes safety, deters crime, and provides a sense of control and security.
What is BestGuide?
BestGuide.com is the best guide. But best is a subjective term. Our team of editors are a great group of people who are passionately committed to giving their opinions and those opinions are visible to you through our ratings. We hope you value our opinions as much as we do. We think they are pretty solid. But our legal team wants us to make sure you know that the word “best” in our title and the order of rankings for companies listed on our website, though based on our opinions, are completely subjective, driven by our whim, and merely in existence because “we said so.” And, just because “we said so” doesn’t make it true for you or your specific set of circumstances. Additionally, we are not basing our opinions on objective guidance from any source outside of our own opinions. Therefore, you will find our recommendations helpful (we are like having your mom’s know-it-all best friend at the ready, 24/7, to guide you in all things) but you should know, and we have to make you aware, that the information we share does not constitute legal or professional or financial or tax related advice or forecast, and should not be treated as such. We do receive referral fees based on our association with most partners and reproduction in whole or in part of anything you see on our pages is strictly prohibited. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for reading this far and we hope you will find that our best guides are, in fact, the very best guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a home security system work?
A home security system works by securing entry points, like doors and windows, as well as interior spaces containing valuables. The system is made up of a control panel that manages an array of sensors and alarms. When any of the sensors (door/window contacts, motion sensors) are triggered, they communicate a breach to the control panel, which then sounds an alarm and notifies the monitoring company or the homeowner.
Are home security systems effective?
Yes, home security systems are effective at deterring potential burglars and alerting homeowners of potential threats. The visible presence of a home security system often discourages burglars from attempting to break into a home. Furthermore, modern systems can directly alert local law enforcement or fire departments during emergencies, increasing the chance of a swift response.
Can I install a home security system myself?
Depending on the complexity of the system, some home security systems can be installed by the homeowner. DIY home security kits are available and often come with easy-to-follow instructions. However, for comprehensive systems or those that require hardwiring, professional installation is usually recommended.
Can a home security system work without a monitoring service?
Yes, a home security system can function without a professional monitoring service. Such systems are typically "self-monitored," meaning the system will still trigger alarms and send alerts to the homeowner's smartphone if sensors are triggered. However, without a monitoring service, the system won't automatically notify emergency services.
Will a home security system work during power outages?
Many modern home security systems come with a backup power supply that will keep the system running during a power outage. The duration of the backup power varies depending on the model. Some security systems also feature cellular backup, allowing them to send alerts even if your home's power and internet are down.