Best Home Security Systems of 2021

What Are the Best Home Security Systems of 2021?

We've listed our top-rated home security systems of 2021(ratings calculated in August 2020) to help you choose the one that best fits your needs. They are:

#1 Frontpoint
#1 Cove
#1 SimpliSafe
#4 Vivint
#5 Abode
#6 Link Interactive
#6 Ring Alarm
#8 Blue by ADT
#8 Xfinity Home
#10 Brinks Home Security
#10 ADT

Best Home Security Systems in Detail

Buying a home security system can be confusing, but we're here to help. We've researched the Best Home Security Systems of 2021 to help you choose a system that provides the protection you and your family need while fitting within your budget. The Best Home Security Systems of 2021 include:

Frontpoint: Frontpoint is a do-it-yourself (DIY) home alarm system with equipment that's quick and easy to install. Its entry-level Safe Home Starter package is competitively priced at $99 for one hub and keypad, two door/window sensors, one motion sensor, one yard sign, a set of five window decals, and one door sticker. However, monitoring plans cost $44.40 or $49.20 per month, which is a higher monthly fee than most DIY home alarm systems. Read More»

Cove Security: Cove Security is a relative newcomer to the DIY home security market. Its equipment is relatively basic, and it doesn't sell pre-packaged systems. Instead, you buy equipment a la carte after answering a series of questions about your home and who lives there, after which Cove's website configures a system for you. This approach may appeal to those who want a simple, no-frills, self-installed system that's easy to set up and use. Cove's equipment prices are about average among our rated home security systems. Read More»

SimpliSafe: SimpliSafe is easy to install and relatively affordable, offering a starter package called The Foundation for $229. It includes one base station, one wireless keypad, one entry sensor, and one motion sensor. There are two professional monitoring plans priced at $14.99 and $24.99 a month. Read More»

Check out our top Simplisafe coupon codes here.

Vivint: Vivint Smart Home is a feature-rich, wireless home security system that requires professional installation after an optional free home consultation. Its security equipment integrates with many third-party home automation devices and can be paid for in installments over five years.

COVID-19 update: Vivint is working to protect customers during the installation process, including having all of its sales and service employees follow the CDC’s best hygiene practices and complete daily health checks. Read More»

Check out our top Vivint coupons here.

Abode: Abode is a home security company that offers a full-featured DIY solution and doesn’t require a monthly plan. It’s also easy to install and configure. Unlike its chief DIY competitors, Abode is intended to be an open platform for a wide array of third-party home automation devices. Abode is strictly a DIY system, but the company has plans to partner with a nationwide network of professional installers. Read More»

Link Interactive: Link Interactive offers a robust security system with the option to expand into home automation for a low monthly fee and no required upfront costs or contracts. You can choose to pay upfront for your equipment or spread the cost over one to three years. Completely DIY, the system is entirely wireless and professionally monitored over a cellular connection. Read More»

Ring Alarm: Ring's $199 starter system is called the Ring Alarm Security Kit. It includes a base station, a keypad, a motion detector, a contact sensor for doors or windows, and a device that extends the range of the communications between the devices. The company's $10 per month Protect Plus plan for professional monitoring is a bargain. However, a Ring security system is relatively basic and doesn't currently integrate with many third-party home automation devices that work with competing systems. Read More»

Check out our top Ring Alarm discount codes here.

Blue by ADT: ADT is the largest and best known professionally installed home security provider in the U.S. Its new DIY Blue by ADT system is controllable from a smartphone app and comes with the company's well-regarded 24/7 professional monitoring. Blue by ADT starter packs are available on ADT's website and through a growing number of retailers, including Amazon. These starter systems begin at $199.15 and can be supplemented by additional Blue by ADT sensors and security cameras, and by compatible gear such as smart lights and smart locks from other smart home device makers. Read More»

Check out our top Blue By ADT promo codes here.

Xfinity Home: Rather than thinking of a home alarm as a separate system, Xfinity Home can install a controller, keypad, door/window sensors, and a motion detector to complement other aspects of its services, such as internet and voice/phone. (See our separate review of Xfinity Internet here.) Xfinity Home can also add devices like smart lights, door locks, and a garage door controller. It can be convenient and cost-effective for homeowners to have a single company install and provide a comprehensive set of home automation.

COVID-19 update: Xfinity says that to protect its customers and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic, Xfinity Home security equipment and services are not available for purchase at this time. You can fill out a form to be notified as soon as Xfinity Home is available. Read More»

Check out our top Xfinity Home promo codes here.

Brinks Home Security: Having licensed the Brinks brand and boasting more than 1 million customers, Brinks Home Security includes a robust monitoring service and an extensive choice of state-of-the-art security equipment. However, this home security company requires a restrictive, expensive three-year contract as opposed to more budget-friendly month-to-month providers.

COVID-19 update: Brinks is taking steps to protect its employees and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic, including interviewing customers before a technician comes to install equipment, and asking technicians to monitor their own health and maintain social distance when working in customers' homes. Read More»

ADT: ADT Security is the largest home security company in the U.S., with more than 7 million customers, 912 interconnected monitoring centers, about 3,200 local offices, and a vast network of authorized dealers. It offers a wide range of equipment and services and requires a 24-, 36-, or 60-month contract. Note that the quality of the installation and customer service can vary based on the local ADT provider. Also, the exact price of your system, including professional monitoring under the required contract, will only be provided after a technician visits your house.

COVID-19 update: ADT is taking steps to protect customers during installation and troubleshooting, including trying to resolve issues over the phone and equipping employees who meet with customers with additional cleaning, sanitation, and protective tools. Read More»

Check out our top ADT security coupons here.

Home Security Coupons and Promo Codes

Should I Get a Home Security System?

A home security system has to do a few things well. In particular, it has to sense when someone is trying to break in and hopefully scare them away. The good news is that according to research from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, security systems do in fact deter criminals. For example, the researchers found that just seeing a security camera prompts many intruders to leave. Among 422 randomly selected, incarcerated people convicted of burglary in Kentucky, Ohio, and North Carolina:

Another study found that security cameras stationed in public places can reduce crime and help catch criminals.

A home security system uses security cameras, motion sensors, and glass-break sensors to detect and record an intruder. It can also call the police, who can later use the recorded footage to facilitate an investigation.

In addition to protecting your home, a home security system can save you money on homeowners insurance. Insurance Information Institute director of media relations Scott Holeman says many insurance companies offer discounts of 5% to 20% if your home has a security system. Plus, the camera footage will help document the damage if you have to file a claim.

Home security systems are becoming more popular, especially those that can be operated remotely and integrated with smart home devices. For example, research firm Parks Associates recently found that 67% of security system owners, which equates to 20% of all U.S. households with broadband internet, have an interactive system that allows remote connection and control capabilities. The same survey found that 30% of U.S. broadband households own a smart home device, and 31% own a security system. “DIY smart home and security products have made average consumers more comfortable with [connected] devices in the home, a company representative said in a press release. "Connectivity and interactivity, which will evolve to include compatibility, are becoming standards when considering new hardware purchases.” Moreover, according to research firm MENAFN, the market for residential security systems is expected to reach $77.94 billion by 2025, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 8.8% from 2017 to 2025.

In addition, the global market for smart home devices in general is expected to reach $191 billion by 2026. According to an industry forecast, this market for interconnected, remotely operated security systems, appliances, lighting, heating, and other devices is growing because consumers value the security, convenience, and energy savings these devices provide. Other factors driving growth in the smart home market include the increasing number of internet users; an increase in disposable income in many countries, accompanied by greater awareness of fitness and healthy lifestyles; a greater need for energy savings to combat climate change; and the ever-declining prices of smartphones and other gadgets.

Still, no matter how well-designed a home security system is or how connected it is to other smart home devices, it's not guaranteed to keep out a determined intruder. Plus, even if you sign up for professional monitoring, the police might take a while to respond – if they respond at all. Security systems are notorious for generating false alarms, and police departments sometimes ignore them, at least for a while.

Even so, a good home security system provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. “The only person who shouldn't have one is someone who can't afford it," says Doug Huey, co-owner of Executive Security Consultants, which specializes in home security systems. "We no longer even have to convince most people that they need one."

For more information, see Why Get a Home Security System?

How to Buy a Home Security System

When purchasing a home security system, take the following steps:

For more information, see How to Buy a Home Security System.

Pro-Installed vs. DIY Home Security Systems

Whether you choose a professionally installed or DIY home security system essentially comes down to how comfortable you are with electronic gadgets, how complex your system is, and how much money you want to spend getting it up and running. With a professionally installed system like Vivint or ADT, someone from the company will explain your options and recommend the type and quantity of equipment that's best for your circumstances. In addition, the installer can adjust your equipment package if necessary after coming to your house. This eliminates guesswork and will save you hours or days of labor, depending on the size of your home, the complexity of the security system, and your technical abilities. However, a professional security system often will lock you into a long-term contract, and the professional installation itself can cost $100 or more.

By contrast, installing a DIY system like Frontpoint or Abode requires only your time and possibly an activation fee, and most DIY companies don't require long-term contracts unless you want professional monitoring. The downside is that you'll have to study the available equipment, determine what to buy, self-install each device properly, and ensure that everything works correctly. Many DIY companies make all of this relatively painless, offering equipment that's designed to work together seamlessly, step-by-step installation instructions, and phone support if you have a problem. Nevertheless, getting a robust DIY system up and running may require significant time and effort.

Independent security consultant Mike Silva of Silva Consultants says DIY equipment has gotten much better in recent years and often compares favorably to equipment that comes with a professionally installed system. However, he believes a DIY system might not be sufficient for more complex security requirements. "If your needs are very simple, like a small condo with a few doors and windows, DIY can be fine," he says. "If you have specialized needs, you probably would be better served by a professional company.”

For more information, see Professionally Installed vs. DIY Home Security Systems.

Home Security FAQs

What is the Cost of a Home Security System?

How much a security system will cost you depends largely on the type, quantity, and sophistication of the equipment you purchase; whether you choose professional or DIY, and the level of monitoring you select. Although it may be tempting to get a less-expensive base package of equipment, realize that these typically contain only a few components and may not meet your needs. Monthly monitoring fees typically run about $40 a month, but can cost as little as $10 a month or as much as $100 a month if you have a large system.

For more information, see How Much Does a Home Security System Cost?

What Equipment Typically Comes With a Home Security System?

The best home security systems typically include sensors that detect when doors and windows are opened, additional window sensors that can "hear" if glass is broken, motion detectors (usually activated when residents are absent and adjusted to ignore pets), and cameras and video doorbells that record video clips on a remote server or a local hard drive. Fire alarms, water-leak sensors, and smart home devices such as automatic lights can also be part of a home alarm system. Systems are usually controlled by a central control panel, keypad, and/or a smartphone app, and many rely on the owner's Wi-Fi connection or a wireless communications protocol like Z-Wave. While smaller homes may need only a few sensors, larger homes can require much more extensive installations. Read more about wireless home security here.

How To Protect Your Home Security System From Hacking

Some of the biggest innovations in home alarm systems are communications protocols like Wi-Fi and Z-Wave that allow your system components to communicate with each other wirelessly. This makes the security system easy to use and prevents the need to tear up walls to run physical wires all over your home. However, the downside is that any wireless home security system can be hacked by people looking to break into your home security system, either in preparation to rob you or just to invade your privacy. Although Z-Wave and Zigbee are very difficult (but not impossible) to hack, Wi-Fi – which many wireless home security cameras use – isn't as secure. The good news is that following a few simple tips from the National Monitoring Center, a home security monitoring company, will help keep hackers at bay.

Home Security in High-Crime Areas

If you live in a neighborhood with an especially high crime rate, it's important to have the best home alarm system you can. It should include, at a minimum:

There are other things you can do to keep you and your family safe besides having a home security alarm system. According to Crime Prevention Security Systems, a security consulting company, these steps include:

Additional Home Security System Resources

Compare Home Security Systems

To help you with your search for a highly rated home security system, we compared various systems based on installation costs, monitoring costs, and equipment provided. The matchups we chose were dictated by consumer interest. For more information, follow the links below.

Home Security Systems

Our 360 Methodology for Evaluating Best Home Security Companies

The purpose of 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report is to evaluate products and services from multiple, diverse vantage points. We make recommendations based on an assessment of what matters to consumers, experts, and the community of professional reviewers. We convey what’s most important about a home security system based on an unbiased evaluation of products commonly in the consideration set. Our overarching goal is to empower consumers with the information and tools needed to make their own informed decisions.

The following describes our 360 approach to researching and analyzing Home Security companies to provide guidance to potential customers in the market for a Security system.

1. We asked consumers themselves.

U.S. News ran two nationwide surveys through Google Surveys in August 2018 to understand consumer sentiment and expectations about home security systems:

Each survey reached hundreds of respondents, and each yielded at least 100 respondents who met the survey qualifications. The survey results are published as part of the U.S. News home security online guides.

The survey results show what matters most to home security shoppers and owners today. Our research – including interviews with independent experts and home security companies – was guided in part by what we learned from consumers through these surveys.

2. We asked independent experts.

Home security systems are unlike other consumer tech products in one important regard: Lives and property depend on these systems. As a result, we interviewed independent security experts who have seen first-hand how a property’s vulnerabilities can be catastrophic. The professionals we interviewed don’t sell the systems that we profile in our guides. Their work is to consult with corporate and private clients who want the highest level of security. These experts have backgrounds that include lecturing on security topics, writing books on the subject and serving as expert forensic witnesses in legal cases.

Jordan Frankel is a nationally recognized spokesperson about residential security, as well as the personal and financial consequences associated with home invasions. He founded Global Security Experts in 1996 as a producer of anti-burglary glass protection and then created different types of blocks and barricades to help businesses and homeowners prevent break-ins.

Chris McGoey has been a security consultant and expert witness for 48 years. He provides education and training services. Throughout his career, McGoey developed effective security plans for business properties of all sizes and types. He is recognized as an expert on the subjects of retail loss prevention and violence waged against businesses.

Lee Walters, a retired FBI agent, worked for more than a dozen years. He was trained on the use of alarms, cameras, hidden microphones and tracking devices. In the last five years of his FBI service, he worked in tactical operations, traveling across the United States making court-ordered entries into residences and businesses. Walters worked specifically on the team in charge of overriding and disarming alarm systems.

Jeffrey D. Zwirn is the president of IDS Research and Development and the author of “The Alarm Science Manual.” Zwirn has conducted such services as security surveys, needs analyses, system recommendations, design, installation, and programming of more than 3,000 thousand security and life safety systems for residential, commercial, industrial and governmental applications.

3. We researched the companies and products people care most about.

U.S. News analyzed and compared a variety of publicly available data, including internet search data, to determine which home security companies consumers are most interested in. We selected 32 companies for further evaluation based on search volume and consumer research. After additional analysis, we narrowed the list down to the ten Best Home Security Systems of 2021.

Based on more research and our editorial judgment, we divided the top ten companies into three more "best" lists by type of security system (i.e. Best Professionally Installed, Best DIY, Best with Outdoor Cameras). We then researched and explained the most important features of security systems to help readers with their purchasing decisions.

4. We created objective 360 Overall Ratings based on an analysis of third-party reviews.

Our scoring methodology is based on a composite analysis of the ratings and reviews published by credible third-party professional and consumer review sources. The ratings are not based on the personal opinions, tests or experiences of U.S. News. To calculate the ratings:

(a) We compiled two types of third-party ratings and reviews:

Not all professional and consumer rating sources met our criteria for objectivity. Those that did not were excluded from our model.

(b) We standardized the inputs to create a common scale.

The third-party review source data were collected in a variety of forms, including ratings, recommendations and accolades. Before including each third-party data point into our scoring equation, we had to standardize it so that it could be compared accurately with data points from other review sources. We used the scoring methodology described below to convert these systems to a comparable scale.

The 360 scoring process first converted each third-party rating into a common 0 to 5 scale. To balance the distribution of scores within each source’s scale, we used a standard deviation (or Z-Score) calculation to determine how each company that a source rated was scored in comparison to the source’s mean score. We then used the Z-Score to create a standardized U.S. News score using the method outlined below:

(c) We calculated the 360 Overall Score based on a weighted-average model.

We assigned “source weights” to each source used in the consensus scoring model based on our assessment of how much the source is trusted and recognized by consumers and how much its published review process indicates that it is both comprehensive and editorially independent. The source weights are assigned on a 1-5 scale. Any source with an assigned weight less than 2 was excluded from the consensus scoring model.

Finally, we combined the converted third-party data points using a weighted average formula based on source weight. This formula calculated the consensus score for each product, which we call the 360 Overall Rating.

5. We interviewed the home security companies to fact-check.

The ultimate burden of producing, distributing and maintaining reliable and effective home security products rests with the companies selling systems to consumers. As a result, we reached out to all the companies profiled in our recommendations. Our interviews with these executives enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of their specific products, – and to confirm the features available with their systems.

At this time, we have not spoken with representatives from Brinks and Frontpoint. ADT spoke with us for background purposes only.

All information was accurate as of August 12th , 2020.