The best smart home security systems of 2024 keep your home safe in smart ways.1 They connect with systems like Alexa and Google Home. This lets you control your security with just your voice.2 You can also add smart devices like cameras and locks. And control everything from one app or panel.
Smart Home Security Systems: An Overview
Smart home security systems provide advanced protection and convenience. They work with smart platforms, letting homeowners control their security and other devices using one app or voice.2
What Makes a Home Security System Smart?
A smart system links to smart home devices and platforms, making life easier and safer.2 It’s more than just alarms. These systems let you access your home remotely, automate tasks, and work with other smart gadgets.3
Smart Platform Integration
The great thing about smart security is how it connects with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. You can use your voice or phone to manage your system and devices. It makes everything simpler.2
Smart Devices and Control Options
From cameras to sensors, smart security has many devices. They all talk to each other through one system. This lets homeowners easily check on their homes, set alarms, and get alerts from anywhere.32
Functionality and Convenience
Smart security systems do more than keep you safe. They offer features like remote access and automatic controls.4 These make protecting your home easy and give you peace of mind.4
Comparison of the Best Smart Home Security Systems
We looked at the top smart home security systems for you. We considered the system ratings, how well they work with devices like Alexa and Google Home, the different ways you can set them up, and the cost.2 Most systems start between $150 and $300. If you need more devices, the price can go up to over $1,000.2. Don’t forget the monthly fees. You might pay less if you agree to use the service for a year or two.2 You might not have monthly fees if you set up your system without help. But you could pay for extra features or professional monitoring.
Many home security systems work with Alexa and Google Home. But, to use Apple HomeKit, you might have to buy extra things.2 A new standard called Matter plans to make more devices work together, but we’re not sure how it will affect security cameras yet.
System Ratings and Rankings
We thoroughly tested many smart home security systems. Vivint came out on top with a score of 9.8 out of 10.1. SimpliSafe was next, with a rating of 9.4.1. Ring Alarm placed third at 7.7, and 1 Cove ranked the most user-friendly with an 8.7.
Compatible Voice Assistants and IoT Devices
Great home security means always watching and being ready to act fast in an emergency.2 Some need a pro to install them. Others you can install yourself.2 All systems can watch your home all day if you want. But only some offer cool extra features like recognizing faces or detecting when glass breaks.
Vivint works best with Alexa and Google Home.1 SimpliSafe is good with them, too.1 Ring Alarm can also use Apple HomeKit, and Cove is friendly with Alexa and Google.1 Vivint can also collaborate with other devices like locks and garage openers.1 SimpliSafe can connect with things like smart lights.1 Ring Alarm and Cove also work with devices like smart thermostats.
Installation Types and Pricing
A pro must install Vivint.1 SimpliSafe lets you choose to DIY or have a pro do it for $125.1. Ring Alarm gives the same choice, starting at $99, and 1 Cove is all about doing it yourself.
Monthly monitoring costs vary among the systems.1 Vivint charges $45-$60, 1 SimpliSafe can be from $0 to $30, 1 Ring Alarm from $0 to $20, and 1 Cove from $18 to $28.1. The initial cost of the equipment differs, too, starting at $420 for Vivint, $600 for SimpliSafe, $250 for Ring Alarm, and $125 for Cove.
Create an image comparing the top Smart Home Security Systems of 2024. Use a grid layout with columns for each system and rows for categories such as price, features, and reliability. Each box in the grid should have a color-coded dot to indicate its ranking in that category. Use icons to represent the different categories and systems. A crown icon shows the overall winner at the top of the grid.
ADT – Best Smart Home Security App
ADT is well-known for its home security solutions. It is the leading pick for the best smart home security app. This is mainly due to its tight connection with the Google Nest platform. This pairing brings users a wide range of top-level features and functions.1
Smart Capabilities and Google Nest Integration
ADT’s smart app for home security offers an array of easy-to-use features, allowing users to set up their smart home routines effortlessly.1 It joins forces with Google Nest, making the experience even better. Now, homeowners can manage their security and devices with their voice or a simple app.
Monitoring Options and Centers
ADT provides expert monitoring for as low as $25 monthly for 36 months. This ensures 24/7 protection and quick help in emergencies.1 Thanks to their vast system of monitoring centers, your home is always under the watchful care of security pros. This brings a deep sense of security and peace.
Pricing and Equipment Packages
ADT’s varied pricing and packages suit different budgets and security needs. The starting cost for ADT Command is $599, and monthly plans start at $59.99.3 Customers have a range of equipment packages to choose from, allowing them to create a smart security solution that fits their needs exactly.
Pros and Cons
The ADT app shines with its smooth Google Nest connection, reliable monitoring, and simple routine setup.1 Yet, the higher initial and ongoing costs might not appeal to every homeowner.3
Vivint – Best Smart Home Security with 24/7 Monitoring
Vivint is the top pick for excellent smart home security with round-the-clock monitoring. It combines smart home features and strong monitoring to safeguard your family and property.5
Smart Home Integration and Z-Wave Functionality
Vivint’s system links smoothly with various smart devices and systems. You can use Amazon’s Alexa, Google Home, and Z-Wave devices. With this, you control your security, lights, and more from your phone or voice.5
The heart of Vivint’s setup is the Smart Hub. It has a backup battery that lasts 24 hours and uses two paths to communicate for reliability.5 It also includes top-notch devices like the Outdoor Camera Pro. This camera has a 4K sensor, a wide viewing area, and AI for spotting intruders.5
Professional Monitoring and Quick Response
Vivint’s constant monitoring brings peace of mind with high security. If there’s an issue, their trained team quickly steps in to help.6
Although Vivint’s setup and services cost more than others, its advanced features and solid performance show its worth. It’s a standout choice for anyone wanting top-level home security.6
SimpliSafe – Best Google Home-Compatible Smart Home Security
Looking for the best smart home security system that works with Google Home? SimpliSafe is a top pick.2 It easily connects to Google Home. Now, you can use voice commands to manage your home’s security and other devices.2 This is great news for those who love the Google Home world.
Seamless Integration with Google Home
SimpliSafe links smoothly with Google Home, which many find attractive.2 You can set your security system or check sensors with your Google Home.2 Putting security into your smart home is now super easy.
Flexible Monitoring Options and Pricing
What makes SimpliSafe’s system different is how you can pick your monitoring style and cost.2 Go pro for $19.99 a month or keep an eye on yourself.7 The starting price for equipment is $280.7. It’s friendly to anyone working on their smart home security setup.
Overall, SimpliSafe shines with its easy link to Google Home, choices in monitoring, and good prices for a smart home security system.27
abode – Best DIY Smart Home Security
Homeowners looking for smart security will love the abode. It’s a top DIY choice. The Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit gets you started fast. Most people are set up in under 15 minutes.8 You can easily grow this system, adding devices to fit your needs.8
All-in-One Security Base Station
The iota is the heart of the abode’s security. It’s a base station for all your sensors and devices. This device is small but mighty. It works well with lots of other smart home gadgets.8 It has a loud siren, tamper alerts, and backup power. So, you’re protected even if the power goes out.8
Third-Party Device Compatibility
abode can connect with many popular smart home products. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.8 This lets you create a smart security system that works with systems you might already have.4
On-Demand Professional Monitoring
abode is made for you to install and manage on your own. But you can also get professional monitoring. It costs less than $1 a day.8 This service keeps your home safe all day and night. The company offers a 30-day return policy and a 1-year warranty too.8
FAQ
What is a smart home security system?
A smart home security system links with smart devices. It lets homeowners manage and monitor their security system through a single app or voice commands.
What features should I look for in a smart home security system?
Look for a system with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home. Also, make sure it connects with many smart home gadgets. Look for features to watch for control via a mobile app, options for professional monitoring, and various smart sensors, cameras, locks, and plugs.
What is IFTTT, and how does it work with smart home security systems?
IFTTT stands for If This Then That. It’s a platform for making custom connections between smart devices. Using IFTTT, you can link your security system with other smart gadgets and set rules to automate your home’s safety and other smart features.
What is Z-Wave technology, and how does it benefit smart home security systems?
Z-Wave is a technology for wireless communication in smart homes. It makes different smart products, including security systems, compatible and able to work together. Z-Wave helps create a secure and seamless connection among your smart home gadgets, improving the function of your smart home security system.
What are the key differences between DIY and professionally installed smart home security systems?
DIY systems are cheaper and allow you to set up yourself, offering more freedom. On the other hand, professionally installed systems have continuous monitoring but can be more expensive. They also need professionals to set them up. Choosing between DIY and professional setups depends on what you value more: cost, control, or monitoring expertise.
Source Links
- https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/best/smart-home/
- https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-home-security-system/
- https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-smart-home-security-systems
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/the-best-home-security-system/
- https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/vivint/review/
- https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/services/home-security/vivint
- https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/best/google/
- https://goabode.com/product/smart-security-kit/