Looking for reliable home security system installers near me? Picking the right system can feel like a big job, and honestly, it is. You want something that works well and keeps your home and loved ones safe. We’ve looked at a bunch of different systems to help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your place. Whether you want someone to install it for you, a system that’s good at scaring off intruders, or something that works with your smart home gadgets, there are options out there. Let’s break down some of the top choices.
Key Takeaways
- ADT is a top pick for professional installation and monitoring, offering a $100 Visa Reward Card for new systems with professional monitoring for a limited time.
- SimpliSafe stands out with its ‘Intruder Intervention’ feature, designed to deter burglars.
- Vivint is a good choice for those who want to integrate their security system with smart home devices.
- Frontpoint is recognized for having great customer service and support.
- Ring Alarm is a strong contender if you’re looking for good security cameras and video doorbells.
1. ADT: Best Professional Monitoring and Installation
When you’re looking for a home security system, ADT often comes up, and for good reason. They’ve been around for ages – like, over 150 years – so they know a thing or two about keeping homes safe. What really sets ADT apart is their commitment to professional installation and monitoring. If you’re not the type to fiddle with wires and apps yourself, or if you just want that extra peace of mind knowing trained pros are watching your back, ADT is a solid choice.
During our tests, we found their installation process to be pretty smooth. The technicians made sure everything was set up right before they left. They have a bunch of equipment options, including some gear from Google Nest, which is a nice touch. You can get starter packages with the basics like a control panel, a door or window sensor, and some signs to let people know your home is protected. From there, you can add more sensors, cameras, and other devices to fit your specific needs.
One of the things we liked was how quickly ADT responded when an alarm was triggered. It was usually around 30 seconds, which feels pretty fast. Plus, their app can send you text alerts right away, so you can quickly check what’s going on and let them know if it’s a real emergency or a false alarm. This can save a lot of time and hassle.
However, it’s not all perfect. Sometimes, you might have to sign a contract, especially if you finance your equipment or go with the professional installation. Also, while their monitoring is reliable, it can cost up to $49.99 a month, which is on the higher side. And if you’re looking for a huge variety of security cameras and video doorbells, ADT’s selection is a bit more limited compared to some other companies.
2. SimpliSafe: Best for Deterring Intruders
SimpliSafe really shines when it comes to actively stopping potential break-ins before they even happen. What sets them apart is their "Intruder Intervention" feature. If a sensor is tripped, SimpliSafe monitoring agents can actually access live video from your cameras and use two-way audio to speak directly to the person at your door. Imagine a burglar trying to break in, only to be told by a disembodied voice that the police have been called – that’s a pretty strong deterrent.
This system is also super easy to set up yourself, which is a big plus. You can get a basic package for around $250, and they often have sales that bring the price down even further. While they don’t have as many smart home gadgets as some other systems, they do work with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Here’s a quick look at what makes SimpliSafe good for deterring intruders:
- Intruder Intervention: Agents can use live camera feeds and two-way audio to scare off unwanted visitors.
- Active Guard Outdoor Protection: This feature, available with higher-tier plans, monitors your outdoor areas at night and can activate the same deterrents.
- Cellular Backup: The system relies on cellular service, not just Wi-Fi, so it keeps working even if your internet goes down.
SimpliSafe offers contract-free monitoring, which is a nice change from some of the longer commitments you see with other companies. You can pick a plan that fits your needs, and they have options that include camera access for that extra layer of security. It’s a solid choice if you want a system that actively works to keep intruders away. You can find out more about their security system packages.
3. Vivint: Best Home Automation
Vivint really shines when it comes to making your home smarter, not just safer. They’ve got this knack for integrating all sorts of gadgets, turning your security system into a central hub for your whole house. Think smart thermostats that learn your schedule, smart locks that you can control from your phone, and even lighting that can be set to turn on when motion is detected. It’s pretty neat.
The Vivint Smart Hub, their main control panel, is a slick touchscreen that makes setting up these automations surprisingly easy. You can create schedules, like having your lights dim and doors lock at bedtime, or have your thermostat adjust when you leave for work. Plus, it plays nice with other popular smart home brands, so you can add more devices down the line without a hitch.
Here’s a quick look at what makes their automation stand out:
- Smart Deter: Vivint’s cameras have this feature that actively deters people who seem suspicious. If someone lingers too long in your yard, a spotlight can flash and a siren can sound. It’s a proactive way to scare off potential trouble before it even starts.
- Wide Compatibility: Beyond their own gear, Vivint systems can connect with devices from brands like Nest, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. This means you can control your security, lights, and temperature all from one place, often using just your voice.
- Customizable Routines: You can set up specific actions to happen based on certain triggers. For example, when your front door sensor is tripped, you could have your hallway lights turn on automatically. It’s all about making your home work for you.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and roses. Vivint’s equipment, especially the cameras, can be on the pricier side. And they do tend to prefer longer contracts, which might not be for everyone. But if your main goal is a truly connected, automated smart home that’s also secure, Vivint is definitely a top contender.
4. Cove: Most Affordable DIY System
When you’re looking for a home security system that won’t break the bank, Cove often comes up. It’s a solid choice if you want decent protection without a huge upfront cost or a long-term commitment. Cove really shines when it comes to affordability, both for the equipment and the monthly monitoring.
Cove’s equipment prices are pretty reasonable. You can often find systems starting around $90, and they frequently run sales that can knock a significant percentage off the total cost. For example, some users have reported getting systems that would normally cost $500 for around $260, which is a pretty sweet deal. The basic setup usually includes sensors and a touchscreen panel, and you can add cameras or other components as needed.
Here’s a quick look at what Cove typically offers:
- Equipment Costs: Systems can start as low as $90, with frequent discounts available.
- Monitoring: Professional monitoring is available and starts at about $19.99 per month. You can also opt for self-monitoring with camera streaming for a lower monthly fee, though professional monitoring is generally recommended for better response.
- Contract Lengths: Cove offers month-to-month monitoring, so you’re not locked into a long contract.
- Installation: It’s designed for easy DIY setup, which helps keep costs down.
- Smart Home Integration: It works with Alexa and Google Home, so you can connect it to your existing smart home devices.
While Cove might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the pricier systems, like advanced home automation features or super high-end cameras, it gets the job done. The touchscreen panel is straightforward to use, and the mobile app is generally easy to figure out. It’s a good option for renters or anyone who wants a reliable security system without a big investment.
5. Frontpoint: Best Customer Service and Support
When it comes to home security, having a company that stands by you with good support makes a big difference. Frontpoint really shines in this area. They’ve built a reputation for being there for their customers, which is pretty important when you’re talking about protecting your home and family.
Frontpoint’s customer service is often highlighted as a major plus for their users. Many customers report staying with the company for years, often much longer than the typical contract length with other providers. This kind of loyalty usually comes from a good experience, and that often starts with how the company treats you.
Here’s a bit more about what makes their support stand out:
- Helpful Setup: When you get your Frontpoint system, they aim to make the setup process as smooth as possible. Their support team is known for being knowledgeable and can help you get everything working right. They ask questions about your home and lifestyle to make sure you get the right gear.
- Emergency Assistance: If something goes wrong, like a false alarm or a real emergency, their monitoring center specialists are trained to stay calm and help you through it. This kind of steady hand is reassuring when you need it most.
- Moving Support: Moving can be a hassle, but Frontpoint offers a free moving box to help you pack up your system safely. It’s a small touch, but it shows they think about the whole customer journey, not just the initial sale.
Frontpoint also uses equipment from well-known suppliers, which means you’re getting reliable tech. They offer a range of devices, from cameras to smart home gadgets, and their system is designed to be user-friendly. While they do have a contract requirement, the strong customer support often makes it a worthwhile trade-off for many homeowners.
6. Brinks Home Security: Best Smart Home Integrations
Brinks Home Security has really stepped up its game, especially if you’re into making your home work together with smart gadgets. They’ve built a system that plays nicely with a lot of the popular smart home tech out there. Think about controlling your lights, locks, and even your garage door right from your security app. It’s pretty convenient.
They work with brands like Kwikset for smart locks and myQ for garage door openers. Plus, if you use voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, you can arm or disarm your system, or check its status, just by speaking. It’s a big plus for anyone who likes having their home automated.
Here’s a quick look at what makes their smart home integration stand out:
- Voice Control: Use Alexa or Google Assistant to manage your system.
- Smart Locks: Connect with Kwikset locks to secure your doors remotely.
- Garage Control: Integrate with myQ to open or close your garage door.
- Custom Automations: Set up rules, like having lights turn on when the alarm is triggered.
While they offer professional monitoring, you can also get DIY or professional installation, which gives you some flexibility. If you’re looking to build a connected home, Brinks is definitely worth checking out as part of your overall home security setup.
7. Abode: Best No-Contract Monitoring
Abode really stands out when you’re looking for a security system that doesn’t lock you into a long-term contract. It’s a DIY setup, which means you can install it yourself, but they also offer professional installation if that’s more your speed. What’s cool is that they give you options for monitoring, too. You can go with self-monitoring, which is free if you just want basic alerts, or you can pay a bit for a premium self-monitoring plan that includes video recording. And if you want that 24/7 professional oversight, they have a plan for that as well, all without a contract.
This flexibility is a big deal. We tried out the free self-monitoring first, and it was okay, but we really wanted to use the home automation features Abode is known for. So, we bumped up to the paid self-monitoring. That gave us video recording for the cameras and let us use the CUE feature for automation. It worked pretty well, but it relied on our internet connection. When our Wi-Fi went out for a bit, the system was down. That’s when we switched to the professional monitoring. Having that cellular backup and live monitoring really gave us peace of mind. The best part? We could switch between these plans without any hassle or extra fees because there are no contracts.
Abode’s equipment is also pretty neat. You start with a hub, and we went with the Iota All-in-One hub. It’s a bit pricier, but it has a built-in camera and motion sensor, which is a smart way to save space and money. They have a single camera option that works indoors and outdoors, though having a dedicated outdoor camera would be nice. The system can handle a lot of devices, up to 160, and you can even connect your existing smart home gadgets if they use Zigbee or Z-Wave. This makes it really adaptable to what you already have.
When it comes to pricing, Abode is quite reasonable. Their Abode Cam 2 security camera is around $34.99, which is competitive with other budget-friendly cameras. For monitoring, the premium self-monitoring plan is about $6.25 per month (paid annually), and the professional monitoring plan is around $16.67 per month (also paid annually). These prices are pretty good for what you get, especially considering the contract-free nature of the service. While they don’t have a touchscreen panel like some other systems, their app is really well done. The CUE automation feature is a standout, letting you create custom rules that can even work with more devices than some competitors’ systems.
8. Ring Alarm: Best Security Cameras and Video Doorbells
Ring Alarm really shines when you pair it with their popular video doorbells and security cameras. If you’re already a Ring user or just really like the idea of having a unified app for all your security needs, this is a solid choice. The system is designed to work hand-in-hand with Ring’s video products, creating a more complete picture of what’s happening around your home.
Think of it this way: the Ring Alarm handles the interior sensors and alarms, while the cameras and doorbells keep an eye on the outside. You can even set them up so that when you arm the alarm, the cameras start recording automatically. It’s a pretty neat way to keep everything connected.
When you’re looking at bundles, Ring often packages starter kits with cameras and doorbells. These bundles can be a good way to get a lot of equipment for your money, usually ranging from $300 to $700. It’s worth checking out these Ring bundles if you want a comprehensive setup right from the start.
Here’s a quick look at what makes the Ring ecosystem work well together:
- Unified App Control: Manage your alarm system, cameras, and video doorbells all from the same Ring app. You can easily switch between live camera feeds and check the status of your alarm.
- Arming Synchronization: Set your Ring cameras to start recording automatically when you arm your Ring Alarm system, whether you’re in Home or Away mode.
- Expanded Coverage: The alarm system covers your interior entry points and motion detection, while Ring’s cameras provide visual surveillance for your property’s exterior.
To get the most out of multiple cameras and video doorbells, you’ll need the Ring Protect Plus plan. The basic plan only covers one device, so if you have several cameras, the Plus plan is the way to go for cloud video storage. Ring does offer 24/7 customer support online and by phone, which is helpful if you run into any issues with your DIY setup.
9. Nest Cam Installation
When you think about Nest Cam installation, it’s usually a pretty straightforward process, especially if you’re going the DIY route. Most people find they can get these cameras up and running without much fuss. You’ll typically connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network using the Google Home app. The app guides you through the steps, showing you where to place the camera for the best view and how to mount it if needed.
Here’s a general idea of what the setup might involve:
- Unboxing and Charging: First, take everything out of the box. If it’s a battery-powered model, make sure it’s charged up.
- App Download: Grab the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Connecting to Wi-Fi: Follow the app’s prompts to connect the camera to your home’s wireless network. This usually involves scanning a QR code displayed on your phone with the camera.
- Mounting: Decide where you want the camera. You might just place it on a shelf, or you might use the included mount to attach it to a wall or ceiling.
- Final Checks: Once it’s connected and positioned, you can check the live feed in the app to make sure the angle is right and everything looks good.
For many users, the DIY installation is perfectly fine and saves on extra costs. However, if you’re not comfortable with tech stuff or want it done perfectly the first time, professional installation is always an option. You can often find local installers who specialize in smart home devices, including Nest Cams. They can ensure the camera is securely mounted and properly configured with your network and other smart home devices.
10. Choosing Your Installation Method
So, you’ve looked at the different systems and figured out what kind of monitoring you want. Now comes the big question: how do you actually get it all set up? You’ve got two main paths here: DIY or professional installation.
DIY installation means you’re the one doing the work. Most of these systems are designed to be pretty straightforward. Think peel-and-stick sensors, easy-to-follow instructions, and maybe a quick app setup. It’s usually the cheaper route, and you can set it up on your own schedule. Just make sure you read those instructions carefully and pick good spots for your sensors – nobody wants a false alarm at 3 AM because a motion detector fell off the wall.
Professional installation, on the other hand, means someone comes to your house and does it all for you. They’ll know exactly where to place everything for the best coverage and can handle any tricky wiring. It’s less hassle for you, and you get the peace of mind that it’s done right. The downside? It usually costs extra.
Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
- DIY:
- Lower upfront cost (no installation fee).
- Flexibility to set up on your own time.
- Requires some basic comfort with tools and following instructions.
- Professional Installation:
- Higher upfront cost (installation fee).
- Convenience – someone else does the work.
- Expert placement and setup for optimal performance.
Your Home Security Journey Starts Now
So, picking the right security system can feel like a lot, but remember, it’s about finding what fits your home and your peace of mind. We’ve looked at some top choices like ADT for professional help, SimpliSafe if you want to deter intruders, and Vivint for smart home features. Whether you’re leaning towards a DIY setup or prefer someone else to handle the installation and monitoring, there’s a system out there for you. Take your time, think about what features matter most, and don’t forget to check out any special deals. Getting a good security system is a big step towards making your home a safer place for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pick the right home security system for my house?
Choosing the best home security system depends on what you need. Think about whether you want someone to install it for you, if you prefer to set it up yourself, and what kind of extra features like smart home gadgets or cameras are important to you. Also, consider if you want a contract or not and how much you’re willing to spend.
Are home alarm systems actually effective?
Yes, home security systems really do work! They act like a shield for your home, alerting you and the authorities to trouble like break-ins, fires, or floods. This helps keep your family and belongings safe.
What’s the difference between DIY and professional installation?
Many companies offer professional installation, where trained folks set up your system. Others are designed for you to install yourself, which can save you money. Some systems offer both options, so you can choose what works best for you.
What does ‘professional monitoring’ mean for a security system?
Professional monitoring means a team is always watching your system. If an alarm goes off, they check it out and can contact emergency services if needed. Some systems let you monitor it yourself using an app, but professional monitoring usually offers better protection.
What kind of equipment should I look for in a security system?
When looking at systems, check out the different types of equipment they offer. Some are great for cameras and video doorbells, while others focus on smart home devices like lights and thermostats. Make a list of what’s important to you and see which system has the best options.
How much do home security systems usually cost?
Most security systems have monthly fees for monitoring and sometimes for equipment. It’s smart to set a budget beforehand. Some systems have contracts that lock you in, while others let you pay month-to-month, giving you more flexibility.