Home Security System Packages | Hi Tech Home Protector

When you are ready to add security to your home, you will quickly discover that the options are almost unlimited. It can be hard enough to decide on specific devices, let alone which (if any) company you should choose. Then there is the trouble of deciding between their many packages. Often there is a salesperson on the phone with you, making it hard to know for sure if they are doing what is best for you or for their paycheck.

We’ve put together this guide to help you navigate at least the most common options. We provide some in-depth information on the leading home security companies and give you an overview of their plan packages.

Since not everyone can or wants to deal with a larger company, we have also included several options for DIY home security, from self-installation to monitoring, and even ideas for basic equipment costs. Read on for your Complete Guide to Home Security System Packages.

Home Security Systems

Here are the most popular Home Security Systems. Click on the name to jump to the package information.

Name	Basic Equipment Costs	Installation Costs	Monitoring?	Monitoring Costs (per month)	Wireless?	Cameras?	Warranty?	Contract?	Details
Abode	$159+	—	✔	$8.30+	✔	✔	✔	—	Check Amazon
ADT	Free*	$99+	✔	$27.99+	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site
Blinks Home Security	$79.99	—	—	—	✔	✔	✔	—	Check Amazon
Brinks	$399+	—	✔	$29+	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site
Deep Sentinel	$499	—	✔	$49.99	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site
Fortress	$79.99+	—	✔	$14.99+	✔	✔	✔	—	Check Amazon
Frontpoint	$130.95+	—	✔	$34.99	✔	✔	✔	—	Visit Site
Protect America	$50+	—	✔	$19.99+	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site
LifeShield	$300+	—	✔	$24.98	✔	✔	✔	—	Check Amazon
Link Interactive	$180+	—	✔	$30.99	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site
Nest Secure	$399+	—	✔	Brinks	✔	✔	✔	—	Visit Site
Ring Alarm	$199+	—	✔	$3+	✔	✔	✔	—	Check Amazon
Scout Alarm	$198+	—	✔	$9.99+	✔	✔	✔	—	Check Amazon
SimpliSafe	$200+	—	✔	$15+	✔	✔	✔	NO	Check Amazon
Vivint SmartHome	$300	$99	✔	$29.99+	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site
Xfinity Home	Free*	—	✔	$29.99+	✔	✔	✔	✔	Visit Site

*Requires Contract

Types of Home Security

There are several ways to increase your home security. When it comes to a home security system you have several options and what they can and cannot do will depend on several things, including your location, personal needs, and what you are willing to spend to achieve peace of mind. Here are the general types of home security that are available.

Professionally Installed with 24/7 Monitoring

We’ve all seen the ads for home security monitoring. They usually feature a young family that is woken in the middle of the night by the sound of glass breaking or a clip of a would-be thief prowling around a home. Then someone comes on and says that these could’ve been prevented if you only had their service.

A professional-grade home security system has some advantages. First, the installation is usually done by the company, so there is no worry that something is not connected correctly or the risk of injury during installation. Professional installation also usually comes with some type of warranty that will cover, by either replacement or repairing part of the system if necessary.

Some professional companies even provide some customers with added protection against loss, damage, or theft of their property should the system fail in some way. 24/7 monitoring is usually available with all professionally installed home security systems. Of course, there is going to be a fee, usually monthly for this service. The price of monitoring varies from company to company and can depend on the type of system or package you purchase as well.

DIY Installed with 24/7 Monitoring

There are several companies that offer DIY installation options for their systems, or part of their systems. Additionally, there are some monitoring companies that do not even offer their own products, just the service of monitoring your self-installed system and alerting you (or authorities) when there is a problem.

Installing any home security system yourself comes with the understanding that it is your responsibility to ensure the system and all units are properly installed and in working order. The big downfall of some DIY installation systems is the failure to know and alert the owner if something is not in proper working order.

Before deciding on a system, check with the monitoring service that covers your area to make sure you know which systems they monitor, and what your options are. It would be a waste of time and money to purchase a system and install it, only to find out you have zero monitoring options if that is what you wanted.

DIY Installed and Monitored

The bottom of the ladder in home security are systems that you not only install yourself, but do not contract an outside source to monitor for activity, risks, or any other alerts. Not that these types of systems are worthless, some are quite advanced at detecting and alerting you that something is wrong. However, it is then up to you to respond and contact the necessary authorities.

For example, if someone breaks into your home while you are at work, the system MAY alert you to the break-in, but then you will have to call the police to have the break-in checked on. This may be fine for many individuals, but what if when the alert is sent, you are in a meeting with your phone either not on you or on silent? By the time you actually see the alert, the damage may already be done, and your personal property is long gone.

How to Choose a Home Security Package

No matter which company you choose, they will likely offer several package options. Some may have add-ons available or you may have to purchase entire bundles in order to get the specific components you want in your home security. Regardless of the company, you will probably have to make some decisions about the following services.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

In the age of automation and smart technology, more and more home security companies are making products available that can be easily installed without the need for a professional. This is especially true in wireless installations where everything is controlled by a central device using either Wi-Fi or Cellular connections to control and monitor the devices.

Individuals who are worried that they may make a mistake may still want to consider professional installation. Some companies even give you the option of a professional installation, and if you are lucky, they will not charge you for it. Even DIY home security systems may need some expert help for proper installation. In such cases, you may want to contact a local security company for assistance in finding a qualified technician or hit up your techy friends for help.

Monitoring

One of the most varied parts of having a home security system is the cost of monitoring that companies charge and what that monitoring includes. Some companies will bundle their monitoring fees into the purchase price of their products, while others have them completely separate. Also, some companies have contract requirements that you will want to be aware of before agreeing to use their services.

Prices

The price involved when purchasing a home security system is based on several variables. The first is the actual cost of the equipment, then any installation fees, and finally any recurring fees for monitoring or insurance.

Set-Up Costs

Most companies have at minimum a basic bundle that can be purchased as a unit. With this purchase, there can be additional installation fees if the company provides installation directly, or requires an outside certified technician. The table above lists the costs of the most basic equipment bundles. The installation fees listed are only those for the companies that require the use of their own installers. All other services either do not charge for installation or leave it up to you to decide.

Monthly Fees

In general, the only recurring fees that you should need to pay are for professional monitoring services. However, there are a few companies that have options for leased equipment or rent-to-own prices that allow you to pay for your equipment over a period of time.

Individuals that want a more advanced security system than their current budget may allow can take advantage of these options with less out-of-pocket costs upfront.

Monthly monitoring fees are often different from company to company. Individual companies also usually offer different levels of monitoring. The biggest thing to watch for is a company that requires a long-term contract or can change the monthly rate you are charged with little or no notice.

Accessing Your Needs

Everyone has their own unique security needs depending on the size of the home, where they live, and what security measures they want to implement in their home. In order to determine your personal needs, you will have to take an inventory of your home, and decide where you want monitors, what type of monitors you need, and any additional features you want to include.

Professional Consultation

Individuals that are unsure of their needs may want to enlist the help of a professional consultant to work out a home security plan. A consultant will walk through your home, help you discover any areas that are particularly vulnerable, and assist you in building a custom plan for your home security needs.

Some home security companies offer this service directly and often at little or no charge if you then choose them to provide your home security. If this service is not available in your area, contact your local police department, they will often be able to either refer you to someone or help you themselves.

DIY Buying Guide

So, you’ve decided to go the DIY route with your home security. The problem is, how do you know what components you need, and which ones are just fluff?

You can find many basic starter kits from almost every DIY home security retailer. Kits are a great way to start, however, they often only contain the minimum and you will likely want to improve your security with added sensors and components.

Take a look at these most common components and their uses to help you determine which ones to add to your custom system.

Hub or Base Unit

These days most home security systems are wireless and need a central device to communicate with all of the other devices. Often these can be purchased from the security retailer, or are part of a starter kit. However, if you already have a smart hub, such as an Amazon Echo, there is a hub built right in. You may not have to add the expense, just purchase components that are compatible.

Cameras

The most common form of home security these days is using cameras to monitor your home, inside and out. Cameras can be found in a variety of styles, depending on your personal needs. There are cameras with motion detection, two-way communication options, and even night vision. High-quality cameras will allow you to capture live video and stream it to your smartphone or other devices.

Cameras can be found integrated into other components as well, such as a video doorbell, smart hub, and lighting. Cameras installed outdoors will need special protection from the elements; double-check this before purchase.

Alarms

Alarms come in all shapes and sizes and are the foundation of a good home security system. Unlike sensors that simply detect a change, alarms are meant to alert. Alarms can be set to send alerts to you or the authorities (may require a monitoring subscription). What most people are probably familiar with is an audible alarm that triggers a loud siren or another distinct sound that will alert people nearby that there is an issue.

Sensors

As mentioned, sensors are designed to detect specific changes; these will vary depending on the type of sensor. For example, a door or window sensor detects the movement of them being opened (or closed). A motion sensor, however, detects movement across a larger area. There are also sensors that can sense changes in temperature, lighting, and noise levels.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors are a combination of a sensor and an alarm designed to detect and alert you when there is smoke or carbon monoxide in your home. The biggest mistake some people make is to choose a detector that only senses smoke and not carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if exposed for too long in a confined space. Double-check to make sure all of your smoke detectors are also carbon monoxide detectors.

Water and Fire Sensors/Alarm

Much the same as smoke detectors, these types can detect condensation, water, and heat levels. This is important to have in areas that may be susceptible to water leaks, such as a basement. Fire alarms are great for the kitchen, but you should also consider them in areas where flammable materials are stored, such as a utility room or even your garage.

Technology and Home Automation

Every day there seem to be advances in technology, which ultimately leads to options to automate our homes. Already you can purchase smart technology-enabled appliances, heating, air conditioning, and, of course, smart plugs and lighting.

Individuals that want more automated options in their home security will have to keep up with technology and pay attention to compatibility. It would do no good to purchase a top-of-the-line, higher-dollar automated device only to discover it cannot communicate with the rest of your system.

Luckily, most home security manufacturers are working hard to improve the compatibility of their components across most major automation devices, such as Amazon products with build in Hubs, Google Home, and even smaller brands, such as Wink. The most compatible all of your devices are, the easier your whole system will be to operate.

Professional Home Security Companies

We’ve already covered a ton of information. If you are still with us, then take a look at the companies below. When we could access the information, we provided their available packages and any base equipment requirements. We hope that having all of this information in one place will make your search a bit easier.

ADT

ADT requires that their systems are professionally installed; however, the installation is often included free of charge, so look for this promotion if you choose to go with ADT. Otherwise, professional installation will cost between $99 to $199.

Features

With ADT, your alarm will reach emergency call centers up to eight times faster than most other systems available. All their systems are professionally installed to ensure no hiccups when it is time to protect your home and loved ones.

Every home setup is unique, so ADT will customize every installation to fit in with your home setup to suit your needs and preferences. With a six-month money-back guarantee from ADT on every system, you have the peace of mind that they have confidence in their security systems.

Installation

ADT does require that their systems are professionally installed, however, the installation is often included in free of charge, so look for this promotion if you choose to go with ADT. Otherwise, professional installation will cost between $99 to $199.

Package Equipment

There are several equipment options available, all start with a package, but you can add components as needed to fit your needs.

*Components*	Basic	Basic Wireless	ADT Pulse®	ADT Pulse® + Video
Wireless Control Panel	✔	✔	✔	✔
Door/Window Sensors	3	3	3	3
Motion Detector	✔	✔	✔	✔
Key Fob	✔	✔	✔	✔
CellGuard®	—	✔	✔	✔
Video Cameras	—	—	—	✔

Pros

Very adaptable to new technologies
Can be used with a range of different security setups
Great reaction times
They have a lot of experience to share

Cons

Only the advanced package has a video camera option
ADT is not the cheapest system

Brinks

Brinks Home Security is a well-known name in home security. Brinks merged with ADT in 2009 but has remained an option for individuals looking for the newest home security options at a lower price.

Features

This system is installed professionally, and uninterrupted monitoring of premises is provided at a decent monthly fee. With more than 160 years of security and monitoring experience at your disposal, you and your family will feel safe all the time.

This system is so easy to use that even children can activate it to ensure they are safe and secure. What is great about this system, while your home is monitored, you can also keep an eye on it from anywhere.

Installation

Unlike ADT, Brinks offers the option of a professional installation or DIY. Since most of their component operate wirelessly, installation can be quick and easy for many individuals.

Package Equipment

*Components*	Home Complete	Home Complete with Video
Home Touch Control Panel	✔	✔
Wireless Motion Sensor	✔	✔
Wireless Door Sensors	3	3
Skybell video doorbell	—	✔

Add-on Equipment

Door/Window Sensors
Motion Sensor
Glass Break Sensor
Wireless Temp Sensor
Flood Detector
Smoke Detector
FireFighter Fire Alarm
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Skybell Doorbell Camera
Indoor Camera
Outdoor Camera

Pros

Quick and easy DIY installation
24/7 protection for your home is available
Can easily be adapted to fit in with your home setup
An easy-to-use app comes with this system

Cons

This is only a basic system; for add-ons, you pay extra
You will pay for all equipment installed

Vivint SmartHome

Vivint is one of the leaders in modern home automation and prides itself on providing the most modern technology to its customers.

Features

Light and sound are used to scare culprits away to prevent them from causing too much harm to your property. The home security bundle is a great option to scare away those wannabe thieves that may cause damage.

You can also control everything in your home security with the app that comes with your system from anywhere. Extra sensors and equipment can be added to your system when you feel the need to upgrade and improve your home security.

Installation

Vivint places a high priority on proper home security. Even their basic packages include professional installation, access to the Vivint sky app, and several sensors. You can also add extra sensors and equipment as needed.

Package Equipment

*Components*	Home Security Bundle	Video Security Bundle
Touch Screen Control Panel	✔	✔
Smart Sensors	2	2
Motion Sensor	✔	✔
Smoke Detector	✔	—
Doorbell Camera	—	✔
Outdoor Camera	—	✔
Ping Camera	—	✔

Add-on Equipment

Element Thermostat
Smart Door Lock
Smart Garage Controller

Pros

Easy touchscreen control panel
A smoke detector included in the home option
Monitoring included at an affordable monthly fee
Many great add-ons are available

Cons

Only two intelligent sensors are included in the standard packages
No cameras are included in the entry-level option

Xfinity Home

Xfinity Home is a service provided by the cable company Comcast. As a result, it may not be available in all areas. For existing Comcast customers, adding Xfinity Home to their existing service may be the best option.

Features

There are no installation costs involved when this system is installed in your home to keep it and your family protected. This package includes 24/7 video recording and monitoring to give you the peace of mind you and your loved ones deserve.

The Xfinity app will notify you of any suspicious activities to alert you on what is happening in and around your home. Choose between self-protect or professional protection options for a very low monthly fee.

Installation

All Xfinity security systems are installed by a Comcast technician, so you do not have to worry about whether or not it is set up right.

Package Equipment

*Components*	Home Secure	X1 Starter Secure	X1 Premier Secure
Touchscreen Controller	✔	✔	✔
Door/Window Sensors	3	3	3
Motion Sensor	✔	✔	✔
Wireless Keypad	✔	✔	✔

*All packages have the same basic setup, higher packages offer discounts on added equipment

Add-on Equipment

Indoor/Outdoor Cameras
Zen Thermostat
Smoke Detector
Outlet Controller
Door/Window Sensor
Motion Sensor

Pros

Great backup provided by Comcast
Many entry sensors are included in this system
Professional monitoring of premises is available
Up to three packages to choose from

Cons

This system is unfortunately not available in all areas
It must be installed by Comcast technicians

DIY Home Security Systems

Abode

Abode partners with several leading manufacturers in home security to provide homeowners with more options for a DIY home security system. However, if necessary, they do offer professional installation options.

Features

Many more options are available with the Abode home security option through partnerships with a long list of leading manufacturers. This is also why it is an ideal system for those who want to do everything themselves to protect their home and family from intruders.

Professional installation options are done by this company for those who need to feel more secure with the company’s expertise. Easily add more cameras or door and window sensors to your system to make it grow with your personal needs.

Package Equipment

Abode offers two starter kits for customers to then build upon to meet their specific needs.

*Components*	Iota All-in-One Security Kit	Smart Security Kit
Hub	✔	✔
Door/Window Sensors	1	1
Remote Key Fob	✔	✔
Motion Sensor	—	✔

Add-on Equipment

Door/window sensor
Cameras
Motions sensor
Water leak sensor
Smoke alarm monitor
Sirens (indoor and outdoor
Occupancy sensor
Smart power switch

Pros

No installation costs are required
Very low monthly monitoring fee
This system is upgradeable to suit your needs
It is supported by a hub

Cons

This system provides only one entry sensor
No motion sensors are included

Blinks Home Security

Blinks Home Security is built for the budget-conscious consumer with packages as low $79, with no contracts or service requirements. Blink is also an Amazon company, so you can be sure that all of the components will work seamlessly with any Amazon device.

Features

With this home security system, you have up to a 110-degree view option from the camera for better coverage. It also includes a one-directional microphone, and the unit is so small it takes up only a little space.

Because of the small form factor, this system will run for up to two years with normal batteries. You can use this home security system with no monthly subscription fee.

Installation

Blinks Home Security is made for homeowner that has no problem handling their own installation.

Package Equipment

*Components*	Blink Standard	Blink XT2
Indoor HD Video Camera	✔	—
Indoor/Outdoor HD Video Camera	—	✔
Sync Module	✔	✔

Add-on Equipment

Camera mounts
Covers
Additional Cameras

Pros

Decent free cloud storage is provided
This system is very easy to install and set up
You can use it to record on more than one camera at the same time
The LCD is clear in daylight and at night

Cons

The entry-level package provides only indoor camera placement
Not the best option for a primary home security system

Deep Sentinel

Deep Sentinel is a company dedicated to providing the fastest security responsiveness. Their single package is designed to fight criminals and get authorities involved faster than any other company.

Features

You have a lot of security setup options available with a wide range of equipment that will easily streamline your home protection system. A wide range of security cameras and other monitoring equipment is available when you need to upgrade your system.

For a low monthly fee, you can easily add 24/7 monitoring to your home, which is great for when you need to travel. Anyone can install this home security system to have peace of mind that their property is protected.

Installation

Installation is a snap, as all Deep Sentinel components are wireless, and can be done on your own following the instructions included with the package.

Equipment

Since there is only one option, we didn’t see the need to make it complicated. The Deep Sentinel system includes:

3 surveillance cameras (1 add-on option)
A Central Hub
Wall mounts for the camera

One part that makes Deep Sentinel unique is their security monitoring system called LiveSentinel, a dedicated group of trained agents that monitor your home 24/7 and alert the authorities when necessary.

Pros

Fast intruder detection for improved security
Quick and easy alerts to prevent damage to your property
A live watch is available for a monthly fee
Very easy installation for a complete system

Cons

This is not really a professional setup
Basic equipment is quite expensive

Fortress

Fortress offers DIY home security options for every home. Every Fortress Security system comes with a free mobile app for easy monitoring from any smart device.

Features

You can easily upgrade this system as your needs change to help improve the home security coverage of your property. With HD video quality, it will be easy to see exactly what is happening on your property while you are not there.

Everything you need is included in this complete system to keep an eye on your home and loved ones. Securing your home with this system will not take a lot of effort.

Installation

Fortress security packages are preprogrammed so they only need to be mounted once you receive them. Many of the components are mounted using adhesive, while some may require small screw-in mounts.

Package Equipment

*Components*	S03	S1 Stealth	S6 Titan
Main Panel	✔	✔	✔
Door/Window Sensor	✔	✔	✔
Fortress Motion Detector	✔	✔	✔
Fortress Remote Fob	2	2	2
RFID Key Tags	2	—	2
Internal Siren	1	—	—
Fortress Sim Card	—	✔	✔

Pros

Door and window contact sensors are included
You have a range of packages to choose from
This option is great for the DIYers out there
A mobile app is added for smart monitoring options

Cons

Only the advanced packages come with a sim card included
Internal siren is only available on the one option

Frontpoint

Frontpoint quickly becomes a leader in home security. Focusing on providing the latest technology in customizable configurations with different monitoring options. Frontpoint is currently available in all 50 US states and in all but 1 Canadian province.

Installation

Frontpoint provides complete DIY installation home security systems. Most can be installed in 30 minutes or less.

Features

With up to six different packages available, there is one for almost every home security system need you may have. Keep your family safe with 24/7 monitoring at a very affordable monthly fee and reliable reaction times.

The initial costs of installing this home security system are not too high and are within reach of most homeowners. You get a three-year warranty on the equipment for your peace of mind.

Package Equipment

*Component*	Starter	Everyday	Plus	Select	Preferred	Elite
Frontpoint Hub	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Frontpoint Keypad	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Door/Window Sensors	2	3	3	4	5	6
Motion Sensors	1	2	—	2	2	2
Glass Break Sensors	—	—	2	1	1	2
Smoke and Heat Sensor	—	—	—	1	1	1
Indoor Camera	—	—	—	—	1	1
Outdoor Camera	—	—	—	—	—	1
Doorbell Camera	—	—	—	—	—	1

Add-on Equipment

Panic Pendant
Keychain Remote

Pros

Many great options to choose from
A keychain remote is available if you need one
Great for a complete home security and safety option
Available in all states of the US

Cons

Not all the options have glass break sensors included
Only the Elite option has an outdoor and doorbell camera

Protect America

Not everyone wants wireless monitoring, and that is where Protect America comes in. They offer both cellular and landline monitoring options for their customer.

Features

An easily accessible control panel is included with this security system. With the Copper, Silver, and Gold options, you have enough sensors at your disposal to cover your property.

You can also add a wide range of equipment to your home security system to improve on the basic equipment. Easily add HD wireless cameras or smoke detectors at a later stage if you need them.

Installation

All Protect America security systems are DIY installed.

Package Equipment

*Components*	Copper	Silver	Gold
Control Panel	✔	✔	✔
Motion Detector	1	1	1
Door/Window Sensor	3	9	14

Add-on Equipment

HD wireless video camera
Smoke detectors
Home automation with Amazon Alexa-enabled devices

Pros

Many doors and window sensors are included with this system
Both landline and cellular coverage offered
Very low equipment and monitoring costs
Installation is done by you, so it is free

Cons

There is no professional installation option
You pay for the equipment that you install

LifeShield

LifeShield is part of ADT Home Security. However, LifeShield offers customers additional environmental protections and no upfront equipment fees. You also do not need to sign a long-term contract.

Features

With ADT support to back this system, you have a lot of expertise to help protect your home and property. All the equipment included with these home security packages is easy to install in your home to make it a bit easier.

Complete instructions come with the system, so you can do it yourself, even with no prior experience or any tech-savvy. All three options from LifeShield come with the necessary sensors included to keep your home safe and secure.

Installation

All LifeShield Security home security systems are DIY installed.

Package Equipment

*Components*	Security Essentials	Security Advantage	Security Professional
Wireless Security Tablet	✔	✔	✔
Motion Sensors	1	2	2
Door/Window Sensor	4	6	8
Fire Safety Sensor	✔	✔	✔
Keychain Remote	✔	✔	✔
Indoor Security Camera	—	✔	✔
Glass Break Sensor	—	—	✔

Add-on Equipment

Entry Keypad
Security Touchpad
Wireless Flood Sensor
Wireless Freeze Sensor
Outdoor Security Camera

Pros

A keychain remote comes with all options
No installation costs are required
This is backed by the reliable ADT security system
Easy to install this complete system

Cons

Only three options are available
An indoor security camera is not available for the essential package

Link Interactive

Link Interactive is a DIY solution for individuals who may or may not want to include professional monitoring services with their security systems. The entire system is wireless and backed by cellular, so you do not have to worry about power outages affecting your security. They also connect with many home automation devices for even more security.

Features

The 30-day money-back guarantee you get with this system makes it easy to try it out before completely committing to it. If you already have a system in place, taking it over will be seamless and easy to have just one service provider to pay.

All sensors are pre-programmed to make it easy to install and connect your complete home security system. The easy peel-and-stick setup makes it easy to install without the need to drill or any technical skills.

Installation

Link Interactive home security systems are DIY installed.

Package Equipment

Where Link Interactive is a bit different than other systems. Their packages only come with your choice of a control panel, all other sensors and components are purchased separately. Their packages only reflect the level of self or professional monitoring they provide. Below you will see the monitoring each package provides followed by add-on equipment options.

*Components*	Standard	Gold	Elite
Control Panel	✔	✔	✔
Cellular Monitoring	✔	✔	✔
Intrusion Alarm	✔	✔	✔
Fire Alarm	✔	✔	✔
Crash and Smash	✔	✔	✔
Two-Way Voice	—	✔	✔
Email & Text Alerts	—	✔	—
Video Monitoring/Streaming	—	—	✔
Number of Sensors	43	43	43
Remote Access/Control	—	✔	✔
Light Controls	—	✔	✔
Lock Controls	—	✔	✔
Thermostat Control	—	✔	✔
Geo-Services	—	✔	✔
HD & Night Vision	—	—	✔
Video Recording	—	—	✔
Scheduled Video	—	—	✔

Add-on Equipment

Key Fob
Door/Window Sensors
Motion Sensors
Tilt Sensors
Glass Break Sensor
Smoke/Heat Detector
FireFighter Module
Carbon Monoxide Detector
IQ Flood
Disaster Sensor
Indoor Siren
Siren
Doorbell
Skybell Doorbell Camera
Interior and Exterior Cameras
Smart Thermostat
Z-Wave Thermostat

Pros

Compatible with a range of home automation devices
Monitoring is done by cellular services
Intrusion alarm comes standard with all packages
This is a complete home security system

Cons

Not all packages have video recording options available
The standard option does not have a two-way voice feature

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe offers a wide variety of options for homeowners to add home security without extended contracts or damaging their home with complicated installations.

With the simple and easy app you get with this home security system, you have access from anywhere with your smart devices. With professional monitoring at an affordable monthly fee, you can be assured that your home and family are safe all the time.

All entry points are guarded with this complete security system to make sure your whole property is watched around the clock. This is an ideal system to keep watch outside while keeping you safe inside.

Installation

Anyone can install a SimpliSafe security system. Each system centers around the SimpliSafe Base Station that you plug into any outlet. The Base Station communicates easily with all of the SimpliSafe components for complication-free home security.

Package Equipment

Component

Starter*

Standard*

Elite*

Beacon*

Haven

Knox

Hearth

Essentials

Foundation

Stonefont

The Keep

The Fortress

Base Station

✔

Wireless Keypad

✔

Motion Sensor

Entry Sensor

Panic Button

–

✔

–

✔

–

✔

Freeze Sensor

–

✔

–

Water Sensor

–

✔

–

Smoke Detector

–

✔

–

105dB Siren

–

✔

–

✔

–

✔

Key Chain Remote

✔

–

✔

–

✔

SimpliCam

–

✔

–

✔

–

*Part of SimpliSafe’s Original line

Add-on Equipment

Video Doorbell
Video Doorbell Pro
Indoor Camera
Outdoor Kit for Cameras

Pros

A lot of packages to choose from
The wireless keypad is available for all packages
Most options come with a loud siren
Very easy to install for anyone

Cons

Simplicam is available with only two options
The starter option is very basic

Smaller Systems for DIY Monitoring

Nest Secure

Nest Secure, owned and sold by Google, offers several options for adding home security and home automation. Additionally, all products connect with Google Home for voice control options. Where the Nest Secure system shines is that it learns your preferences, and even who comes to your door.

Features

If you want a complete home security system compatible with a wide range of technologies, this is the ideal option. This means that you will have the surety that your home is in good hands when you are not at home.

The fact that this system is compatible and can be integrated with Google Assistant makes it the smart home security choice. This home security system is the ideal option for the smart home DIYers out there.

Installation

All Nest Secure equipment is designed to be easily installed using the Google Assistant integrated Alarm Control and your smartphone.

Package Equipment

All Nest Secure Bundles are designed to save you money when you add accessories and sensors to your core system. The Nest Secure Alarm System comes with the Nest Guard control pad, 2 Nest Detect sensors, 2 open/close magnets, 2 flat-mount, 2 corner-mount brackets, and 2 Nest Tags.

Pros

This security system is backed by Brinks security monitoring
It is easy to install this home security system
These are reliable Google equipment
Compatible with most smart home security setups

Cons

Nest Secure equipment is quite expensive
It is only a simple DIY security system

Ring Alarm

The makers of the Ring Video Doorbell bring home security options for the consumer that wants security, but the cost is an issue. Ring offers no-cost options for homeowners to monitor their own homes with no complicated contracts. Although if you want it, they do have professional monitoring services available.

Features

While this is truly a DIY installation option, it is backed by Amazon and has monitoring options available at very low fees. You can easily start with a basic option to keep your home covered and upgrade later for more advanced protection options.

Ring equipment is not very expensive, and new technology is added regularly to keep track of the newest trends. Because the monitoring fees are some of the lowest, 24/7 home monitoring is accessible to most people.

Installation

Ring Alarm components are easy DIY install in any home.

Package Equipment

The foundation of all Ring Alarm Systems is the Alarm Indoor Security Kit which includes Base Stations, a keypad, one contact sensor, one motion sensor, and a range extender. Beyond these, there are nearly endless options to add additional sensors and detectors, even video and two-way communication devices to build the home security system you need.

Pros

Very low initial costs to install this system
Monthly monitoring fees are the lowest
Professional installation is available if you need it
A great all-round type of home security system

Cons

Not many security options are available
Only one of each standard sensor is included

Scout Alarm

Like the other DIY home security systems, Scout provides nearly unlimited options for home security at some of the lowest costs in the industry. Those that want to can enlist C.O.P.S. monitoring services.

Features

As with the case of Ring, you have a completely DIY home security system, but monitoring support comes from COPS. Depending on your security needs, this system can be as big and extensive or as small as you want it to be.

The fact that Scout is completely wireless means that you are provided with much better control over your home security system. You can also access it from anywhere and easily integrate it with any smart home setup you may already have.

Installation

All Scout Alarm components are specifically designed for easy self-installation. Most components are completely wireless, so you don’t have to worry much about installation mistakes.

Package Equipment

Scout Alarm offers several Scout Pack options for those looking to save a bit of money by purchasing equipment in bundles. All packs come with a Scout hub featuring 4G cell service and a built-in siren, access monitors, motion detectors, and RFID key fobs.

Pros

Easy and quick home security system
Supports 4G cell service
Installing and setting it up is a no-brainer
Provides access to a range of monitoring equipment

Cons

It is a simple DIY home security system
Not the ideal choice for extensive home security

Conclusion

We know that there is a lot of information here. We wanted to provide the most complete guide to home security systems possible and give you the widest variety in both professional and DIY home security systems. We sincerely hope we have made your search a bit easier and look forward to providing you with relevant and up-to-date information on all things home security.