Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2024

1. ADT - Best Professional Monitoring

SecurityScore:

9.8 /10

855-908-4461

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment Costs	Packages starting at $599
Monitoring Options	Professional
Monthly Monitoring Costs	Starting at $25 per month
Contract Lengths	36 months and up
Installation Options	Professional
Smart Platform Integration	Alexa and Google Home

855-908-4461

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ADT Overview

ADT wasn’t always wireless, and unlike Frontpoint that completely cut the cord in the early 2010s, ADT used to offer both wired and wireless security systems. Even today, some of its components, such as the Nest Cam with Floodlight, need to be wired. However, ADT has come to the point that it can be installed DIY (see our ADT Self Setup review) thanks to them being wireless. We’d still recommend professional installation though.

ADT’s Benefits

There’s a lot of upsides to mention, but we’ll start with the equipment. The latest ADT security system includes high-quality gear from Google Nest. We mentioned earlier the wired Nest Cam with Floodlight, but if you’re looking for something wireless, our personal picks are the Nest Cam (battery) and the Google Nest Doorbell (battery). Both cameras need no wires to monitor both indoor and outdoor spaces.

ADT’s monitoring is also a major selling point because of how reliable it is. It’s the only security system provider to have as many as 12 monitoring facilities in North America. The industry term for that is “redundancy,” because even if one of those facilities shuts down for whatever reason, the others can keep the monitoring service running. They also have backup generators, servers, and communication like monitoring centers usually do.

ADT’s Drawbacks

Those benefits highlight the reliability of ADT both in terms of equipment and monitoring, but that doesn’t come cheap. We’re paying ADT $44.99 per month for the monitoring service. For the technician, we paid over $200 to get all our gear installed. And for the equipment alone, we spent about $500 for the sensors, hub, and accessories plus about $300 for the security camera and video doorbell.

Does that mean that ADT isn’t for the budget conscious? Not really. The monitoring fee actually starts at $29.99 if you don’t have any smart home gear or security cameras. You can also skip the installation fee if you go the DIY route. And for the equipment, you can finance it for up to 36 months. It’s actually one of the more affordable security systems now, and again, you’re paying for the reliability and quality of service, so ADT is well worth it.

>> Read More: ADT Frequently Asked Questions

ADT’s Costs

Let’s drill deeper into the ADT’s pricing, particularly the equipment. You can skip professional monitoring if you DIY the installation, but you’d need to buy the hardware to use ADT. The base price is $269 for the Base (hub) and one entry sensor. You can pay that over 36 months for about $7.50 per month.

Is that enough protection? If you live in a studio-type condo unit, probably. But most people would need more than just a motion sensor. You can build the base package up with additional equipment, or you can get a bigger package instead. These are the options:

If you’re not familiar with home security pricing — and who could blame you — let me tell you that those costs are a little steep. A thousand bucks for a video doorbell, an indoor camera, a smart plug, a smart lock, a motion detector, some contact sensors, and a control panel is a bit much, but it’s not totally outrageous. You’re paying for the convenience of having it all packaged for you and administered by one of the most trusted names in the industry.

>> Keep Reading: The Best Professionally Installed Security Systems

ADT’s Monitoring

As we mentioned earlier, we do recommend springing for a professional monitoring plan. It’s required anyway if you finance your equipment or have it professionally installed. And just a quick reminder, it costs $29.99 to $44.99 per month depending on what devices you have. We’re paying $44.99 because we have security cameras.

That’s not at all the most affordable monitoring price; SimpliSafe charges $31.99 for a similar subscription with cloud storage. But just comparing the video security features alone, we think ADT is more worth it. The $44.99 plan includes cloud storage for unlimited cameras and Nest Aware – Google Nest’s subscription service that enables facial recognition for all Nest Cams and Doorbells. In comparison, SimpliSafe’s plan supports only 10 security cameras per household.

On top of that, all ADT subscriptions use advanced monitoring and alarm response strategies such as SMART monitoring. With it, ADT’s alarm response to our simulated break-ins started with a text. We found it convenient because we didn’t need to pick up the phone everytime our security system was triggered. We could just confirm alerts or mark them as false alarms through text. If you don’t respond within 30 seconds, only then will ADT call to check on you.

>> Explore More: The Best Self-Monitored Security Systems

2. SimpliSafe - Best DIY Option

SecurityScore:

9.2 /10

800-544-5942

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment Costs	Packages starting at $280
Monitoring Options	Professional and DIY
Monthly Monitoring Costs	$19.99 per month
Contract Lengths	Month-to-month
Installation Options	DIY or professional
Smart Platform Integration	Alexa and Google Home

800-544-5942

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SimpliSafe Overview

SimpliSafe started as a security system for renters and has always been known for being wireless. But it’s more than just that now. It has high-quality equipment, some of the most advanced video security features, and a wide selection of home security and safety devices. It’s as good a security system for apartments as it is for large homes. In fact, it can even protect small businesses, especially with its newly launched monitoring features such as Active Guard Outdoor Protection that enables professional monitoring of outdoor security cameras. Not even ADT offers that feature.

>> Learn More: A Review of the SimpliCam

SimpliSafe’s Benefits

SimpliSafe is also one of the best security systems that doesn’t require a monthly contract. That’s why it stands out next to more traditional systems like ADT and Vivint. Even though it offers advanced professional monitoring, it doesn’t require you to commit long-term. In fact, you don’t need to commit at all because you can also self-monitor SimpliSafe.

Let’s talk about those advanced monitoring features though, because as it stands, it’s SimpliSafe’s biggest advantage right now. With the mid-tier Core plan, SimpliSafe will be able to check your Smart Alarm Wireless Indoor Camera footage to verify alerts from your sensors. They can even use two-way talk if they see a potential burglar lurking around. That’s a huge step up from traditional professional monitoring. Plus, it’s not at all expensive. The Core plan costs only $31.99 per month – just a few dollars more than ADT’s entry-level option.

SimpliSafe’s Drawbacks

While I love SimpliSafe’s equipment variety, I’m surprised it still offers an analog keypad versus a touch screen one. Even worse, you need it to make the system work, and it costs $60. I much prefer using the SimpliSafe app, so the keypad feels like a waste of money.

Another drawback has to do with the installation. SimpliSafe is one of the easiest DIY systems to install and the main reason is the peel-and-stick mounting. However, they don’t hold up for long. My motion detector fell off the wall and caused a false alarm two months into testing SimpliSafe. That issue can be easily fixed though. I recommend using the anchor points to hang your sensors to the wall whenever possible, especially if you’re going for longevity.

>> Learn More: Best Security System With Apps

SimpliSafe’s Costs

Speaking of SimpliSafe equipment, let’s look at how much they will cost you. SimpliSafe packages are a great way to get started, and these are the primary options.

When you compare SimpliSafe and ADT prices, it becomes clear that SimpliSafe is more affordable. But that makes sense. DIY systems are often cheaper. Compared to other DIY options though, SimpliSafe sits on the higher end of the spectrum. There are options such as Cove that let you get started on a comprehensive package for under $200.

On the bright side, SimpliSafe loves offering discounts. It seems like it’s running a sale everyday, with discounts ranging from 20 to 60-percent. SimpliSafe’s early Black Friday sale this year, for example, offers the maximum 60-percent discount plus a free wireless indoor camera.

SimpliSafe’s Monitoring

Once the equipment is set up, it’s time to decide how you want it monitored. There’s a free self-monitoring option, making SimpliSafe one of the best security systems with no monthly fees. Our recommended route, however, is professional monitoring. Check out the options below, and then I’ll give you some recommendations.

We recommend the Core plan because it significantly increases your home security. Beyond just professional monitoring and cellular backup, it offers Live Guard Protection. As mentioned earlier, it’s a way to verify alarms and drive away burglars using the wireless indoor camera’s video and audio.

There are actually two more monitoring plans from SimpliSafe. They are called Pro and Pro Plus and cost $49.99 and $79.99, respectively. They both include all Core features, but have Active Guard Outdoor Protection as a bonus. While Live Guard works on the wireless indoor camera, Active Guard works on the wireless outdoor camera. Pro enables the feature overnight, while Pro Plus activates it 24/7. They are significantly more expensive than the Core plan though, and unless you have a wide front yard or property, we still think the Core plan is the best option.

3. Vivint - Best Smart Home Integrations

SecurityScore:

9.4 /10

844-922-0575

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment costs	Starting at $449
Monitoring options	Professional
Monthly monitoring costs	$40 per month
Contract lengths	Starting at 42 months
Installation options	Professional
Smart platform integration	Alexa and Google Home

844-922-0575

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Vivint Overview

Similar to ADT, Vivint takes a pretty traditional approach to home security. Its systems have to be professionally installed and monitored, and it focuses on the customer experience — which means you don’t have to lift a finger. In my experience, Vivint’s professional installation service is on par and as top-notch as ADT’s.

>> Compare: Vivint vs. ADT

That said, it’s also one of the most technologically advanced security systems out there. That’s why Vivint home automation is a favorite for folks looking to automate their homes. Vivint works with all sorts of third-party smart device manufacturers, so this may be the right system if you want to be able to control your thermostat, lights, and security cameras all from one place.

Vivint’s Benefits

The headline here is Vivint’s smart home integrations. Not only does it work with Alexa, Google Home, and, to a lesser extent, Apple HomeKit, but it also works with Philips Hue smart lights, Nest thermostats, and a whole slew of smart home equipment to modernize your life. When I was testing the Vivint system, I couldn’t get enough of controlling everything with my voice — so much so that my partner had to poke her head out of her office and politely ask me to shut my trap.

>> Read More: The Best Home Security Systems for Google Home

Aside from making you feel like Captain Kirk, Vivint’s equipment is all top of the line and outfitted with the latest and greatest in artificial intelligence analytics and other high-tech protections. I’d specifically point out Vivint’s cameras’ smart detect and deter features that identify potential lurkers and scare them off with light and sound. The feature works surprisingly well, and it noticed me every time I tried to slink up to my walkway or hop the gate to my backyard. More on that in my review of Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro.

Vivint’s Drawbacks

Similar to ADT, the primary drawback of Vivint is the eye-watering price. I’ll get into more detail below, but the systems can easily cost thousands of dollars. If that’s in your budget, then no problem. But if you’re trying to protect a bigger property with a Vivint system, expect your bill to rack up quickly — especially if you want both indoor and outdoor cameras.

>> Learn More: Best Security Systems for Large Homes

Another potential drawback is that since the majority of its equipment is proprietary, no other security provider will be able to use it. If you decide to cancel your service with Vivint, the high-tech cameras you purchased will become obsolete. That’s where ADT has a bit of an advantage, since it has a partnership with Google. Even without ADT monitoring, you can use Nest Cams as standalone security cameras.

One final thing: If you sign a monitoring contract, which most Vivint customers have to do, there’s only a three-day grace period for free cancellation. Beyond that, you have to either finish the contract or pay a hefty fee to cancel. Three days is short when there are options like SimpliSafe that offer a 60-day refund policy and ADT that offers a six-month money-back guarantee.

Vivint’s Costs

Each one of Vivint’s security systems is bespoke, which means you won’t find pricing information for packages on the website. The company says its systems start at $29.99 per month, but it’s unclear how long the contract term is or the size of the system. (Our plan cost $60 per month for five years.) If you’re interested in Vivint’s pricing, the best thing to do is request a quote. It’s free, and there’s no huge pressure to buy.

To give you an idea of what you might pay, here are the rough costs of each piece of equipment the company offers that I received when I tested the system.

At $200 to $400, just one Vivint outdoor camera costs the same as SimpliSafe’s whole midrange system. You can see how things can add up pretty quickly. Keep in mind, though, that the system is extremely powerful and extremely advanced, which comes at a premium.

>> Compare Options: Vivint vs. SimpliSafe

Vivint’s Monitoring

Similar to the equipment costs, your monitoring costs will depend entirely on the size of the system. Vivint says it starts at $40 per month, but you should expect to spend $50 to $60 monthly. But that gets you around-the-clock professional monitoring protection.

I should also point out that Vivint offers continuous video recording via its latest generation of cameras. Those cameras can store up to 10 days of rolling videos locally with or without Wi-Fi, which can be crucial if you can’t trust your Wi-Fi’s reliability. ADT also offers continuous video recording now, but at an added cost per month. With Vivint, that feature is included in your equipment purchase.

>> Read More: Vivint Sales and Deals

You can add home-automation features and video security to your monitoring package, but those options both cost more. The best option is to get in touch with Vivint, describe your security needs, and ask for a quote, and then weigh that estimate against what you see in my review. If you’re decking out your home with lots of smart home products and features, expect to pay at least $1,500 to $2,000 up front and $60 monthly.

4. Frontpoint - Easiest System to Set Up

SecurityScore:

8.9 /10

844-933-2405

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How We Review

Product Specs

Equipment Costs	Starting at $99
Monitoring Options	Professional only
Monthly Monitoring Costs	Starting at $49.99
Contract Lengths	1-36 months
Installation Options	DIY
Smart Platform Integration	Alexa and Google Home

844-933-2405

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Frontpoint Overview

Let’s head back over to the world of DIY home security with Frontpoint.

It’s not as big of a name as, say, SimpliSafe or Ring, but I’d argue that’s more a function of marketing than service. Frontpoint has been in the industry for over 20 years, and it’s every bit as powerful as its bigger-name competitors.

Compare Options: Frontpoint vs. Ring

Frontpoint does a good job of offering the best of both worlds when it comes to the ease of a DIY system and the power of professional monitoring. Just make sure you’re budgeting for a pretty significant monthly monitoring fee.

Frontpoint’s Benefits

One of the most interesting things about Frontpoint is how scalable it is. You can start with a very basic system and work your way up incrementally. Each system requires a monthly monitoring fee, but each system can accommodate up to 80 sensors and over 200 smart home devices. I ran up a $600 tab when I tested it because I wanted to test every piece of equipment the company offered, but you can get a perfectly reasonable system for a lot less and grow it over time. That’s its advantage as a DIY system compared to ADT and Vivint that require professional installation. Anytime you need new equipment, you can order it online and install it yourself.

>> Learn More: Frontpoint Frequently Asked Questions

Similar to Vivint, Frontpoint is very accommodating to third-party smart home technology. It didn’t feel as futuristic or expansive, but it still felt plenty entertaining to tell Alexa, “Secure the perimeter.”

Frontpoint’s Drawbacks

One minor downside of Frontpoint is that like SimpliSafe, you’re required to buy the analog keypad. But on the bright side, you have the option to buy a wireless touch screen keypad for a little over $100.

The biggest drawback of Frontpoint is that every system requires a $49.99-per-month monitoring fee. That’s a pretty tough pill to swallow when you consider SimpliSafe’s most advanced monitoring is only about half the cost, and it includes live video verification. I’d like to see a self-monitored option, but you can read more about that in my SimpliSafe vs. Frontpoint comparison guide.

Another turnoff is that nothing in Frontpoint’s tool belt really wows me. With SimpliSafe, it’s clearly the Fast Protect monitoring coupled with the cameras. With ADT, it’s the world-class monitoring. With Vivint, it’s the slick smart home integrations. Frontpoint, on the other hand, is pretty whole-wheat toast. It’s good for breakfast, but it’s nothing to get excited about. If I had to pick one thing that stood out with Frontpoint, it’s the web dashboard, where I was able to customize my system to my liking.

Frontpoint’s Costs

Despite a notable lack of a “wow” factor, Frontpoint offers solid security systems that will get the job done right. What’s more, they’re very affordable. I have more detailed information in my guide to Frontpoint’s costs, but here’s a quick rundown of its security packages. Pay no attention to that “regular price” column; I’ll tell you why in a second.

There’s a trend I’ve noticed in the home security industry, particularly with DIY providers. They like to make up exorbitant “regular” prices, and then offer deep discount “sales” that they attach artificial deadlines to, usually in the form of big banners at the top of their websites that say something like, “Ending at Midnight!”

Here’s a tip though: It never ends at midnight. I’ve been covering Frontpoint for years, and I’ve never seen its packages cost full price. Don’t feel like you have to act quickly to take advantage of savings. You’ll always get a “discount.”

Frontpoint isn’t the only offender either. SimpliSafe is guilty of it, and so is Abode. I’m sure there’s some pseudo-psychological marketing reason behind the tactic (it creates false scarcity), but it just feels a little weird to me.

>> Learn More: Abode Home Security Review

Keep in mind, though, that there are legitimate ways to save on a home security system from the company. Check out my guide to Frontpoint’s deals for more information.

Similar to SimpliSafe, Frontpoint lets you add individual pieces of equipment to any system or even build your own. Here’s a list of what it offers and the prices.

Frontpoint’s Monitoring

Here’s a breakdown of everything that comes with the Frontpoint monitoring package:

• 24/7 monitoring
• Cellular backup
• Automated system check
• Unique user codes
• Crash-and-smash protection
• Geo-location services
• Mobile alerts
• Text notifications
• Remote access and control
• Sensor history
• Live video streaming
• Video and image history
• Motion triggered alerts

That’s a pretty robust monitoring system — a lot more than SimpliSafe offers with its standard plan. Is it worth $50 per month? That’s for you to decide, but I wouldn’t consider it bare-bones by any means.