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Audited & Verified: Jul 22, 2025, 2:44pm
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| Staff EditorYour home is your sanctuary—and to ensure you can have as much peace of mind there as possible, the best home security systems can help with surveillance, alerts, alarms and more. But from the actual bells and whistles to other perks, each company has unique offerings. To help make sense of home security options available to you, we dug deep to analyze everything from cutting-edge technology to real-person customer service to price points and contracts from 35 home security companies.
The result was a clear picture of which companies stand out for their services. Whether you prioritize value for your money or want the best professional monitoring, or whatever else matters to you, the Forbes Home team can help point you in the right direction.
The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. You can read more about our editorial guidelines for the ratings below.
Featured Partners
1
Vivint
Customer Reviews
Excellent
Contract Required
Yes
Lowest Monitoring Price
$19.99
2
Simplisafe
Customer Reviews
Excellent
Contract Required
No
Lowest Pro Monitoring Price
$21.99
3
ADT
Customer Reviews
Excellent
Contract Required
Yes
Lowest Monitoring Price
$29.99
Using 75 unique attributes, we compared 35 home security companies to objectively assess the factors that matter most to consumers. This includes factors such as customer reviews, support availability, setup processes, monitoring services, smart home connectability and more.
| COMPANY | OUR RATING | BEST FOR | LOWEST MONTHLY PROFESSIONAL MONITORING FEE | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 4.8   | Best Overall | $39.99 | On Brink's Website | |
| 4.8 | Best DIY Systems | $21.99 | On SimpliSafe's Website | |
| 4.7  | Best for Plan Flexibility | $17.99 | On Cove's Website | |
| 4.7 | Best Smart Home Integration | $25.99 | Read Forbes' Review | |
| 4.6 | Best for Affordable Monitoring | $4.99 | Read Forbes' Review | |
| 4.5 | Best Equipment Variety | $39.99 | From Participating Partners | |
| 4.4 | Best Self-Monitoring | $4.99 | Read Forbes' Review | |
| 4.4 | Best All-Inclusive System | $59.99 | ||
| 4.4 | Best Basic Security Solution | $19.99 | On Scout's Website | |
| 4.3 | Best Sensors | $29.99 | Read Forbes' Review |
Best Overall
Best Overall
Brinks Home Security
Brinks Home Security has been in the business for decades, but has thoroughly modernized its offerings to provide the best of both worlds. Brinks is particularly well-regarded for its 24/7 professional monitoring systems.
Learn more: Brinks Home review
Brinks Home Security checked boxes across the board for company reputation to customer service to product specifications, earning the company our “best overall” designation. With an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and excellent support, we were especially impressed by Brinks Home Security’s commitment to providing responsive care—which is what you want with a home security company.
Why We Like It
Brinks Home Security can detect everything we evaluated, including motion detection, fires and carbon monoxide. With 24/7 professional monitoring, your home can be safe and secure whether you are there or not.
What We Don’t Like
Brinks’ professional monitoring monthly fees are higher than some other competitors, and the company requires a contract. Customers may incur an early termination fee if they attempt to end a contract early.
Who It’s Best For
Homeowners who want complete confidence in their home security monitoring—whether they are home or not—should consider the customizable services that Brinks Home Security offers.
Forbes Home surveyed 1,900 consumers about their experiences with home security companies and our team found overall positive sentiments among those who have Brinks Home Security, with 94% saying they would recommend Brinks to a friend. Among Brinks Home Security customers we surveyed, 81% said video surveillance was the most important feature to them.
Best DIY Systems
Best DIY Systems
Simplisafe
SimpliSafe Home Security has established itself as one of the top companies for customizable, DIY-friendly home security systems that are backed by the latest technology. That includes AI-powered cameras that can detect and communicate issues in real-time.
Learn more: Simplisafe Home Security review
SimpliSafe Home Security stands with features that new customers can appreciate, including no contract requirements and a generous 60-day test run with your new system in place. Equipment comes with a lifetime warranty with select professional monitoring plans.
Why We Like It
With affordable-but-quality professional monitoring available for less than $1 per day, SimpliSafe appeals to both budget-minded customers and those who want top-of-the-line home security components. SimpliSafe also offers mobile app control and smart home integration features.
What We Don’t Like
Compared with some other companies’ offerings, SimpliSafe’s smart home integration capabilities are limited—at least for now. Some customer reviews also note issues with self-monitoring and price increases.
Who It’s Best For
Customers looking to balance affordability with functionality should include SimpliSafe in their research. From bundled packages to customizable options and budget-friendly plans for monitoring, SimpliSafe’s systems can be tailored to most needs.
From our survey of 1,900 consumers about their experiences with home security companies, Forbes Home found 91% of SimpliSafe customers were satisfied with the value they received for the money they paid. Only 2% of customers would be unlikely to recommend SimpliSafe to a friend.
Best for Plan Flexibility
Best for Plan Flexibility
Cove
Cove is an excellent option for customers who want to take home security into their own hands—starting with customizable equipment options designed for easy, DIY installation. With a generous 60-day trial period and month-to-month contracts, Cove’s policies can help new customers feel comfortable before making a big commitment.
Learn more: Cove review
Cove scored well across our metrics that looked at customer service, reviews and ratings, monitoring options, plan prices and more. Overall, we were impressed by the ease of setup and value for the money that Cove offers.
Why We Like It
Two words that come to mind to sum up Cove are customization and flexibility. From designing the system that is right for any personal needs to having the freedom to stop or change service at any time, Cove delivers home security on your own terms.
What We Don’t Like
Cove now offers select security cameras from the Eufy brand. The equipment alone is excellent, but customers have reported issues getting everything properly synced in their apps and monitoring systems. Cove is also limited on the smart home integration front and, unlike some other companies, there is a fee for self-monitoring.
Who It’s Best For
Customers who want to improve their home security without the commitment of significant installation fees or an annual contract should consider putting Cove’s 60-day trial period to the test.
Forbes Home surveyed 1,900 home security customers and found that 83% of Cove customers would recommend the company to a friend. The same number of respondents were satisfied with the value they received from Cove products and plans, and 80% found the installation process to be easy or very easy.
Best Smart Home Integration
Best Smart Home Integration
Abode
Founded by a former ADT executive in 2014, Abode promises “effortless integration” with a variety of smart home devices through the Adobe hub—which even has a backup battery to keep you connected when there is a primary power disruption.
Learn more: Abode review
With no contract commitment and excellent smart home integration capabilities, we found Adobe to be a solid, customizable option for consumers who value the latest technology.
Why We Like It
Adobe’s bundled security systems—Iota Kit, Smart Security Kit and Adobe Security Kit—offer nice gateway points to home security. Adobe also arrives ready to be fully integrated with Zigbee, Z-Wave, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, Sonos and IFTTT.
What We Don’t Like
Although contracts are month-to-month, Adobe charges $74.99 for its annual “Standard Plan,” which is for anyone who wants to self-monitor. Potential customers should understand terms and conditions if they aren’t committed to using Adobe for a full year.
Who It’s Best For
Designed to be simple to install and connect to smart home systems, Adobe is a good fit for anyone who is tech-savvy but still doesn’t want to work too hard to set up their home security system.
In Forbes Home’s survey of 1,900 home security users, 86% of Adobe customers were satisfied with the reliability of their system, and 88% would recommend the company to a friend. Among the Adobe respondents, 78% paid what they expected or less for professional monitoring services.
Best for Affordable Monitoring
Best for Affordable Monitoring
Eufy
Eufy started as a smart home product company—with vacuums, in fact. Today, its home security components are so well-regarded that even Cove sells Eufy security cameras. As a home security company, Eufy also scores high for its low prices and month-by-month plans.
Learn more: Eufy review
Budget-conscious customers will like the sound of Eufy’s free self-monitoring or $4.99 per month professional monitoring. Even the top-end plan, Eufy Plus, is just $9.99 per month or $99 per year.
Why We Like It
Eufy’s self-monitoring service is truly free, which is a rarity in the industry. You don’t have to compromise on the quality of the technology either: Eufy’s solar-powered outdoor cameras start as low as $99, and premium outdoor cameras can even include color night vision.
What We Don’t Like
Eufy doesn’t offer the same variety of components or services as some other companies, making it a better option for people looking for basic home security. The third-party professional monitoring and limited customer service hours can be issues for some customers.
Who It’s Best For
Eufy may not have all the bells and whistles with professional monitoring that some other companies offer, but the coverage the company does offer for its low prices will be appealing for anyone who wants to keep monthly rates low.
Forbes Home surveyed 1,900 home security customers and, among Eufy customers, 89% were satisfied with the value they received. Most Eufy customers were happy overall with their experience, and 82% would recommend the company to a friend.
Best Equipment Variety
Best Equipment Variety
ADT
In business for more than 150 years, ADT has earned its stripes as one of the biggest and most recognizable names in home security. At the same time, the company continues to evolve and meet customer priorities—like with video and smart home capabilities.
Learn more: ADT Home Security review
Putting aside ADT’s reputation, we used our metrics to objectively assess the company’s services, customer support, contract terms and overall reviews. With this methodology, ADT scored highly, with the most notable downsides being the contract requirement and activation fee.
Why We Like It
On the other end of the spectrum from companies that push DIY installations and self-monitoring, ADT is a good choice for consumers who want professional support every step of the way.
What We Don’t Like
Although ADT offers month-by-month contracts for self-installed and basic plans, professionally installed systems require 36-month contract commitments with rates starting at $34.99 per month.
Who It’s Best For
Customers pay more of a premium for ADT in exchange for top-notch professional services from ADT agents who have an average of seven years of experience.
According to Forbes Home’s survey of 1,900 home security customers, those who use ADT were more likely to say they valued the brand’s reputation than customers of other brands. Most customers were also happy with their experience—with 86% saying they would recommend ADT to a friend.
Best Self-Monitoring
Best Self-Monitoring
Ring
Founded more than a decade ago with a video doorbell, Ring has grown to be a comprehensive player in the home security market—and has even more power behind it since being acquired by Amazon in 2018. With user-friendly products and affordable prices, Ring also earned points in our book for its smart home integrations.
Learn more: Ring review
Ring earned a strong score with our metrics thanks in part to the company’s customer-friendly policies, such as no contract requirements, no activation fee and a 30-day trial period. It’s also free to self-monitor systems or you can get professional monitoring for a relatively low monthly rate—although the premium service jumps up to $99 per month.
Why We Like It
Ring continues to innovate with features like AI-powered video descriptions and 3D motion detection. The company also offers customizable options with professional monitoring, such as paying $5 per month for 24/7 smoke and carbon monoxide alarm monitoring.
What We Don’t Like
Although self-monitoring is technically free, customers who want stored video footage need to pay a subscription fee. The devices are also heavily reliant on a good internet connection, which can also place a strain on any household data limits.
Who It’s Best For
Ring specializes in straightforward, cost-effective monitoring tools that are particularly well-suited for customers who don’t mind installing and monitoring their home security system on their own.
Forbes Home surveyed 1,900 consumers about their experiences with home security companies, and our team found Ring customers have overall positive sentiments regarding the company. Among those with Ring, an impressive 93% said they would recommend the company to a friend, and 89% said Ring delivers good value for the money.
Best All-Inclusive System
Best All-Inclusive System
Guardian Protection
Guardian Protection has been in the home security business since 1950 with both personal and business clients. If you haven’t heard of the company, that could be because it isn’t in your area: Guardian provides service in limited regions of 11 states. Where it does operate, Guardian has an all-inclusive approach to installation and monitoring.
With an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and strong customer reviews, Guardian Protection has earned customers for more than 70 years by providing quality, 24/7 professional monitoring.
Why We Like It
From free professional installation to professional monitoring by its own agents, Guardian Protection doesn’t cut corners when it comes to service.
What We Don’t Like
Guardian’s three-day trial period is pretty laughable compared to the windows offered by other companies, although it’s a bit more understandable in the context of the company’s emphasis on free professional installations.
Who It’s Best For
Guardian is worth considering for residents in areas serviced by Guardian who value professional monitoring.
Forbes Home surveyed 1,900 home security customers to evaluate sentiments and experiences with home security companies. Among Guardian customers, 84% were satisfied with the value they received for the price they paid. A total 86% of Guardian customers would recommend the company to a friend.
Best Basic Security Solution
Best Basic Security Solution
Scout
Promising “no contracts, no hardwiring, no hassle,” Scout is a DIY-friendly home security solution that goes a step further by appealing to customers who value smart home integration and value for their money. Founded in 2013 in Chicago, Scout is one of the smaller companies we reviewed, but it earned a spot on the list for its customizable offerings.
Learn more: Scout review
With inexpensive self-monitoring solutions and professional monitoring starting at $19.99 per month, Scout makes home security affordable. The company earned points for the generous trial period (60 days) and no long-term contract requirement.
Why We Like It
Scout is great for mixing and matching with third-party smart devices, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest and more. Installation is billed as “ridiculously easy,” which our survey of 1,900 home security customers backed up: Only 4% of Scout users rated the installation process as somewhat challenging—with the rest saying they were neutral or it was easy.
What We Don’t Like
Self-monitoring is $9.99 per month, which grants customers access to remote app control and cellular backup. Cloud storage for camera recordings is an additional $2.99 per month per camera.
Who It’s Best For
For customers who don’t want to dive into the deep end of home security, Scout is a budget- and DIY-friendly solution that can be easily integrated with current or future smart home components.
According to Forbes Home’s survey of 1,900 home security customers, opinions of Scout are overall positive. Of the Scout customers we surveyed, 80% said they were satisfied with the value they received for the money they spent.
Best Sensors
Best Sensors
Arlo
Founded less than 10 years ago, Arlo positions itself as a home security company “powered by innovation,” which is evident in smart home integration, use of AI and long-lasting batteries. The company also prioritizes personal privacy with extra steps in place for customer cybersecurity.
Learn More: Arlo review
As one of the newer companies on our list, Arlo broke through the competition thanks to its impressive array of high-tech products, including 4K video cameras and the company’s unique all-in-one sensor.
Why We Like It
Arlo’s all-in-one sensor is worth a closer look: For just $29.99, the sensor has eight security detections, including motion, leak, freeze, smoke, carbon monoxide and more. The rest of Arlo’s security components are similarly impressive with excellent battery life on wireless components.
What We Don’t Like
Arlo is on the pricier side when it comes to the cost of components. There is also no phone or email support, which was a pain point for customers based on reviews we assessed.
Who It’s Best For
Customers who want top-of-the-line cameras, sensors and more should consider Arlo. The components can be easily scaled as home security needs change.
Forbes Home surveyed 1,900 home security customers and found that 80% of Arlo customers would recommend the company to a friend. Slightly fewer people—78%—said they found Arlo to offer good value for the money.
When you’re comparing DIY or professional home security systems, your personal priorities are important to keep in mind. Depending on what you need, some core features to consider include what type of monitoring, what equipment is used, installation and recurring costs, smart home compatibility and contract terms—among other factors.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Home Security Installers
Free, No-commitment Estimates
According to our research, the average cost to install a home security system is $600. That includes the range from basic, DIY home systems that run about $200 up to comprehensive, professionally installed systems that can be upwards of $1,200. The average cost for a basic whole-home system is $460. This has the most essential equipment to establish your home security system. Costing about $175 each, indoor and outdoor home security cameras were the most expensive single items from the options we reviewed. Video doorbells are another popular addition to home security systems. These cost approximately $170. Smart home features are typically add-ons, and these costs can range from $15 on the low end for smart lighting to $500 on the high end for smart locks.
In addition to equipment costs, installation and activation fees can add to the upfront expense. Depending on the scale and complexity of the system being installed, installation fees can range from $100 to $1,400, making it essential to understand how they factor into the cost before you commit to a new system. Alternately, some companies allow customers to install their own equipment, but they may still be subject to an activation fee. Customers should also factor in the ongoing monitoring fees to their budget, which can range from $4.99 to $59.99 from the companies we recommend.
Some companies offer payment plans or options to help with the initial expense of installing a home security system.
As you assess home security companies, one of the factors that can make the biggest difference to your budget and overall experience is whether the company offers professional monitoring or if there is an option for self-monitoring. There are advantages and disadvantages to either method, so it’s important to evaluate your needs.
With a self-monitored home security system, you can avoid monthly fees for professional monitoring, which can be a significant recurring expense. This approach does place the responsibility on you and other designated residents to monitor alerts as they arise. Most systems are integrated with phone apps and in-home alarms, so there are multiple ways to get notified of a potential problem whether you are home or away. If there is a true emergency, you will need to get in contact with authorities on your own rather than have that managed by the professional monitors.
Home security companies charge an average of $20 to $60 per month for professional monitoring, but this is a price that many people opt to pay for the peace of mind that it brings. Although details vary from company to company and from plan to plan, professional monitoring generally involves alerting remote human agents to a potential issue in the home. They will then attempt to get in contact with the plan owner and, if necessary, will communicate with emergency dispatch. If you regularly travel or go without cell service, professional monitoring can ensure an emergency at your home will be promptly addressed in your absence.
Some renters or homeowners insurance plans offer discounts if your residence is professionally monitored, so that’s something worth inquiring about as you make a decision.
In the course of reviewing 254 different home security systems, we found a variety of ways that people can save money while still improving their home security. This starts when you are considering what equipment to install.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Home Security Installers
Free, No-commitment Estimates
To pick the best internet providers and determine our rankings, the Forbes Home editorial team compared 35 major home security companies across 75 different metrics, including monitoring options and costs, smart home compatibility and our user survey data. You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates home security providers in our detailed methodology page.
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By nature of their internet connection, smart home security systems have a certain level of vulnerability to cyberattacks. According to a 2023 study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, privacy intrusions are the biggest threat, followed by hacking and malware. To ensure you are protected, review any potential home security company’s policies or ask about what protections they have in place.
Consumers in areas with high crime rates may find more benefit from comprehensive, professionally monitored systems. Particular types of equipment that can be helpful include high-resolution cameras with night vision and video recording technology, while features like floodlights and sensors that sound alarms can help ward off would-be intruders.
Permit requirements are put in place by some local authorities to protect community resources against false emergency alarms. Before moving ahead with a home security system, you can check with your local police or fire department. We found that permits can cost between $40 and $550. If you do not get a permit where one is required, you may be subject to fines.
As a writer for Forbes Home since 2021, Emily specializes in writing about home warranties, solar installations, car transportation and moving companies. With a background in journalism and experience as a three-time homeowner, Emily uses deep research and insights to cover a variety of topics.
Sami Allen is the managing editor at Forbes Home, with over seven years of experience in the home space and 10 years of editing experience.
