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The best home security systems of 2023


Headshot of Sharon Wu
Researched by
Sharon WuContributing Writer
Headshot of Eric Paulsen
Headshot of Vilja Johnson
Reviewed by
Updated 3/15/23

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Our approach
9 brands reviewed
100+ hours of hands-on testing
6 home security experts

We put the top home security systems to the test, and SimpliSafe emerged as the clear winner for 2023. Our evaluation included everything from cost to installation and user experience. SimpliSafe blew us away with its hassle-free setup, customizable options, responsive customer support, and outstanding value.

Top 3 home security providers

Editor's choice
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe brand logo
Staff rating
4.1

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $17.99–$27.99/mo.
  • Equipment: $199+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current SimpliSafe deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Runner-up
Vivint
Vivint brand logo
Staff rating
4.1

  • Installation: Pro
  • Monitoring: $29.99–$49.99/mo.+
  • Equipment: $600+
  • Contract: 0–60 months

Click below for all current Vivint deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Runner-up
Cove
Cove brand logo
Staff rating
4.0

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $17.99/mo.+
  • Equipment: $249+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Cove deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

How we chose the top home security providers

With dozens of home security options available, it can be challenging to pick the right provider to keep your home, family, and assets safe. That's why we created a ranking system to help you find a system that delivers the right protection for you. We tested each system in our own homes, so you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.


  • Equipment and customization
    We tested each system to assess equipment quality and the level of smart-home integration.
  • Value
    We evaluated each home security system's pricing to see if you get what you pay for in terms of protection and equipment reliability.
  • Ease of use
    We installed and tested 11 home security systems to determine which ones provided the best protection and ease of use for homeowners.
  • Monitoring
    We compared and analyzed coverage, monitoring plans, and service reliability to identify home security providers that offer the most dependable protection.
  • Customer service
    We each provider’s customer support and compared their customer satisfaction ratings, benefits, drawbacks, and unique features.
  • Data privacy
    We studied each provider's privacy policies to help you choose one that best protects your information.

Top home security systems in 2023

#1 SimpliSafe: Best overall home security system

What we like

  • Easy customization
  • Affordable options
  • Straightforward setup
What we dislike

  • Minor glitches during installation
  • Expensive interactive monitoring
  • Limited customer support online

After conducting hands-on testing for 9 systems, we determined that DIY company SimpliSafe is the top home security brand of 2023. Our team of experts evaluated various factors, including cost, installation, user experience, and customer service to come to this conclusion.

The first thing we looked at was SimpliSafe’s equipment and customization offerings. With seven different bundle options to choose from, SimpliSafe provides a high level of customization compared to its competitors. If you choose to build your own system from the ground up, you’ll start with a base station and wireless keypad. You can then add entry sensors, motion sensors, smoke detectors, cameras, and more.

We found all of our SimpliSafe devices to be easy to pair and of really high quality. We also love how easy it is to connect with multiple smart home devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Watch, and many more third-party systems.

Collection of sealed SimpliSafe devices
Installed SimpliSafe indoor camera
Preinstalled SimpliSafe indoor motion detector
Preinstalled SimpliSafe keypad
Preinstalled SimpliSafe door and window entry sensor
Installed SimpliSafe base station

Another factor that makes SimpliSafe a solid choice is its affordability. Its products are competitively priced and buyers can save even more cash by buying a package during a promotion. For example, we bought The Essentials package and added an indoor camera for under $200.

Another significant advantage is how easy SimpliSafe is to install and use. You don't have to be a "tech person" to install the system on your own. The process is straightforward, with the app walking you through the setup step by step. The system is completely drill-free, making it ideal for renters or homeowners who don’t want to damage their walls. It took us about an hour to get everything up and running.

The monitoring options are also noteworthy. Unlike other competitors offering one or two choices, SimpliSafe gives three monitoring options. You can self-monitor at no cost, get standard monitoring for $17.99 per month, or go with interactive monitoring for $27.99 per month.

Editor's choice
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe brand logo
Staff rating
4.1

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $17.99–$27.99/mo.
  • Equipment: $199+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current SimpliSafe deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Home security system runners-up

#2 Vivint: Best home security equipment

What we like

  • High-quality proprietary equipment
  • Line of smart home devices
  • User-friendly app and control panel
What we dislike

  • Expensive equipment and monitoring
  • Lack of DIY and integration options
  • Difficult-to-cancel contracts

Vivint is a well-known, professionally installed smart home security system with its own line of proprietary equipment. The system offers a plethora of smart home features, and the app and control panel work seamlessly with the equipment. Vivint’s home security devices are extremely well-made and look beautiful in just about any home.

In terms of compatibility, Vivint uses some non-proprietary gear, including Kwikset smart locks, Google Nest thermostats, and myQ garage door controllers. The Kwikset locks work well with the Vivint app, but the myQ garage controller was less impressive. And compared to other home security providers out there, third-party integration is limited. For example, you can't pair the system with cameras from any other brand.

During our test drive, the equipment worked well, with only one minor hiccup. The motion sensor didn't stay intact with the adhesive fixture. A technician had to come back and drill it into place (with a professionally installed system, be prepared for some hard-wiring and minor wall damage). The sensor proved to be a sturdy device as it continued working once reinstalled.

Vivint video doorbell attached to outside doorframe
Vivint indoor camera mounted to wall
Vivint outdoor camera mounted to exterior wall
Installation technician showing woman how to operate Vivint control panel
Vivint motion detector installed to two conjoining doorframes
Installation technician installing Kwikset door lock

Overall, Vivint provides high-quality, user-friendly, proprietary equipment. It's a great choice if you're looking for all the smart home bells and whistles and don't mind paying top dollar for equipment—which starts at around $700 and can range well into the thousands.

Keep shopping around if you prefer a lower upfront investment, a DIY installation, and a cheap monthly bill. While Vivint has stellar monitoring services, it’s pricier than its competitors. Beyond the $29.99-$49.99 monthly base rates, your bill may be significantly higher if you choose to finance your equipment. Unlike many home security providers, Vivint has additional fees that some may not want to deal with, including a professional-installation charge.

Runner-up
Vivint
Vivint brand logo
Staff rating
4.1

  • Installation: Pro
  • Monitoring: $29.99–$49.99/mo.+
  • Equipment: $600+
  • Contract: 0–60 months

Click below for all current Vivint deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

#3 Cove: Best budget home security

What we like

  • Low upfront cost
  • No contracts
  • Simple installation
What we dislike

  • No self-monitoring option
  • Limited equipment selection
  • Lack of home automation

Cove is an up-and-coming DIY home security brand. Its costs are better than most, and we love that it doesn't require contracts. It may not have the same equipment selection as other companies, but its frequent sales on surprisingly high-quality devices make it a great value.

We built an entire Cove system with a security camera for around $300. This price is hard to beat for a quality home security system. Cove's add-on pricing is also very reasonable. For example, window and door sensors cost around $15 each, which is about $5 less than most competitors. You can purchase plenty more extras to enhance your home security without spending a fortune.

Cove equipment box and yard sign on table
Cove control panel on wooden surface
Cove indoor camera on counter
Cove control panel, glass break, motion detector, keyfob, and door/window sensors
Man testing Cove control panel's touch screen applications
A Cove sensor being installed to a door and frame

One of Cove's drawbacks is it doesn't allow for self-monitoring. You’ll have to subscribe to one of its monitoring plans, so it's crucial to consider these costs when comparing Cove's pricing with other systems. Cove has two monitoring plans: Basic for $17.99 per month and Plus for $27.99 per month, which is on par with other DIY providers, such as SimpliSafe. These costs aren’t the cheapest in the market, but they’re far from the most expensive—and given how robust Cove’s professional monitoring is, you’re getting a real bargain.

Runner-up
Cove
Cove brand logo
Staff rating
4.0

  • Installation: DIY
  • Monitoring: $17.99/mo.+
  • Equipment: $249+
  • Contract: None

Click below for all current Cove deals

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Availability by location may vary.

Explore our other home security rankings

There’s a lot at stake when it comes to protecting your home, and we want you to feel confident that you chose the right home security provider. Our expert reviewers compared both DIY and professionally installed home security companies to help you identify the best one for your situation.

The best DIY home security providers

  1. SimpliSafe
  2. Cove
  3. Arlo

The best professionally installed home security providers

  1. Vivint
  2. Xfinity Home

Read more home security reviews

How to choose a home security system

When deciding on a home security system, think about whether you want a professionally installed or DIY system. DIY systems are often more affordable and allow for further customization. But they require more technical know-how and troubleshooting skills. Professionally installed systems, on the other hand, offer a wider range of features and services but at a higher price tag. They usually require you to commit to a long-term contract as well.

Another factor to consider when shopping for a dependable home security system is its basic components. The most common ones include door and window sensors, motion detectors, and cameras. Consider adding extra components like glass break sensors and smoke detectors for added protection.

When it comes to cameras, you'll need to decide between wired and wireless options. Wired cameras are more reliable, but they can be hard to install, and many find them to be less aesthetically pleasing. In contrast, wireless cameras are more flexible when it comes to placement and installation. However, they can be subject to vulnerabilities and rely on a strong Wi-Fi signal.

You’ll also want to explore ample monitoring options, including self-monitoring through a smartphone app, professional monitoring, or a combination of both. Consider other costs like equipment, installation, and ongoing monitoring fees. When it comes to smart home integration, find a system that can pair with your smart home devices for a more personalized experience.

How much a home security system costs

A home security system's cost varies depending on factors like how much equipment you need, equipment types, monitoring options, installation choices, and extra features. The main costs are the equipment cost and the monthly monitoring fee.

For DIY companies, equipment costs can range anywhere from $100 (basic packages) for small homes to mid-to-upper hundreds for larger homes with more extensive systems. With most DIY systems, you can self-monitor for free or opt for professional monitoring, which usually sits in the $20–$30 range.

For professionally installed systems, equipment generally starts at around $700 and skyrockets well into the thousands. You’ll typically be locked into a contract, and you can’t self-monitor. Professional monitoring fees range from $30 to $60 or more per month.

How to save money on home security

Whether you opt for a DIY or professionally installed system, it's possible to have robust home security without breaking the bank.

Start by customizing your system to include only necessary components like door and window sensors, a central control panel, and outdoor cameras. This eliminates the cost of unnecessary add-ons. Save more money by shopping around for the best prices on each component. Search for discounts, bundles, and deals—which are common, especially amongst DIY home security companies.

Finally, consider whether you need a professionally monitored system or if a DIY, self-monitored system through a smartphone app will suffice. If you choose a professionally monitored one, look for an affordable monitoring service that fits your needs. Don't forget to double-check for contract obligations!

Questions to ask home security companies

Before committing to a provider, ask the right questions to make an informed decision:

  • Do you have tiered monitoring plans? How do they work?
  • What are your contract terms and cancelation policies?
  • What is your exchange policy for devices?
  • Are my equipment and services transferable if I move?
  • Does your service qualify for discounts on homeowner's insurance?
  • Who owns my data?
  • Does you share data or video footage without my consent?
  • What is the warranty on my equipment?
  • What is the typical response time for emergency services?
  • How can I reach customer support if needed?
  • What is your installation process like?

Understanding the company's policies will help you pick the right provider for your home security needs.

Browse our home security resources

Read these helpful articles to become an expert on home security, and get all the info you need to choose the right home security provider for your needs.

How we rank home security companies

We’re committed to untarnished editorial integrity, so we want to be transparent about what we do, how we make money, and why we evaluate home security brands the way we do.

First, we seek out home security experts with a proven track record writing about and reviewing home security to write reviews. Then we send them actual home security equipment to test in their own homes in a real-world setting. Using their first-hand experience and findings, we then run each review through an objective star-rating formula to ensure each brand is rewarded for the good and docked for the not-so-good.

The Switchful home security scoring system

But what does this actually look like, and why should it be important to you?

Well, our rating criteria vets some of the most obvious home security aspects: how much the system costs, the number of devices you’ll get, how easy it is to set up and use, etc.

But we also asked people what’s important to them. We interviewed real users who chose a new home security system in the past 12 months and asked for their insights. What did they like and dislike about buying and installing their system? What stood out to them after using it on a daily basis? Is there anything they wished home security providers did differently?

We saw some common themes and baked them into our rating criteria.

Equipment and customization

When we interviewed customers and read user reviews, we found that most people value functional, comprehensive equipment first and foremost.

But beyond a working camera and a loud alarm, we looked at how customizable each system is, the number of smart home devices it connects with, and whether the brand shows its products online.

To find a brand’s score for this category, we started with a baseline number of available devices (the companies that offer a large number get a high score, while the companies that don’t get a lower one), and then accounted for several other factors, including how many smart home systems it pairs to, whether you can place an order online or if you have to call, and shipping or installation times, to name a few.

Value

Most DIY home security systems are extremely affordable, whereas professionally installed ones are typically a lot more expensive. But we don’t look at value by a brand’s price tag alone.

Did you ever hear the phrase “you get what you pay for”? Well, that doesn’t exactly apply to home security. With one company, you might pay thousands of dollars and feel a little disappointed when it’s installed in your home. With another, you might pay next to nothing up front and feel that you got an extremely competent system.

To bridge this massive divide, we looked at upfront, monthly, and long-term costs, and then filled in the gaps to provide some context. We rewarded brands that offer affordable professional monitoring (and free self-monitoring), and we didn’t mind if a high price could be attributed to high-quality, proprietary equipment. On the other hand, we docked companies if they required long contracts or had a lot of hidden fees.

Ease of use

The home security market is typically broken down into two categories: DIY installation and professional installation. So, it stands to reason that we’d look at how easy the installation process is. For the systems our reviewers installed themselves, we evaluated how easy it was to set up, any hiccups they ran into along the way, and whether they had to resort to third-party tutorials. For the systems we had installed, we documented how long it took a professional to do it, any faulty devices we received, and any major troubleshooting issues.

Once installed, we also looked at how simple the system was to use. The companies with a high score typically had seamless smart-home integration, an intuitive app and control panel, and easily customizable rules and preferences. After all, if you trust a home security system enough to protect your home, you should trust yourself to be able to use it.

Monitoring

Getting your home security system up and running is only one part of the equation, so we evaluated each brand’s professional monitoring, too. For example, some home security companies offer tiered plans from which to choose, or an option to self-monitor. We also looked at their processes in the event of a real or false alarm.

To properly rate each home security provider’s professional monitoring, we researched typical emergency response times, the number of monitoring centers, and how simple it is to cancel false alarms, to name a few.

Customer service

Most know the pains of a brutal customer support experience, and for home security users, positive customer service is key for troubleshooting. After all, if just one device goes down, your home will have immediate vulnerabilities.

Our reviewers contacted each brand’s customer service on multiple channels and documented hold times, whether they were transferred to multiple representatives, which channel connected them with customer support the fastest, and whether they had their questions answered or issues resolved in a timely manner.

Data privacy

Protecting your private information is paramount for any company. But home security providers face a taller order, as they have open access to your home—including your video footage and recordings.

To rate a home security company’s data privacy practices, we started by looking for data breaches, whether the company shares your information for marketing purposes, and what steps it takes to protect your data. But we also looked at ethical implications, including whether brands give your camera footage to police or media without your consent, any misleading sales or retention tactics, and any unresolved civil lawsuits.

A note on affiliate marketing

Some home security providers pay us a referral fee if you click or call after reading our reviews. We appreciate that affiliate marketing might rub people the wrong way, so we’re committed to making our reviews and rankings completely unbiased.

We don’t tell our home security experts which companies are part of this arrangement, meaning they aren’t swayed or influenced by revenue. Our reviews are driven instead by first-hand experience, rigorous testing, and thorough research, and we won’t recommend any brand over another based on affiliate partnerships. We also won’t hold back criticism—because what’s helpful to you is knowing the good, the bad, and the ugly about any system you’re considering.


The people behind our research
We believe the best information comes from first-hand customer experience and methodical research by subject-matter experts. We never source information from "content farms," and we don’t generate content using artificial intelligence (AI). You can trust that our recommendations are fact-checked meticulously and sourced appropriately by authentic, industry-recognized people.
Contributing researcher
Headshot of Sharon Wu
Researched by
Sharon WuContributing Writer

Sharon Wu is a Contributing Writer for Switchful with 8 years of experience covering home security and technology. With a background in research and content marketing, she helps people find the best products and services, tailored to their needs. Sharon is committed to providing accurate, resourceful, and digestible content to her readers. When not sharing her expertise, she enjoys spending time with her pugs and attending European car shows.

Contributing reviewers
Headshot of Eric Paulsen
Reviewed by
Eric PaulsenContent Manager

Eric Paulsen is a writer, editor, and strategist who has been creating content in the B2B, healthcare, FinTech, home security, and government sectors for more than five years. He holds an MFA in creative writing and lets everyone in his life hang that over his head. When he doesn’t have his hands deep in some piece of content, he’s either watching baseball or praying for the offseason to end quickly.

Headshot of Vilja Johnson
Reviewed by
Vilja JohnsonEditor-in-Chief

Vilja Johnson leads Switchful's editorial and creative teams. She has been editing content in the consumer tech space since 2016, and she has over a decade of experience teaching writing and editing. She's passionate about creating content that resonates with people and helps them solve real, day-to-day problems. In her free time, Vilja serves on the board of directors for the PrisonEd Foundation, where she runs a writing program for inmates in Utah prisons and jails.