If you want to upgrade your home security system, you’ve come to the right place. This article reviews some of the best smart home security systems available on the market. These modern systems connect with your phone, combining basic home security with modern technology to keep you and your family safe.
Comparison Chart
Abode Smart Security Kit | DIY Wireless Security System | 15 Minute Setup | Self & Professional Monitoring Available | No Contracts Or Required Monthly Fees | Works With Alexa, Google Home and HomeKit
Cove – 8 Piece Home Security Alarm System – Wireless – 24/7 Professional Monitoring – No Contracts – Smart Phone Control – Touch Screen Panel – Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System, 8 x 5MP Ultra HD Cameras w/Active Deterrence, Color Night, 2TB Security Grade Hard Drive, 8-Channel 4K DVR
Frontpoint Home Security System | Fortress Package – 13 Piece Security Kit Includes Indoor & Doorbell Camera | 24/7 Professional Monitoring | Compatible with Alexa & Google Assistant
Best Smart Home Security Systems: Reviews
Abode Smart Security Kit | DIY Wireless Security System
This is a basic smart home security system. It may not come with many components, but it is incredibly expandable. The Abode Smart Security Kit is a reasonably priced model.
Product Highlights
The Abode Smart Security Kit comes with various components. First, there’s the main base, the so-called gateway. This comes with a built-in siren. In the event of a break-in, the siren will automatically activate to alert you to the presence of an intruder. This unit also comes with a battery backup.
A wireless key fob allows you to arm and disarm the system wirelessly and effortlessly. The Abode Smart Security Kit also has a motion sensor to place where you want it. The other included component is a small door sensor that automatically informs you when a door is opened.
The Abode Smart Security Kit may not come with many components, but it is expandable. In fact, you can add up to 160 different compatible security devices, including cameras, sensors, and more. All these devices are wireless and extremely easy to pair with the base.
Furthermore, all these devices have a fantastic range, so it really shouldn’t matter how large your home is or how far away from the base the components are.
In addition, the Abode Smart Security Kit has a really reliable internet connection, using an ethernet cord to connect to your network. Moreover, once connected, you can then connect your phone to the system using a wireless connection.
There’s an app that allows you to receive all sorts of alerts and notifications from the system. This way, you can have peace of mind, even when far from home. You may also appreciate how this system is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.
What’s to Like About the Abode Smart Security Kit
One of the best parts about the Abode Smart Security Kit is that it’s easy to install. Installation should take mere minutes when using the included instructions. Of course, the fact that you can add additional cameras, sensors, and more, is a bonus.
What’s Not to Like About the Abode Smart Security Kit
What’s not great about the Abode Smart Security Kit is that no cameras are included. In our opinion, a smart home security system should probably have at least one camera included.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Great price
- Great compatibility
- Can be greatly expanded
- Comes with functional basics
- Allows for easy app access
Cons
Could really do with some cameras
Cove – 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System
If you’re working on a fairly tight budget, the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System could be right for you. It comes with the basics you need to protect your home from intruders, floods, and more.
Product Highlights
The Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System comes with a number of components. First, there’s a touchscreen display that needs to be installed near your front door. It might look like a simple display, but it works perfectly fine.
One thing to keep in mind is that this is a cellular security system. It features a cellular chip that has to be connected to a cellular network. In the case of the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System, this has to be the AT&T network; there’s an associated cost, although it’s less than a dollar per day.
In addition, there’s a wireless key remote so you can easily arm and disarm the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System. You also get a flood and freeze sensor for detecting floods and dangerously low temperatures that may damage items in your home.
There’s also a glass break sensor to install on any window; it will detect the sound of breaking glass. At the same time, the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System features a motion sensor, so you will know if there is an intruder.
Another component is the door and window sensor that can detect when a door or window is opened. Finally, a medical button keychain connects to the cellular network. If there is a medical emergency, it can be pressed, and help will be on the way.
The Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System can be connected to your smartphone. This means that you can control the system from afar and get relevant updates. In addition, there are no contracts or cancellation fees.
What’s to Like About the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System
One of the significant benefits of the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System is that it has a 24-hour battery backup that is crucial for keeping your home safe in the event of a power outage.
The fact that this system can keep your home safe for less than a dollar per day, all without a contract, is fantastic.
It detects floods, freezes, motion, open doors, and more is a benefit. Coming with a medical emergency keychain is nice as well.
What’s Not to Like About the Cove 5 Piece Home Security Alarm System
One thing that is not so great is that it requires a cellular connection. Not just that, but at this time, this cellular connection must be provided by AT&T. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s not always convenient.
Pros
- Very reasonable price
- Fast installation
- Comes with many components
- Ideal for medical emergencies, floods, and break-ins
- Extremely easy to set up
- Smartphone control and notifications
- No contracts or cancellation fees
Cons
- Needs a cellular connection, and it has to be AT&T
- Also does not come with cameras
Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System
This high-quality security system comes with a full set of cameras. The Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System is a great outdoor security system that will protect your home and business perimeter.
Product Highlights
The Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System comes with eight maximum durability cameras for outdoor use. They are 100% weatherproof and will easily survive rain and snow.
In addition, these are 5MP cameras, so they have excellent image quality. You can easily see facial features, read license plates, and more. They have outstanding video quality. The 98° field of view is wide, so the cameras can see everything going on around them.
Break-ins don’t just happen during the day, which is why the cameras also have high-quality infrared night vision. Even more impressive is that these cameras can see upwards of 135 feet even at night.
The Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System is a great deterrent. All cameras feature a motion-activated warning light which is very bright. When the camera detects motion, the light turns on, which should deter unwanted trespassers.
At the same time, it also has a warning siren that activates when the warning light activates. It’s a great deterrent that will send the bad guys running.
The Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System comes with a 2TB local hard drive for storage. This can be connected to your internet, as well as your smartphone. Using the app on your phone, you can see what the cameras see at all times. You will also get notifications on your phone if any camera sensors are activated.
What’s to Like About the Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System
One of the best aspects is the high-def color night vision. It’s some of the best night vision out there. Moreover, you get eight high-quality smart cameras for a reasonable price.
What’s Not to Like About the Lorex Smart 5MP HD Active Deterrence Weatherproof Security System
One thing that isn’t fantastic is that you will need a pro to install this security system. Each camera has a cable that runs to the main hard drive, which requires both power and a video signal. Installing these, especially eight of them, is not easy.
Pros
- Eight high-quality cameras
- Color night vision
- Warning light and siren
- Smartphone compatible
- No monthly fees
- Cameras are weatherproof
- Remote monitoring
Cons
Installation takes some work
Frontpoint Home Security System: Compatible with Alexa & Google Assistant
This is a fully comprehensive smart home security system, the Frontpoint Home Security System. It comes with cameras, sensors, and more. However, it is the most expensive security system on our list today and the most comprehensive.
Product Highlights
This is the most comprehensive security system on our list. First, it comes with a central hub and keypad. It might look basic, but it works really well. You might appreciate how this hub easily connects to your internet; it can also connect to your smartphone.
This is a smart system you can use to monitor all aspects from afar and control the system. For example, you will get a notification whenever a sensor goes off.
On that same note, the doorbell camera also works over your phone. If someone rings the camera doorbell, the video feed goes to your phone; the doorbell camera has both video and audio.
The indoor camera may not be the highest quality, but it works well enough. Moreover, you also get dual-motion sensors you can set up anywhere in your home.
You also get six door and window sensors to protect the most crucial entry points into your home; these automatically alert you when a door or window has been opened. You may also appreciate the included smoke and heat sensor that will inform you of a fire.
In addition, there’s a home defense kit that consists of various signs and stickers to place around your property. This will inform potential wrongdoers that your home is well protected. Often, this is enough to keep burglars away.
What’s to Like About the Frontpoint Home Security System
One of the benefits is that virtually all security aspects are covered. In addition, the fact that this system is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant is convenient. It might not be cheap, but the quality of all the components is very high, and everything works as it should.
What’s Not to Like About the Frontpoint Home Security System
There are several downsides. First, the doorbell camera requires existing doorbell wiring to function; it is not wireless. Moreover, paying $50+ monthly for the security subscription will add up over time.
Pros
- Comes with everything you need
- Quality doorbell camera
- Indoor camera included
- Motion and door sensors included
- Signs to act as deterrents
- Easy Frontpoint app for control and alerts
- Overall high-quality components
Cons
- High purchase cost
- High subscription cost
- Video doorbell requires existing doorbell wiring
Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System
This is another affordable yet comprehensive home security system that comes with almost everything you need to keep your home safe and sound.
Product Highlights
The Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System has a 4.3” security panel. This is a very thin and elegant piece that won’t stand out or get in your way. That said, the screen is bright and easy to read. It also features full-touch controls.
However, it requires AC power, although it comes with a three-hour battery backup in case of a power failure. This system features 32MB of RAM, a 600MHz high-speed smart chip, and a new sense user interface.
This kit also comes with dual remote controls so you and your family can easily arm and disarm the system without having to enter any codes. You also get a single motion sensor to place anywhere you see fit; it automatically detects motion.
The Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System has four door and window sensors to alert you if any doors or windows are opened. Finally, you also get a wired siren that will activate in the event of a break-in.
Perhaps the best part is that the Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System can be expanded with additional security devices. At the same time, it also connects to your internet and can also connect with your smartphone. Therefore, it allows for remote control and remote alerts.
What’s to Like About the Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System
One thing that stands out about the Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System is that it is straightforward to install. It also allows for voice control, which is a welcome feature.
What’s Not to Like About the Staniot 10 Pcs Smart Home Security System
The siren needs to be directly connected to the main panel, which is not ideal. Moreover, although a three-hour battery backup is nice, three hours is not all that long, to be realistic.
Pros
- Four door sensors
- High-quality motion sensor
- Easy installation
- Reasonable price
- Very loud siren
- Remote control and alerts via smartphone
Cons
- Siren needs to be wired to the central unit
- Short battery backup
Buyer’s Guide
Before purchasing a smart home security system, there are some essential factors to consider.
Sensors
You want to ensure that the security system comes with various high-quality sensors. For one, you will need a decent motion sensor that will tell you if someone is walking around in your home. Then, you should also invest in good window and door sensors that will tell you if any of your windows or doors are opened.
Cameras
A good home security system should also come with cameras. Some are designed for outdoor security, and you’ll need several high-quality cameras with great range and night vision.
A doorbell camera should have excellent video and audio quality. In addition, you may want to add one or more indoor cameras if you want to see what is going on inside your home.
Keypads
A good keypad system or base is the heart of your security operation. The keypad should be easy to read and easy to operate. Moreover, it should have a battery backup if the power goes out.
Sirens
A good home security system should have sirens. These might be attached to cameras, which activate when they sense motion. This can act as a deterrent before anyone even enters your home. Moreover, a good home security system should also come with indoor sirens that activate if any sensors are activated.
Installation
You also want to look for a system that is easy for you to install. However, you may need a professional to install any complicated outdoor camera system. But, not having to deal with wiring by yourself is definitely a bonus.
Backup Battery
The central hub of your home security system should have a battery backup, so the system continues functioning if the power goes out. This is perhaps one of the most essential features to look for.
Compatibility with Other Devices
Finally, a good home security system, a smart system, should be compatible with various devices such as smartphones and assistants. This will allow for easy control no matter what device you have.
Conclusion
The best smart home security system on the list today is the Abode Smart Security Kit DIY Wireless Security System. It comes at a reasonable price and with everything you need to keep your home secured.