Welcome to the world of smart home security! If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s security, then you’re in the right place. A smart home security system provides next-level monitoring, control, and automation for peace of mind. In this post, we’ll cover the benefits of smart home security and do a deep dive into the top systems on the market. You’ll learn all about features, components, pros and cons, and pricing. We’ll also discuss how to choose the right system for your needs and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Traditional home security systems were standalone, closed systems that offered limited connectivity and features. Smart home security takes things to the next level by integrating with your home network and leveraging automation and wireless tech. With a smart security system, you can monitor and control your home remotely via smartphone, tablet, or computer. You can also automate actions like turning lights on/off when the system detects motion or is armed/disarmed. Key benefits include:
- Total home awareness: Smart sensors like motion detectors, cameras, glass break detectors, and others give you visibility into activity throughout your home.
- Instant notifications: Get real-time alerts about security events so you can take immediate action if needed.
- Remote access: Monitor and control your system on-the-go, even when you’re away from home. Arm, disarm, check cameras, etc.
- Automation & integration: Integrate security data with other smart devices or IFTTT recipes for automated actions.
- Customization: Build a custom system with components and features you want. Professional monitoring optional.
- Convenience: Keys and codes are replaced by smartphone control and features like geo-fencing.
Now let’s take a look at 5 top-rated smart home security systems on the market today. We’ll explore the key features, pros and cons, and pricing for each.
Top 5 Smart Home Security Systems
System 1: Best for Customization
Overview:
System 1 is a DIY system ideal for tech-savvy users who want extensive customization. It has a wide range of sensors and components plus integrations with other smart devices.
Features & Components:
- Motion sensors, door/window sensors, smoke detectors, water leak sensors
- Indoor and outdoor security cameras with night vision
- Touchscreen controller, keypads, key fobs
- Smartphone app for monitoring, notifications, automation
- Video doorbell camera and door/window cameras
- Integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
- Self-monitoring or professional monitoring
Pros:
- Highly customizable system, use only the sensors/cameras you want
- Easy DIY installation with wireless components
- Automate based on sensor data like cameras recording when motion triggered
- Save money with self-monitoring option
Cons:
- Upfront cost for hardware and sensors can be high
- DIY installation means learning curve for setup and configuration
- Needs a good wifi connection to work properly
Pricing:
- Starter kit: $200-300
- Additional sensors: $20-100+
- Professional monitoring: $25-50 per month
Overall, System 1 is ideal if you’re tech-savvy and want maximum flexibility to build a custom smart security system. It also works well with other smart devices. The components are durable yet simple enough for DIY installation. Just be prepared to put in some time learning the ropes for setup and configuration.
System 2: Best Plug & Play
Overview:
System 2 makes smart security simple with their straightforward plug and play components that are configured through a smartphone app. No complex installations required.
Features & Components:
- Entry sensors, motion sensors, smoke/CO monitors
- Indoor and outdoor security cameras
- Keypad, key fobs, mobile app
- Video doorbell camera
- Alexa and Google Assistant integration
- Cellular and Wifi connectivity
- Professional monitoring
Pros:
- Super easy plug and play setup, great for DIY install
- Sleek, intuitive equipment that works out of the box
- Cellular backup if wifi goes out
- Live video streaming with unlimited cloud storage
- Seamless smart home integrations
Cons:
- Less flexibility and customization options
- Monthly fees for professional monitoring
- Limited automation features
Pricing:
- Essentials kit starting at $200
- Smart home add-ons $30-100
- Professional monitoring $20-30 per month
System 2 simplifies smart security with straightforward components, seamless app control, and cellular backup. It’s a great straightforward system if you wantenhanced security without a complex setup. Just plug in the sensors and cameras and manage everything right from your smartphone.
System 3: Best Budget System
Overview:
System 3 focuses on providing DIY-friendly smart security at affordable price points. It’s suitable for homes that want enhanced security without breaking the bank.
Features & Components:
- Motion and entry sensors
- 1080p security cameras, both indoor and outdoor
- Mobile app, email, and push notifications
- Night vision, motion activated cameras
- Video doorbell camera option
- Alexa and Google Home integration
- Self-monitoring, no contracts
Pros:
- Very budget-friendly equipment and packages
- Easy self-installation and setup
- Local storage options don’t require monthly fees
- Easy to use mobile app for controlling system
- Integrates with other smart devices
Cons:
- Maximum of 6 security cameras supported
- No professional monitoring options
- Limited automation features
- Lacks cellular/battery backup options
Pricing:
- Essentials DIY kit starts at $150
- Add-on cameras around $100 each
- Video doorbell $80-$120
Overall, System 3 is best for homeowners who want enhanced security presence at the most wallet-friendly price point. While professional monitoring and high-end options are lacking, it’s a solid DIY system for basic home security needs. The mobile app makes controlling the system simple.
System 4: Best High-End System
Overview:
System 4 is a premium home security solution focused on providing maximum detection while blending into home decor seamlessly. It’s the high-end choice for whole home protection.
Features & Components:
- Motion, entry, glass break, flood, and smoke sensors
- Indoor/Outdoor/Doorbell security cameras with advanced motion detection
- Touchscreen controller, keypads, key fobs
- Automated actions like lights activating for alerts
- Professional monitoring required
- Cellular/battery backup
- Integration with smart home brands
Pros:
- High-performance sensors provide complete home awareness
- Advanced motion activated cameras with object detection
- Encrypted wireless technology and cellular backup
- Automated threat responses like police dispatch
- Fully customizable and expandable system
- Can activate other smart devices based on triggers
Cons:
- High equipment, installation, and monthly costs
- Locked into professional monitoring contracts
- Potentially complicated initial programming
Pricing:
- Starts around $400+ for basic kit
- Cameras around $200+ each
- $45-60+ per month for monitoring
With its high-end components, expansive home awareness, and smart integrations, System 4 provides total premium home protection. While expensive, the capabilities and automation make it our top choice smart security system for those with bigger budgets.
System 5: Best for Alexa Users
Overview:
System 5 is designed to integrate seamlessly with Alexa and Echo devices for convenient voice-controlled home security. It brings smart protection into the Alexa smart home ecosystem.
Features & Components:
- Door/window entry sensors, motion sensors, water leak detector
- Alexa-enabled security cameras, doorbell camera
- Keypad, key fobs
- Works with Echo Show and Fire tablets for voice control
- Arm, disarm, view cameras, manage system via Alexa
- Self-monitoring plan available
Pros:
- Deep integration with Alexa and Echo devices
- Arm, disarm, view cameras, receive alerts by voice
- Affordable starter kits and add-ons
- Easy self-setup and monitoring options
- Utilizes existing Alexa devices like Echo Show
Cons:
- More limited selection of components
- Fewer high-end features like automation
- Alexa ecosystem required to maximize value
- Video storage requires subscription
Pricing:
- Starter kit: $200
- Add-on cameras: $80-120
- Self-monitoring: $15/month
- Professional monitoring: $25/month
If you already have Alexa devices in your home, System 5 seamlessly incorporates smart security into your voice-controlled environment. Control key security functions and access cameras with Alexa voice commands. It brings simple and affordable smart security to Alexa households.
How to Choose the Right Smart Home Security System
So those are our top five smart home security system recommendations. But how do you choose the right one for your specific home and needs? Here are some key factors to consider:
- Home layout and size – Select equipment and sensors based on what you need to cover all access points and high-value areas. Measure rooms to ensure proper camera coverage.
- Sensor types and camera capabilities – Determine must-have sensors vs nice-to-have. Compare camera image quality and features like motion tracking, night vision, smart notifications, etc.
- Integrations – Consider smart devices you already own and want to integrate like door locks, lights, thermostats, etc. Look for IFTTT and voice assistant compatibility.
- Professional vs self-monitoring – Professional monitoring brings more hands-on support but requires monthly fees. Self-monitoring gives control but less outside oversight.
- Upfront costs vs monthly fees – Some systems have higher upfront hardware costs but lower or no monthly fees. Others have low equipment costs but steeper monthly monitoring plans.
- DIY install vs pro install – If you’re less tech-savvy, pro installation ensures proper setup but costs more. DIY systems save money but require technical skills.
- Contracts and termination fees – Make sure to understand any long term contracts and fees for cancelling monitoring services. Some DIY systems don’t have penalties.
Taking the time to carefully evaluate your specific needs will help narrow down your options. Focus on the features and capabilities that are most valuable to you. Comparing pros and cons of systems that meet your criteria will lead to the ideal selection.
FAQs About Smart Home Security
Let’s wrap up with answers to some frequently asked questions about smart home security systems:
What are the benefits of a smart home security system?
Smart security systems provide complete awareness and control of your home from anywhere, smart notifications and automation based on activity, easy access without keys, integration with other smart devices, and professional monitoring if desired. They bring next-level conveniences and protection.
How much do smart home security systems cost?
Initial equipment kits start around $150-$200. More advanced systems and add-ons like cameras and sensors cost $100+. Professional monitoring averages $20-$50 per month depending on services. So around $500+ to start for mid-tier setups.
Do I need a monthly fee for professional monitoring?
Professional monitoring is optional but does require a monthly service fee. Fees range from $20-$60+ depending on services like camera storage and automation. Monitoring brings more rapid alerts and emergency dispatch.
Can I self-monitor and control the system from my phone?
Yes, most smart systems have companion mobile apps for controlling, monitoring, and receiving alerts without paid monitoring. As long as you have wifi, you can manage the system remotely.
How difficult is it to install and set up the system?
DIY systems are designed for easy self-install. Most include wireless equipment that you place around the home and connect to a central hub. More complex setups may require a professional. Most DIY kits can be installed in under an hour.
How vulnerable are smart home devices to hacking?
Reputable home security providers take measures to ensure data protection and prevent hacking of devices or videos. Look for systems with data encryption, two-factor authentication, and partnerships with cybersecurity firms. Monitor connected devices regularly for potential issues.
What happens during a power outage?
Smart security systems have backup batteries and cellular connectivity to maintain protection during power outages. Key components will run up to 8-24 hours and you’ll get alerts about the outage. Professional monitoring centers also have backup generators.
How many sensors/cameras come with a basic package?
Starter kits typically include a control panel, 2-3 door/window entry sensors, 1-2 motion sensors, and a yard sign and window stickers. Camera kits add 1-3 indoor/outdoor cameras. You can add more components a la carte to customize your system.
What automation features are available?
Many smart security systems can activate cameras, lights, sirens, thermostats, door locks and more based on triggers like an entry sensor opening a door or motion sensor detecting activity. High-end systems tend to offer more complex automation based on custom rules.
Can I integrate my smart home security with other smart devices?
Yes! Look for a system with support for IFTTT recipes and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. Many also directly integrate with popular smart home brands like Philips Hue lights and Schlage locks. Try to select a system using wireless standards like ZigBee or Z-Wave.
Conclusion
I hope this overview has provided a comprehensive introduction to smart home security systems. The key is choosing a system tailored your specific home layout and needs. As you evaluate options, focus on the sensor types, camera specs, integration abilities, monitoring services, and automation that matter most to you. And don’t forget to compare the upfront equipment costs against ongoing monthly fees to identify the best value.
With your new smart home security system providing next-level monitoring, notifications, and automation, you’ll gain true peace of mind knowing your home and family are protected. No more fumbling for keys or wondering what’s happening at home when you’re away. Just smart defense and awareness 24/7. Our lives become more connected each day – make sure your home security follows suit. Stay safe out there!