Best Wireless Home Security Systems Of 2024 (2024)

Any number of factors can play a role in determining which wireless home security system is best for you but there are several common ones. Though some factors make sense, the minutiae of those factors can differ between companies and products. Some factors, like brand loyalty might trump others, so it’s important to weigh them all before picking a wireless home security system.

Cost

Most home security systems cost between $200 to $300 but some, like Frontpoint’s Fortress system can cost more than $500. The price of the system will change depending on what’s included in the bundle, items you add that aren’t included in a bundle, plus things like the length of the warranty and how you have the equipment installed. Some of the common cost factors include:

Self-Monitoring vs. Professional Monitoring

Self-monitoring home security systems usually don’t require a subscription or cost money, but if you want professional monitoring, you likely need a subscription and will pay a monthly fee. Professional monitoring can include additional video features like event capturing and video storage for a number of days. Professional monitoring plans can also vary based on the level of service.

DIY Installation vs. Pro Installation

If you choose to install your home security system on your own, you can save some money. Home security companies typically charge around $100 for professional installation. Some companies will charge separately for professional installation and others will roll it into the total cost of your home security system.

Contract Length

Not all home security system companies require contracts but if they do, a contract can last between 12 to 60 months. The longer the contract length, the lower your monthly bill will be. Vivant, Link Interactive and ADT typically have contracts while Abode, Cove, Frontpoint, Ring and SimpliSafe don’t require contracts.

Equipment

Equipment costs vary between home security companies and vary based on the features. Higher resolution cameras usually cost more than those with lower resolutions. Some devices you might want for your home might come as add-ons, which will incur an additional cost.

Warranty Length

A longer warranty length will typically cost more than a shorter one. Warranties for home security systems can range from six months to limited lifetime, depending on the company. Most warranties are either one or three years.

Contracts

Contracts can be a good thing or bad thing, depending on your point of view. Contracts can provide peace of mind for some while others don’t like the inflexibility of a contract. Contracts can sometimes come with discounts, though you might have to pay for an entire year in advance or contracts can come with additional ancillary fees.

Equipment

If you’re a techie or care about things like video quality, equipment can play a deciding factor. The amount of equipment included in a home security bundle can factor in your decision, too. Some security systems include an indoor camera while others make that an add-on. Not all security systems come with a keypad and if that’s an important feature for you, it could impact your decision.

Installation

Most home security systems have DIY installation, especially wireless systems. But some systems require a landline, which might require professional installation if you don’t have a landline. Companies like Vivint and ADT require professional installation and if you don’t feel comfortable setting up wireless connection, you might consider a professional installation.

Compatibility

If you have smart home devices or use Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit, you’ll want to find a home security system that has compatibility with one of those systems. Plus, you will want to check to make sure certain devices like smart locks will work with your home security system. Most smart home devices can operate through an app on your phone, but some use a tablet hub, too, so it’s good to check how you can operate those devices with a security system.

Features

Home security systems can have a host of features, most of which are considered add-ons. Things like glass breakage alerts, carbon monoxide monitoring, smoke detection, medical alert alarms, 24/7 alarm monitoring, flooding monitoring and video storage can vary across security systems. If you want one or more of those types of services or features, it could factor into your decision.

Ease of Use

Ease of use can make a big difference. While most apps are fairly intuitive, their compatibility with other devices makes a difference. After all, you shouldn’t need an app for each smart device in your home. Operating them all from one device makes things easier, especially if that hub device is simple to use.

Security

Choosing a home security system can come down to its security and its response to security issues. Security can include the encryption the system uses. AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) is considered the most secure encryption for wireless devices. You’ll want to check the response times of home security systems to monitoring centers and the systems entry delay time.

The delay entry time refers to the amount of time before the alarm alerts the monitoring center. Most systems default to 30 seconds, but the time can get adjusted. Home security system companies do not track the response time of emergency personnel.

Best Wireless Home Security Systems Of 2024 (2024)
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