Home security devices that leverage mobile connectivity, apps, and sensors are endlessly improving each year. Smart video doorbells record video and audio feeds in real-time when you have visitors. Motion and sound sensors can be used inside and outside along with digital door locks and night-vision cameras. However, not all innovative home security products are created equally, and some are more costly to set up than others. To demonstrate, a professionally installed system could cost more in the long run if the provider requires a contract, installation fees, and professional monitoring service. A few select devices can be enough to protect your home (and office) against intruders by alerting you when suspicious activity is detected, giving you peace of mind when you’re away. I’ve has rounded up the best home security devices suitable for different budgets and homes. My top picks will help protect both you and your property. Also: What are the best security cameras for protecting your home? Our top picks My top pick is the SimpliSafe Haven home security system bundle. It can help protect your home from intruders and detect safety threats inside, like water damage and fire. You can’t beat the 15-piece kit. The kit includes a base station, keypad, panic button, wireless siren, smoke detector, water damage detector, temperature sensor, key fob, four entry sensors, and two motion sensors. At the moment, the company will also throw in a free indoor camera and one month of 24/7 monitoring at no cost. You can also choose to add extra devices like glass break detectors, indoor or outdoor cameras, and yard signs. Luckily, no drilling is required so this system works well for homeowners and renters alike. The base station comes with a backup battery to ensure your home remains protected, even if you’re dealing with a power cut. Review: SimpliSafe Home Security You should consider the 14-piece Ring Alarm Pro security kit if your home has multiple bedrooms. This pack contains a base station, two keypads, eight contact sensors, two motion detectors, and an alarm range extender for blanket home coverage. As a bonus, the kit comes with a built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router that provides Wi-Fi coverage of up to 1500 square feet. If you need even more coverage, you can also pick up an eero Wi-Fi extender. Ring products tend to be user-friendly, and this kit is no exception. You can install the security network yourself, and you don’t need to drill anything. According to Ring, this bundle can protect up to eight windows or doors with added protection from motion sensors in vulnerable hallways. Review: Ring Alarm review: An affordable home security system The Abode Iota All-In-One Security Kit is another ZDNET top home and office security pick. The bundle includes an HD camera, motion sensor, 93db siren, and two-way voice channel. You can place the camera in a hallway, living room, or perhaps with your main window in view. According to Abode, your overall network can support connections from up to 160 devices – although this would be overkill for most homes. Review: Abode review: Smartly integrated home security Right now, the Iota All-In-One Security Kit is on sale for $270, which is 17% off its $329 full price. Arlo is a vendor worth exploring if you want to improve your home security without breaking the bank. And with a build-your-own bundle option, you can choose the right equipment to meet your needs and your budget. The company has recently launched the Arlo home security system, an entry-level package with a keypad hub and two all-in-one sensors. Sure, it’s a basic system, but you don’t have to do anything more than plug in the hub and mount the sensors wherever you want them. And like other options on this list, no drilling is required. As an entry-level kit to introduce you to the capabilities of intelligent home security, Arlo’s new offering is at a great price point. Best of all, there are no service contracts, so you can cancel at any time. If you’re concerned about protecting outdoor spaces, like your garden, porch, or garage doors, the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight camera security bundle is an excellent option for you. This bundle is available at Best Buy and comes with three cameras that can be mounted inside or outdoors. Each camera offers a 160-degree field of view and records footage in 2K HDR video. The weather-resistant cameras are wireless, easy to install, and powered by rechargeable batteries – and each comes with an anti-theft mount. You can check the camera feeds any time, day or night, and even zoom in on details if necessary. Plus, the cameras feature color night vision, which makes them an excellent option for vulnerable outside spaces. The pack includes a charging station, security key, batteries, and screw kits. Plus, you’ll receive a sign that you can place in your front yard to politely warn potential intruders that your area is being monitored. Homeowners who need a professional security service should check out Vivint, a trusted brand that provides 24/7 monitoring. If you want a hands-off option where you pay for professional installation and a subscription, Vivint may be the best option for you. Review: Vivint home security Whether you want to protect your home or office, Vivint provides smart cameras, locks, doorbells, security sensors, intrusion detectors, control panels, and smart home automation solutions. Plus, you can customize your security system depending on your needs. You’ll control all of these connected features through the Vivint mobile app. It acts as a hub, enabling you to lock/unlock doors, turn on lights, respond to alarms, and much more. Security systems that you can set up and monitor yourself tend to be the most popular. However, some systems offer subscriptions for people in higher-risk areas, providing professional monitoring or the ability to store and record footage. The best security systems on the market balance security, usability, and connectivity. I recommend at least one camera, a video doorbell, a smart lock, and window sensors if you’re building your home security system for the first time. Large properties can also benefit from additional security devices. I have researched the best security systems on the market, weighed their pros and cons, and judged them based on price, ease of installation (for DIY systems), whether they offered professional monitoring services, smart features, and customer reviews. For example, motion sensors are used for video doorbells and cameras, while other door and window products may combine motion and magnetic sensors to detect unauthorized entry. Also: The best driveway alarms Also: The 9 best internet providers Some products include both Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity, so your device can use a mobile network if your home hub fails. If you want access to your camera’s feed history, it’s worth signing up for a subscription. Plus, subscription services will usually sweeten the pot with additional security layers like professional monitoring, automatic emergency calls, or multiple device monitoring.
