The Best Options in 2026 - Tested by Experts
Our team spent thousands of hours researching and testing to bring you this definitive ranking. Updated monthly.
Quick Comparison
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Pricing | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | ADT Editor's Choice | 4.8 | From $24.99/mo | Excellent | Visit Site → |
| #2 | SimpliSafe Best DIY System | 4.7 | From $22.99/mo | Excellent | Visit Site → |
| #3 | Vivint Best Smart Home | 4.5 | From $24.99/mo | Very Good | Visit Site → |
| #4 | Cove Best Budget | 4.4 | From $19.99/mo | Very Good | Visit Site → |
| #5 | Ring Alarm Best Cameras | 4.3 | From $20/mo | Very Good | Visit Site → |
| #6 | Frontpoint | 4.2 | From $45.99/mo | Good | Visit Site → |
Detailed Reviews
ADT
America's most established home security provider with 150+ years in the industry. ADT now integrates Google Nest cameras and smart home devices, backed by six U.S.-based monitoring centers providing 24/7 professional response.
Pros
- +Most trusted name in home security - 150+ year track record
- +Google Nest Cam integration with video verification
- +Flexible setup: DIY packages from $269 or professional install
- +Theft protection guarantee up to $500
Cons
- −Professional install requires 36-month contract
- −Monitoring costs are higher than budget competitors
- −Smart home features require mid-tier plan or above
SimpliSafe
The most popular no-contract security system on the market. SimpliSafe offers affordable DIY installation, flexible month-to-month monitoring, and a 10-second alarm response time - the fastest we've tested.
Pros
- +No long-term contracts - completely month-to-month
- +Fastest alarm response time at 10 seconds
- +Affordable and frequently discounted (up to 60% off)
- +Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- −Limited smart home integrations compared to ADT or Vivint
- −Monitoring prices have increased in recent years
- −Small selection of security cameras
Vivint
The premium choice for homeowners who want a fully integrated smart home security ecosystem. Vivint offers AI-powered cameras with Smart Deter technology, professional installation, and the most advanced automation features available.
Pros
- +Most advanced smart home automation of any security system
- +AI-powered cameras with Smart Deter actively ward off intruders
- +Professional installation ensures everything is set up correctly
- +Beautiful, modern hardware including 7-inch touchscreen panel
Cons
- −Most expensive system on our list - equipment often $1,000+
- −Requires long-term contract (up to 60 months with financing)
- −No DIY installation option available
Cove
The most affordable professionally monitored system we've tested. Cove offers reliable protection with easy DIY setup, RapidSOS emergency dispatch, and equipment starting around $300 - significantly less than competitors.
Pros
- +Cheapest professional monitoring on our list at $19.99/mo
- +Very affordable equipment - full system for around $300
- +RapidSOS enables response times within 30 seconds
- +Lifetime equipment warranty with upgraded monitoring plan
Cons
- −Equipment feels lightweight and plastic compared to premium brands
- −Fewer smart home integrations than competitors
- −Limited camera selection (recently upgraded but still basic)
Ring Alarm
From the company that invented the video doorbell, Ring now offers a full home security system with the best camera ecosystem on the market. Ideal for homeowners who prioritize video surveillance and already use Amazon/Alexa devices.
Pros
- +Unmatched camera selection - indoor, outdoor, doorbell, floodlight
- +Affordable monitoring at $20/mo includes video storage for all cameras
- +Seamless Alexa and Amazon ecosystem integration
- +Smart Video Search makes finding clips fast and easy
Cons
- −Security system hardware is basic compared to ADT or Vivint
- −Camera-heavy system - less robust on sensors and automation
- −Virtual Security Guard add-on is pricey at $99/mo
Frontpoint
A solid mid-range DIY system with excellent smart home compatibility and cameras that support both local and cloud storage - a rare combo. Frontpoint supports up to 80 sensors, making it a strong choice for larger homes.
Pros
- +Best smart home compatibility of any DIY system (Z-Wave support)
- +Camera local storage via microSD is unique and valuable
- +Scales well for large homes - up to 80 sensors
- +Identity protection services included in plans
Cons
- −Monthly monitoring is expensive - starts at $45.99
- −Typically requires a 3-year contract
- −Equipment costs can exceed $1,000 for full setups
How We Rank & Review
Our rankings are the result of a rigorous, multi-step evaluation process. We start with extensive market research to identify every viable option, then narrow the field based on reputation, customer feedback, and feature sets.
Each product on our list undergoes hands-on testing by our expert reviewers. We evaluate ease of setup, day-to-day usability, feature quality, customer support responsiveness, and overall value for money.
We also survey real customers to understand long-term satisfaction and reliability. Our ratings combine expert scores with customer sentiment to give you a complete, balanced picture.
We update these rankings monthly as new products launch, prices change, and we gather more data. Our goal is to always give you the most current, accurate recommendations possible.