What Is the Best Home Security System?
Home security systems have come a long way. What we were able to install used to be limited and up to a few years ago, a camera security system was too expensive for most of us to purchase for our homes. But not anymore! Having the best home security system is important.
Home security cameras come in all shapes and sizes, prices and in a variety of different options. From video doorbells to in-home professional monitoring service providers, the choices are practically unlimited.
Are you thinking of purchasing a security camera system for your home? We take a look at several options that are on the market today and offer you our best list so you can make the best choice for your specific needs.
What Is Home Security?
Safeguarding your home from intruders is important, not only when you are away, but even if you are spending more time in your home as you age. You must remain safe. Also, home security cameras placed inside your home can help family members check in on you to make sure that you are ok.
Outside home security cameras are typically placed in areas that are points of entry, like doors or windows. Inside the home security cameras are placed in areas where you spend a lot of time, like living rooms or bedrooms. The outside home security system or video doorbell lets you see who is at your door so you do not have to open your door to strangers.
Types of Home Security Systems
There are a variety of different types of home security systems out there. It can get a little confusing. You need to choose the right one for you depending on your needs and your budget.
Professionally Installed Home Security Camera Systems
Professional home security systems have been around for a long time and are installed by technicians who come to your home to evaluate your needs and install all cameras and security devices.
This is usually done by a company like ADT or Brinks Home Security and you normally hold a monthly contract with the company. The monthly fees typically vary between $30 to $50. When an alarm is set off, the company tries to get a hold of you and if they are unable to, they contact local police.
DIY Security Systems
These are camera systems that you purchase and install yourself at home and typically self-monitor from your smartphone. They come in different packages, from a single-camera setup to multiple cameras. Some offer professional monitoring services at an additional monthly cost. This can be anywhere between $10 to $30 per month.
These are less expensive than the professionally installed systems and are great if you do not own your home and are a renter.
Video Doorbells
Video doorbell security systems are quite popular and offer you peace of mind knowing that you are opening the door to someone who you trust. You can watch the camera through a small monitor inside your home or on your smartphone, depending on the brand. These are quite inexpensive and they are easy to install. They typically have motion detectors and some have sirens and door-lock technology.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Home Security System for Your Home
- Do you want outside or inside cameras?
- Will you want your family members to monitor you?
- Do you want an easy installation?
- Do you want a monthly service provider or not?
- What is your budget?
Best Home Security System
After scouring professional reviews and customer comments, we rounded up our top picks for home security camera systems.
SimpliSafe Home Security System
SimpliSafe is a popular home security company that offers a range of customizable and affordable security solutions to its customers. SimpliSafe provides a variety of security products, including wireless home security systems, cameras and sensors, all of which can be easily installed and managed by homeowners without the need for professional installation.
The company's systems are designed to be easy to use and operate, with intuitive mobile apps and user-friendly interfaces that allow customers to monitor their homes from anywhere, at any time. With 24/7 professional monitoring and reliable technology, SimpliSafe is a trusted name in home security that offers peace of mind to homeowners across the country.
For Professional Home Security: Vivint Smart Home
Vivint Smart Home is the new kid on the block who came onto the scene with quality products that surpass its competitors. The cameras have 4K sensors (great image quality), night vision and the usual motion sensors.
Vivint also is an all-in-one smart home provider with options like temperature control and lighting control in your home. The equipment is on the pricier side, contrasted with other professionally installed home security systems, but the monthly monitoring services are comparable. They offer payment plans so you do not have to shell out the whole amount at once.
DIY: Frontpoint Safe Home
Purchasing a DIY home security system can sound a little overwhelming. That’s why customer service is so important. Frontpoint Safe Home reviews rave about the excellent customer service that will guide you through any issues you may have with your equipment. There’s also a three-year warranty.
The equipment is quite affordable and the monthly monitoring plans (should you choose to use them) are on the expensive side compared to competitors.
Video Doorbell: Nest Hello
Nest Hello reviews praise the high image and video quality as being the best on the market. The video doorbell offers facial recognition and alerts you when someone is at your door. They also offer activity zones to notify you only when activity occurs in specific zones. Some of these extra services are offered at small monthly fees. It has great video quality, facial recognition and geolocation.