Best Smart Home Security Systems for 2024

Looking for a smart home security system? From round-the-clock professional monitoring to DIY setup, compare the best systems below.

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Last Updated: September 2024

The “Smart” Features of a Smart Home System

The “smart” part of smart home technology refers to three main technological categories: automation, Internet of Things (IoT) device communication, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning.

Automation may be the most obvious of the three smart technologies. Devices connected to smart home technology can operate automatically. For example, a homeowner could schedule the front door to lock by itself every night, saving the homeowner the time to physically twist the lock manually.

IoT device communication is simpler than it may sound. The IoT is a description given to the connected cloud of hardware and software technology that is able to interact, back and forth, between other devices. A homeowner’s smart technology may use IoT communication to have different security systems “speak” with each other. For example, a third-party, voice-operated smart hub may “tell” a homeowner’s smart lights to turn off in the evening.

AI learning technology is the most interesting and hardest to understand aspect of smart technology. Put simply, smart technology with AI can “learn” better ways to function and operate as it is used over time. A smart home device with AI technology may “learn” what time a user likes to wake up in the morning, and could begin to light the home without even having to be asked.

The Security and Household Products that Smart Technology Can Control

Although each security company has its differences, many contemporary security and household products can become “smart.” Security and household products that commonly feature smart technology include doorbells, locks, garage doors, lighting fixtures, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, security cameras, and motion detectors.

Types of Home Security Systems

Traditional home security, sometimes called anti-theft security, is designed to keep intruders out of and away from your property. Anti-theft technology can be as simple as a sound-activated door jam, or it can be more intricate, such as a system of integrated motion detectors and home cameras.

Environmental security systems protect against naturally-occurring hazards: freezing temperatures, leaky pipes, gas leaks, and fire hazards. You may be familiar with one of the most common environmental security alarms on the market: the trusty fire alarm.

Generally speaking, smart home technology uses web-integrated systems that make your life a little bit easier. Smart home tech can open or close your garage door, lock the front door, and even change the thermostat from hundreds of miles away. Many contemporary home security systems use some variant of smart home technology, such as connecting your home’s alarm system to a mobile app.

No matter which home security system type you choose, you can be at ease, knowing that each one is designed to keep your home life safe and simple.

The Difference between Upfront Costs and Monthly Monitoring Prices

Although every home security vendor is unique, most vendors require new customers meet two price points in order to access full security services.

The first price point is known as upfront cost. Upfront costs cover the price of security hardware, software, and, sometimes, professional installation. This cost is typically a one-and-done—once paid, the price doesn’t have to be paid again.

The second price is known as monthly monitoring. Many security vendors actively monitor your home, standing at the ready in case an alarm, camera, or sensor is “tripped.” This price is typically subscription-based and paid per month.

The Benefits of Buying Your Security System Online

Thinking about buying a security system? Consider buying online. When you order your security system on our site, you’re automatically offered some of the best deals and promos the vendors have to offer.

Still not convinced? Buying online means you can easily compare the services and prices of each vendor. Once you buy, your new security system is typically shipped right to your front door. From there, you almost always have the option to return unwanted or broken tech—most vendors offer trial periods and customer warranties.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

It doesn’t take much to implement smart home technology in your home. Other than purchasing the necessary equipment from your security vendor of choice, most smart home setups only require some form of internet or cellular connection. Although it is by no means a requirement, many smart home services can be controlled using a smartphone. You may want to have access to a smartphone if you’re considering using smart home technology.
Although the answer varies from vendor to vendor, most smart home systems are compatible with third-party smart speakers. Thanks to this compatibility, smart home users can control parts of their homes—such as turning the lights on or off—with a simple voice command.
That’s a bit of a loaded question! As you may have guessed, the security needs of a 2,500 square foot home are very different from those of a 500 square foot apartment. When researching to buy a security system, ask yourself these questions: What am I trying to protect? How safe is my neighborhood? How large is my space? Do I already have security measures in my living space? Typically, a smaller space needs fewer alarm systems. A city apartment may only need a few fire alarms and one motion detector, while a suburban home may need four times the hardware to cover the larger space. When researching and purchasing your own security equipment, be sure you’re getting the appropriate equipment you need for the size of your space.
It is always a smart idea to have some form of protection. Folks on a lower budget would be wise to cover the essentials: smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and a basic form of anti-theft protection. If you have the means, a little more equipment can go a long way. Homeowners and renters can feel safer with 24/7 monitoring, doorbell cameras, and motion detectors. Want the height of luxury? Consider purchasing smart home technology to integrate your home and operate things like garage doors, locks, and the thermostat with the touch of a button.
The price of a home security system varies depending on the security vendor, the amount of hardware you’re purchasing, the size of the space you need protected, and the kind of functions you want your security system to perform. Speaking generally, you can find a great home security system for $100–$600 in upfront costs, and pay $15–$50 per month for monitoring.