Which Security System Is Best?

Choosing the best home security system in 2025 depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences for features like professional monitoring, smart home integration, or DIY installation. With a wide range of options, from traditional providers like ADT to DIY solutions like SimpliSafe and Ring, the ideal system balances affordability, reliability, and functionality. This comprehensive guide evaluates top security systems based on expert reviews, testing, and consumer feedback, helping you decide which system is best for your home.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Security System

Before diving into specific systems, consider these key factors to determine the best fit:

  • Monitoring Type: Professional monitoring (24/7 support from a call center) vs. self-monitoring (alerts sent to your smartphone).
  • Installation: Professional installation (higher cost, expert setup) vs. DIY (affordable, user-installed).
  • Equipment: Cameras, sensors, doorbells, and smart home devices like locks or lights.
  • Cost: Upfront equipment costs, monthly monitoring fees, and potential contract requirements.
  • Smart Home Integration: Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
  • Property Size: Small apartments need fewer components than large homes or businesses.

Note: The best system aligns with your lifestyle, whether you prioritize ease of use, advanced features, or budget constraints.

Top Home Security Systems in 2025

Based on expert testing and consumer insights, here are five leading home security systems for 2025, each excelling in different areas:

1. SimpliSafe – Best for DIY and Affordability

SimpliSafe is a top-rated DIY security system known for its affordability, flexibility, and innovative features like Intruder Intervention and Active Guard Outdoor Protection. It’s ideal for homeowners and renters seeking a no-contract solution.

Key Features

  • Equipment: Wireless cameras (indoor/outdoor), motion sensors, entry sensors, and keypads. Packages start at $250.96 (The Foundation).
  • Monitoring: Optional professional monitoring ($31.99–$79.99/month) with cellular backup and AI-powered deterrence.
  • Installation: DIY, with easy setup in under an hour.
  • Smart Home Integration: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Standout Feature: Intruder Intervention allows monitoring agents to use sirens and two-way audio to deter intruders via cameras.

Pros

  • Affordable equipment and monitoring plans.
  • No long-term contracts.
  • Cellular backup ensures functionality during internet outages.
  • Customizable packages for various home sizes.

Cons

  • Advanced features like Active Guard require higher-tier plans.
  • Cameras have average video quality compared to competitors like Arlo.

Best For

Small to medium-sized homes, apartments, and budget-conscious users who want a reliable DIY system with optional professional monitoring.

2. ADT – Best for Professional Monitoring

With over 150 years of experience, ADT is a trusted name in professional security, offering high-quality equipment and rapid response times. Its systems integrate with Google Nest cameras for enhanced functionality.

Key Features

  • Equipment: Includes Nest Cams, door/window sensors, motion detectors, and smart home hubs. Custom packages start at $194.98 (ADT Self Setup).
  • Monitoring: Professional monitoring ($24.99–$59.99/month) with fast response (average 45 seconds).
  • Installation: Professional or DIY (ADT Self Setup).
  • Smart Home Integration: Alexa, Google Assistant, and smart devices like thermostats and locks.
  • Standout Feature: Comprehensive monitoring with environmental sensors for smoke, CO, and flooding.

Pros

  • Trusted brand with reliable monitoring.
  • Wide range of equipment, including high-quality Nest Cams.
  • Flexible installation options.

Cons

  • Higher costs for equipment and monitoring.
  • Long-term contracts may be required for professional installation.
  • DIY cameras have inconsistent performance (e.g., outdoor better at night, indoor better during day).

Best For

Large homes or businesses needing professional installation and 24/7 monitoring with robust smart home integration.

3. Ring Alarm – Best for Smart Home Integration

Ring Alarm, owned by Amazon, excels in DIY installation and Alexa integration, offering affordable monitoring and a wide range of accessories.

Key Features

  • Equipment: Base station, keypad, contact sensors, motion detectors, and range extenders. Packages start at $199.99 (5-piece kit).
  • Monitoring: Optional professional monitoring ($20–$30/month) with 180 days of video history.
  • Installation: DIY, no wiring required.
  • Smart Home Integration: Alexa, with optional Eero Wi-Fi 6 router (Ring Alarm Pro).
  • Standout Feature: Ring Alarm Pro includes a built-in Wi-Fi 6 router for enhanced connectivity.

Pros

  • Competitive pricing and no contracts.
  • Seamless Alexa integration.
  • Wide range of cameras and doorbells (e.g., Ring Spotlight Cam, Video Doorbell).

Cons

  • No Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit support.
  • Professional monitoring not available in some regions (e.g., UK).
  • Wi-Fi jammers can disrupt connectivity.

Best For

Alexa users, small to medium-sized homes, and those seeking affordable DIY systems with robust camera options.

4. Vivint – Best for Smart Home Automation

Vivint offers a high-end, professionally installed system with advanced smart home features and proactive deterrence technology like Smart Deter.

Key Features

  • Equipment: Smart Hub, doorbell cameras, indoor/outdoor cameras, and sensors. Packages start at $599.99.
  • Monitoring: Professional monitoring ($30–$45/month) with 24/7 support.
  • Installation: Professional only.
  • Smart Home Integration: Alexa, Google Assistant, and devices like smart locks and thermostats.
  • Standout Feature: Smart Deter uses light and sound to deter intruders before a break-in.

Pros

  • Advanced smart home automation.
  • High-quality cameras with proactive deterrence.
  • Customizable systems for large properties.

Cons

  • High upfront costs and mandatory professional installation.
  • Contracts required unless equipment is paid upfront.
  • Expensive monitoring plans.

Best For

Large homes or tech enthusiasts wanting a fully integrated smart home security system.

5. Eufy – Best for Budget and No Subscriptions

Eufy offers affordable, no-subscription systems with local storage and AI features, ideal for cost-conscious users.

Key Features

  • Equipment: Keypad, motion sensors, entry sensors, and cameras. 5-piece kit costs ~$159.99.
  • Monitoring: Self-monitoring; optional professional monitoring ($4.99–$9.99/month).
  • Installation: DIY, no wiring needed.
  • Smart Home Integration: Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Standout Feature: Local storage via HomeBase (up to 16TB) eliminates cloud subscription costs.

Pros

  • Low upfront costs and no mandatory subscriptions.
  • High-quality 2K cameras with AI person/vehicle detection.
  • Expandable system with up to 40 accessories.

Cons

  • Mediocre video quality in low-light conditions.
  • Delayed alerts in some cases.
  • Limited professional monitoring availability.

Best For

Budget-conscious users, renters, and those preferring local storage over cloud subscriptions.

Comparison of Top Systems

System Starting Cost Monitoring Installation Smart Home
SimpliSafe $250.96 $31.99–$79.99 DIY Alexa, Google
ADT $194.98 $24.99–$59.99 DIY/Pro Alexa, Google
Ring Alarm $199.99 $20–$30 DIY Alexa
Vivint $599.99 $30–$45 Pro Alexa, Google
Eufy $159.99 $4.99–$9.99 DIY Alexa, Google

How to Choose the Best System

Selecting the best security system involves matching your needs to the system’s strengths:

  1. Budget: Eufy and Ring offer the lowest costs, while Vivint and ADT are pricier but feature-rich.
  2. Home Size: SimpliSafe and Ring suit small to medium homes; Vivint and ADT are better for larger properties.
  3. Monitoring Preference: ADT and Vivint excel in professional monitoring; Eufy is best for self-monitoring.
  4. Smart Home Needs: Vivint leads in automation; Ring is ideal for Alexa users.
  5. Installation: SimpliSafe, Ring, and Eufy are DIY-friendly; ADT offers both; Vivint requires professionals.

Warning: Check local regulations for alarm permits, as some areas require them for monitored systems.

Tips for Maximizing Your Security System

  • Strategic Placement: Position cameras and sensors at entry points and high-traffic areas.
  • Regular Updates: Keep firmware updated to address security vulnerabilities.
    • [](https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-smart-home-security-systems)
  • Backup Power: Choose systems with cellular or battery backup (e.g., SimpliSafe, Ring Alarm Pro).
  • Test Regularly: Test sensors and cameras monthly to ensure functionality.
  • Secure Wi-Fi: Use strong passwords and encryption to prevent hacking.

Conclusion

No single security system is universally “best,” but SimpliSafe stands out for its affordability, DIY ease, and innovative deterrence features, making it ideal for most homeowners. ADT excels in professional monitoring, Ring in Alexa integration, Vivint in smart home automation, and Eufy in budget-friendly local storage. By evaluating your budget, home size, and preferences for monitoring and smart features, you can select a system that provides peace of mind and robust protection in 2025.