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Best Home Security Systems Of July 2025

Everything you need to pick the right security system for your home and budget.

A modern home security system combines door/window sensors, motion detectors, smart cameras and 24/7 monitoring to keep your family safe from intruders, fire and other emergencies. Whether you prefer a contract‑free DIY kit you can install in under an hour or a fully‑wired, professionally installed package with police dispatch, the three picks below represent the market‑wide consensus for reliability, value and customer satisfaction in July 2025.

Compare the Best Home Security Systems

SimpliSafe
ADT
Vivint
Metascore:
4.59 star
4.56 star
4.36 star
Starter Kit Price:
$249
Custom Quote*
Custom Quote*
Monitoring Cost / mo.:
$19.99 – $29.99
$45.99+
$39.99+
Installation:
DIY (optional pro‑install)
Professional
Professional
Contract Length:
None
36 months
42‑60 months
Smart‑Home Support:
Alexa • Google
Google Nest
Alexa • Google • Z‑Wave
24/7 Pro Monitoring:
check
check
check
Free Trial / Return:
60 days
6 months*
3 days
Full Review:

Best Overall: SimpliSafe

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4.59
METASCORE help
The Metascore is the average score distilled from dozens of reviews from the most reputable news sources.

SimpliSafe delivers contract‑free, DIY home protection that you can set up in under 45 minutes. Their Fast Protect™ professional monitoring centres respond in as little as 8 seconds and the system integrates with both Alexa and Google Assistant for easy voice control.

PROS

  • No contracts or hidden fees
  • 60‑day money‑back guarantee
  • Optional self‑monitoring mode

CONS

  • Limited smart‑home ecosystem
  • Outdoor cam requires subscription for cloud video

Best Professional Monitoring: ADT

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4.56
METASCORE help
The Metascore is the average score distilled from dozens of reviews from the most reputable news sources.

ADT has protected homes for nearly 150 years and runs six U.S.‑based monitoring centres for unbeatable redundancy. The partnership with Google Nest brings slick smart displays and cameras into the classic blue‑shield ecosystem.

PROS

  • Industry‑leading response times
  • Google Nest smart‑home bundle
  • 6‑month money‑back guarantee*

CONS

  • Requires 36‑month contract
  • Higher monitoring fees

Best Smart‑Home Integration: Vivint

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4.36
METASCORE help
The Metascore is the average score distilled from dozens of reviews from the most reputable news sources.

Vivint merges professional security with a powerful Z‑Wave hub, letting you control lights, locks and thermostats from a single app. The optional Smart Deter feature uses AI‑driven cameras to ward off lurkers before they break in.

PROS

  • Top‑tier 4K HDR cameras
  • Excellent smart‑home automation
  • Rapid emergency dispatch

CONS

  • Up‑front equipment cost
  • Long‑term contract required

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need professional monitoring?

Self‑monitoring (getting alerts on your phone) works for many people, but only professional monitoring can dispatch police or fire services when you can’t reach your phone. Insurance companies often give discounts when you provide proof of pro monitoring.

Are DIY systems hard to install?

Most DIY kits (like SimpliSafe) use peel‑and‑stick sensors and a pre‑programmed base station. Typical installation takes under an hour with no drilling. You can always add professional installation for a one‑time fee.

Can I use these systems in a rental?

Yes. SimpliSafe is entirely peel‑and‑stick and moves with you. ADT Self‑Setup and Ring Alarm are other good rental‑friendly options. Always check your lease for any restrictions on window or door sensors first.

How much does equipment really cost?

Expect to spend $250–$700 for a starter kit depending on number of entry points and whether you add cameras. Pro‑installed systems like ADT or Vivint can be financed over the life of the contract.

Will these systems work during power or internet outages?

All three featured systems include cellular backup and built‑in batteries, keeping sensors and monitoring online for at least 24 hours if power or Wi‑Fi goes down.