Who We Rated

While the majority of time on this review has been spent our Top 5 Best Home Security Companies,  there were many other security companies worthy of consideration, which fell into a variety of categories.

National Home Security Companies

• Alarm Grid – A Honeywell and 2 Gig Technologies dealer selling DIY equipment with month-to-month contracts.
• Monitronics– The second-largest security company with professional installation exclusively through their dealer network.
• Protection One – 6th largest national home security provider with both DIY and professionally installed alarm systems.
• SimpliSafe – Massachusetts-based DIY alarm program with proprietary equipment and optional monitoring.
• SkyCover-  Newcomer to the DIY home security market with 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee and standard Simon XTi panel.
• Vivint Security – Rebranded APX security company that specializes in home automation with 2GIG technology.

Regional Security Companies

• Ackerman Security – Southeastern Honeywell security dealer with low entry-level installs..and premium pricing.
• ADS Security – Southeastern security company with 60-month contracts.
• Alarmforce– Canadian-based security company with limited US availability. Leased and proprietary equipment.
• Bay Alarm – California-based security company with premium-priced professionally installed equipment.
• Guardian Security – Provides professional installation through a combination of corporate and local authorized dealers.

Cable Companies

• AT&T Digital Life  Digital Life Security systems can be bundled with cable or sold as an independent system.
• Cox Homelife – Homelife Security –  SMC control panel is leased and requires a 24-month contract.
• TWC Intelligent Home – Intelligent Home Security systems are leased and require bundling and an 18-month contract.
• Xfinity Security – by Comcast, is proprietary equipment that is professionally installed-with customer service that is much maligned.

….and others such as SafeTouch Security, CPI Security, Vector Security, etc.  The list will continue to grow, as we continue to evaluate security providers in our quest to identify the Best Home Security Companies of 2021 …and beyond!

Each of these companies has strengths and weaknesses…like any company, but has proven to be a reputable service provider.

How to choose the BEST Home Security System?

The first step in selecting a home security system is assessing your needs, priorities, and budget. While each of our Top 5 Best Home Security Companies is worthy of your consideration, your situation and individual preferences are unique.

To find the security system and company that is best for you, it is important to determine your priorities.

DIY Home Security Systems vs Professional Install Home Security Companies?

One of the first considerations is whether or not you want to install the system yourself or pay for a professional installation. Historically, systems had to be hardwired into the home. This would involve drilling and cutting holes in the walls, fishing wires, and complicated mounting and extensive programming.

But…times have changed.  Even the companies that professionally install the systems are now using primarily wireless equipment.

The technology has been greatly improved over the years to make the equipment extremely user-friendly…and the more experienced  DIY alarm companies have greatly streamlined the installation process to make it simple for even the most technologically challenged homeowners.

The better companies will pre-program the entire system before sending it out so that all the end-user has to do is mount the devices and call in to have the system activated.  Over 90% of homeowners found our best DIY alarm systems easy to install!

Advantages of Home Security Companies that offer DIY Alarms

Potential benefits of getting Best Home Security System with DIY Install 

• Cost Savings– Installing a DIY security system from one of the best home security companies can mean big savings.  Top security companies that sell self-installed DIY systems don’t have to factor in expensive professional installation. The cost savings with the DIY best security system can be substantial when compared to the top-ranking professionally installed home security companies.
• No Contracts –  If you were to invest in one of the top choices in the professionally installed best home security system category, it would likely involve a 3-year contract. But, some of the best home alarm systems that offer DIY installation, such as Frontpoint, which earned our award for the best security system for customer service, now provides state-of-the-art equipment with only a month-to-month commitment.
• No Waiting– One of the big advantages of buying a DIY alarm listed in our top home security companies is that there is no need to take time off from work or schedule an installation time. The DIY installation option available on the best home security systems means you can install the system when it is convenient for you.
• Enhances Familiarity– Home security systems reviews indicate that homeowners and renters who set up DIY alarms that are ranked among the best home security companies become more familiar with all the features and operations of their systems. Let’s face it, the best security system is the one that you will be comfortable using, and is armed all the time!
• Portability– With the best DIY security systems,  when you move, your alarm system moves with you. Many home security system reviews from some of the owners of the best home security systems that need to be professionally installed complain that service is not available in their area when they relocate. Home security is important no matter where you and your family may live. The best home security system is that one that protects the things that are most important to you no matter where life takes you.
• No strangers in your home – The best home security companies take great care in hiring technicians. Nevertheless, even the best home security companies that must be professionally installed sometimes have to use 3rd party sub-contractors. Often times the best security system might be getting installed by a technician that might not be thoroughly vetted. You can assure your family of the best home security by having complete control over the entire process. Why share sensitive information with a complete stranger? With DIY home security companies, this is never a problem.

Benefits of DIY Home Security Companies 

Advantages of Home Security Companies with Professional Install Services

• Less Effort
• More Expertise

While a professionally installed system might involve less effort, the vast majority found that the systems provided by the best DIY alarm companies were easy to install, user friendly, and saved them a substantial amount over a professionally installed system.

(And I venture to say that they got a certain amount of pride and self-satisfaction in having done it themselves…)

Tips for the Best Home Security System with Professional Install

Not everyone is comfortable with technology.  We get it.

And many of the best security systems are still being professionally installed. But if you are scheduling a technician to come into your home, make sure to follow these best home security practices:

For those who choose a professionally installed security system from among the top-ranked home security systems,  make sure that you determine how experienced the installation technician is. The best security system companies will require that all technicians are background checked and have undergone drug screening.

Be sure to ask whether or not the company is using its own employees or uses 3rd party subcontractors. Alarm companies that are working with subcontractors often have less control over the vetting process.

And finally, make sure that installers have proper ID and have gone through extensive vetting before allowing them into your house.

Landline vs. Broadband vs. Cellular

When selecting the best home security system to help protect your home and family, one of the most important criteria to consider is how the system will be communicating to the central monitoring station.  Historically, it wasn’t that long ago when the only way to send a signal was through a landline.  Fortunately, technology has developed faster, more efficient, and more secure methods of communication that afford additional options to meet the demands of security-savvy consumers.

The basic landline connection is typically the most affordable means of communication.  However, it has limited capabilities and is more susceptible to potential security threats.  Landlines can be compromised by simply cutting the phone line.  This eliminated the means of communication and reduces the security system to nothing more than a noise-maker.

Additionally, landlines cannot transmit the data signals that power the mobile applications which play such an important role in today’s best home security systems.  Today’s consumers are looking to be able to monitor and manage security and home automation functions from anywhere through apps on their mobile devices.

Broadband is certainly the fastest means of communication a signal and excellent data bandwidth transmission capability but suffers from the same security vulnerabilities as the landline.  It can be defeated with a $5.00 set of wire cutters.  Additionally, broadband communication is susceptible to local power and cable outages.

Consequently, in most situations, we recommend a system equipped with a cellular connection (or a system with multiple, redundant capability).  It operates on its own independent cellular communicator which is typically incorporated into the main control panel.  It cannot be cut by intruders and is not affected by local phone, cable, or power outages…as the system has a battery backup. Most companies offer both CDMA and GSM cellular technologies which afford coverage in the vast majority of the country.

Of course, the exception might be if one resides in an area where there is no cellular coverage or cable service. (or if there is no interest in interactive apps and services)  In this case, we highly recommend that exposed phone or cable wires on the exterior of the home are protected with conduit, to protect against the potential for line cuts.

Hardwired vs. Wireless

Back in the ’80s and ’90s when wireless security systems were first introduced, the technology was far less reliable than it is today.  There were many security purists who insisted that hard-wired systems were the only way to go.  Of course, this required professional installation, cutting holes, and fishing wires…and, of course, the typical installation would cost thousands of dollars.

However, as the industry has evolved, technology has improved…and costs have come way down.  The batteries that power wireless sensors last for many years and the systems employ learn mode technology to ensure that the sensors communicate properly with the control panel-eliminating the possibility of wireless interference.

As a result, even the “professional installation” companies install wireless alarm systems…almost exclusively in residential applications. While hardwired systems are still used in certain commercial applications…it is unusual to see modern systems being hard-wired in a residential system.

Local vs. National

When it comes to choosing a security company to help protect your home and family, we recommend selecting a national home security company that has a stable history and specializes in home security….across the nation.  In a mobile society, who knows when you may need to relocate…and need to secure a home in another part of the country.

The last thing you want is to be tied to a contract with a cable company that doesn’t service that area or a small local security company that only provides service in a limited geographical market.  Over the years, I have seen countless local security companies go out of business or sell out to national companies because they could no longer compete….leaving their loyal customers confused, unprotected, or at the mercy of their new service provider.

Other Considerations for Selecting The Best Home Security System 

Once you’ve narrowed things down a bit, there are a number of things to consider when it comes to choosing the best home security company and putting together and security and home automation system that will meet your needs.

Before making a decision…ask yourself:

• What is your budget for a home security system?
  • While home security systems used to be only for the well-off, technological advances have brought prices down and made home security affordable for almost anyone. Systems that used to cost many thousands can now be purchased for little or nothing upfront…or a few hundred dollars.

• Are the upfront costs or the monthly costs more of a challenge?
  • Some companies now include the costs of the equipment in the monthly monitoring…increasing the monthly cost a bit, but making the initial investment affordable for almost anyone!

• Do you need to have the system professionally installed, or are you comfortable with installing a wireless, self-installed system?
  • Most systems are now completely wireless and require no drilling or cutting holes in the walls. The Security system is typically pre-programmed and very simple for virtually anyone to install. No longer is it necessary to wait days or even weeks to schedule a professional installation or allow a stranger into your home.

• How good is the installation support you’ll receive?
  • A quality company will ensure a simple, streamlined installation experience by providing quality installation instructions, video tutorials, and e-mail, chat, and phone support with experienced installation personnel.

• Is name recognition important to you?
  • Certainly, a company’s length of time in business, reputation, and name recognition are important considerations.

• Do you own your home or rent?
  • Some companies require that you own the home, or secure permission from the homeowner before installing a system.

• Are you looking for the latest, cutting-edge technology or proven, reliable equipment that has stood the test of time?
  • As with any industry, there are always new players introducing new technology. While some people are comfortable with a company with little or no track record, many people prefer equipment that is proven and has stood the test of time.

• Is it important to you that external video cameras are incorporated into the system?
  • Not all companies offer external or “pan and tilt” cameras. If you are looking for advanced video capabilities, you might also consider an independent, 3^rd party video solution to complement your security system. This would require a separate user interface, but, might be more cost-effective.

• Do you live in an area where cellular service is a challenge? If so, does the company offer landline and/or broadband connectivity?
  • Cellular communication provides security against having the phone lines compromised, but, if you live in an area where cellular service is questionable at times, a landline connection may be preferable.

• Are you looking to include home automation features and energy management in your home security system?
  • Most of these features can also be run independently of your security system, but many people prefer the convenience of an integrated, all in one, solution. But not all companies provide a full complement of home automation products and services. If this is of interest, make sure that the system works with either the OEM or 3rd party products you want to monitor your home with, such as smart locks, outdoor cameras, or a video doorbell. These are likely not items included in the basic security kit, so make sure you check into how these services affect the monthly fee. Typically, home automation services will increase the basic rates of monthly professional monitoring services.

• Does the company guarantee your monthly rate won’t increase in the future?
  • While some companies may offer low initial rates, in the fine print, they reserve the right to increase those rates…even during the term of the initial contract.

• How important are customer service and the length of the warranty?
  • Most of the time, you will be committing to at least a 3-year agreement. Shouldn’t your equipment be guaranteed as long as you are a customer?
• Is the convenience of “bundling” worth the less than stellar customer service associated with some of the telecom providers such as TWC Intelligent Home and Cox Homelife?

Once you have a good idea of where your individual priorities lie, one of our Top 5 Best Home Security Companies of 2021 will likely fit the bill!

Arming Modes of the Best Home Security Systems

OFF — Many of the alarm features are still active even when your home security system is switched off.   Your alarm system will still alert you if a doorway or window is opened.  The smoke detectors, carbon monoxide sensors and environmental and life safety systems (i.e. water or low temperature) are still active. So, even if the system isn’t armed, if a fire breaks out your system will still alert the central monitoring station.

Stay–  You can arm only the perimeter protection at the doors and windows by arming your system in the “stay” mode.   This will enable you to move about the home freely and still have a certain degree of protection.

Away –  The away mode will trigger any interior motion detectors in addition to the doors and windows.

Instant — You can eliminate the entry delay on your home security system by arming it in instant mode.

Duress –  You can set up a special duress code that will notify the monitoring center that there’s a potential hostage situation.

Panic –  The best home security systems are also equipped with an emergency panic button.  These will alert the central monitoring station that there is an occupied panic scenario. They will typically dispatch the proper authorities immediately…and then contact the home to verify the signal.

Best Home Security System Arming Options

When evaluating the top security systems, make sure that each of these arming modes and features is available.

 The Best Home Security Systems

Things You Can Do With Their Mobile Apps

The Best Home Security Systems have begun to incorporate many new capabilities in recent years.  Top alarm systems typically provide a central hub that gives you the ability to control virtually any connected device that is compatible with the system.

• Arm/Disarm System – All home security apps let you arm and disarm your alarm from any mobile device.
  Lock/Unlock Doors – With the best security systems, you don’t have to worry if you forgot your keys.  Mobile Apps featured by the top alarm companies enable you to unlock compatible door locks.
• Best Security Company Cameras – Best Home Security Compatible Cameras allow you to record video or watch in real-time- right through the app. A security camera from one of our best alarm companies lets you oversee your pets and observe the children as they arrive home from school.
• Real-Time Alerts – Mobile apps from the best alarm companies allow you to set real-time alerts that will notify you via text or e-mail when the kids get home, there is an intrusion, fire or any event you wish to program into the system.
  Thermostat Control – Top Home Security systems mobile apps can even serve as a home energy management hub.  They allow the user to control the thermostat and…
• Turn Lights On/OFF – ensure that you never have to walk into an unlit home.  The best home alarm systems can be equipped with smart lighting which is controlled through the mobile app.
• Control Appliances – With most of our top home security systems, you can even start the coffee maker or an air conditioner from the office.  wouldn’t it be great to come home to a warm cup of coffee and/or a cool house?

Mobile Apps – Benefits of the Best Security Systems

Unique Sensor Uses Available in the Best Home Alarm Systems 

You can use door or window sensors to safeguard many areas of your home with most of the best home security companies.

Most home security reviews don’t mention it, but basic magnetic contacts can be configured so that they don’t actually activate the alarm. A sensor can be set up so it will chime and send a notification alert through your mobile app.  Once you receive a signal, you can observe your home security camera right on your smartphone.

Door or window contacts have a number of alternative uses:

Gun Safe – Place a sensor on your gun cabinet for an extra layer of protection. While most people know enough to lock their gun safes, the best home security companies can provide a second layer of protection with the addition of a magnetic contact- set in “report-only” mode.  That way, if someone finds the code or key,  your alarm system will send an e-mail notification via SMS or e-mail to alert you when your cabinet is accessed.

Liquor and Medicine Cabinets- You can even monitor the contents of your liquor and medicine cabinets. The best security systems will allow you to set schedules in your app and notify you if a cabinet was not opened by a certain time.  This can be useful to ensure that someone is taking medications on a timely basis.

Hazardous Materials- The best home alarm systems can even help protect against accidental poisoning.  Install contacts on any cabinet within a child’s reach that might contain harmful or toxic materials.  Then program the sensor to in report-only mode.

Tool Shed- If the tool shed is located within the range of the hub of your system, a sensor can be placed on the door of your tool shed as well. In some situations, it may require special outdoor sensors to deal with extreme temperatures and the elements.

Mailbox- Wondering if the mail has been delivered?  Door/window sensors can be placed on the mailbox to let you know.

Pool Gate -It is especially important for families with young children to be aware of the status of a pool gate. The best home security companies have outdoor sensors that can be placed on the pool gate.   Check with customer service to find out what sensors are best suited for your situation.

Keep in mind that outdoor applications may require more robust sensors. Mounting on some surfaces can be difficult and the distance to the sensor from the main hub of the wireless security system can be a limiting factor.

The best home security system for some people is the company that can provide the most variety of equipment sensors to accomplish specific tasks.

Best Home Security Sensor Uses – Infographic

Top 5 Tips to Avoid False Alarms with the

Best Home Security Systems

Know How to Arm/Disarm System

Make sure all users know how to use the Apps, Key Fobs, and have memorized the 4-digit code.

Remember the Password

If the system goes off, the Top Alarm Companies’ monitoring stations will call to verify and request your secret password.  Ensure that all authorized users know it.

Make sure that Sensors are Securely Mounted

Be sure that your motion detectors and sensors are properly mounted and clear of obstructions.

Properly Secure Doors and Windows

Make sure that all doors and windows are closed tightly before arming the system.

Maintain the Security System

Test the system as recommended and be sure to keep fresh batteries on hand. For more details on the Best Home Security Systems, Top Rated Security System Reviews, and the Best Security  Cameras, visit The Home Security Advisor

False Alarms Can be a Problem with Even the Best Security Systems – Video Summary of Tips to Prevent Them 

2020 Coronavirus Update – How Top Alarm Companies Combat The Covid-19  Pandemic

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