The Best Home Security System in 2025: The Top Smart Hub to Protect Your Home
Simplisafe home security systems can be easily tailored to your needs. Just add or subtract the hardware and device.
When choosing a home security system for your home, you may start deciding between a DIY setup or a professionally installed and monitored setup. When you consider the device, installation, monitoring options, and other features you want, you may reach DIY-Pro system decisions in the process. There are more parameters to consider when shopping for home security systems:
Equipment and installation
Do you just need to pay attention to the entrance? All you may need for video doorbells and outdoor cameras covering the back; easy to install and monitor yourself. If you want to monitor and quickly access emergency response services through 24/7, bringing homes inside and out close to you, you will need a more powerful system. DIY and professional brands offer home security bundles, if not all, if not all, devices you need to get started with and the ability to add individual devices as needed.
Most home security devices are compatible with Alexa and Google Home Smart Hub, but if you like Apple HomeKit or other smart home ecosystems, you may need to do more shopping and compare to find a system that is compatible with your existing smart home devices. Don’t go too far beyond compatibility, as it makes it easier to connect previously incompatible devices (although there is no security camera yet).
Remember that all devices need to be installed. Although there are not many security cameras or even cable video doorbells, the installation and setup requirements of the entire hospital system are higher. Some are DIY-friendly and use adhesive to position the device without leaving permanent markings, but not all systems do so. If you would rather leave it to experts and let them guide you through how to use the system, professional home security services may be the way to go.
Monitoring, Alerts and Emergency Functions
Arlo’s app is simple and intuitive.
Almost all home security systems can be self-monitored through applications on your phone. They will also send you push notifications when events occur, such as when delivering the package to your doorstep.
Consider whether you are responsible for all monitoring or want some support. The professional system will come with 24/7 monitoring, but depending on the brand you choose, you may charge professional monitoring for the DIY system.
More advanced features such as facial recognition, glass break sensors, and communications with emergency services may not be available to all manufacturers and devices. When choosing a home security system, consider the level of surveillance you want, and the people you want to do, as well as the emergency response options.
Fees, upfront and ongoing
We list the “cost” here, and there is a reason. A complete home security system can cost at least a few hundred dollars, so be prepared for it. It is possible to spend more or less on the device. Also, remember that the size of the system can greatly affect the cost. Like many people, the boot system we listed here usually costs between $150 and $300 and allows you to add other compatible devices over time. Larger systems with 10 devices or more cost at least hundreds of dollars and can reach up to $1,000 or more depending on the technology included.
Continuous costs may add some weight when choosing the best safety system. Expect monthly fees for professional services, or maybe a contract, locks you into a year or two (although we agree that there is no necessary contract option). Contracting a contract may not be ideal, but it may also come with free equipment or installation and reduce upfront costs.
If you are satisfied with self-monitoring, the DIY system may not be incurring any ongoing expenses. Cloud storage, enhancements may even be a monthly subscription for professional monitoring (without contracts) which is often an option for DIY systems, usually at a lower monthly fee than professional services.
Privacy and security
Always look for brands that will ensure data security and have good security, encryption and protection of data breaches. It’s not always easy – many security companies have encountered employees in the past who have violated regulations, privacy violations, and even surveillance through home security cameras.
We look at the company’s current practices, history and how to improve when we make recommendations over the past few years. SimpliSafe has been one of the outstanding performers when it comes to safety, which is one of the reasons they have earned No. 1 on our list. Despite the mistakes that Ring has made in the past, it has improved in recent years, and has even withdrawn its policy on providing videotapes to police, so we are satisfied with recommending Ring at this time.
