The Best Medical Alert Systems of 2023

#1. Our Top Pick
Medical Guardian
4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
Starting at  
$29.95
/mo.
Pro Bullet Easy-to-use buttons
Pro Bullet Lots of plan options
Con Bullet Difficult website to navigate
#2
LifeFone
4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
Starting at  
$29.95
/mo.
Pro Bullet 30-day free trial
Pro Bullet Lifetime price lock
Con Bullet Smaller buttons than competitors
#3
Bay Alarm Medical
4.7 out of 5 stars4.7
Starting at  
$19.95
/mo.
Pro Bullet 30-day trial period
Pro Bullet AARP, AMAC, and USAA discounts
Con Bullet Extra cost for warranty
#4
MobileHelp
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
Starting at  
$19.95
/mo.
Pro Bullet Most affordable per month
Pro Bullet 30-day trial period
Con Bullet Limited movement range
#5
GreatCall
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
Starting at  
$24.99
/mo.
Pro Bullet Unlimited movement range
Pro Bullet Longest battery backup (80 hrs.)
Con Bullet Mobile only; no in-home base

Overview
If you or a loved one needs a bit of extra help navigating around the house while maintaining independence, a medical alert system can be the lifeline to assistance when it’s needed.

Nearly 50% of respondents to a recent ASecureLife survey said "falling and causing bodily injury or death” is a main security concern for them.* This is especially true for those who might fall for medical reasons. Luckily, medical alert systems exist to ease these valid worries.

To help you find a system you can rely on, we’ve researched, ranked, and reviewed the top medical alert systems in the industry this year.

Here are the best medical alert systems of 2020


How we chose

We looked at things like equipment, usability, pricing, and overall experience to determine which medical alert systems we’d recommend to our own family members. With them in mind, we put each medical alert service under the microscope and compared hundreds of different data points.

Let’s take a closer look at our picks.


Compare the best medical alert systems

Data effective 01/21/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.

Other brands we considered

Are you wondering why your preferred medical alert system isn’t on our list? We investigated 13 different medical alert systems, including Alert1, Philips Lifeline, Life Alert, and LifeStation. These brands didn’t quite make the cut. For instance, Alert1 has poor customer reviews, while Philips Lifeline’s basic fall detection price is higher than average. And Life Alert? It doesn’t offer fall detection at all.

There are also some types of systems we didn’t review for this post, like medical alert devices that can integrate into home security systems. These include brands like Vivint, ADT, Frontpoint, Cove, and Link Interactive.

1. Medical Guardian

Medical Guardian is easy to use, and it has the biggest variety of plans. It offers an app for iOS and has a large range of movement.

Medical Guardian
Our rating:
4.8 out of 5.0
4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
Customer service
5 out of 5 stars5.0
Price
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
Features & equipment
5 out of 5 stars5.0
Plans starting at 
$29.95
/mo.

    Medical Guardian pros and cons

    Pros
    • Pro BulletNo setup fee
    • Pro BulletNo long-term contracts
    • Pro BulletFall detection
    • Pro Bullet1,300-foot range
    • Pro BulletEasy-to-use buttons
    • Pro Bullet30-hour battery backup
    • Pro BulletMobile/GPS tracking option
    • Pro BulletLifetime warranty
    • Pro BulletMobile app option (iOS)
    • Pro BulletLots of plan options
    Cons
    • Con BulletDifficult-to-navigate website

    How much does Medical Guardian cost?

    Data effective 01/21/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.


    Some brands advertise only their discounted rates. It can be frustrating when you go to check out and realize you can’t get the low price unless you pay for several months up front.

    Instead of advertising the monthly rate based on the annual rate discount, Medical Guardian states the month-to-month price up front ($29.95). The discount actually feels like a discount instead of a bait and switch.

    Medical Guardian also has multiple package options to choose from, including landline, cellular, GPS, and fall alert options. It even has a well-priced family option.

    Medical Guardian features

    Medical Guardian keeps its systems simple without sacrificing quality or usability. The emergency pendants and bracelets stand out because they have large, easy-to-press buttons yet look like digital watches. Medical Guardian pendants work up to 1,300 feet away from the base station device. This gives the user the freedom to move about their home or yard without going beyond the base unit range. That’s perfect for active seniors or any other people who’re in danger of a fall. Of the medical alert brands we reviewed, no home-based systems had a bigger range.
    Medical Guardian Family Guardian package
    Fall alert necklace
    Protip

    In fall 2019, Medical Guardian released a line of medical alert necklaces that look like regular jewelry. This more stylish option is great for those who don’t like the aesthetic of typical medical alert devices.

    In addition to the 1,300-foot range of the home base, Medical Guardian also offers a mobile option with an unlimited range. Fall detection can be added to this option, so if the system is for a user who regularly leaves home, mobile might be a better choice instead of or in addition to the standard at-home option. Finally, we like that Medical Guardian lets you choose who they contact first when the user presses the button. So if you'd rather have family check in before emergency responders or police, emergency help is still there, but a family member could take the lead.

    Medical Guardian customer service

    One thing we noticed about this brand: on some pages, the website encourages and sometimes redirects users to call or email a representative before or during purchase. If you don’t know how to navigate past these requests, you may not be able to order without contacting Medical Guardian. While some customers would surely appreciate the assistance, it’s inconvenient for consumers who prefer to research and order products on their own.

    Medical Guardian customer service representatives are available both through phone and by email.

    >>Learn more: Read full Medical Guardian review.

    >>View Plans


    2. LifeFone

    When we weigh pricing, features, and customer service, LifeFone is a solid overall system. Among other benefits, it charges the least of any system to add fall detection.

    Lifefone
    Our rating:
    4.8 out of 5.0
    4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
    Customer service
    5 out of 5 stars5.0
    Price
    4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
    Features & equipment
    5 out of 5 stars5.0
    Plans starting at 
    $29.95
    /mo.

      LifeFone pros and cons

      Pros
      • Pro BulletNo setup fee
      • Pro BulletNo long-term contracts
      • Pro Bullet30-day free trial
      • Pro BulletFall detection
      • Pro Bullet1,300-foot range
      • Pro Bullet32-hour battery backup
      • Pro BulletMobile/GPS tracking option
      • Pro BulletLifetime warranty
      • Pro BulletMobile app option (iOS, Android)
      • Pro BulletProrated refund
      Cons
      • Con BulletSmaller buttons on bracelet than on competitor wearables

      How much does LifeFone cost?

      Data effective as of publish date. Offers and availability subject to change.


      You can save on LifeFone services if you pay for a year in advance—dropping your monthly cost to $24.95. But if you can't afford a big upfront payment, you can still pay the monthly rate of $29.95. With LifeFone’s refund policy  you won’t lose money if you need to cancel your service. You can cancel any time and you'll get a refund for all full pre-paid months that haven't been used. If you can afford to pay in a lump sum, you might as well save money by purchasing a whole year at once.

      LifeFone at Home

      LifeFone lets you add a fall detection pendant to its services for a monthly fee of $5 to $10 more. This makes LifeFone one of the three best options if you’re looking for super affordable fall detection.

      Overall, LifeFone is cheaper than Medical Guardian—especially if you can pay for your service annually. Initially, when we compared medical alert systems, Medical Guardian offered more options, but LifeFone now has two at-home systems and four on-the-go systems. These new developments may see LifeFone giving Medical Guardian some tough competition for the top spot when we update our rankings.

      LifeFone features

      Like Medical Guardian, LifeFone has a range of up to 1,300 feet from your base station device with certain packages. This range means the user can go in the basement, work in the garage, or relax in the yard without going beyond the range limits.

      LifeFone customer service

      You can talk to the LifeFone customer care team by phone or by email. LifeFone’s people are available 24 hours a day.

      >>Learn more: Read full LifeFone review.

      >>View Plans


      3. Bay Alarm Medical

      The ultra-compact and lightweight GPS medical alert system Bay Alarm Medical is available at an affordable price. If you want prorated refunds, a price-lock guarantee, and the option to get a second pendant monitored at no extra cost, this is the brand for you.

      Bay Alarm Medical
      Our rating:
      4.7 out of 5.0
      4.7 out of 5 stars4.7
      Customer service
      5 out of 5 stars5.0
      Price
      5 out of 5 stars5.0
      Features & equipment
      4 out of 5 stars4.0
      Plans starting at 
      $19.95
      /mo.

        Bay Alarm Medical pros and cons

        Pros
        • Pro BulletNo contracts
        • Pro Bullet30-day trial period
        • Pro BulletFall detection
        • Pro Bullet1,000-foot range
        • Pro Bullet32-hour battery backup
        • Pro BulletMobile/GPS tracking option
        • Pro BulletMobile app option (iOS, Android)
        • Pro BulletProrated refund
        • Pro BulletPrice-lock guarantee
        • Pro BulletAmerican Seniors Association, AMAC, AARP, and USAA discounts
        • Pro BulletFree spouse monitoring coverage with purchase of second pendant
        Cons
        • Con BulletBulky equipment
        • Con BulletExtra cost for warranty plan
        • Con BulletExtra $10 cost for cellular network connection
        • Con BulletSmaller fall detection range
        • Con BulletAT&T coverage required in area to use mobile and in-home cellular

        How much does Bay Alarm Medical cost?

        Data effective 01/21/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.


        Bay Alarm Medical tied as the cheapest option from month to month ($19.95) for a starting package. It’s also tied with LifeFone and Mobile Help for the lowest fall detection price.

        For the price, you get a large range of motion and a good battery life. If you need to add a second person to your plan, you can simply purchase a second pendant. Your monitoring costs won’t go up.

        Other Bay Alarm Medical plans
        Protip
        Apart from these typical medical alert plans, Bay Alarm Medical has medical alert systems specifically for your car. You can even get packages that combine in-home, mobile, and car alert systems.

        Bay Alarm Medical is the only option in our top five with a price-lock guarantee. If the brand increases its price, existing users don’t have to pay more. And if you decide to cancel, you get back any prepaid months minus return shipping costs.

        Unlike our top two options, Bay Alarm Medical equipment doesn’t come with a lifetime warranty. If you want a warranty, you’ll have to buy it for $5 a month.

        Bay Alarm Medical features

        Bay Alarm Medical’s medical alert systems come with a 1,000-foot range from the base station. The user won’t have quite as much freedom as with Medical Guardian or LifeFone, but they should still be able to get around the home without trouble. The fall detection range, sadly, is a little smaller: 800 feet. If you live in a small apartment, though, that’s not an issue.

        This brand also offers a mobile app compatible with both iPhones and Androids. The app is geared towards the caretaker, so if you purchase the Bay Alarm Medical system for a loved one, you can use the app to check on them.

        Bay Alarm Medical customer service

        Bay Alarm tech support is available by phone.

        >>Learn more: Read full Bay Alarm Medical review.

        >>View Plans


        4. MobileHelp

        MobileHelp offers standard medical alert device features, but it doesn’t have the range of its competitors.

        MobileHelp
        Our rating:
        4.5 out of 5.0
        4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
        Customer service
        5 out of 5 stars5.0
        Price
        5 out of 5 stars5.0
        Features & equipment
        3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
        Plans starting at 
        $19.95
        /mo.

          MobileHelp pros and cons

          Pros
          • Pro BulletNo contracts
          • Pro Bullet30-day trial period
          • Pro BulletFall detection
          • Pro Bullet24-hour battery backup
          • Pro BulletMobile/GPS tracking option
          • Pro BulletMobile app option (iOS, Android)
          Cons
          • Con BulletDifficult-to-use website
          • Con BulletNo warranty
          • Con BulletLimited range compared to competition
          • Con BulletAT&T coverage required in area

          How much does MobileHelp cost?

          Data effective 01/21/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.


          MobileHelp’s pricing is similar to Bay Alarm Medical. It has a smaller device range and a lower battery backup time, so you don’t get as much for your money with MobileHelp as you do with Bay Alarm Medical.

          MobileHelp features

          MobileHelp offers similar functionality as our top three options, just on a smaller scale. The range isn’t as expansive (600 feet vs. 1,000+) and the battery backup is lower (24 hours vs. 30+). So if you have a bigger home or you live in an area with frequent power outages, this isn’t for you.

          MobileHelp Device

          MobileHelp has an app for caretakers. It allows them to see their loved one’s location, review their alert history, and even remind them to take their medication. It’s a great way to keep tabs on a loved one when you’re too busy or too far away to physically check in.

          MobileHelp customer service

          Like all our top options, MobileHelp has well-reviewed customer service. The website is a bit difficult to navigate, though. We weren’t able to find the range of MobileHelp devices until we downloaded a brochure.

          You can call, message, or even snail mail MobileHelp’s customer service folks.

          >>Learn more: Read full MobileHelp review.

          >>View Plans


          5. GreatCall

          GreatCall is a mobile-only service with an unlimited range. It’s great for users who are frequently out of the house, but it does require an up-front equipment purchase.

          GreatCall
          Our rating:
          4.5 out of 5.0
          4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
          Customer service
          4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
          Price
          4 out of 5 stars4.0
          Features & equipment
          5 out of 5 stars5.0
          Plans starting at 
          $24.99
          /mo.

            GreatCall pros and cons

            Pros
            • Pro BulletNo contracts
            • Pro BulletUnlimited range
            • Pro Bullet80-hour battery backup
            • Pro BulletMobile/GPS tracking option
            • Pro BulletOne-year warranty
            • Pro BulletMobile app option (iOS and Android)
            Cons
            • Con BulletMobile only; no in-home base
            • Con BulletPhone orders only
            • Con BulletEquipment fee up front
            • Con BulletFall detection available only with priciest plan
            • Con BulletNo app access with Basic plan

            How much does GreatCall cost?

            Data effective 01/21/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.


            GreatCall’s monthly wearable device plans start at $24.99. But when you calculate in the initial $39.99 to buy a Lively Mobile Plus device, the savings aren’t as good as they appear—especially since you have to spend at least $34.99 to get a plan with fall detection. The price may be worth it though. You can go anywhere and be covered with GreatCall, rather than being restricted to your house.

            GreatCall’s caretaker app can be used with the Preferred and Ultimate plans. It has similar functions as MobileHelp’s. Unfortunately, the app doesn’t let a caretaker set reminders for the user.

            GreatCall features

            As a mobile-only service, GreatCall offers an unlimited range of motion. The wearable devices don’t have to connect to a home base, so they can be used anywhere. They do have to be accompanied by an up-to-date iPhone or Android.

            Lively Mobile from GreatCall
            GreatCall and Lively Mobile
            Take Note
            Lively Mobile is the name of some of the devices produced by the GreatCall brand. If you want to look up reviews, they may be by product name instead of by brand name.

            GreatCall customer service

            You can reach GreatCall customer service by phone or by a contact form on their website.

            >>View Plans


            Medical alert systems FAQ

            When should I or my loved one consider a medical alert system?

            The fact that you’re even considering a medical alert system means it’s time. Think of a medical alert system like a seat belt—99% of the time you won’t need one, but it can save your life the other 1% of the time. Here are some questions for you or your loved one to ask yourselves to determine whether you need a medical alert system:
            • In the past year, have I stumbled, fallen, or felt dizzy?
            • In the past year, have I been in the hospital or the emergency room for any reason?
            • Do I suffer from any of the following chronic ailments?
              • Arthritis
              • COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
              • Diabetes
              • Heart disease
              • Osteoporosis
              • Stroke
            • Do I take any medications that could make me dizzy or drowsy?
            • Do I use a cane, walker, wheelchair, etc. for day-to-day mobility?
            • Do I need help bathing, dressing, or preparing meals?
            • How often am I home alone?
            • Do I have a caregiver or caregivers?
            • Do I require long-term care?
            If you’re nodding your head as you’re reading these, it’s time to make the investment in a medical alert system.

            What should I look for in a medical alert system?

            Here’s what to look for when deciding which medical alert system will work best for your needs.

            Price

            So how much will a medical alert system cost? Most medical alarm companies have month-to-month or prepaid service agreements instead of contracted services. If you pay for six or 12 months up front, you can get a discounted price on your medical alert monitoring services.

            Not all medical alert companies offer refunds on prepaid services.

            It’s worth noting that not all medical alert companies offer refunds on prepaid services. So if you cancel for any reason (including death), you might not get your money back. We recommend choosing a company with a prorated refund policy.

            >>ASecureLife’s recommendation: Bay Alarm Medical is an especially good option if you have concerns about price. With the affordable services and price-lock guarantee, you’ll get a good bang for your buck

            Monitoring cost

            Few medical alert companies lock you into contracts. Instead, most give you a discount on your monthly rate for paying up front—typically three, six, or 12 months at a time. Double check whether the medical alert company offers a money-back guarantee or prorated refund for prepaid services—not all of them do.

            Fees

            You won’t pay activation, installation, or cancellation fees with most medical alert companies, but keep your eye out for a few potential pricing pitfalls that feel a lot like fees.

            Companies may charge up to a $350 replacement fee if you don’t return the equipment within 30 days of cancellation. Most medical alert companies lease their equipment instead of letting you buy it outright, so if they don’t get their equipment back, it’s like theft. Remember that you’re not buying this equipment and that you’ll have to return it when you cancel your service.

            Some companies don’t offer prorated refunds for prepaid services. If you cancel after six months of service after prepaying for 12 months, you’re paying for six months of service you don’t need. Again, we recommend asking the medical alert company you choose whether it offers prorated refunds before prepaying for service. It could save you a lot of money in the long run.

            Fall detection

            In our opinion, fall detection is the most important feature of any medical alert system. When a fall detection device triggers, it automatically contacts the medical alert monitoring station on the wearer’s behalf.

            Most medical alert systems don’t offer fall detection as a standard feature, so you’ll need to spend extra to add it.

            More severe falls can prevent a user from reaching or pressing the emergency help button. Automatic fall detection provides aid in instances where the user may be unconscious or otherwise unable to activate their wearable device. It takes the “What if I can’t call for help?” question out of the equation, which is why we recommend it so highly.

            Most medical alert systems don’t offer fall detection as a standard feature, so you’ll need to spend extra to add this feature. You can see the minimum entry prices for fall detection in the comparison table.

            Base station

            Base Station - Medical Guardian

            Most medical alert systems use the same basic setup. There’s the main console, or base station, that connects through either a landline or cellular signal. These base units are lifelines that provide two-way communication to a medical alert monitoring center. The base station has a big emergency button and a two-way audio speaker that lets you communicate with the medical alert central monitoring center.

            Range

            By range, we mean how far from the base station a wearable pendant or bracelet will work. Choose a medical alert system that allows enough space to roam and live life.

            Some medical alert devices have GPS tech that lets the user leave the range of a typical base. Generally, though, at-home medical alert systems are the default.

            Cellular vs. landline

            Most medical alert companies offer both landline and cellular options. Landline options generally have lower monthly costs but limit your mobility to the range of your base station device. Cellular devices allow for a wider range of use and even function as mobile GPS devices as long as you can get a cellular signal.

            >>ASecureLife’s recommendation: Users who don’t have a landline set up can still enjoy home medical alert protection with MobileHelp and GreatCall.

            Customer service

            Customer service ranks high on our priority list when recommending services. Many companies use similar technologies and prices, so customer service and the overall experience sets them apart. All five of our top recommendations have well-reviewed customer service.

            Reputation

            We like to give the benefit of the doubt to any service that we review, but we do look heavily into what consumers say about the service they receive. We looked at overall comments from existing customers for each company to see whether their experiences were positive or negative. We suggest digging in to customer feedback as well as how the company responded to complaints to help guide you in your decision.

            How does a medical alert device work?

            A medical alert system gives you the ability to contact family, friends, or professionals during a medical emergency:

            • Step 1: Press the Help button.
            • Step 2: Speak to a trained medical alert operator to verify you need help.
            • Step 3: The medical alert operator will alert a family member or friend or dispatch emergency response on your behalf.
            Although a medical alert system will not prevent a medical emergency, it can help reduce its severity by providing immediate emergency response.

            What’s the difference between different medical alert devices?

            There are some differences between medical alert devices. Here’s what’s what.

            Medical alert pendants and bracelets

            Wearables - Medical Guardian

            Many medical alert systems offer both pendants and bracelets with wearable buttons to trigger your medical alert system. We recommend using whichever is easiest and most comfortable for your lifestyle.

            A few things to consider with wearables:

            • Most fall detection devices are pendants.
            • Most wearables aren’t equipped with two-way voice. You’ll have to be within vocal range of the base station or have GPS to speak with a medical alert representative. If the system triggers and the medical alert representative can’t hear you, they’ll automatically dispatch an emergency response team to your location.
            • You must stay within range of your base station or GPS device.

            If wearables are the main thing you’re looking for in a medical alert device, check out our review on the companies with the best medical alert necklaces or the best medical alert watches.

            GPS medical alert device
            Medical Guardian GPS Devices

            Like we said, GPS medical alert devices allow you to go anywhere you want, as long as you have a cellular signal. If your daily routine takes you all around the house, into the yard, or away from your home entirely, you may want to consider a GPS medical alert option.

            These devices work the same way as standard medical alert systems but are more compact and portable. They’ll easily fit inside a purse or coat pocket.

            All of our top recommended options have GPS available.

            Why are medical alerts so ugly?

            A medical alert device is, at the end of the day, a medical accoutrement. That’s probably why manufacturers tend to focus on the function, not the form.

            Happily, though, the market’s moving towards a nicer aesthetic. Medical alert necklaces and bracelets are starting to look like, well, necklaces and bracelets. After all, if you have to wear your device all the time and you’re also paying monthly costs for alert service plus an activation fee, you should like how it looks.

            What if English isn’t my or my loved one’s first language?

            A user gets more out of a medical alert device when they can communicate with the medical alert operator. Medical GuardianLifeFoneBay Alarm Medical, and GreatCall offer services in many languages. Alert1, though we don’t recommend it in other areas, also serves customers in 190 languages.


            Stats and facts about falling

            Being prepared is essential to emergency situations. We've created this infographic to highlight some of the dangers of falling in the home and to stress the importance of being prepared.

            Medical Alert Infographic

            As we mentioned, medical alert systems are helpful for aging adults. In fact, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 25% of all people over the age of 65 fall each year.¹

            But remember, you don’t have to be getting older to get one. They’re also designed for people with disabilities, individuals with chronic ailments, or anyone who feels the potential need for medical attention. We’d especially recommend them for individuals living alone without friends or family nearby.

            Our recommendation

            We’d recommend any of these five systems for you depending on your personal needs. If you want to learn more, check out our individual reviews for Medical Guardian, LifeFone, Bay Alarm Medical, and MobileHelp.

            *In our survey, we asked 5,000 respondents were asked how concerned they were about different health and wellness issues. Falling and causing bodily injury or death was one option.
            Sources: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, “Preventing Falls Among the Elderly

            The Best Home Security Systems of 2023

            #1. Best Overall
            SimpliSafe
            4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
            Starting at  
            $17.99
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet Month-to-month, no-contract plans
            Pro Bullet Inexpensive plans
            #2. Best Value
            Frontpoint
            4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
            Starting at  
            $24.99
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet No tools required to install
            Pro Bullet Smart home integrations
            #3. Best High-End System
            Vivint
            4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
            Starting at  
            $29.99
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet Innovative, proprietary equipment
            Pro Bullet No-contract option
            #4. Best DIY
            Ring
            4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
            Starting at  
            $10.00
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet Inexpensive pro monitoring
            Pro Bullet Easy setup
            Person Laptop
            23

            hours of research went into this review

            Security System Products
            13

            home security companies were under consideration for the top ten

            Checklist
            11

            experts weighed in on the rankings

            Overview
            A security system is an excellent investment. Burglary cost Americans about $3.4 billion in property loss in 2017 alone, so it never hurts to invest in home security.1 But in over a decade of researching and writing about home security systems, we’ve learned the perfect security system for one homeowner could be entirely wrong for someone else.

            That’s why our home security reviews dig into what each company is best at. With our advice, you can find a system tailored to your needs. We can help whether you want a cheap security system, the latest home automation gear, or a system with no-contract monitored security.

            Keep reading to find a home security system that’s right for you. 

            Here are the best home security systems of 2023

            Home security system brand comparison

            Data effective 06/21/21. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

            That’s a lot to take in, so if you need some help, jump down to our guidelines on comparing home security systems.

            More options

            Our best home security systems ranking is our definitive security brand list. But if you want to narrow down your search more specifically, we’ve also ranked systems by renter friendliness, price, and more.

            Otherwise, read on to learn more about the best home security systems.


            1. SimpliSafe: Best Overall

            Simplisafe
            Our rating:
            4.3 out of 5.0
            4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
            Monitoring starts at 
            $17.99
            /mo.
            • DIY or professional monitoring
            • No contract required
            • DIY installation
            • Indoor camera and doorbell camera
            • Limited home automation support
            Why we recommend SimpliSafe home security systems

            You can get a SimpliSafe home security system without a contract. That makes SimpliSafe the best option if you need the flexibility to pause your monitoring for a month here and there.

            SimpliSafe is also a sensible choice if you’re on a tight budget. You get lower-cost monitoring and less-expensive equipment than you would from most competitors.

            A few other companies (like Ring, Abode, and Nest) have no-contract systems. But SimpliSafe has lower prices and more industry experience, so it’s still our favorite contract-free home security system.

            SimpliSafe pros and cons
            Pros
            • Pro BulletNo contracts required
            • Pro BulletLow monitoring fees
            • Pro BulletSelf-monitoring option
            Cons
            • Con BulletLimited home automation support
            Pricing

            You’ll have to buy your equipment up front. But SimpliSafe’s highest-tier monitoring plan is cheaper than the lowest-tier plans from all the companies listed above, making it one of the most affordable security options out there.

            Customer service

            SimpliSafe’s customer service hours are a bit limited compared to competitors, but SimpliSafe makes up for it with a bunch of other benefits.

            For example, as a SimpliSafe customer, you get contract-free security systems with no cancellation fees. Plus, you can turn monitoring off and on from one month to the next, which is helpful if you’re on a budget or heading out of town.

            SimpliSafe customers get contract-free security systems with no cancellation fees.
            SimpliSafe Equipment

            Photo source: ASecureLife team

            Equipment and features

            Equipment is where SimpliSafe falls short of the competition. SimpliSafe’s gear looks decent, works fine, and is easy to install, but it’s behind when it comes to home automation. Other systems work with Z-Wave devices or Zigbee, but SimpliSafe systems work only with Alexa, the August door lock, and the Nest thermostat.

            New SimpliSafe Smart Lock
            Protip

            SimpliSafe released its very own smart lock in September 2019.

            If you want cameras to complement your system, SimpliSafe has one video doorbell, an indoor camera, and an outdoor camera.

            ASecureLife’s recommendation: SimpliSafe is a great pick when you’re looking for affordable equipment and the ability to opt out of a contract. When buying, it’s best to get mobile access with the Interactive plan. It’s still cheaper than similar plans on the market, and it makes your SimpliSafe system compatible with more smart home devices.

            >>Learn more: Read our full SimpliSafe review

            >>Ready to buy? View SimpliSafe plans.


            Best home security systems reviews

            2. Frontpoint: Best value

            Frontpoint
            Our rating:
            4.5 out of 5.0
            4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
            Monitoring starts at 
            $24.99
            /mo.
            • Professional monitoring
            • DIY installation
            • Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras
            • Works with third-party home automation devices
            • No contract required
            Why we recommend Frontpoint home security systems

            We’ve been in the home security review space for years, and Frontpoint Security consistently impresses us by improving its equipment, experience, and smart home compatibility. The installation is slick and customer-friendly, and the brand really seems to care about its customers’ feedback. Sure, the price is a little higher than some other brands’, but you get an outstanding experience in return.

            Frontpoint pros and cons
            Pros
            • Pro BulletNo contracts required
            • Pro BulletHigh-quality equipment
            • Pro BulletSmart home integration
            • Pro BulletSuperb customer service reputation
            • Pro BulletNo activation fees after moving
            Cons
            • Con BulletNo mobile access with base plan
            • Con BulletSlightly higher monthly cost
            Pricing

            A perk of choosing Frontpoint is the lower up-front costs. These equipment prices are right in line with the rest of the industry. Monthly monitoring is a bit more pricey but still affordable. It starts at $24.99.

            Frontpoint provides a discount on equipment when you sign up. You can often get everything you need for a Frontpoint home security system at a lower price than you’d get with a comparable system from Vivint. And Frontpoint's starting equipment monthly cost is as low as $10 a month with consumer financing.

            Frontpoint moving
            Take Note

            Frontpoint doesn’t require contracts, and if you have to move, the brand will let you relocate your equipment. Call to get the month-to-month monitoring option.

            Customer service

            Customer service is Frontpoint’s forte. While the company doesn’t offer quite as many hours of customer support as other brands, it has a fantastic reputation with lots of vocal, happy customers.

            Frontpoint also has remarkably easy DIY installation. Instead of blocking out a whole day to wait for a professional installer, you can set up your system on your own schedule.

            Your equipment comes preprogrammed, and you install most of it by peeling and sticking. You’ll spend only about 20 minutes setting it up. And if you run into any questions, customer support is always ready to take your call and walk you through any issues. Nice and easy.

            Frontpoint Equipment

            Photo source: ASecureLife team

            Equipment and features

            Frontpoint’s equipment comes from Alarm.com, a reputable brand. But Frontpoint’s control panel is totally its own. Frontpoint also recently added a sleek security hub that learns your day-to-day patterns and adjusts accordingly. Most other security systems come with hubs, but a learning security hub is unique. That kind of tech is usually in smart speakers, not security hubs.

            Since your equipment comes preprogrammed, you can pair it with the hub and control it through one app. It’s also easy to add third-party smart home devices. Most of those can still be controlled through your Frontpoint app. That way, you don’t have to open five or six different apps to use your cool smart home tech with your security system.

            ASecureLife’s recommendation: We’d recommend a Frontpoint system to almost anyone. Generally, we suggest going with the Interactive plan.

            >>Learn more: Read our full Frontpoint review

            >>Ready to buy? View Frontpoint plans.


            3. Vivint: Best high-end system

            Vivint
            Our rating:
            4.2 out of 5.0
            4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
            Monitoring starts at 
            $29.99
            /mo.
            • Professional monitoring
            • Contract-free option available, 42- or 60-month contracts
            • Professional installation
            • Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras
            • Cutting-edge equipment and compatibility
            Why we recommend Vivint home security systems

            Vivint’s not for everyone. If you’re frugal, this’ll be a no for you, but if you want the best alarm system money can buy, Vivint might just be it. You get easy home automation integration, unique high-end equipment, and flexible payment options.

            We’re also fans of Vivint’s efforts to adapt and improve. Vivint stays up to date with smart home tech. The brand’s added lower-priced, pared-down plans for customers who need fewer features and introduced contract-free options for customers who buy equipment up front. The customer service has also improved by leaps and bounds over the years.

            Vivint pros and cons
            Pros
            • Pro BulletIndustry-leading home automation equipment
            • Pro BulletNo-contract option available
            • Pro BulletMobile access with all plans
            • Pro BulletInexpensive base plan
            • Pro BulletMedical pendant support
            Cons
            • Con BulletConsiderable up-front cost with contract-free option
            • Con BulletLonger contracts than competitors
            Pricing

            Vivint isn’t known for low prices—the equipment is some of the most expensive on our list—but the brand recently added a base plan that’s cheaper than those of most competitors. In fact, at $29.99 a month, Vivint’s base plan is a competitive way to get monitored security with mobile access.

            If you’re contract-averse and can afford to spend more initially, no problem. Vivint lets you purchase all your equipment first thing and get monitoring without signing a long-term contract. That means you’ll be able to cancel your monitoring without paying big cancellation fees—something we wish more brands would do.

            Customer service

            Vivint’s customer service team is available 24/7, and you can contact them over the phone or through online chat.

            We’ve noticed that current Vivint customers are leaving more positive reviews than they have in the past. While Vivint’s customer service hasn’t always been stellar, it seems like the company has made strides to improve its reputation and your experience.

            Contract renewal with Vivint
            Take Note

            Contract renewal is a major thing that Vivint’s getting dinged on in its reviews. Vivint often renews contracts in a verbal process that customers find confusing. The rep starts by asking the customer if their service is satisfactory and then offers extended service at a reduced rate. Although the customer service rep reads the customer a disclaimer that states accepting the reduced rate extends the service, customers say it’s unclear.2

            Vivint Home Security Products

            Photo source: ASecureLife team

            Equipment and features

            When it comes to equipment, Vivint is ahead of everyone else. Some security companies use third-party equipment, but Vivint designs and manufactures some of its own equipment. If you have a problem with the equipment, you can go directly to Vivint customer service, not to a third-party manufacturer. This makes for a more unified customer experience.

            Depending on your plan, you can get a unique Vivint doorbell camera, a smart thermostat, a data storage drive, or security cameras. Vivint even offers recessed door sensors that work where typical door sensors wouldn’t. Plus, if you sign up for premium service, you get a lifetime equipment warranty on all that cool gear.

            Just how smart is Vivint Smart Home?
            Protip

            With Vivint’s equipment, you can keep your house cool while you’re gone, let friends into your home while you’re out of town, or check from the office that you closed your garage door. And the geofencing feature makes it so you don’t even have to think about arming and disarming the system. You can set it to arm automatically when you leave.

            We like that Vivint prioritizes home automation. Security is crucial in a crisis, but smart home equipment comes in handy every single day. Vivint’s midlevel plan supports smart home devices like thermostats, garage door controllers, and automatic door locks. And if you need medical alert devices, you can even get one through Vivint.

            Security is crucial in a crisis, but smart home equipment comes in handy every single day.

            ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want the best of everything, you’ll want Vivint. And if you’re paying for a Vivint security system, it makes sense to get the smart home tech. Spring for the midlevel plan and get the automated door lock and smart thermostat for the price of equipment and $10 extra a month. If you can’t afford the extra equipment, we still like Vivint’s basic package. It includes mobile access to your system (something some companies make you pay extra for).

            >>Learn more: Read our full Vivint review

            >>Ready to buy? View Vivint plans.


            4. Ring: Best DIY

            Lightbulb

            Ring has been in the news lately due to breaches where strangers can view camera feeds and talk over the speaker. In a statement shared with us, Ring said that these are due to consumers not taking proper precautions.

            We continue to recommend Ring products for now but echo Ring’s security precautions recommendations: use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, add authorized users instead of sharing credentials, and regularly change passwords.

            Ring
            Our rating:
            4.2 out of 5.0
            4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
            Monitoring starts at 
            $10.00
            /mo.
            • Inexpensive professional monitoring
            • DIY installation
            • Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras
            Why we recommend Ring home security systems

            Ring embodies the ease of the DIY home security movement. A Ring alarm system is easy to buy, easy to set up, and easy to monitor. And as one of the cheapest systems on the market, it's comparatively easy to afford.

            Ring pros and cons
            Pros
            • Pro BulletLowest industry monitoring price
            • Pro BulletNo contracts required
            • Pro BulletMobile access with all plans
            • Pro BulletCompetitive camera options
            Cons
            • Con BulletLimited home automation support
            Pricing

            Ring’s basic equipment package comes at a below-average price. While introductory security packages on our list cost an average of $237, Ring’s runs about $199. Its next-level package (the one we recommend for the average home) comes in at $239.

            Ring also offers a variety of cameras you can buy separately. They cost between $99 and $499. That’s an unusually large range for brand camera prices, but it speaks to the many different cameras Ring sells.

            Ring can be either professionally or self-monitored, which we love. Ring’s monthly fee for professional monitoring is $10 a month, or you can do $100 for a year. We suggest that you go with professional monitoring since no one’s available to watch a security system 100% of the time. And Ring’s price is a bargain

            Ring camera recordings
            Remember

            If you get a Ring camera to go with your alarm system, you’ll have to pay $3 each month or $30 a year for video recording. That’s a terrific deal. So is the plan for recordings from multiple cameras: $10 a month or $100 a year.

            Customer service

            Ring’s non-camera security equipment is still pretty new on the scene, so we were cautious in evaluating the brand’s reviews. It’s still a bit early to definitively say how the brand handles its full security systems, one way or another.

            We can say, though, that the brand is responsive to online reviews, most of which complain of equipment blips. For instance, many customers say the keypads sometimes freeze up. Ring recommends unplugging the keypad from time to time to prevent this issue, which is annoying, but a more permanent solution hasn’t yet been found.

            Ring five-piece security system

            Photo source: ASecureLife team

            Equipment and features

            When we tested the Ring alarm equipment, it worked well. The door sensors are a bit large, which can be inconvenient for doors with small or molded frames. (To counteract this issue, Ring’s released a slim magnet, which can be bought separately.) And the $199 five-piece kit doesn’t have enough equipment to guard most homes completely. Overall, though, everything did what it was supposed to do.

            Ring’s security cameras are competitive in price, quality, and selection. The brand offers five different door cameras, including a battery-powered peephole camera for renters. Ring also sells stick-up, spotlight, and floodlight cams for both indoor and outdoor use. (All have night vision.) Any of these would complement a security system and let you watch out for suspicious activity.

            We’re also a big fan of Ring’s Neighbors app. This app lets you, your neighbors, and police send alerts if there’s trouble in the neighborhood. You can use it even without a Ring alarm system, and if you have a Ring camera, you can upload and share clips of suspicious activity or lost pets.

            Your police department and Ring
            Our Experience

            Ring’s been working with some police departments to give away cameras. Some consumers worry that these partnerships create a conflict of interest between their local police and Amazon or give the police access to resident security systems. It’s too early to speak to conflicts of interest, but our research shows that law enforcement can’t view your camera footage without your permission. But they can request it (or get a warrant) to track down a burglar or other criminal.3

            ASecureLife’s recommendation: Go to Ring for a well-priced DIY system that you can self-monitor or get professionally monitored for a small fee. We recommend the eight-piece kit because it comes with multiple door and window sensors for full coverage. We also recommend adding a doorbell video camera at some point.

            >>Learn more: Read our full Ring security review. Or check out our Ring video doorbell review.

            >>Ready to buy? View Ring plans.


            More home security systems to consider

            5. Abode | Best self-monitored option

            Abode Logo

            Our favorite thing about Abode is that you can self-monitor your system for free from a mobile device. Some companies make you pay for a monthly plan before giving you remote access to your system, so it’s refreshing to not jump through that hoop.

            Even better—if you get sick of self-monitoring or won’t be in cell service for a while, you can do a month of no-contract professional monitoring with Abode.

            Abode makes its own equipment and works with a decent number of hubs and other smart devices so you can create an Abode-centered smart home. You’ll have to fork over a little extra cash though. Abode’s starter kits don’t include some of its best equipment.

            Abode’s basic kits are the Gateway kit and the Iota kit. The Iota kit comes with a fun three-in-one Iota hub: security hub, motion detector, and camera, all rolled into a single device.

            Visit our Abode review to learn more about what you can get in an Abode kit.

            >>View Abode plans

            Link Interactive Logo
            Like the other companies on our list, Link Interactive gives you reliable equipment and 24/7 professional monitoring. In fact, Link Interactive alarm systems use some of the same equipment as Frontpoint. And its monitoring prices ($30.99 minimum) are higher than average but not outrageous.
            A few things stand out about Link Interactive compared to other companies—particularly the shorter contracts. Most alarm companies make you sign a three-year contract, but Link offers contracts as short as one year. Or, if mobile control or video monitoring are your priorities, Link is one of the cheapest options.
            Link Interactive also lets you build your own equipment packages. You get exactly what you need without paying for gear you won’t use.

            You might wonder why Link Interactive isn’t higher on our list. Customer service is one of the main reasons—Link has a solid reputation, but it has less customer service availability than other brands. Its brand recognition isn’t quite there yet either. Link Interactive has great reviews, but people just aren’t raving about it like they are about Frontpoint or SimpliSafe. You’ll learn more in our full Link Interative review.

            >>View Link Interactive plans

            7. Brinks | Competitive pricing

            Brinks logo
            Brinks plans aren’t the cheapest, but the base plan is loaded with features like mobile access and home automation support. Other companies usually reserve those features for higher-tier packages.

            When it comes to professional monitoring, Brinks has tons of experience. Besides monitoring its own packages, Brinks also contracts with other security companies to provide monitoring. If you’re looking at a local security company, there’s a good chance it outsources monitoring to Brinks. Even some big companies like Nest use it.

            Brinks also directly sells Nest Secure equipment and monitors it for you. If you love the look of Nest or already have Nest equipment you want monitored, Brinks has options.

            Though it’s well-known and widely used, Brinks has surprisingly so-so customer reviews. Find out more about Brinks security plans in our full review.

            >>View Brinks plans

            How to compare top home security systems

            That’s a lot to take in, so let’s break down comparison points.

            Alarm monitoring costs

            Not all monitored security is equal. We like companies to have multiple monitoring centers or keep monitoring in-house. Our top five recommendations have multiple monitoring centers, so if one goes out of commission when you need help, another will be there. 

            We generally recommend going with professional monitoring, but self-monitoring is a good option for saving money if you have a budget squeeze. And you can save money if you choose a system with optional professional monitoring like Ring, Abode, or Nest. When you need to tighten your budget, you can cancel your professional monitoring penalty free. Just remember, though monitored security tends to run more expensive than a self-monitored system, the extra cash puts a trained set of eyes on your home 24/7.

            All our top recommendations offer cellular monitoring, which we recommend over landline. But if you live in a place with spotty cell reception—maybe in a mountainous area or a rural spot by the ocean—you may need landline monitoring. In that case, Protect America has a basic package for you.

            Some monitoring costs in our table don’t include things like mobile access, home automation, or camera monitoring. You may have to pay more for those features. Vivint, Ring, Abode, Brinks, and Nest stand out here—they give you mobile monitoring with any plan. With other companies, we think mobile access is worth the extra cost so you can check in at any time and control your system from anywhere.

            Installation fees

            Vivint send professionals to install your system. On one hand, this lets you know your system is installed correctly and gives you the chance to ask questions about your system. On the other hand, you have to pay for it.

            That’s one significant benefit of DIY. DIY-installed systems like Frontpoint, SimpliSafe, and Ring send you the equipment to set up, saving you some money.

            Contract length

            Standard contracts in the home security industry run 36 months. That’s a long time, especially if you change careers, get married, have kids, or do anything else that might prompt you to move during your contract.

            Standard contracts in the home security industry run 36 months.

            If those scenarios sound like your life, Vivint and Link Interactive offer some flexibility on monitoring contract length if you buy equipment up front. Of our top five, SimpliSafe is the most flexible for the contract-averse. Some brands, like Frontpoint, even let you move your equipment to a new home for free.

            Mobile app access and control

            We suggest choosing a package that lets you access your system on your phone or mobile device. That way, you can check on your home when you’re at work or out of town. Some systems, like Vivint, let you use the app and control panel for two-way communication, turning it into an intercom system. You can use it to check in with the house sitter while you’re on vacation or remind the kids to walk the dog when you’re stuck at the office.

            Home automation

            You don’t need Marvel-level tech to get useful home automation. Just invest in a few select devices that can do lots of things for you and keep your family safe.

            With standard smart home devices like automatic door locks, you can stay in bed and check that you locked your doors. And a video doorbell lets you watch out for would-be package thieves or talk to visitors who stop by.

            Vivint, Frontpoint, Link, and Brinks all offer smart locks, video doorbells, thermostats, and other home automation devices that you can control from your smartphone. Other brands, like Ring and Nest Secure, offer a handful of cool smart devices. And some brands don’t sell smart equipment of their own but do integrate with common smart home systems.

            On the simpler side, with SimpliSafe, you trade the bells and whistles of smart home equipment for flexibility and low prices. SimpliSafe does have a video doorbell with two-way audio, but you can’t add a ton of other smart home tech to the system. It won’t work with loads of smart home equipment from other companies.

            Basically, if home automation is important to you, look for a system that has lots of options to build out your safe, smart, and secure home. Vivint and Link Interactive are our top choices for unique smart home equipment.


            How we choose the best home security systems

            There’s a lot to consider when evaluating home security systems, but it boils down to price, customer service, and equipment/features. We compared every aspect of price, customer service, years in business, equipment, and features in our research. To get information for each of these areas, we tested several of these systems. Our tests included setup, installation, arming and disarming, and remote access.

            We also mystery shopped and grilled company reps for detailed information. We combined all of that knowledge to determine our rankings.


            Home security systems FAQ

            How much do home security systems cost?

            Costs vary depending on what you want from your home security system. If you’re looking for a camera that you can watch on your own, you could spend less than $150 for a cheap camera and call it good. Or you could monitor your security equipment and be on your way for less than $500 (more on that below).

            For the pros to install and monitor your alarm system, you’ll spend significantly more up front, and you’ll have monthly costs to consider. Some systems let you control your security equipment and smart devices from your phone. But you might spend as much as $40 and $60 a month for monitoring and about $1,000* (or more, if your house is larger) for equipment. That can still be significantly less than a break-in, which can cost thousands of dollars in property damage.

            *Cost calculated based on Vivint pricing of control panel, two key fobs, three entry sensors, and one motion detector, plus the cost of professional installation. Data effective 09/03/2019. Offers and availability subject to change.

            What kinds of home security systems are there?

            In our reviews, we break security systems down into three main categories:

            • DIY installation with self-monitoring
            • DIY installation with professional monitoring
            • Professional installation with professional monitoring

            DIY installation with self-monitoring: Some brands we recommend, like Ring, Abode, and Nest, offer both professional and self-monitoring. They let you monitor your equipment on your own after you install it if you don’t want to pay the pros.

            DIY installation with professional monitoring: Frontpoint, SimpliSafe, Link Interactive, Brinks, and Protect America all monitor your systems, but you install the equipment on your own.

            Professional installation with professional monitoring: Brands like Vivint professionally install and monitor your system—you don’t have to lift a finger or babysit alerts.

            How much are home security systems without monitoring?

            You can save significant dough if you monitor your system yourself and cut out the monthly monitoring costs. If you’re strapped for cash, fully DIY systems like Ring and Abode let you monitor your system for free. You just buy the equipment—both base packages start at $199—and you’re off. From there, you can add cameras for another $110–$300 to see what’s happening at home before calling the police or fire responders.

            A few caveats. First, as we’ve said, we recommend professional monitoring. You can’t always be on the job when you’ve got other things to attend to, like sleep or a real job. Self-monitoring is better than nothing, but be realistic about the amount of attention you can give it.

            Second, you’ll need a way to verify that something is happening at your house. You’re liable in some states if you call 911 with false alarms. That’s why we recommend a camera of some kind with your DIY security system.

            You’re liable in some states if you call 911 with false alarms.

            Third, watch out for added fees like video cloud storage. Cost of storage varies by brand, so make sure to look into that before purchasing.

            If you’d like a more detailed look at specific systems’ costs, check out our cost comparison article.

            What are monitored and unmonitored security systems?

            Monitored systems rely on professionals to watch for triggered alarms, contact system owners, and dispatch emergency services. Unmonitored security systems aren’t connected to a monitoring center. Instead, they usually connect with an app that the system owner watches for suspicious activity.

            We almost always recommend you bring in the pros to monitor your system because you can’t always watch it yourself. They’re professionally trained to dispatch emergency services and work with people during moments of crisis.

            Learn more in our article about the differences between monitored and unmonitored security systems.

            What should I look for in a home security system if I’m a renter?

            There are lots of good home security system options out there for renters. You’ll want equipment that you can install without drilling holes through the walls. Wireless systems are ideal for renters because you don’t have to run phone lines to them. Plus you can put the control panel wherever is most convenient for your space.

            You’ll also want a system that you can take with you whenever you move. If you’re renting because you move often, you can bring your system wherever you land next without having to start your contract over.

            We like Frontpoint for renters, but if you want more options, check out our best home security systems for renters article.

            What is the best home security camera system?

            With Frontpoint, Vivint, and Ring, you can get indoor, outdoor, and video doorbell security cameras. Other companies, like SimpliSafe, also offer some type of camera. We like that several of these brands will professionally monitor your cameras for you. You don’t have to be glued to your phone, looking at the live feed whenever your camera detects motion at home. Instead, the pros will keep an eye out and let you know if there’s a problem.

            Camera benefits
            Our Experience

            When you add a security camera to your home security system, it gives you a peek into what’s going on at home. If something triggers your alarm, you can check your cameras to see what set it off. Day to day, cameras let you pop in to say hi to the kids after school or check that your packages are still on the porch.

            If you want a video surveillance system without a home security system, we’ve got lots of recommendations in our best home security camera systems post.

            What do I do if my house is broken into?

            Security systems deter break-ins, but they don’t always prevent them. If you’ve experienced a break-in, you should file a police report, create records of what was damaged or lost, contact your insurance, and fix the damage. Find out more in our article about what to do if your house is broken into.


            The state of property crime in the US

            We recommend home security because it can prevent or limit the financial impact of property crimes. To better illustrate property crime impact, we’ve created a map using FBI data for property crime per 100,000 individuals in each state. The darker the state, the bigger the financial loss.

            Property crime map

            As the map shows, property crime hits some states harder than others. For example, DC experiences a property crime drop of almost 10% year over year, yet it’s still number one for property crime instances. Another interesting fact: New Jersey is the only state in the bottom ten to experience an increase in property crime each year. Even New York’s property crime rate is dropping.5

            More to know about property crime in the US

            Here are some other US property crime stats:
            • As we mentioned earlier, burglary cost Americans about $3.4 billion in property loss in 2017 alone.6
            • Aside from vehicles, currency is the highest-value item stolen in 31 states.7
            • Close to 64% of burglaries happen during the day when people are more likely to be away from home.8
            • Burglaries and robberies are much more common in December than any other month of the year.9

            Property crime map methodology

            ASecureLife analyzed data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program spanning from 2011 to 2017 (the most current data available) to determine trends in burglary and robbery over time.

            †Google and Google Nest Secure are trademarks of Google LLC.
            CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

            *Offer requires signing the Frontpoint Terms and Conditions; taxes and fees may apply; valid for new customers only; cannot be combined with any other offer; offer void where prohibited and valid as long as supplies last; indoor camera valued at $99.99; must be added to cart at checkout; one free indoor camera per customer; requires Ultimate Monitoring Plan at $49.99/month; includes free standard shipping; offer valid through 2/2/20 at 11:59 p.m. (EST). Risk Free Trial requires a subscriber to activate or initiate a hardware return within 30 days from receipt (“Trial Period”). Complete details available at Frontpoint.com.


            Best No-Contract Home Security Systems

            Most Flexible
            SimpliSafe
            4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
            Starting at  
            $17.99
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet Affordable equipment
            Con Bullet Limited home automation integration
            Best DIY
            Ring
            4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
            Starting at  
            $9.99
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet Inexpensive professional monitoring
            Con Bullet No compatibility with other popular brands
            Best Customer Service
            Frontpoint
            4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
            Starting at  
            $24.99
            /mo.
            Pro Bullet Effortless unboxing & DIY setup
            Con Bullet Pricey monthly plans

            We get it—contracts can be intimidating. In the home security industry, 36-month terms are pretty common, and with that, most companies require you to pay back the majority of your contract when you cancel early.

            If you don’t want to get tied down to a company for three years or more, plenty of viable no-contract security systems offer more freedom and flexibility. We’re going to break down a few of our favorite contract-free security systems to give you a better sense of which system might be best for your needs.

            Best security systems without a contract

            Compare contract-free security


            SimpliSafe: Most flexible

            SimpliSafe is affordable and easy to set up, and it gives you an array of equipment options. We like the 60-day money-back guarantee and the month-to-month professional monitoring option.

            SimpliSafe
            Our rating:
            4.3 out of 5.0
            4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
            Customer service
            4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
            Price
            4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
            Features & equipment
            3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
            Plans starting at 
            $17.99
            /mo.

              SimpliSafe pros and cons

              Pros
              • Pro BulletEasy setup
              • Pro BulletOptional short-term professional monitoring
              • Pro BulletAffordable equipment
              • Pro BulletCustomizable equipment packages
              • Pro Bullet3-year warranty
              Cons
              • Con BulletLimited home automation integration
              • Con BulletNo mobile access with cheaper plan

              Why we recommend SimpliSafe

              SimpliSafe is one of the most affordable security systems on our list, but we like its systems most for their flexibility.

              Price

              SimpliSafe offers no-contract monitoring that you can turn on and off with no penalties, giving you a lot of flexibility in your monthly payments. You can’t self-monitor with SimpliSafe, but you can go back and forth between its $17.99 and $27.99 monthly professional monitoring service plans.

              What does SimpliSafe's professional monitoring service include? With SimpliSafe professional monitoring, both you and the authorities (as needed) will be alerted when your alarm system picks up on an intrusion, fire, or flood. You can also add five secondary contacts. That’s not a bad deal for $18 a month.

              The $28 service has extra features, like setting your alarm to Secret Alert status, which keeps an intruder from knowing they’ve set off the system.

              The equipment cost is reasonable for a wireless, easy-install system. For context, some four-piece SimpliSafe packages cost as much as a single piece of Nest equipment.

              SimpliSafe Equipment

              Photo source: ASecureLife team

              Equipment

              SimpliSafe sells a wide range of base packages that you can further customize to include cameras, smoke and CO detectors, and other equipment to make your alarm system more comprehensive. The preset packages are tailored for houses, apartments, and businesses.

              The SimpliSafe camera is called the SimpliCam. Currently, it’s available only as an indoor camera.

              SimpliSafe’s home automation integration is limited. The system may not be compatible with other smart home devices you own. Also, you can’t access your system remotely with the $17.99 plan. You’ll have to pay more for that perk at the $27.99-per-month option.

              ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want an affordable home security system with an array of different equipment and package options, go with SimpliSafe.

              >>Learn more: Read our SimpliSafe review.


              Ring: Most affordable professional monitoring

              Ring is a simple do-it-yourself home security system with a professional monitoring cost of $9.99, lower than any competitor’s.

              Lightbulb
              Ring camera breaches

              Ring has been in the news lately due to breaches where strangers can view camera feeds and talk over the speaker. In a statement shared with us, Ring said that these are due to consumers not taking proper precautions.

              We continue to recommend Ring products for now, but echo Ring’s security precautions recommendations: use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, add authorized users instead of sharing credentials, and regularly change passwords.

              Ring
              Our rating:
              4.2 out of 5.0
              4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
              Customer service
              3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
              Price
              5 out of 5 stars5.0
              Features & equipment
              4 out of 5 stars4.0
              Plans starting at 
              $9.99
              /mo.

                Ring pros and cons

                Pros
                • Pro BulletInexpensive professional monitoring
                • Pro BulletEasy installation and monitoring
                • Pro Bullet1-year warranty
                Cons
                • Con BulletNo compatibility with other popular brands

                Why we recommend Ring

                Just because you’re looking for a home security system without a contract doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from professional monitoring.

                Price

                A Ring five-piece kit (base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, and range extender) currently runs about $200 on Amazon. That puts the price of the equipment more on SimpliSafe’s level: less expensive than Nest, but more expensive than Cove. Like Scout, though, Ring’s bigger packs favor multiples of the same items over new ones.

                Contact sensors
                Definition
                “Contact sensor” is Ring’s name for window or door sensors. Currently, Ring makes only one size of contact sensor, which is on the large side.

                The monitoring price is out of this world: $9.99 a month or $100 a year for professional monitoring. This is the biggest benefit to choosing Ring.

                Equipment

                Ring sells most of the same equipment as its competitors. It’s especially known for its video doorbell. The big omission is that the brand doesn’t have key fobs.

                Also, Ring definitely needs to amp up the compatibility. The company is owned by Amazon, so Ring products work with Alexa, but not with any Google equipment. They also work with Z-Wave.

                ASecureLife recommendation: If you want a cheaply monitored home security system, go with Ring.

                >>Learn more: Read our Ring review.

                Frontpoint: Best customer service

                In November 2019, Frontpoint switched from traditional 36-month contracts to a no-contract structure. While the offerings are excellent, the monitoring's expensive, so we've placed it last on this list.
                Frontpoint
                Our rating:
                4.5 out of 5.0
                4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                Customer service
                4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                Price
                4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                Features & equipment
                4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
                Plans starting at 
                $24.99
                /mo.

                  Frontpoint pros and cons

                  Pros
                  • Pro BulletEffortless unboxing & DIY setup
                  • Pro BulletExcellent customer service
                  • Pro Bullet30-day money-back guarantee
                  • Pro BulletFree and easy relocation
                  Cons
                  • Con BulletNo landline or broadband options
                  • Con BulletPricey plans

                  Why we recommend Frontpoint

                  Frontpoint's one of our favorite home security systems. It has solid equipment and home integration, now offered without any contract requirements. Of the five no-contract systems we recommend, it also has the best-ranked customer service.

                  Price

                  Price is Frontpoint's biggest pitfall. The monitoring plan is $24.99 or $34.99, depending on how much you want to pay for equipment upfront. But that monthly fee gets you a premium package (with full mobile app access, smart home control, and video) that other companies charge up for.

                  Equipment's bought up front, and the costs depend on your needs. You can use Frontpoint's finance option to pay for your security products over an extended period of time if needed. But overall, the prices for individual pieces of equipment aren't bad, so you might be able to spring for everything out of pocket.

                  Equipment

                  Frontpoint uses mostly Alarm.com inventory, though the control panel is of the company's own making. The available equipment includes sensors, cameras, door locks, light bulbs, and a smart hub.

                  The Alarm.com equipment is compatible with Z-Wave smart home devices and both Alexa and Google Assistant, giving the system better-than-average compatibility.

                  ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want a big name with wonderful customer service and don't mind a higher price point, try Frontpoint.

                  >>Learn more: Read our Frontpoint review.


                  Cove review: Easy installation

                  Cove is an easy-install alarm system with solid equipment but limited mobile access and smart home features.

                  Cove
                  Our rating:
                  3.3 out of 5.0
                  3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                  Customer service
                  4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                  Price
                  3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                  Features & equipment
                  2 out of 5 stars2.0
                  Plans starting at 
                  $17.99
                  /mo.

                    Cove pros and cons

                    Pros
                    • Pro BulletNo-contract monitoring
                    • Pro BulletEasy DIY installation
                    • Pro BulletStrong customer service
                    • Pro BulletLifetime warranty with some plans
                    Cons
                    • Con BulletMinimal automation integration
                    • Con BulletNo mobile access with cheaper plan

                    Why we recommend Cove

                    Cove is one of our favorite no-contract monitoring options when you pay for your equipment up front. It also has a super-easy DIY installation for users who don’t want to bring in an electrician.

                    Price

                    You can get Cove with no down payment, but you’ll be subject to pricier monitoring and a 36-month cancellation policy that works a lot like a contract. If you’re able to pay for your system up front, Cove’s $14.99-per-month monitoring blows a lot of the competition out of the water.

                    That said, we recommend opting for the $24.99 per month plan so you can control your security system from your smartphone instead of depending on the control panel to arm, disarm, and adjust your alarm.

                    Cove’s equipment is pretty affordable. Every package comes with the Cove Touch Panel. From there, you can add more equipment like indoor cameras ($59 each), motion detectors ($30 each), and key fobs ($25 each).

                    Cove Equipment

                    Photo source: ASecureLife team

                    Equipment

                    Cover offers all the standard equipment you'd expect to get from a home security system. The brand also has medical alert equipment that integrates right into the alarm system. That makes Cove a great buy for anyone with medical concerns.

                    Cove’s cons are similar to SimpliSafe’s. You may not be able to integrate with other devices, and you’ll need to pay more for mobile access to your system.

                    ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want competitive, no-contract monitoring with quality DIY security equipment, try Cove.

                    >>Learn more: Read our Cove review.


                    How we chose

                    We reviewed each no-contract security system brand’s equipment, price, and customer service to determine how well it would meet user needs. We also compared brand features to determine the value of each system.


                    Other brands we considered

                    Scout

                    Scout is a great choice for those wanting a simple DIY security system with high-quality, aesthetic equipment. (Seriously—these are some of the prettiest security system devices on the market. Definitely a yes for the discerning eye.)

                    Scout’s alarm system works with multiple third-party smart home devices. It’s compatible with Nest, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Hue, LIFX, Samsung SmartThings, and IFTTT. And , like Nest Secure, Scout offers color options. Two of them, to be exact: white with black accents or black with white accents. Not as fun as Nest’s colors, but it’s nice to have a choice.

                    Monitoring with Scout’s also extremely affordable with a $9.99 self-monitoring plan.

                    But Scout’s array of equipment isn’t as good compared to other brands. You can get indoor security cameras, window sensors, glass break sensors, flood sensors, motion sensors, and smoke detectors through Scout, but there are no branded key fobs, range extenders, video doorbells, outdoor security cameras, or medical buttons available.

                    Abode

                    A notable no-contract brand we didn’t include in this review is Abode. Abode was barely edged off the list by Ring.

                    Abode lets you self-monitor your security system for free, which is nice if you don’t have the cash to pay for professional monitoring every month. That said, Abode also offers optional professional monitoring for $20 a month without a contract. We like that you can choose the monitoring plan that works best for you.

                    But we’re not huge fans of the Abode starter kits. They come with a gateway (base station), a motion detector, a key fob, and a mini door sensor. A keypad, camera, or full-sized door sensor isn’t included, to say nothing of the many other products Abode offers. For a starter kit, that’s not a great start.


                    FAQ

                    Have a question? We may have an answer.

                    Will a no-contract security system work for you?

                    No-contract home security systems are ideal for renters, job-hoppers, and anyone who’s not sure they want to commit to the first system they try. They’re not limited to just those categories, though. Even if you’re living in your family’s ancestral home of 300 years with no plans to leave anytime soon, you can still use any of these security systems.

                    The biggest potential downfall to a no-contract system is that you’re unlikely to get a rate lock. Some contracts stipulate that your signing price will never change. So if you’re in financial straits or just don’t like surprise rate changes, that’s something to consider.

                    What should you do if your system breaks or malfunctions?

                    Another drawback of no-contract systems is that you don’t have as close a relationship with the security systems provider. If something breaks, you may not know where to turn.

                    Our recommended no-contract security systems all come with warranties of some type. The exact nature of the warranty will vary between brands, but you’ll have coverage through all of them.


                    Our recommendation

                    Whether you want to self-monitor your security system or opt for professional monitoring on a month-to-month basis, these options will give you flexibility without locking you into a contract of three-plus years.

                    Choosing between these security systems comes down to each company’s pros and cons and what you value most. Once you’ve figured out what’s best for you, you can buy your new system and get started.

                    To summarize, here are the brands we recommend:

                    • SimpliSafe: Affordable home security system with an array of different equipment and package options
                    • Ring: Inexpensive, professionally monitored home security system
                    • Frontpoint: Highly rated customer service
                    • Cove: Easy installation with quality DIY security equipment

                    Best DIY Security Systems

                    Best Fully DIY
                    4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
                    Starting at  
                    $10.00
                    /mo.
                    Pro Bullet Mobile access with all plans
                    Pro Bullet Easy setup
                    Con Bullet Limited home automation support
                    Most Flexible Contracts
                    4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                    Starting at  
                    $17.99
                    /mo.
                    Pro Bullet Flexible DIY monitoring option
                    Pro Bullet Easy DIY setup
                    Con Bullet Minimal smart home integration
                    Best Value
                    4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                    Starting at  
                    $24.99
                    /mo.
                    Pro Bullet Premium DIY installation
                    Pro Bullet Excellent customer service
                    Con Bullet No self-monitoring
                    Best Self-Monitored
                    3.7 out of 5 stars3.7
                    Starting at  
                    $20.00
                    /mo.
                    Pro Bullet High compatibility
                    Pro Bullet Self-monitoring
                    Con Bullet No phone support with free plan

                    Overview
                    Not ready for a full-fledged security system with long-term contracts? A DIY home security system is a lower-cost compromise that offers protection with more flexibility.

                    We’ve put together this list of our favorite security systems with DIY installation and different monitoring options to help you find the security you need. These companies make it easy to set up your security system yourself without having to schedule and pay for a professional installer to come to your home. If you choose to add new equipment or move to a new location, it’s easier to pack up your equipment and bring it with you.

                    Some of these companies also offer more flexible monitoring options, like the option to keep an eye on your home yourself or pay for monitoring on a month-to-month basis, eliminating big contracts from the equation.

                    If you don’t need professional monitoring, we’ll also cover some of our favorite self-monitored alternatives to traditional home security systems. Self-monitored systems come in different forms, like security camera systems that help you keep an eye on things back home when you’re away.

                    The best home security systems with DIY installation

                    The best self-monitored security systems

                    Compare the best DIY installation security systems

                    Data effective as of publish date. Offers and availability subject to change.

                    *Price with 3-year contract. No-contract price is $29/mo.
                    **System is compatible with Google Nest cameras, but pro monitoring isn’t available for video

                    Best fully DIY: Ring Alarm

                    Ring’s the easiest and least expensive system for your DIY security needs.

                    Lightbulb
                    Ring camera breaches

                    Ring has been in the news lately due to breaches where strangers can view camera feeds and talk over the speaker. In a statement shared with us, Ring said that these are due to consumers not taking proper precautions.

                    We continue to recommend Ring products for now, but echo Ring’s security precautions recommendations: use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, add authorized users instead of sharing credentials, and regularly change passwords.

                    Ring
                    Our rating:
                    4.2 out of 5.0
                    4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
                    Customer service
                    3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                    Price
                    5 out of 5 stars5.0
                    Features & equipment
                    3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                    Plans starting at 
                    $10.00
                    /mo.

                      Ring pros and cons

                      Pros
                      • Pro BulletLowest industry monitoring price
                      • Pro BulletNo contracts required
                      • Pro BulletMobile access with all plans
                      • Pro BulletCompetitive camera options
                      • Pro BulletEasy setup
                      Cons
                      • Con BulletLimited home automation support
                      • Con BulletNo professional camera monitoring

                      Why we like Ring Alarm

                      There’s a ton to love about Ring. Its unbeatable prices and easy setup make it our most highly recommended DIY system. Once you’ve set it up, you can choose to self-monitor or pay as little as $100 a year for professional monitoring.

                      To help you self-monitor, Ring’s app has a feature called Neighbors. This feature allows you to coordinate with other neighbors to protect the neighborhood. You can even upload clips from your Ring cameras to the app.

                      Sadly, Ring’s inexpensive base package doesn’t include anything from its popular camera selection. And if you do get cameras, you’ll have to monitor them on your own. But a DIY enthusiast may not mind and might even prefer that.

                      Ring cons

                      Ring’s still newer in the home alarm space, so the future of the system and its longevity are unknown. Based on online reviews, it seems that the brand’s still working out kinks in providing the best home security service possible. But even with these bumps, Ring’s outstripping lots of competitors in price and ease of use.

                      Finally, Ring’s home automation is just average, especially when compared to other DIY brands like Frontpoint.

                      >> Learn more: Our full Ring review

                      >> Get Ring Home Security: Shop Ring


                      Most flexible contracts: SimpliSafe

                      SimpliSafe’s self-install security systems are affordable and easy to use. SimpliSafe is perfect if you want a flexible system that you can scale up or down as your budget allows.

                      SimpliSafe
                      Our rating:
                      4.3 out of 5.0
                      4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                      Customer service
                      4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                      Price
                      4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                      Features & equipment
                      3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                      Plans starting at 
                      $17.99
                      /mo.

                        SimpliSafe pros and cons

                        Pros
                        • Pro BulletAffordable starter kit
                        • Pro BulletLarger selection of equipment than Nest
                        • Pro BulletLower monitoring cost than competitors
                        • Pro BulletBetter video monitoring options than competitors
                        Cons
                        • Con BulletMinimal smart home integration
                        • Con BulletNo free self-monitoring through mobile app
                        SimpliSafe Equipment

                        Photo source: ASecureLife team

                        Why we like SimpliSafe

                        SimpliSafe is one of our favorite self-install security systems because it offers lots of flexibility, a wide selection of inexpensive equipment, and lower-cost monitoring than competitors.

                        You can always get pro monitoring if you need it, but it’s not mandatory. That lets you pay for a month of monitoring if you’re going on vacation and switch back to using the equipment without monitoring if your budget gets tight.

                        Plus, if you do choose professional monitoring, SimpliSafe has more experience and better video monitoring support than other companies listed here. For one thing, SimpliSafe is the only company on this list that offers monitoring for a doorbell camera.

                        SimpliSafe cons

                        If home automation is your jam, SimpliSafe won’t be the best option for you. Its home automation equipment options are minimal—it doesn’t integrate with many,third-party smart home brands.

                        >>Learn more: Read our full SimpliSafe review

                        >>Shop now: Get SimpliSafe


                        Best value: Frontpoint

                        Frontpoint offers an ultra-simple DIY equipment setup, high-quality professional monitoring, and a reputation for great customer service.

                        Frontpoint
                        Our rating:
                        4.5 out of 5.0
                        4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                        Customer service
                        4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                        Price
                        4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                        Features & equipment
                        4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                        Plans starting at 
                        $24.99
                        /mo.

                          Frontpoint pros and cons

                          Pros
                          • Pro BulletPremium DIY unboxing and setup
                          • Pro BulletHigh-quality customer service
                          • Pro BulletCellular 4G monitoring
                          • Pro BulletZ-Wave compatibility
                          • Pro BulletCrash & Smash protection
                          Cons
                          • Con BulletNo self-monitoring
                          • Con BulletExpensive monitoring plan
                          Frontpoint Equipment

                          Photo source: ASecureLife team

                          Why we like Frontpoint

                          Frontpoint has pretty much perfected the simple DIY installation process. When you buy a Frontpoint system or add new equipment to your existing system, it comes nicely packaged, preprogrammed, and ready to self-install without any complicated tools and hardware. Once installed, your hub protects your entire system from tampering with Crash & Smash protection.

                          Its systems are also flexible—equipment is compatible with Z-Wave products so you can add third-party smart equipment like smart locks and thermostats to your system.

                          Frontpoint systems no longer require a three-year contract and have the same flexible monitoring as companies like Ring and SimpliSafe. They come with high-quality professional monitoring and some of the best customer service in the industry. Those are some of the reasons most Frontpoint customers tend to stick around.

                          Frontpoint cons

                          Frontpoint doesn’t give you the option to self-monitor your security system, so you’ll have to pay for its fairly expensive monitoring plan. 

                          >>Learn more: Read our full Frontpoint review

                          >>Shop now: Get Frontpoint


                          Best optional self-monitoring: Abode

                          Abode lets you self-monitor and also has a no-contract professional monitoring option.

                          Abode
                          Our rating:
                          3.7 out of 5.0
                          3.7 out of 5 stars3.7
                          Customer service
                          3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                          Price
                          4 out of 5 stars4.0
                          Features & equipment
                          3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                          Plans starting at 
                          $21.99
                          /mo.

                            Abode pros and cons

                            Pros
                            • Pro BulletNo contracts
                            • Pro BulletFree self-monitoring with app
                            • Pro BulletZigbee, Z-Wave, and Philips Hue compatibility
                            • Pro BulletLarge equipment selection
                            Cons
                            • Con BulletNo phone support with free plan
                            • Con BulletShorter equipment warranty than competitors
                            • Con BulletLimited equipment in starter kit

                            Why we like Abode

                            Abode stands out because it lets you monitor through the app for free or cycle back and forth between self-monitoring and professional monitoring at will. That’s quite the DIY feature.

                            Abode also sells a ton of proprietary equipment. Sirens, smoke alarms, all kinds of things. And if you want to add something to your system that Abode doesn’t sell, the alarm system has excellent compatibility. You can connect an Abode system to just about anything but a smart speaker.

                            Abode cons

                            Abode has less security experience and customer support than some other companies we recommend. But the big things that make us scratch our head are the limited phone support and the equipment included in the starter kits.

                            For some reason, if you choose to self-monitor, you can’t call in and get help from Abode. That’s kind of weird when you consider that DIYers might need more help, not less. And we’re always disappointed that Abode’s cool equipment has to be bought separately. Your starter kit won’t come with much.

                            >>Learn more: Our full Abode review

                            >>Shop now: Get Abode


                            More DIY installation security systems to consider

                            If the companies listed above don’t look like the right fit for your home, consider these other DIY home security options. We don’t rate them as highly as the systems above, but they’re still solid home security options. Some of these systems, like Samsung SmartThings with ADT, fill a very specific niche for those who want home security along with access to a ton of Zigbee and Z-Wave smart home equipment.

                            Great for affordable monitoring: Cove

                            Cove
                            Cove
                            Our rating:
                            3.3 out of 5.0
                            3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                            Customer service
                            4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                            Price
                            3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                            Features & equipment
                            2 out of 5 stars2.0
                            Lowest pro monitoring price 
                            $17.99
                            /mo.

                              Cove’s on par with Frontpoint in terms of ultra-simple DIY installation, and its affordable prices are competitive with SimpliSafe. You also don’t have to sign a contract if you pay for your equipment up front. We recommend Cove to anyone seeking a security system with somewhat simple equipment offerings and reasonable monitoring costs.

                              While Cove doesn’t sell its own home automation equipment or support smart home products from its app, you can pair your system with an Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device to manage your home security and smart home from one hub.

                              >>Learn more: Check out our Cove review.


                              The best self-monitored security DIY security systems

                              #1
                              iSmartAlarm
                              Cheapest system:  
                              $79.99
                              Pro Bullet Large equipment selection
                              Pro Bullet No monthly fee for add-on features
                              Con Bullet Sub-par camera options
                              #2
                              Canary
                              Cheapest system: 
                              $79.00
                              Pro Bullet Modern equipment design
                              Pro Bullet Easy setup
                              Con Bullet No entry sensors
                              #3
                              Arlo
                              Cheapest system: 
                              $249.99
                              Pro Bullet 7 days of free camera-feed storage
                              Pro Bullet Largest camera selection
                              Con Bullet No entry sensors
                              ‡Amazon.com price as of 01/17/2020 at 10:32 a.m. (MT).

                              If you don’t need flexible monitoring, or if monitoring just isn’t in your budget, you can save a lot of money opting for a totally self-monitored security system. These systems allow you to keep an eye on your home remotely without having to worry about contracts or steep monthly monitoring fees. Although professional monitoring is ideal, you should still be able to have some kind of security system set up at home.

                              We think Abode is the best overall self-monitored system, but if you're looking for something else, we've created a list of our other favorites.

                              Compare self-monitored security systems

                              Data current as of 09/05/2019. Pricing and packages are subject to change.

                              #1. iSmartAlarm

                              iSmartAlarm
                              Cheapest system 
                              $79.99
                              • Lots of equipment options
                              • No monthly fees for extra features
                              • Not as many camera options as competition

                              iSmartAlarm pros and cons

                              Pros
                              • Pro BulletLarge equipment selection
                              • Pro BulletInexpensive equipment
                              • Pro BulletNo monthly fee for add-on features
                              Cons
                              • Con BulletNo outdoor camera
                              • Con BulletLess attractive design than competitors
                              • Con BulletHub required

                              Why we like iSmartAlarm

                              We like iSmartAlarm because you can get lots of inexpensive security equipment and self-monitor all of it remotely from your phone. iSmartAlarm offers more equipment than the other companies on this list, including door and window sensors, cameras, and smart switches. That said, the equipment is a bit clunky looking, so if aesthetics are important to you, you might want a different system.

                              iSmartAlarm is also a nice option if you don’t want to pay monthly fees for extra features like storage or two-way audio—Canary and Arlo charge extra for features you might want.

                              iSmartAlarm cons

                              iSmartAlarm offers one indoor camera, and it’s not as high quality as the Canary or Arlo cameras below. A security camera is one of the most important elements to a home security system, and we find iSmartAlarm lacks in that department.

                              >>Want a highly affordable security system? Buy iSmartAlarm.

                              >>Read our iSmartAlarm review


                              #2. Canary

                              Canary
                              Cheapest system: 
                              $79.00
                              • Easy to set up
                              • Indoor cameras have air quality and temperature monitoring
                              • No motion detectors and glass break sensors
                              ‡Amazon.com price as of 01/17/2020 at 10:32 a.m. (MT).

                              Canary pros and cons

                              Pros
                              • Pro BulletModern equipment design
                              • Pro BulletEasy setup with multiple mounting options
                              • Pro BulletSingle camera that can also monitor air quality and temperature
                              • Pro BulletNo required hub
                              Cons
                              • Con BulletNo entry sensors
                              • Con BulletSome features reserved for paid plans

                              Why we like Canary

                              Canary doesn’t offer nearly as much equipment as iSmartAlarm, but the equipment you can get is attractive, effective, and easy to set up. Canary offers feature-packed indoor and outdoor cameras that include two-way audio and work without a hub. The indoor camera can even monitor air quality and temperature.

                              Canary cons

                              Canary cameras aren’t a true replacement to home security systems. Its cameras are a great way to keep eyes on your home, but Canary doesn’t offer any essential security equipment like intrusion sensors or motion detectors, but it’s an affordable way to keep an eye on any pets or kids you leave behind when you go out.

                              >>Want to keep eyes on your home while you’re not around? Buy Canary.

                              >>Read our Canary review.


                              #3. Arlo

                              Arlo
                              Cheapest system: 
                              $249.99
                              • Range of security camera options
                              • Offers lights and baby monitors
                              • Clean, inconspicuous design
                              ‡Amazon.com price as of 01/17/2020 at 10:32 a.m. (MT).

                              Arlo pros and cons

                              Pros
                              • Pro BulletSeven days of camera-feed storage without plan
                              • Pro BulletIndoor/outdoor camera options
                              • Pro BulletDoorbell cameras available
                              Cons
                              • Con BulletNo entry sensors
                              • Con BulletSome features reserved for paid plans
                              • Con BulletBase stations required for some cameras

                              Why we like Arlo

                              Arlo’s system is mostly camera based, but it offers some of our favorite security cameras on the market. If you opt for Arlo you’ll have a wide selection of indoor and outdoor cameras at a variety of price points to match your budget. If you’re feeling spendy, the Arlo Ultra HD is one of the most cutting-edge cameras on the market with crisp 4K video footage. But Arlo’s more basic cameras still offer a nice baseline 1080p resolution and a clean design that won’t draw much attention in or outside your home.

                              While Arlo is mostly focused on cameras, you can also get a security light or baby monitor for extra protection if you need it.

                              Arlo cons

                              Arlo is a great way to get eyes on your home, but its systems aren’t a complete solution to home security without intrusion sensors, motion sensors, and an in-house alarm. It also doesn’t make a lot of sense if you want only one camera, as there will be better options that don’t require a base station or a monthly fee to access higher-tier features.

                              >>>Want to buy some of our favorite security cameras on the market? Buy Arlo.


                              The state of burglary

                              The likelihood that someone will break into your home varies from state to state. We analyzed the latest FBI burglary data and found some interesting trends.

                              According to FBI crime reports,1 the number of burglaries in the United States in 2018 was 11.9% lower than in 2017. This continues a trend of fewer burglaries across the country overall, which have decreased by a remarkable 44.2% since 2009. As security systems reduce the risk of break-ins, they've likely played a major role in reducing property crime rates overall.

                              Key findings

                              New Hampshire has the fewest burglaries per capita
                              New Hampshire tops our list of states with the fewest break-ins per 100,000 residents. In 2018, New Hampshire’s burglary rate dropped by an astounding 29%, which was enough for it to take the number one position from New York —the safest state in 2017.

                              West Virginia saw the sharpest decrease in its burglary rate
                              The burglary rate in West Virginia dropped by 29.4% between 2017 and 2018.

                              Hawaii was the only state with an increased burglary rate in 2018
                              One of the most curious findings in 2018 is that Hawaii was the only state to show an increase in break-ins.

                              New Mexico still #1 with the most break-ins per capita
                              New Mexico ranked 51 on a list of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, keeping its reputation as the state with the most break-ins per 100,000 residents. Still, the overall rate of burglaries in the state dropped by 10.5% since 2017.

                              >>Want to see what we found last year? Read our full 2017 report: States with the Most and Fewest Break-Ins


                              What is DIY home security?

                              DIY security can mean two different things. First, there’s DIY installation. DIY security systems come with preprogrammed equipment that’s easy to self-install with little to no drilling, sawing, carving, soldering, rewiring, or tampering with flux capacitors. Frontpoint, SimpliSafe, and Cove place a ton of emphasis on their DIY installation service and making the setup process painless for new customers.

                              There’s also DIY monitoring, which gives you the ability to keep an eye on your own security system instead of paying monthly to have a third-party monitoring center watch over your home for you. That’s not to say professional monitoring is a bad thing. Pro monitoring comes in handy when you’re, say, off paragliding in the Alps, or even toiling away at your 9-to-5, and can’t find the time to watch over the home yourself.

                              The biggest benefit to DIY monitoring is that you’ll save a lot of money month to month. And DIY monitoring usually means you won’t be locked into a long contract if you want to pause or cancel your security system service.

                              DIY installation

                              We’ve set up Ring, Frontpoint, SimpliSafe, and Cove security systems in-house, and they can all be set up in under an hour with little to no technical know-how. Most of these modern DIY systems use your home Wi-Fi network (usually with cellular backup) as a bridge to connect the rest of your system to the hub or control panel.

                              Window and door sensors come with 3M tape for easy application around the house. And any wired hardware like indoor security cameras just need to be plugged in to sync with your system.

                              What is DIY monitoring?

                              Security systems that offer professional monitoring charge a monthly fee to have a professional monitoring center keep an eye on your system. But DIY monitoring has made home security a lot more accessible to people that don’t want to sign onto traditional three-year (or longer) professional monitoring contracts. Systems like iSmartAlarm are completely self-monitored, which is a solid option for anyone on a budget because you only have to cover the up-front equipment costs.

                              Then you have systems like SimpliSafe that give you the option to monitor yourself or pay for professional monitoring on a month-to-month basis. You still don’t have to deal with any long contracts, and you can outsource your monitoring during times when you can’t keep an eye on your home yourself. Go on, you deserve to enjoy a carefree vacation every now and then.


                              Our recommendation

                              DIY home security offers a lot of benefits to customers. Whether that’s through streamlined self-installation or self-monitored alternatives or traditional contract-based security systems, doing it yourself can help save you a lot of money without sacrificing for quality equipment or functionality.

                              >>Into the idea of self-monitoring with optional professional monitoring? Check out Ring Alarm.

                              >>If you want a DIY home security system with top-notch professional monitoring, we recommend Frontpoint.

                              >>Want a totally self-monitored home security system? We like iSmartAlarm.


                              Sources:

                              †Google, Google Nest Secure, Google Nest Protect, Google Nest Learning Thermostat and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.
                              *Offer requires signing the Frontpoint Terms and Conditions; taxes and fees may apply; valid for new customers only; cannot be combined with any other offer; offer void where prohibited and valid as long as supplies last; indoor camera valued at $99.99; must be added to cart at checkout; one free indoor camera per customer; requires Ultimate Monitoring Plan at $49.99/month; includes free standard shipping; offer valid through 2/2/20 at 11:59PM EST. Risk Free Trial requires a subscriber to activate or initiate a hardware return within 30 days from receipt (“Trial Period”). Complete details available at Frontpoint.com.

                              Best Apartment Security Systems for Renters: Flexible and Affordable

                              Best Overall
                              SimpliSafe
                              4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                              Starting at  
                              $17.99
                              /mo.
                              Pro Bullet Easy setup
                              Pro Bullet Customizable equipment
                              Con Bullet Limited home automation support
                              Best Value
                              Frontpoint
                              4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                              Starting at 
                              $24.99
                              /mo.
                              Pro Bullet Easy installation and relocation
                              Pro Bullet Excellent 24/7 customer service
                              Con Bullet Higher monthly price
                              Best DIY
                              Ring
                              4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
                              Starting at  
                              $10.00
                              /mo.
                              Pro Bullet Inexpensive pro-monitoring
                              Pro Bullet Self-monitoring option
                              Con Bullet Recent security issues
                              Best Self-Monitored Option
                              Abode
                              3.7 out of 5 stars3.7
                              Starting at 
                              $21.99
                              /mo.
                              Pro Bullet Inexpensive equipment
                              Pro Bullet Free self-monitoring with the app
                              Con Bullet Limited tech support hours

                              Overview
                              Renters want to keep their homes and possessions safe as much as anyone else does. If you’re renting and your landlord or property manager doesn’t provide a security system, guess what? You can still add one.

                              There’s been an upswing in home security systems designed for temporary installation. We’ve looked at the top ones and come up with a list of brands that can be easily used by renters like you.

                              Security systems in rentals
                              How To
                              Before installing a home security system on rented property, make sure it’s within the terms of your rental agreement. If you share space, consider letting your neighbors know they may hear your alarm going off—especially if one of those neighbors is your landlord. Finally, check with your local police station to find out if you need a permit to install an alarm.

                              Best apartment security system brands

                              These brands also work well in non-apartment rental properties, like houses or duplexes.

                              Compare best security systems for apartments

                              Data effective as of publish date. Offers and availability subject to change.

                              *Starting equipment monthly cost as low as $10 a month with consumer financing.


                              Best overall: SimpliSafe

                              SimpliSafe offers easy DIY installation, affordable equipment, and professional monitoring that you can turn on or off each month. It’s perfect for temporary or long-term housing situations.

                              Simplisafe
                              Our rating:
                              4.3 out of 5.0
                              4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                              Customer service
                              4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
                              Price
                              4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                              Features & equipment
                              3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                              Starting from 
                              $17.99
                              /mo.

                                SimpliSafe pros and cons

                                Pros
                                • Pro BulletNo long-term contracts
                                • Pro BulletMonth-to-month professional monitoring
                                • Pro BulletCustomizable equipment
                                • Pro BulletEasy setup
                                Cons
                                • Con BulletLimited home automation support
                                • Con BulletNo mobile access with cheaper plan

                                Why we recommend SimpliSafe

                                Renting can be unpredictable at times. SimpliSafe offers month-to-month professional monitoring and no long-term contracts—perfect for short leases or lots of moves.

                                Price

                                SimpliSafe’s plans cost less per month than many competitors, and there are no extra activation fees.

                                The equipment comes in well-priced packages or can be selected individually to create a customized kit. Premade packages tend to range from $200 to $400.

                                Equipment and features

                                The equipment’s easy to set up (just peel, stick, and go), though smart home integration is limited.

                                For some items, you can choose between obsidian and cloud (aka black and white). This is fun from an interior design point of view. Overall, the equipment is rather fashion-forward for the home security systems industry.

                                The biggest drawback is the mobile app. SimpliSafe’s $14.99 plan may give you a free trial for mobile access, but after it runs out, you won’t be able to monitor your system from your phone. You have to upgrade your payment by $10.00 for something that really should be a free, primary feature. (Brands that position themselves as DIY generally try to keep the prices down, so charging more for a basic function is unusual in this space.) But even with the cost increase, you’ll still be paying less per month than you would with Frontpoint.

                                One more thing. If you already have existing smart equipment, SimpliSafe may not be the best option. The equipment doesn’t always integrate with smart devices from other manufacturers. You can connect it with a Nest Thermostat, an August smart door lock, an Amazon Alexa device, or a Google Home. That’s it.

                                ASecureLife’s recommendation: SimpliSafe’s flexible monitoring, easy-to-install equipment, and super affordable pricing make it one of the best choices for renters.

                                >>Learn more: Read full SimpliSafe review.

                                >>View SimpliSafe Plans

                                Best value: Frontpoint

                                For renters, Frontpoint’s excellent customer service, straightforward installation, easy relocation, and customizable equipment outweigh the price and make it the best value for renters. 

                                Frontpoint
                                Our rating:
                                4.5 out of 5.0
                                4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                Price
                                4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                Customer service
                                4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                                Features & equipment
                                4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
                                 
                                $49.99
                                /mo.

                                  Frontpoint pros and cons

                                  Pros
                                  • Pro BulletExcellent 24/7 customer service
                                  • Pro BulletEasy installation and relocation
                                  • Pro BulletQuality equipment
                                  • Pro BulletHome automation support
                                  • Pro BulletNo contract
                                  Cons
                                  • Con BulletHigher monthly price
                                  • Con BulletLimited tech support hours

                                  Why we recommend Frontpoint

                                  Frontpoint may be pricier, but it’s perfect for renters because of incredibly easy-to-install equipment—no wires or tools needed. And if you ever need help, Frontpoint’s customer service team consistently delivers. Reps aren’t available 24/7, though, so make sure you contact them between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. (ET) on weekdays or between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. (ET) on weekends.

                                  Price

                                  Frontpoint's monitoring plan is $49.99 per month, which is a bit steep, but you get high-quality equipment, professional monitoring, and tons of support anytime. Luckily, you can request a free moving kit to make relocating your system completely painless.

                                  Moving with Frontpoint
                                  Take Note

                                  It’s easy to take your Frontpoint system to a new home if you move. Just let Frontpoint customer service know that you’ll be uninstalling and reinstalling your system at a new address.

                                  Equipment and features

                                  Frontpoint offers smart locks, lightbulbs, and garage door openers⁠—items we don’t see a lot of security brands selling.

                                  ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want a traditional security system with excellent customer service that you can effortlessly take with you whenever you move, Frontpoint fits the bill.

                                  >>Learn more: Read full Frontpoint review

                                  >>View Frontpoint Plans

                                  Best DIY: Ring

                                  Ring’s easy to set up and even easier to monitor. You can pay as little as $100 for a year of monitoring for this system.

                                  Lightbulb
                                  Avoiding security breaches

                                  Ring has been in the news lately due to breaches where strangers can view camera feeds and talk over the speaker. In a statement shared with us, Ring said that these are due to consumers not taking proper precautions.

                                  We continue to recommend Ring products for now, but echo Ring’s security precautions recommendations: use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, add authorized users instead of sharing credentials, and regularly change passwords.

                                  Ring
                                  Our rating:
                                  4.2 out of 5.0
                                  4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
                                  Customer service
                                  3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                  Price
                                  5 out of 5 stars5.0
                                  Features & equipment
                                  4 out of 5 stars4.0
                                  Starting from 
                                  $9.99
                                  /mo.

                                    Ring pros and cons

                                    Pros
                                    • Pro BulletInexpensive professional monitoring
                                    • Pro BulletSelf-monitoring option
                                    • Pro BulletBoth Z-Wave and Alexa compatibility
                                    • Pro BulletEasy installation and monitoring
                                    Cons
                                    • Con BulletLimited smart home integration

                                    Why we recommend Ring

                                    When it comes to DIY home security systems, Ring has the most affordable monitoring by far.

                                    Price

                                    Ring’s packages run in the same price range as Abode, though Ring’s starter kit equipment selection makes more sense than Abode’s. You’ll get the base station, a keypad, a motion detector, a contact sensor, and a range extender.

                                    Contact sensors
                                    Our Choice
                                    Contact sensor is Ring’s term for door and window sensors.
                                    The professional monitoring price is the lowest in the industry. For $9.99 a month (or $100 a year), Ring will professionally monitor your system. If that’s not in your budget, you can self-monitor for free. Ring’s app provides mobile access and sends push notifications and emails straight to your phone to make self-monitoring easy.
                                    Equipment and features

                                    Ring’s equipment is unique to the brand. It looks nice and worked well when we tested it. During the testing process, it was super easy to set up with no prior experience. The app is also fairly intuitive, although we found the system easier to control through Amazon’s Alexa. (Since Ring is owned by Amazon, its Google Home compatibility is zilch. You’ll have to go to Nest for that.)

                                    Ring used to sell just video doorbells, and its foray into a full security system suite is still pretty new. That may be one reason the devices don’t have enough compatibility to integrate into a standard smart home.

                                    ASecureLife’s recommendation: Ring’s easy to set up and use. And the monitoring price is unparalleled, so it’s perfect if you’re on a budget.

                                    >>Learn more: Read our Ring review.

                                    >>View Ring Plans

                                    Best self-monitored option: Abode

                                    With Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols, Abode is a shoo-in for renters who want to integrate their security system into their smart apartment setup.

                                    Abode
                                    Our rating:
                                    3.7 out of 5.0
                                    3.7 out of 5 stars3.7
                                    Customer service
                                    3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                    Price
                                    4 out of 5 stars4.0
                                    Features & equipment
                                    3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                    Plans starting at 
                                    $21.99
                                    /mo.

                                      Abode pros and cons

                                      Pros
                                      • Pro BulletNo contracts
                                      • Pro BulletBoth Z-Wave and Zigbee compatibility
                                      • Pro BulletInexpensive equipment
                                      • Pro BulletFree self-monitoring with the app
                                      Cons
                                      • Con BulletLimited tech support hours

                                      Why we recommend Abode

                                      Abode is compatible with both Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols, making it our top choice for a smart apartment. We also love that Abode has professional monitoring—and we especially love that self-monitoring through the mobile app is free.

                                      We wish Abode had 24/7 customer support over the phone, but the no-contract flexibility is a great option for renters.

                                      Price

                                      You can spend as little as $199 on a Basic system. And if you choose to self-monitor, you’re one and done. Not a bad price for the peace of mind a security system brings.

                                      Self-monitoring vs. professional monitoring
                                      Our Choice
                                      Self-monitoring means the user watches the system. If a breach happens, you must contact the authorities on your own. Professional monitoring means that a company keeps an eye on the system from a central station. The company calls the authorities in the event of an intruder or other security issue.

                                      Even the most independent user may want professional monitoring at some point, so we like that Abode has a plan available for $20 a month without a contract. If nothing else, you can use it when you go out of town, because spending your vacation monitoring a home security system kind of defeats the purpose of a vacation.

                                      Equipment and features

                                      Abode has a great selection of equipment, all at competitive prices. However, you’re going to have to get more than a starter kit for a comprehensive security system. The starter kit doesn’t even come with a keypad.

                                      ASecureLife’s recommendation: If home automation is your focus, Abode gives you tons of integration options, plus no-contract monitoring and inexpensive equipment choices.

                                      >>Learn more: Read full Abode review

                                      >>View Abode Plans

                                      Best customer service: Cove

                                      Cove has no-contract monitoring and is flexible in its equipment options. 

                                      Cove
                                      Our rating:
                                      3.3 out of 5.0
                                      3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                                      Customer service
                                      4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                      Price
                                      3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                                      Features & equipment
                                      2 out of 5 stars2.0
                                      Starting from 
                                      $17.99
                                      /mo.

                                        Cove pros and cons

                                        Pros
                                        • Pro BulletNo-contract monitoring
                                        • Pro BulletUltra-simple DIY installation
                                        • Pro BulletEquipment financing for cheaper startup
                                        Cons
                                        • Con BulletMinimal automation integration
                                        • Con BulletNo mobile access with cheaper plan

                                        Why we recommend Cove

                                        Cove has no-contract monitoring, making it ideal for renters who aren’t sure how long they’ll stay put. And its equipment selection is flexible—you can customize your own starter kit to fit your budget and square footage.

                                        Price

                                        Cove lets you choose the equipment for your starter kit. The prices are as follows:*

                                        • Door sensors: $15
                                        • Window sensors: $15
                                        • Flood sensors: $20
                                        • Panic/medical buttons: $20
                                        • Security key fob: $25
                                        • Motion detectors: $30
                                        • Smoke/heat/freeze detectors: $30
                                        • Glass break detectors: $35
                                        • Carbon monoxide detectors: $50
                                        • YI indoor cameras: $59

                                        *Each starter kit comes with a Cove Touch Panel, which adds $184 to your bill. In most cases, we recommend getting a kit with a minimum of the following: a door sensor, a window sensor, a motion detector, and a key fob. That comes to $269.00.

                                        Cove sensors
                                        Our Experience
                                        Cove is one of the only security brands we’ve seen that offers separate models for door and window sensors. Most make one sensor that can be installed on either a door or a window.
                                        Most easy-install alarm systems require up-front equipment purchase. But with Cove, you also have the option of making monthly payments to soften the financial blow of paying for it all at once.
                                        Equipment and features

                                        If you’re not sure what devices you need, Cove has a quiz you can take. At the end of the quiz, the brand gives you a recommendation to fit your security needs.

                                        All equipment comes preprogrammed for a simple setup.
                                        Cove integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, but not much else at this point, so it’s not great for home automation.

                                        ASecureLife’s recommendation: Cove might be for you if you’re not a fan of contracts and love customization.

                                        >>Learn more: Read our full Cove review.

                                        Other brands we considered

                                        Link Interactive

                                        Link Interactive offers shorter contract lengths (12-, 24-, or 36-months) for professional monitoring, one of our favorite features for renters. Plus, all the equipment packages are customizable with no activation or installation fees. Some customers complain that the DIY installation is tricky, and Link’s equipment is on the spendier side, especially for those living in rentals for budget reasons. Still, there’s lots to love about Link Interactive.
                                        Link Interactive Logo

                                        >>Learn more: Get all the details in our Link Interactive review.

                                        >>View Link Interactive plans.

                                        Brinks

                                        Brinks checks a lot of apartment alarm systems boxes: easy installation, wireless equipment, and smart home technology. Plus, if you have a Nest Secure system, you can opt to have Brinks professionally monitor it for you. The biggest drawback is the required 36-month contract, but if you’re ready to commit, Brinks gives you a great value for the money.

                                        Brinks logo

                                        >>Learn more: Check out our full review for Brinks Home Security.

                                        >>View Brinks plans.


                                        Renter home security system FAQs

                                        Will a security system get me a discount on my renters insurance?

                                        It might! Just chat with your insurance provider during the decision-making process. They might have a deal with some brands or have specific requirements for a discount.

                                        What should I consider for my apartment security system?

                                        • Affordability: Take into account both the up-front costs of equipment and the monthly fees.
                                        • Flexibility: Look for flexible contracts or even monitoring without a contract to simplify your situation when you move.
                                        • Installation: DIY systems (no installation fees!) with easy installation are your friends. Relocating the equipment will be effortless when you leave your rental.
                                        • Wireless equipment: Chances are good that your property manager won’t appreciate drilled holes in the walls, so find a wireless security system that connects to your Wi-Fi network.
                                        • Expandability: Your next home may require a different setup, so you want a system that can expand to fit your space. Look for customizable equipment packages.
                                        • Home automation: Does your security system jive with the smart home products you have (or want to have)? Find a system that will streamline, not complicate, your home control.

                                        Should I get a professionally monitored system or a self-monitored system?

                                        We generally prefer a professionally monitored security system for the added protection of having someone watching over your home all the time. If there’s ever an emergency and your phone is off or you don’t see the notification, the results could be disastrous.

                                        But if you’re worried about false alarms, self-monitoring is the way to go. It’s also the best option if you plan to use your system in less traditional ways. For example, maybe you want to scare your roommates out of your room but don’t want to call the police on them.

                                        What if I have to move out of my rental?

                                        One big deterrent to installing apartment alarm systems is that renters like you may not know how long they’ll be living in their current place. The rent may go up. The landlord may evict you in favor of renting to their niece. You may get a better job in another state, or you might move back in with your parents to save money.

                                        You can easily pack a wireless system up and bring it with you.

                                        That’s a big reason most of the systems we’ve recommended have no contracts. And all of them are wireless systems that don’t have to be drilled into walls. You can easily pack them up and bring them with you.

                                        How many motion sensors do I need for my apartment?

                                        If your rental is a small apartment, your comprehensive security system will likely require fewer components. A motion sensor or two will probably do the trick, but ultimately it will depend on your apartment’s square footage and layout and your security concerns.

                                        Regardless of the size of your space, we recommend always putting a door or window sensor at each point of entry. These magnetized motion sensors specifically track whether your doors and windows are open.


                                        Our recommendation

                                        The perfect apartment security system is going to depend on your situation, but you have lots of options. Consider how much flexibility you need, how often you’ll be relocating, how much you can afford, and how important smart home integrations are.

                                        • Frontpoint: This is your best value with options for high-quality customer service and support.
                                        • SimpliSafe: For flexible monitoring, low costs, and easy installation, this is our top choice.
                                        • Ring: If you need to save money and have an excellent DIY setup, Ring can help.
                                        • Abode: When home automation is a top concern, and you don't want to pay for professional monitoring, this is a safe bet.
                                        • Cove: Customizable kits; no contracts required, and awesome customer service.
                                        Contributing author: Kate Herrick

                                        Protect Yourself Online with a VPN: Our Review of the Top VPN Companies

                                        Best for Fast Speeds
                                        NordVPN
                                        Pro Bullet Fast upload speeds
                                        Pro Bullet More simultaneous connections
                                        Pro Bullet 30-day money-back guarantee
                                        Best Overall
                                        IPVanish VPN
                                        Pro Bullet Fast download speeds
                                        Pro Bullet Easy-to-use interface
                                        Pro Bullet 7-day money-back guarantee
                                        Best for Customization
                                        TorGuard
                                        Pro Bullet Useful add-on services
                                        Pro Bullet Support for VPN routers
                                        Pro Bullet Flexible payment options

                                        We use the internet for work, socialization, recreation, education, financial management, and more. If we spend so much of our time online (and share so much information there), that connection needs to be as secure as possible.

                                        That’s where a personal VPN comes in. A VPN service will encrypt your data and mask your location. This improves your online privacy while you browse the internet, provides added security when data is sent to and from your computer, and gives you access to more content in more places.

                                        But with dozens of VPN companies to choose from, how do you know which one to choose? We researched and tested some of the top VPN services to help you find one that will suit your needs. Keep reading to learn more about the best personal VPN services and what they can do.


                                        What should you look for in a personal VPN service?

                                        All personal VPNs should offer data encryption and location masking, but there are a few other features you should look for when choosing a service.

                                        • Privacy and transparency: One of the biggest reasons to use a VPN is to keep your browsing data and online traffic private. Choose a company that doesn’t keep logs of your traffic. We suggest looking through the privacy policy and terms of use—they should be clear and specific so you know what to expect when you sign up.
                                        • Effect on internet speed: Your internet speed will decrease when you use a VPN, but your connection still needs to be usable whether you’re checking email or playing a multiplayer game online. Ideally, the VPN will have only a small effect on your speed.
                                        • Price: You’re going to have to take VPN companies at their word when they say they don’t log your traffic. If the VPN service is free, the company has to make money some other way. For this reason, we’re a bit wary of completely free services. Although we don’t suggest using a free service, you shouldn’t have to pay much more than $10/month.
                                        • Usability: Using a VPN shouldn’t be a hassle—after all, you’re going to be using it pretty much any time you go online. We suggest choosing a customizable and easy-to-use VPN service.

                                        1. NordVPN: Best for fast speeds on multiple devices

                                        Best for Fast Speeds
                                        NordVPN
                                        Features
                                        • Uses 1,078 servers in 61 countries
                                        • Supports six simultaneous connections
                                        • Has apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin
                                        Pros
                                        • Pro BulletNo traffic logs
                                        • Pro BulletFast download speeds
                                        • Pro BulletFast upload speeds
                                        • Pro BulletEasy setup
                                        • Pro BulletSupport for more simultaneous connections than other providers
                                        • Pro Bullet30-day money-back guarantee
                                        • Pro BulletHuge section of online tutorials for specific operating systems and devices
                                        Cons
                                        • Con BulletLimited access to payment history information
                                        • Con BulletSome sites detected VPN and blocked access

                                        Why we recommend NordVPN

                                        NordVPN has a lot to offer, and it came close to beating out IPVanish for the top spot. If you choose NordVPN you get fast upload and download speeds, more device connections, and options for customization. Ultimately, NordVPN got bumped to second place (in spite of the impressive connection speed) because it could be detected and blocked by websites when other VPNs weren’t and because it was difficult to access payment history details. If you aren’t worried about either of those things, it might be the right service for you.

                                        Nor
                                        Speed

                                        NordVPN was the fastest VPN service we tested by a pretty wide margin (especially for upload speeds). If a fast internet connection is your number-one priority, NordVPN is probably your best bet. Using a VPN had an almost negligible effect on both our upload and download speeds.

                                        Multiple connections

                                        Nord VPN allows six simultaneous connections, which is more than any of the other personal VPN services we tested. If you want to keep a lot of devices connected through your VPN, it is a good choice.

                                        Smooth user experience
                                        multiple devices different ages

                                        Our team found NordVPN easy to set up and easy to use. We couldn’t access sites like Netflix that block you if they realize you’re using a VPN, but we could still stream content and play online games without any trouble. Like IPVanish, NordVPN also uses a kill switch if your connection drops, so you don’t have to worry about data being sent over an insecure connection.

                                         

                                        Customization

                                        People use VPNs for many different reasons. NordVPN recognizes this and makes it easy to customize your experience depending on what you need. NordVPN offers servers in a wide variety of locations, but it also offers many different types of servers. This means that you can choose a different type of server depending on your priorities, whether you care more about speed, anonymity, or encryption.

                                        • Double encryption servers
                                        • Onion over VPN servers
                                        • Anti DDoS servers
                                        • Dedicated IP servers
                                        • Standard VPN servers
                                        • P2P servers
                                        • Obfuscated servers

                                        2. IPVanish VPN: Best VPN service overall

                                        Best Overall
                                        IPVanish VPN
                                        Features
                                        • Uses over 850 servers in more than 60 countries
                                        • Supports five simultaneous connections
                                        • Has apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin
                                        Pros
                                        • Pro BulletNo traffic logs
                                        • Pro BulletTransparent privacy policy
                                        • Pro BulletFast download speeds
                                        • Pro BulletEasy-to-use interface
                                        • Pro BulletQuick and simple setup
                                        • Pro BulletCustomizable settings
                                        • Pro BulletReasonable price
                                        • Pro BulletPositive reputation
                                        • Pro BulletPlenty of servers in lots of locations
                                        • Pro BulletAccess to sites that normally block VPNs
                                        • Pro Bullet7-day money-back guarantee
                                        • Pro BulletSupport for VPN routers
                                        Cons
                                        • Con BulletSignificant drop in upload speed

                                        Why we rated IPVanish as the best personal VPN

                                        IPVanish earned the top spot by offering privacy, excellent customer support, fast download speeds, and useful features at a very reasonable price. We liked how easy the service was to use, and we were impressed with the company’s transparency.

                                        Privacy and transparency

                                        IPVanish doesn’t keep traffic logs and is extremely clear about what information it does collect. The privacy policy and terms of service are explained in great detail, so if you’re curious, you can find out exactly what information is collected and why. (The short version is that IPVanish collects just enough information to manage your account but never tracks your online activity.)

                                        Speed

                                        IPVanish was the second-fastest service we tested for download speed. In our tests the download speed dropped by only 9.3%. Your exact speed will fluctuate depending on a wide variety of factors, but our team had no trouble streaming content, browsing the internet, downloading files, and playing online games while using IPVanish. We should mention that upload speed drops quite a bit when using the VPN—but since upload speed is much less important for most users, we didn’t consider it a huge downside.

                                        Practicality

                                        IPVanish is easy to use and pretty inexpensive—especially if you choose the annual plan. This makes it a good option for average internet users. It also comes with other practical features.

                                        • There are servers in lots of countries, so you can choose the best place to connect depending on what you want to do online.
                                        • You can use IPVanish on routers, Chromebooks, Android devices, iOS devices, Amazon Fire TVs, and Windows phones. It also works with lots of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.
                                        • If your VPN loses connection, a kill switch blocks network traffic so your data isn’t exposed.
                                        • Sites that would normally detect a VPN and block access didn’t detect IPVanish while our team tested it out.
                                        Customer support

                                        We were impressed by the amount of support IPVanish offers customers. Customer service staff is on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. IPVanish also has a detailed FAQ section on its website so you can find answers to many questions without calling and talking to someone. On top of that, IPVanish has detailed instructions and specs for using the VPN with different operating systems, which makes it easy to look up how to use it with your specific devices.


                                        3. TorGuard: Best for customization

                                        Best for Customization
                                        TorGuard
                                        Features
                                        • Over 1,600 servers in more than 50 countries
                                        • Supports five simultaneous connections
                                        • Apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin
                                        Pros
                                        • Pro BulletNo traffic logs
                                        • Pro BulletAffordable price
                                        • Pro BulletUseful add-on services
                                        • Pro BulletFlexible payment options
                                        • Pro BulletSupport for VPN routers
                                        • Pro BulletLots of servers
                                        Cons
                                        • Con BulletSlower download speeds than IPVanish and NordVPN
                                        • Con BulletSignificant slowdowns on mobile

                                        Why we recommend TorGuard

                                        TorGuard VPN earned a spot in the top three by offering good basic service as well as more add-on services than other VPN companies. (For example, you can get both an anonymous proxy and a VPN service in one bundle.) TorGuard is a good option for technically minded internet users looking for a little extra. Even if you don’t add on any extras, TorGuard’s normal VPN service is a good deal. If you choose the annual plan, TorGuard’s VPN is less expensive than both IPVanish and NordVPN.

                                        Practicality

                                        TorGuard was slower than our other two top VPN companies, but we had no trouble browsing the internet, streaming content, or playing online games. As long as your normal internet connection is reasonably fast, you’ll probably be fine with the drop in speed caused by TorGuard’s VPN.

                                        Customization

                                        TorGuard is a great option if you want to customize your service to your specific needs. You can sign up for anonymous proxy service, extra device connections, a premium network, or a DDoS-protected IP, depending on your preferences. TorGuard also sells routers that come with 30 days of free VPN service.

                                        TorGuard screenshot
                                        Flexible payment options and schedules

                                        Most VPN companies let you pay with anonymous payment options like Bitcoin, but TorGuard goes a bit further by letting you pay with gift cards. TorGuard also offers a wider selection of payment plans than others. You can pay monthly, quarterly, semiannually, or annually.


                                        Other companies to consider

                                        These companies didn’t crack our top three, but they may still be right for you. Keep reading to learn about the other VPN services we tested.

                                        4. VyprVPN

                                        VyprVPN
                                        Features
                                        • Has over 700 servers in more than 60 countries
                                        • Base plan supports three simultaneous connections
                                        • Premium plan supports five simultaneous connections
                                        • Offers apps for mobile devices

                                        Our experience with VyprVPN

                                        We were pretty happy with VyperVPN, and it almost made it into our top three. VyprVPN is a good option because it is affordable, easy to use, and fairly quick. VyprVPN also makes it easy to use this service with a router. If you choose the premium plan you also get what VyprVPn calls the Chameleon protocol, which lets you visit sites that would normally block VPN users.

                                        VyprVPN didn’t quite make it into the top three because while it doesn’t log traffic, it does collect a little more info than other services, and it stores some of that data for 30 days.


                                        5. TunnelBear VPN

                                        TunnelBear VPN
                                        Features
                                        • Uses servers in over 20 countries
                                        • Supports five simultaneous connections
                                        • Has apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin

                                        Our experience with TunnelBear VPN

                                        TunnelBear is affordable, very easy to use—and dare we say—cute. We like TunnelBear because the company is clear about the information it collects and why. TunnelBear also offers a free plan for users who don’t need more than 500MB per month. While we don’t normally recommend free services, TunnelBear has paying customers, so it doesn’t need to make money by selling your information to third parties. If you want more features, you’ll need to pay for service, but it is relatively inexpensive if you choose the annual plan. While TunnelBear isn’t at the top of the list, it beats out the companies below because it offers quick download speeds and we were able to stream content easily while using the VPN.


                                        6. Private Internet Access

                                        Private Internet Access
                                        • Uses 3,253 servers in 25 countries
                                        • Supports five simultaneous connections
                                        • Has apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin

                                        Our experience with Private Internet Access

                                        Private Internet Access is the cheapest VPN service we tested (aside from TunnelBear’s limited free plan). If you’re on a tight budget, it might be your best option. However, this is one of those cases where you probably get what you pay for—it was one of the slower services we tested and has servers in only 25 countries. Even though the company has lots of servers, that significantly limits your options if you’re trying to access geo-specific content. Private Internet Access also doesn’t really have an interface for desktop users, which makes it harder to customize your settings.


                                        7. ExpressVPN

                                        ExpressVPN
                                        Features
                                        • Uses over 145 servers in 94 countries
                                        • Supports three simultaneous connections
                                        • Has apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin

                                        Our experience with ExpressVPN

                                        ExpressVPN costs more than any other service on our list, but it was incredibly easy to use and has servers in lots of countries.

                                        It was slower than some other services we tested, but we were still able to stream content without any issues. ExpressVPN also has dramatically fewer servers than most of the competition and supports only three simultaneous connections, whereas most other services support five.


                                        8. PureVPN

                                        PureVPN
                                        Features
                                        • Uses over 500 servers in more than 121 countries
                                        • Supports five simultaneous connections
                                        • Has apps for mobile devices
                                        • Accommodates anonymous payment options, including gift cards and Bitcoin

                                        Our experience with PureVPN

                                        PureVPN has a nice, easy-to-use interface, servers in lots of countries, and good anonymous payment options—but ultimately it's just too slow. During our tests we noticed drastic drops in our download and upload speeds. In fact, it was the slowest VPN service we tested.


                                        What is a VPN and do I need one?

                                        What you should know about using a VPN

                                        VPNs offer privacy and security online, but there are a few things you should know before you start using them:

                                        • Your internet speed will likely drop when you use a VPN. For most internet users, the download speed will be more important than the upload speed, but if you upload a lot of content online, you may need to pay close attention to both. We should also note that your experience will vary depending on the normal speed of your internet connection. If you have extremely fast internet, a significant drop in speed may still not make much difference when you stream content or play games. However, if your normal connection is already a bit sluggish, a small drop in speed caused by the VPN may make the difference between being able to stream a movie smoothly and getting frustrated while it buffers in the middle of a climactic chase scene.
                                        • A VPN alone cannot protect you against malware and viruses.
                                        • If you use a VPN client on your router, you don’t have to run a separate VPN on your computer or your phone while those devices are connected to the router. Using a VPN on your router lets you connect more devices securely, and it adds more security for all the devices that connect to it (laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, security cameras, smart lightbulbs etc.).
                                        • While a VPN can help you get around geo-related content blocking, the content you have access to will change if your IP address appears to be in a different country.
                                        • A VPN company will have access to all your online traffic. If you care about privacy, it is essential to choose a VPN provider that doesn’t keep logs of your online activity.

                                        Do you need a personal VPN?

                                        There are three main reasons to consider using a VPN: privacy, security, and access to content.

                                        Privacy

                                        Without a VPN your internet service provider can see what you search for, what sites you visit, and what you do while you’re online. This information often makes it into the hands of advertisers, which starts to get annoying when you visit a website and then start seeing ads for that site (or the products sold there) in your social media feeds and on other sites you visit.

                                        If you use a VPN, there is another layer between you and your ISP, so it can’t see what you’re doing. If your ISP doesn’t know which sites you visit or what you shop for, it can’t pass that information along to advertisers (or other interested parties—for example, governments).

                                        Security

                                        Normally when you use the internet, the data sent to and from your computer is unencrypted (unless you have software-level encryption).

                                        This is already a concern for everyday users, but it is especially problematic if you use open Wi-Fi at coffee shops, hotels, or other public places.

                                        woman with laptop in coffee shop

                                        If you use an open Wi-Fi connection at your favorite coffee shop, someone else in the same shop could sit down with a laptop and access the data packets being sent by your computer (sites visited, contents of emails, account login info, and more). For example, if you use the Wi-Fi to check your bank account and pay bills, someone could get your bank account number, username, and password.

                                        A VPN service encrypts the data your computer sends and receives. If you’re running a VPN client, you can safely use open Wi-Fi at the airport or library without worrying about someone stealing your account credentials or spying on your online activity. We still don’t recommend doing your banking in a public space since a VPN can’t stop someone from reading your screen over your shoulder, but a VPN can make your connection safer and more secure.

                                        Access to content

                                        Websites and governments sometimes limit access to content based on your location. In most cases, your location is determined by your computer’s IP address.

                                        woman with smartphone and laptop in airport

                                        A VPN can help you get around quite a bit of geo-blocking because it masks your computer’s real IP address. Instead, it will look like your IP address is the address of the VPN server.

                                        Many VPN services will let you connect to a VPN server in a country or city of your choice. That way, you can still access a lot of the content you’d normally access in the US, even when you’re traveling overseas.

                                        This isn’t a fail-proof solution—some countries have outlawed VPNs, and some websites can detect when you’re using a VPN and block access. However, a VPN can make it easier to access geo-specific content from wider variety of places.


                                        Which VPN should you choose?

                                        If you want to improve your online privacy and security while getting access to more content, a VPN is probably a good investment. We’d suggest choosing IPVanish or NordVPN, but ultimately, you’ll need to decide which features are most important to you and whether you care most about speed, price, customization, or privacy policies.

                                        Have you used a VPN service in the past? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below.

                                        IDShield Review: Identity Monitoring and Protection

                                        IDShield monitors personal and financial information and offers a mobile app, an updated credit score, and prepaid legal help through licensed investigators.

                                        Best Availability
                                        IDShield
                                        Our rating:
                                        3.8 out of 5.0
                                        3.8 out of 5 stars3.8
                                        Customer service
                                        3.8 out of 5 stars3.8
                                        Price
                                        4 out of 5 stars4.0
                                        Features
                                        3.8 out of 5 stars3.8
                                        Plans starting at 
                                        $14.95
                                        /mo.

                                          Overview

                                          LegalShield IDShield is one of the best identity theft protection services out there. IDShield doesn’t just monitor your Social Security number and financial information for signs of identity theft. It also provides access to private investigators if identity theft does occur. This perk makes IDShield a good option if your information’s breached and you need personalized help getting back on track.

                                          Read on to see how IDShield can protect your identity.

                                          Compare IDShield plans

                                          Data effective 09/29/2022. Offers and availability subject to change.

                                          *A family plan can be used for two adults and up to 10 dependent children.

                                          IDShield’s individual and family packages come with the same features, including mobile app access and private investigators. The main difference between plans is the number of credit bureaus that provide information.

                                          IDShield pros and cons

                                          Pros
                                          • Pro BulletAccess to licensed private investigators
                                          • Pro BulletPersonal, financial, and credit information monitoring
                                          • Pro BulletSocial media and online credentials screening
                                          • Pro BulletFree mobile app for Android and iOS
                                          • Pro BulletThree-bureau credit monitoring (higher-tier package)
                                          • Pro BulletEmergency after-hours support
                                          Cons
                                          • Con BulletNo online membership cancellation option (must be done in writing)
                                          • Con BulletNo free trial period
                                          Why three bureaus?
                                          Our Choice
                                          While all three bureaus share information, there’s no guarantee identity theft will be reported at the same time. Your best defense against identity theft is to catch it quickly, which is why we prefer more comprehensive monitoring with credit reports from all three bureaus.

                                          Price

                                          IDShield’s pricing is straightforward and easy to understand: just $14.95 to $19.95 per month for individual monitoring and $29.95 to $34.95 per month for family monitoring. And you can add up to 10 kids at a non-premium price—something to keep in mind if you have a large family.

                                          As we said before, individual packages include all the same features as family packages. You don’t have to worry about expensive upgrades or missing out on essential services; you just have to decide how many people you want covered.

                                          Overall, IDShield’s prices are comparable to other identity protection services, and there are no upgrades, hidden fees, or price hikes after the first year. But if budget is your primary concern, there are less expensive options for monitoring your identity without losing coverage features.

                                          Features

                                          IDShield monitors a wide range of personal and financial information. In addition to continuous credit report monitoring, it’ll scan the dark web to see if your information has been stolen and sold. Here are a few things the brand monitors:

                                          • Name, date of birth, phone numbers, and address
                                          • Social Security number, driver’s license number, and passport number
                                          • Bank accounts (up to 10)
                                          • Credit card, debit card, and retail card numbers (up to 10)
                                          • Credit score and report
                                          • Medical ID numbers
                                          • Public and court records
                                          Dark web scans
                                          Our Choice
                                          Sensitive information can be sold in pieces, so IDShield’s AI also looks for partial usernames, passwords, and ID numbers.

                                          IDShield doesn’t monitor your bank accounts directly. But it does look for instances where your information is used for fraudulent activity, like opening accounts or applying for payday loans. And you’ll be kept in the loop so there are no surprises on your credit score.

                                          IDShield used to have the IDShield Vault password manager for extended online safety. In 2019, the brand removed this feature because, according to IDShield, customers weren’t using it. But if you’d really like a password manager with your identity theft protection, don’t despair. IDShield told us that the brand hopes to release another password manager in the future.

                                          If you’d like a separate password manager, one of our favorites is LastPass.

                                          Licensed private investigators

                                          IDShield focuses on both identity protection and identity restoration. If you become a victim of identity theft, an IDShield investigator will be assigned to your case to help you through the entire process. These investigators have jurisdiction across the United States so they can track down identity thieves.

                                          Online security: Credentials and social media

                                          IDShield monitors social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, for anything that poses a privacy or reputational risk. It also provides credentials screening. If any of your usernames and passwords are used together, you’ll be notified so you can change your passwords right away.

                                          The social media monitoring feature can also be used to monitor kids. The IDShield AI searches your child’s social media for certain words or phrases. If these words show up on your child’s social media, it suggests they’re having age-inappropriate discussions, using age-inappropriate language, or being cyberbullied (or cyberbullying someone else). Once you’re in the know, you can address the situation.

                                          Mobile app

                                          IDShield provides a free app for Android and iOS that gives customers regular updates and access to their credit information. You probably won’t use the app every day. But it’s invaluable to have that direct, easy access to your data and IDShield investigators when you do have an issue.

                                          $1 million service guarantee

                                          If identity thieves do get ahold of your information, IDShield includes $1 million in identity fraud reimbursement to help you recover.

                                          For instance, if someone steals your driver’s license and then gets a ticket in another state, you may be required to appear in court and prove you weren’t the offender. The travel expenses to get to the other state are covered by this service guarantee.


                                          Customer service

                                          We spoke with IDShield’s director of product leadership to gather information for this review. From our conversation, we learned that recent changes to the plans stemmed directly from customer concerns. That’s a sign of tailored customer service.

                                          As for online reviews, because IDShield went through an overhaul in the summer of 2019, some of the customer service issues highlighted online are no longer relevant. Even when we don’t disregard old comments, reviewers seem fairly satisfied with IDShield.

                                          Availability

                                          We feel like IDShield has gone out of its way to be available for customers, and we appreciate that.

                                          IDShield customer service reps help customers by phone, email, Twitter, or Facebook. That’s useful if you need or want to write instead of talk . . . or you prefer unsynchronized discussions due to an odd schedule.

                                          IDShield customer service reps help customers by phone, email, Twitter, or Facebook.

                                          Although IDShield’s customer service hours officially run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT on weekdays, there’s an emergency line open 24/7. So if something urgent comes up, you’re not on your own.

                                          You can also consult with a licensed investigator at any time, even if you only have questions about data breaches or suspicious activity on one of your accounts.

                                          Written cancellation policy

                                          If you want to cancel your IDShield membership, you have to do it in writing. There’s no option to do it over the phone or online. That’s pretty inconvenient for busy customers.

                                          IDShield vs. the competition

                                          Data effective 9/29/2022. Offers and availability subject to change.

                                          Compared to other recommended identity theft protection services, IDShield has mostly average offerings at an average price. It has many essential features but also lacks some, such as bank account monitoring and protection for medical records.

                                          The real draw is the less common offerings, like IDShield’s PIs or its social media monitoring, which allows you to keep an eye on your kids’ online activities. If either of those features excites you, IDShield’s the way to go.

                                          Bank account alerts
                                          Our Choice
                                          IDShield plans to roll out this feature in 2020.

                                          When it comes to family plans, Zander’s identity theft insurance has a delightfully low price. For $12.90 a month, Zander covers an unlimited number of kids, as long as they’re your dependents.

                                          But as an insurance brand, Zander doesn’t do credit report monitoring—which isn’t very helpful. The big reason to get ID theft protection for kids is to guard their credit and their futures. So for family protection, we suggest IDShield over Zander.

                                          Our recommendation

                                          If you’ve already been a victim of identity theft and need help with the restoration process, IDShield’s prepaid PIs might be a good fit for you. And if you have a large family and you want to monitor everyone’s information, IDShield’s family plan is extremely affordable.

                                          With comprehensive identity monitoring, plus a free mobile app for easy access, you can feel confident that you’ll know about any red flags right away. Sound like what you want? Then go ahead and sign up with IDShield today.

                                          If you’d like to see more IDShield reviews before you make up your mind, take a look at our comparison of IDShield vs. LifeLock. Or if IDShield’s identity theft protection service isn’t cutting it for you, check out our review of IdentityForce.

                                          Contributing author: Kate Herrick

                                          The 5 Best Credit Monitoring Services of 2022

                                          Best for Thorough Coverage
                                          IdentityForce
                                          Plans start at  
                                          $17.99*
                                          /mo.
                                          Pro Bullet Comprehensive coverage
                                          Pro Bullet Credit score simulator
                                          Con Bullet Family plan by phone only
                                          Best Low-Cost Option
                                          Credit Sesame
                                          Plans start at  
                                          $9.95
                                          /mo.
                                          Pro Bullet Free option
                                          Pro Bullet Monthly updates from 3 bureaus
                                          Con Bullet Less identity protection than competition
                                          Best for Building Credit
                                          Experian CreditWorks
                                          Plans start at  
                                          $24.99
                                          /mo.
                                          Pro Bullet FICO credit scores
                                          Pro Bullet Credit scores based on loan type
                                          Con Bullet Expensive subscription fees
                                          Best for Families
                                          IDShield
                                          Plans start at  
                                          $12.95
                                          /mo.
                                          Pro Bullet Affordable family plans
                                          Pro Bullet Unlimited ID theft consultations
                                          Con Bullet Can't cancel online or over the phone
                                          Runner-Up
                                          Identity Guard
                                          Plans start at  
                                          $19.99
                                          /mo.
                                          Pro Bullet Family plan options
                                          Pro Bullet AI credit alerts
                                          Con Bullet Reports only with higher-tier packages

                                          *Base price for plans with credit monitoring—cheaper plans do not offer credit monitoring. Data effective 3/1/2021. Offers and availability subject to change.

                                          We confirmed prices and added some more info about some brands.
                                          Free Experian credit monitoring
                                          Our Choice

                                          If you were one of the millions affected by the 2017 Equifax data breach, you qualify for free credit monitoring through Experian. However, you need to file a claim before January 22, 2020. Hurry; you're almost out of time! See our FAQ below to learn more.

                                          Overview
                                          Knowing what’s in your credit report is a crucial part of maintaining your financial health. Checking your credit report at least once a year makes it easier to improve your credit score, fix errors, and spot ID theft.

                                          Sometimes your credit needs more than a yearly checkup. If you need a little help looking after your credit score, consider signing up for a credit monitoring service. These services check your credit file often, send fraud alerts, and provide full credit reports on a monthly or quarterly basis.

                                          While most credit monitoring services also provide identity theft protection, some monitor only your credit. We found that IdentityForce offers the best balance of these two services.

                                          Read on to learn more about the best credit monitoring companies and how to choose the best plan for you.

                                          The best credit monitoring services, summed up

                                          How we choose

                                          We started by looking at standalone credit monitoring companies, but there aren’t many of these. Then we branched out to identity theft protection services, which also offer credit monitoring. In total, we evaluated 12 companies for this comparison.

                                          Ultimately, we chose five standout services based on price, features, and reputation. We feel that the top five picks are the best options for most people that primarily want credit monitoring.

                                          Compare credit monitoring companies

                                          * Base price for plans with credit monitoring—cheaper plans do not offer credit monitoring.
                                          † Extremely limited monitoring. One bureau only. No additional protection.
                                          ‡ Top-tier plan only.

                                          Data effective 3/1/2021. Offers and availability subject to change.


                                          Best for thorough coverage: IdentityForce

                                          IdentityForce
                                          Starting from 
                                          $17.99
                                          /mo.

                                            IdentityForce offers comprehensive credit and ID theft monitoring for a competitive price.

                                            IdentityForce pros and cons

                                            Pros
                                            • Pro BulletCredit monitoring from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
                                            • Pro BulletCredit score simulator
                                            • Pro BulletBanking and credit card alerts
                                            • Pro BulletComprehensive identity protection
                                            Cons
                                            • Con BulletFamily plan available over the phone only
                                            • Con BulletMore expensive plans than average

                                            Why we recommend IdentityForce

                                            IdentityForce has the most complete list of credit monitoring and identity theft protection features among the companies we looked at. It’s a good choice if you don’t want to choose between building your credit more effectively and fighting off identity thieves.

                                            Features

                                            IdentityForce continuously monitors your credit using information from all three credit bureaus and gives you access to quarterly credit reports. While this isn’t as often as the monthly reports you get from Credit Sesame, it’s still a big improvement over an annual report.

                                            IdentityForce also monitors Social Security numbers, bank accounts, social media, and public records to protect you against identity theft. For example, you’ll get a personalized alert if suspicious activity shows up in your bank or credit card account so you can take quick action. And if someone does steal your identity, you get up to $1 million of insurance to cover legal fees needed to regain control over your identity.

                                            IdentityForce also monitors Social Security numbers, bank accounts, social media, and public records to protect you against identity theft.
                                            We like that IdentityForce also has a credit score simulator. It helps you see how your credit might change after financial milestones like paying off a loan, buying a car, or getting a new credit card.

                                            Price

                                            IdentityForce is one of the more expensive credit monitoring services because it offers credit monitoring only with its top-tier plan, UltraSecure+Credit. Although this plan costs more a month, it includes more ID theft prevention features than comparable plans from competitors.

                                            If you want to get credit monitoring for more than one person, you have to call IdentityForce to set up a family plan. While it’s nice to have the option, it’s disappointing that you can’t do this through the website.

                                            ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want to go beyond credit monitoring with robust ID theft protection, choose the UltraSecure+Credit plan from IdentityForce.

                                            >>Learn more: Read our IdentityForce review


                                            Best low-cost option: Credit Sesame

                                            Credit Sesame
                                            Plans start at  
                                            $9.95
                                            /mo.
                                              Credit Sesame is an affordable credit monitoring service that gives you ID theft monitoring only when you want it.

                                              Credit Sesame pros and cons

                                              Pros
                                              • Pro BulletFree and low-cost monitoring plans
                                              • Pro BulletAffordable monthly updates from all three credit bureaus
                                              • Pro BulletHigher-tier packages that include basic ID monitoring services
                                              • Pro BulletMore positive customer reviews than most services
                                              Cons
                                              • Con BulletLess identity protection than competitors
                                              • Con BulletNo bank/credit account monitoring
                                              • Con BulletNo customer service phone number or online chat

                                              Why we recommend Credit Sesame

                                              Credit Sesame doesn’t have the same identity theft protection as most of the competition, but it is one of the most affordable ways to monitor your credit.

                                              Features

                                              While many credit monitoring services are premium features on ID theft plans, Credit Sesame starts by offering credit monitoring on its base packages and treats ID theft protection as the upgrade. You get monthly credit reports from all three bureaus on every paid plan, which is something competitors like IDShield charge extra for.

                                              You get monthly credit reports from all three bureaus on every paid plan, which is something competitors like IDShield charge extra for.

                                              All of Credit Sesame’s paid plans let you get credit monitoring, daily credit score updates, and alerts from TransUnion. The two high-tier plans also add daily monitoring from Experian and Equifax.

                                              If you pay for the top-tier plan, you get ID theft-prevention tools such as lost wallet assistance and Social Security number monitoring. It’s nice that they aren’t required to get credit monitoring.

                                              Credit Sesame doesn’t monitor bank and credit card accounts for fraud like the competition. Its credit monitoring checks only your credit report for problems. This is a disadvantage if you want help with these accounts, but it can be useful if you’re uncomfortable sharing sensitive account data.

                                              Price

                                              Credit Sesame’s paid plans start at $9.95 a month for monthly credit scores and credit reports across all three bureaus. The mid-tier plan, Pro Credit, costs $15.95 a month and adds three-bureau credit monitoring with alerts and a service to help you fix errors in your credit report.

                                              The top-tier plan, Platinum Protection, costs $19.95 a month and adds identity theft protection and insurance up to $1 million.

                                              There’s also a free plan that gives you one-bureau monitoring through TransUnion and one credit score update each month. While this won’t give you a credit report like the paid plans, it’s a nice way to keep tabs on your credit score for free. And it’s definitely better than nothing.

                                              Unlike some competitors, Credit Sesame doesn’t have any plans for families.

                                              ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want credit monitoring on its own, without ID theft monitoring, get the Pro Credit plan from Credit Sesame.

                                              >>Learn more: Read our Credit Sesame review


                                              Best for building credit: Experian CreditWorks

                                              Experian
                                              Starting from 
                                              $24.99
                                              /mo.

                                                Experian CreditWorks uses the industry-standard FICO credit score, making it an excellent option if you want to build your credit ahead of a big purchase.

                                                Experian CreditWorks pros and cons

                                                Pros
                                                • Pro BulletFree basic services
                                                • Pro BulletFICO score tracking
                                                • Pro BulletExpansive identity theft protection in higher-tier package
                                                Cons
                                                • Con BulletExpensive subscription fees
                                                • Con BulletMore negative customer reviews than other services
                                                • Con BulletNo bank or credit card account monitoring

                                                Why we recommend Experian CreditWorks

                                                Experian CreditWorks is the only credit monitoring company in our comparison to use FICO credit scores, which is what most lenders use. This makes it a good choice for tracking and building your credit ahead of a big purchase.

                                                Features

                                                Experian monitors your credit at each of the major credit bureaus and shows you an updated score each month. While this is similar to other credit monitoring services, Experian uses the industry-standard FICO Score 8 credit score. Because this score is standard among lenders, you can be sure that you have the same information when you need to apply for a new loan.

                                                Additionally, Experian CreditWorks gives you other types of credit scores specific to auto, home, and bankcard lines of credit. The advantage of these scores is that they calculate creditworthiness differently than a generic score so you have more information to help you qualify for a loan.

                                                Price

                                                Experian CreditWorks is the only credit monitoring service we looked at that costs $24.99 a month, making it more expensive than other plans that offer the same benefits. For example, IdentityForce offers a similar plan with comprehensive ID theft monitoring and credit monitoring for a dollar less a month than Experian CreditWorks. Experian CreditWorks also has a free plan, but this gives you access to only a monthly credit report from one bureau: Experian. The monitoring is also very limited in that it just tracks new accounts and when someone pulls your credit report.

                                                ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want access to industry-standard credit scores to help you build your credit, choose the CreditWorks Premium plan from Experian CreditWorks.

                                                >>Learn more: Read our Experian CreditWorks review


                                                Best for families: IDShield

                                                IDShield
                                                Plans start at  
                                                $14.95
                                                /mo.
                                                  IDShield has competitive prices for individuals but stands out when you need to cover the whole family.

                                                  IDShield pros and cons

                                                  Pros
                                                  • Pro BulletAffordable family monitoring
                                                  • Pro BulletUnlimited ID theft consultations
                                                  Cons
                                                  • Con BulletNo option to cancel online or over the phone; must mail a written notice

                                                  Why we recommend IDShield

                                                  IDShield's three-bureau plans for individuals are indeed cheaper than those from IdentityForce. But we think that IDShield is a better value when you get the family plans to monitor more than one person.

                                                  Features

                                                  You have the option of one- or three-bureau monitoring plans with IDShield, though three-bureau plans ensure you don’t miss important details in your credit reports.

                                                  IDShield monitors your bank accounts and credit cards for fraudulent activity. It also keeps tabs on sensitive personal information as part of its ID theft monitoring. This means you don’t have to buy separate identity theft protection and that you can save a little money in the long term.

                                                  One of the major disadvantages that we found is that you must cancel your plan by mail. It seems archaic compared to other companies that let you cancel online or over the phone. This isn’t a problem as long as you want the service but makes it harder to cancel.

                                                  Fraud on the rise
                                                  Our Choice

                                                  According to the Federal Trade Commission, “People reported losing $1.48 billion (with a ‘b’) to fraud last year—an increase of 38% over 2017.”1

                                                  Price

                                                  Because IDShield’s three-bureau family plan covers two adults and up to 10 children under age 18, you get a lot of value even with just two people. At $32.95 a month, you save about $3 compared to buying two separate plans for you and your partner, and the savings stack up the more people you have on the plan.

                                                  If you’re shopping just for an individual three-bureau plan, it’s still affordably priced. You pay only $17.95 a month—cheaper than IdentityForce, though not as affordable as Credit Sesame.

                                                  ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want to monitor credit reports for multiple family members, choose the Three Bureau Family plan from IDShield.

                                                  >>Learn more: Read our IDShield review


                                                  Runner-up: Identity Guard

                                                  Identity Guard
                                                  Plans start at  
                                                  $19.99
                                                  /mo.
                                                    Identity Guard has competitive prices and is a good alternative if you don’t want one of our other picks for the best credit monitoring services.

                                                    Identity Guard pros and cons

                                                    Pros
                                                    • Pro BulletOptions for family plans
                                                    • Pro BulletIBM® Watson™ AI for risk alerts
                                                    Cons
                                                    • Con BulletCredit reports offered only with higher-tier package
                                                    • Con BulletHigher price than many credit monitoring services

                                                    Why we recommend Identity Guard

                                                    Identity Guard is a solid choice for ID theft monitoring and credit protection, but nothing makes it stand out above the other companies we included in our comparison. We do think it’s a better choice than the companies that didn’t make it into our lineup.

                                                    Features

                                                    Identity Guard offers three-bureau credit monitoring only on its two high-tier plans, making it average among credit monitoring services. It’s expensive if you want credit reports, which come only with the top-tier plan.

                                                    Identity Guard gives you only one credit report from each bureau per year, which you can already get for free. Essentially, you’re paying for credit monitoring, alerts, and ID theft monitoring. We think the ID theft monitoring is quite good with its risk management reports, dark web monitoring, and social media assessments. Unfortunately for Identity Guard, other competitors offer better credit monitoring services for less money.

                                                    One interesting thing is that Identity Guard uses IBM® Watson AI to analyze your credit report and send alerts for fraudulent activity. However, we’re not sure if it’s much better than the competition or just a marketing gimmick.

                                                    Price

                                                    You need to buy one of the more expensive plans from Identity Guard to get credit monitoring. These plans start at $19.99 a month, which is average for services that provide monitoring for both credit and ID theft.

                                                    ASecureLife’s recommendation: If you want an alternative to IdentityForce, choose the Premier Plan from Identity Guard.

                                                    >>Learn more: Read our Identity Guard review


                                                    Buying tips

                                                    As you look for a credit monitoring service to fit your needs, we recommend looking for the following features:

                                                    • Credit scores and reports on a quarterly or monthly basis
                                                    • Three-bureau credit monitoring
                                                    • Basic identity theft protection services like Social Security number monitoring and lost wallet assistance
                                                    Credit monitoring for troops
                                                    Take Note

                                                    If you’re a member of the US military, you can now get free credit monitoring through all three major bureaus.

                                                    Learn more

                                                    Companies we ruled out

                                                    We narrowed our list by eliminating services that didn’t offer as much value as our top picks. Here are some other companies we researched but ultimately left out of our credit monitoring comparison:

                                                    FAQs

                                                    What is a credit monitoring service?

                                                    A credit monitoring service checks your credit report and bank accounts for errors and suspicious activity. When it finds a problem, you get an alert so you can take action.

                                                    You can use a credit monitoring service to check your credit report more often than a free annual report from each of the three credit bureaus. You also get regular updates about your credit score.

                                                    Most credit monitoring services include ID theft protection, but it’s not a requirement.

                                                    Does credit monitoring affect my credit score?

                                                    No. Credit monitoring services use a soft inquiry to check your credit file. A soft inquiry doesn’t affect your score in the same way as a hard inquiry, which involves applying for credit like getting a loan or credit card.

                                                    Do I need credit monitoring if my credit is frozen?

                                                    It depends on the situation. Even though a credit freeze prevents criminals from applying for new lines of credit with your stolen information, it doesn’t prevent access to your existing accounts. Many credit monitoring services can also monitor your bank, insurance, and credit accounts.2

                                                    What are the three credit bureaus?

                                                    Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion are the three credit bureaus. Each of these reporting agencies provides a free credit report every 12 months and offers credit monitoring services.

                                                    Experian Logo
                                                    Equifax Logo
                                                    Transunion Logo

                                                    Are credit monitoring services worth it?

                                                    It’s a trade-off. You pay for the convenience and time saved versus monitoring on your own.

                                                    Credit monitoring services offer greater convenience to get all three credit scores and reports in one place. They also provide alerts and assistance when fraudulent activity occurs.

                                                    You likely don’t need credit monitoring if you’re proactive about checking your credit. Simply check the free reports from all three credit bureaus on an annual basis and keep a close eye on your existing accounts.

                                                    Do I need credit monitoring after a data breach?

                                                    After a major data breach, companies often assist with repairing your credit, usually by offering free credit or identity monitoring.

                                                    How to check if you were affected by the Equifax breach?

                                                    Visit equifaxbreachsettlement.com. You may qualify for a cash payment or free credit monitoring through Experian.

                                                    Do any bank accounts and credit cards come with credit monitoring?

                                                    Many banks and credit card issuers let you check your credit score when you log into your account online. Check with your bank or credit card company to see if it offers any additional monitoring.

                                                    Is Credit Karma reliable?

                                                    Yes, but you get credit scores from only two bureaus: TransUnion and Equifax. Credit Karma uses VantageScore 3.0 to provide credit scores. This is the same system used by many paid credit monitoring services including Credit Sesame, IDShield, LifeLock, and Identity Guard.

                                                    Even though Credit Karma is a free, reliable service, we don’t recommend it as a substitute for paid credit monitoring. It relies on advertising to make money, so you’re trading financial privacy for targeted ads.

                                                    How do I protect my child’s credit?

                                                    The FTC has a helpful guide on Child Identity Theft. It has tips to help you spot warning signs and fix problems if a criminal steals your child’s identity.

                                                    Since your child is a minor, they can’t enter into any contracts without you. This makes the process for fixing fraud as simple as providing a copy of a birth certificate to the lender or credit bureau.3

                                                    You can also sign up for a family plan from a service like IDShield, IdentityForce, or Identity Guard.


                                                    Our recommendation

                                                    Credit monitoring services can help you track your credit score and watch for fraudulent activity, and they often provide comprehensive identity theft protection. While you can do most of these things for free, it’s a lot of work for one person to keep up with.

                                                    Ultimately, you should choose the service that best fits your needs. To help with that decision, here are the brands we recommend:

                                                    • IdentityForce: Comprehensive three-bureau monitoring and identity theft monitoring
                                                    • Credit Sesame: Most affordable credit monitoring, especially if you don’t want ID theft protection
                                                    • Experian CreditWorks: Uses industry-standard FICO scores, which is great for building your credit over time
                                                    • IDShield: Excellent value to protect your entire family
                                                    • Identity Guard: Good alternative to other top services
                                                    For another way to check on your data, particularly court records, head to our list of the best background check services.

                                                    Sources

                                                    1. FTC, The top frauds of 2018
                                                    2. FTC, Credit Freeze FAQs
                                                    3. FTC, Child Identity Theft

                                                    The Cheapest Security System We Recommend in 2020

                                                    Most Flexible Contracts
                                                    SimpliSafe
                                                    4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                                                    Starting at 
                                                    $14.99
                                                    /mo.
                                                    Pro Bullet No-contract monitoring
                                                    Con Bullet Limited home automation integration
                                                    Best for Affordable Monitoring
                                                    Ring
                                                    4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
                                                    Starting at  
                                                    $10.00
                                                    /mo.
                                                    Pro Bullet Cheap professional monitoring
                                                    Con Bullet Recent security breaches
                                                    Best for Self-Monitoring
                                                    Abode
                                                    3.7 out of 5 stars3.7
                                                    Starting at 
                                                    $20.00
                                                    /mo.
                                                    Pro Bullet Easy self-monitoring
                                                    Con Bullet No phone support with free plan
                                                    Best for Aesthetics
                                                    Scout
                                                    3.1 out of 5 stars3.1
                                                    Starting at  
                                                    $19.99
                                                    /mo.
                                                    Pro Bullet Unique, aesthetic equipment
                                                    Con Bullet No system control panel

                                                    Overview
                                                    Just because you want to save money on home security doesn’t mean you have to settle for a middling company with substandard equipment and monitoring.

                                                    Below we look at six security companies that help you cut costs without sacrificing quality. They offer either more affordable equipment up front or cheaper monitoring costs than companies like Vivint and Frontpoint.

                                                    Here are the best cheap security systems of 2020

                                                    Still interested in other security systems you don't see in this list? Compare our top security systems by cost.

                                                    Compare cheap security systems

                                                    Data effective as of publish date. Offers and availability subject to change.


                                                    Most flexible contracts: SimpliSafe

                                                    SimpliSafe
                                                    Our rating:
                                                    4.3 out of 5.0
                                                    4.3 out of 5 stars4.3
                                                    Customer service
                                                    4.8 out of 5 stars4.8
                                                    Price
                                                    4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                                    Features & equipment
                                                    3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                                    Plans starting at 
                                                    $14.99
                                                    /mo.

                                                      SimpliSafe pros and cons

                                                      Pros
                                                      • Pro BulletNo-contract monitoring
                                                      • Pro BulletEasy self-installation
                                                      • Pro BulletCustomizable equipment packages
                                                      Cons
                                                      • Con BulletLimited home automation integration
                                                      • Con BulletNo mobile access with cheaper plan

                                                      Why we recommend SimpliSafe

                                                      SimpliSafe offers cheap professional monitoring on a contract-free, month-to-month basis. The lack of contract creates flexibility to turn your monitoring on and off if you’re going out of town for a while or just trying to save money.

                                                      Price

                                                      SimpliSafe’s equipment packages and monitoring services are some of the more inexpensive around. You definitely miss out with the lowest prices, though.

                                                      The cheapest SimpliSafe package has just three pieces of equipment apart from the base station: a keypad, a motion detector, and a window/door sensor. In some homes, that’s barely enough to start. Plus the lower-priced monitoring doesn’t give you access to the mobile app. You won’t be able to check up on your system when you’re out and about.

                                                      We recommend adding some extra equipment to your package (single entry sensors are $14.99 each; motion detectors are $29.99). We also suggest going up a tier for monitoring if possible, for a total of $24.99 a month, so that you can access that sweet, sweet mobile monitoring.

                                                      SimpliSafe Equipment

                                                      Photo source: ASecureLife team

                                                      Equipment

                                                      SimpliSafe home security systems are easy to set up. They come preprogrammed, and most of the equipment comes with sticky tape for easy installation. The security equipment packages are customizable enough that you can find the perfect fit for your home.

                                                      But SimpliSafe systems aren’t the most compatible with smart home tech. They currently work only with Alexa devices, Nest thermostats, and August door locks. If you dream of a full smart home setup, we recommend Scout.

                                                      You can choose between black and white for some pieces if you want your SimpliSafe equipment to match your home decor.

                                                      >>Learn more: Read the full SimpliSafe review.

                                                      >>View SimpliSafe Plans


                                                      Lightbulb
                                                      Avoiding security breaches

                                                      Ring has been in the news lately due to breaches where strangers can view camera feeds and talk over the speaker. In a statement shared with us, Ring said that these are due to consumers not taking proper precautions.

                                                      We continue to recommend Ring products for now, but echo Ring’s security precautions recommendations: use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, add authorized users instead of sharing credentials, and regularly change passwords.

                                                      Best for affordable monitoring: Ring

                                                      Ring
                                                      Our rating:
                                                      4.2 out of 5.0
                                                      4.2 out of 5 stars4.2
                                                      Customer service
                                                      3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                                      Price
                                                      5 out of 5 stars5.0
                                                      Features & equipment
                                                      4 out of 5 stars4.0
                                                      Plans starting at 
                                                      $10
                                                      /mo.

                                                        Ring pros and cons

                                                        Pros
                                                        • Pro BulletCheap professional monitoring
                                                        • Pro BulletAffordable equipment
                                                        • Pro BulletRing video doorbell integration
                                                        • Pro BulletBase station that works as alarm
                                                        Cons
                                                        • Con BulletLimited home security equipment

                                                        Why we recommend Ring

                                                        In addition to its array of doorbell cameras, Ring offers a cheap security system, though it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of other security systems. It’s also hard to beat Ring’s extremely reasonable $9.99-per-month monitoring fee.

                                                        Ring’s not our top option because, compared to some of these other brands, it’s fairly immature in terms of security system experience. This means customers might suffer while the execs work out the kinks.

                                                        Price

                                                        Ring’s security packages are nicely priced. On Amazon, a five-piece kit tends to retail at about $200. And the extended kit, which offers multiple types of security sensors alongside more standard equipment, is still cheaper than a basic Nest Secure package.

                                                        Ring’s professional monitoring price is the industry’s lowest. You can pay $9.99 a month or $100.00 a year.

                                                        Equipment

                                                        The Ring Alarm Security Kits don’t come with any cameras or home automation equipment. But the keypad, contact sensors, and motion detectors make for a great base system if you don’t have any other home security system equipment. We’d recommend adding a Ring video doorbell to your system so you can get a set of eyes on the front of your home when you’re not around.

                                                        Ring products are compatible with Alexa and Z-Wave but not much else. This will put a limit on how interconnected your smart home can be.

                                                        Ring bundles
                                                        Our Choice
                                                        You might see Ring systems sold on Amazon in a bundle with an Echo Dot. We found when testing the equipment that Alexa controls Ring flawlessly, so these bundles are a good investment if you want a Ring system.

                                                        >>Learn more: Read the full Ring review.

                                                        >>View Ring Alarm Plans


                                                        Best for self-monitoring: Abode

                                                        Abode
                                                        Our rating:
                                                        3.7 out of 5.0
                                                        3.7 out of 5 stars3.7
                                                        Customer service
                                                        3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                                        Price
                                                        4 out of 5 stars4.0
                                                        Features & equipment
                                                        3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                                        Plans starting at 
                                                        $20
                                                        /mo.

                                                          Abode pros and cons

                                                          Pros
                                                          • Pro BulletNo contracts
                                                          • Pro BulletEasy self-monitoring
                                                          Cons
                                                          • Con BulletNo phone support with free plan
                                                          • Con BulletShorter equipment warranty than competitors

                                                          Why we recommend Abode

                                                          Abode helps you save money with its unique on-demand monitoring pricing. It’s ranked a little lower on the list due to some odd decisions in equipment and features provided at each pricing level.

                                                          Price

                                                          If you want to self-monitor your security system, you can do that for free. But be wary—you won’t have phone support from Abode with free self-monitoring. That’s one thing we find odd about this system.

                                                          If needed, you can get a professional monitoring plan for $20 a month. Abode offers a cheaper plan for $8 a month, but it’s more of a premium version of the free plan without pro monitoring.

                                                          An Abode Gateway starter kit is $199, but it doesn’t come with much. We think that’s strange since Abode makes some great products that could easily be included here. In any case, you’ll probably want to get more equipment for better security.

                                                          Equipment

                                                          Abode has some great products, like smart switches and extra-slim door sensors. But the brand doesn’t sell its best products in the starter kit, so getting your system in shape may require extra spending. For context, a standard door/window sensor costs $29 separately, while a motion sensor is $55. Definitely more expensive than SimpliSafe, but not absurd.

                                                          If you’re thinking of building an Abode abode, it’s a reachable dream. While Abode’s smart home selection is meh, the equipment’s compatible with both Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols.

                                                          >>Learn more: Read the full Abode review.

                                                          >>View Abode Plans


                                                          Great no-contract option: Cove

                                                          Cove
                                                          Cove
                                                          Our rating:
                                                          3.3 out of 5.0
                                                          3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                                                          Customer service
                                                          4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                                          Price
                                                          3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                                                          Features & equipment
                                                          2 out of 5 stars2.0
                                                          Plans starting at 
                                                          $14.99
                                                          /mo.

                                                            Cove pros and cons

                                                            Pros
                                                            • Pro BulletNo-contract monitoring
                                                            • Pro BulletUltra-simple DIY installation
                                                            • Pro BulletEquipment financing for cheaper startup
                                                            Cons
                                                            • Con BulletMinimal automation integration
                                                            • Con BulletNo mobile access with cheaper plan

                                                            Why we recommend Cove

                                                            Cove suits anyone seeking a security system with affordable equipment, cheap monitoring, and somewhat flexible payment options.

                                                            You might notice that Cove and SimpliSafe offer similar services. That’s because both companies value affordable no-contract monitoring with a DIY approach to equipment installation. Cove is ranked lower thanks to its higher price, and we gave SimpliSafe an edge in its equipment offerings because of Cove’s more limited selection.

                                                            Price

                                                            Cove’s low month-to-month monitoring rate comes with the condition that you pay for your equipment up front. You can get around this requirement by putting down nothing up front and paying $10 more per month in monitoring. This option also comes with a 36-month cancellation fee that ranges from $200 to $400, depending on how much of the equipment you’ve paid off.

                                                            Cove Equipment

                                                            Photo source: ASecureLife team

                                                            Equipment

                                                            Like we said, SimpliSafe offers more equipment. It’s especially known for its doorbell camera, which is something Cove doesn’t offer. Cove does sell medical alert devices that integrate with its home security systems.

                                                            Cove’s compatible with Alexa devices and Google Home Assistant (with a Plus Plan). In other words, you’ll be able to control your system with voice commands, but you won’t be able to hook it up directly to other kinds of devices.

                                                            >>Learn more: Read the full Cove review.


                                                            Best for aesthetics: Scout

                                                            Scout
                                                            Our rating:
                                                            3.1 out of 5.0
                                                            3.1 out of 5 stars3.1
                                                            Customer service
                                                            3.8 out of 5 stars3.8
                                                            Price
                                                            3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                                            Features & equipment
                                                            2 out of 5 stars2.0
                                                            Plans starting at 
                                                            $19.99
                                                            /mo.

                                                              Scout pros and cons

                                                              Pros
                                                              • Pro BulletNo-contract monitoring
                                                              • Pro BulletUnique, aesthetic equipment
                                                              • Pro BulletCellular and battery backup to protect from outages
                                                              Cons
                                                              • Con BulletLimited equipment selection
                                                              • Con BulletNo third-party equipment without professional monitoring plan
                                                              • Con BulletNo system control panel

                                                              Why we recommend Scout

                                                              Affordable security systems can still look nice, and Scout’s emphasis on aesthetics makes up in part for its simple equipment offerings.

                                                              Price

                                                              If you’re looking to save money, Scout’s no-contract professional monitoring gives you flexibility to self-monitor your system to cut down on costs here and there. Since Scout has a self-monitored plan for $9.99 per month, you can save $10 per month when you’re home and willing to monitor your own system.

                                                              Equipment

                                                              Scout’s a supermodel of DIY home security systems. The brand’s products have simple, clean lines. Some devices also have a choice between colors: you can pick Midnight (mostly black) or Arctic (mostly white).

                                                              If you decide to build a full Scout system, you may be limited in what you can add. For one thing, Scout doesn’t sell cameras. But it does have a high level of compatibility: Scout’s system works with Nest, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Hue, LIFX, Samsung SmartThings, and IFTTT.

                                                              Scout doesn’t sell cameras, but it does have a high level of compatibility.

                                                              >>Learn more: Read the full Scout review.

                                                              >>View Plans


                                                              Best DIY smart security: Nest Secure

                                                              Nest
                                                              Our rating:
                                                              3.5 out of 5.0
                                                              3.5 out of 5 stars3.5
                                                              Customer service
                                                              4 out of 5 stars4.0
                                                              Price
                                                              2 out of 5 stars2.0
                                                              Features & equipment
                                                              4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                                              Plans starting at 
                                                              $19
                                                              /mo.

                                                                Nest Secure pros and cons

                                                                Pros
                                                                • Pro BulletQuality equipment with strong interconnectivity
                                                                • Pro BulletIntelligent equipment that learns to limit false alarms
                                                                • Pro BulletProfessional monitoring through Brinks
                                                                Cons
                                                                • Con BulletNo video monitoring
                                                                • Con BulletExpensive equipment
                                                                • Con BulletLimited security equipment options

                                                                Why we recommend Nest Secure

                                                                We like Nest Secure for its high-quality equipment with an emphasis on interconnectivity. We can’t recommend it in the top five, though, since the quality comes at a (literal) high price.

                                                                Price

                                                                You can save money by self-monitoring your Nest system, or you can pay $19 per month to professionally monitor your system through Brinks. That’s why we recommend Nest on this list: this monitoring price is super reasonable.

                                                                Less reasonable is the up-front cost for Nest Secure equipment. One of the most inexpensive packages has just five pieces of equipment yet still costs $399. That’s cheap compared to some home security systems—ADT values its initial package at $1,300 (though it doesn’t require up-front equipment purchase). But it’s still a significant investment when you’re on a budget.

                                                                Equipment

                                                                Nest offers a bunch of quality equipment: thermostats, video doorbells, smoke detectors, CO detectors, and more. It also leads the industry in color customization. If you want pink smart home equipment, Nest’s got it.

                                                                If you invest in add-ons like one of Nest’s smart thermostats or smoke/CO detectors, you can control everything from the same app. And, since Nest is a Google acquisition, its products are compatible with Google-grown devices like Google Home. You can build on the Nest system to turn your home into a Google paradise, which isn’t a bad thing, unless you’re a big fan of Amazon or Apple HomeKit.

                                                                >>Learn more: Read the full Nest Secure review.

                                                                >>View Plans


                                                                Other products we considered

                                                                Fortress

                                                                The Fortress Security 14-piece wireless kit generally sells on Amazon for less than $150 and has decent reviews. It takes DIY to even greater heights as it offers no professional monitoring, but it does alert up to six different contacts in an emergency. The system features a 110 dB alarm to scare off intruders.

                                                                We like having the option of professional monitoring, so Fortress is a pass for us. It also appears to have compatibility with Alexa only. To learn more, read our full Fortress Home Security review.

                                                                Wink

                                                                The Wink Lookout Smart Security Starter Kit has distinct rounded equipment and high levels of compatibility with other brands. Like Fortress, Wink doesn’t offer professional monitoring, so you have to stay on your toes with this system. To learn more about the Wink system, read our full Wink hub review.

                                                                (This kit is currently unavailable through Wink, though you can get used systems on Amazon.)


                                                                Cheap security systems FAQs

                                                                What do you mean by “cheap?”

                                                                We recognize that cheap is a subjective term. There are plenty of people who wouldn’t think of a system that costs $100+ as cheap.

                                                                What we mean is that for security systems, these are excellent prices. We haven’t seen any systems that have comparable feature-rich equipment at lower costs.

                                                                Can I get security cameras with a cheap security system?

                                                                Usually not. One way brands make cheap security systems possible is by not offering cameras. It’s hard to find cheap security cameras because they’re often the most expensive piece of equipment a brand offers. Also, they sometimes require a cloud storage plan at an extra cost.

                                                                If you want a security camera, you’ll usually have to upgrade both your plan and your package. Or, if you’re interested in buying one outside of a bundled package, we’ve reviewed the best security cameras for you. You can get IP security cameras, indoor security cameras, outdoor security cameras, security cameras with night vision, security cameras with two-way audio, and more.

                                                                Should I pay for professional monitoring?

                                                                It depends on what you want from your system. It’s hard to go wrong with a professionally monitored system. But if it’s a financial hardship for you or if self-monitoring adequately meets your needs, you can skip the professional service and the costs that go with it.


                                                                Our recommendation

                                                                You don’t have to spend a fortune to find a quality security system that fits your lifestyle and needs. Whether you want to save by self-monitoring or by investing in more affordable equipment, these companies will help you find a cheap security system without losing out on quality.

                                                                • SimpliSafe: Go with SimpliSafe if you want the option for month-to-month monitoring and flexible equipment packages.
                                                                • RingGo with a Ring alarm system if you’re okay with a simple security system with ultra-affordable monitoring.
                                                                • Abode: Go with Abode if you want to monitor your security system for free without a pro monitoring plan.
                                                                • Cove: Go with Cove for its cheap no-contract monitoring and its easy DIY approach to equipment.
                                                                • Scout: Go with Scout if you want premium, aesthetic equipment with affordable monitoring.
                                                                • Nest Secure: Go with Nest Secure if you value quality equipment but want to save money on monitoring.

                                                                Contributing author: Brianne Sandorf


                                                                †Google and Google Nest Secure are trademarks of Google LLC.

                                                                Cove Home Security Review

                                                                Cove
                                                                Our rating:
                                                                3.3 out of 5.0
                                                                3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                                                                Customer service
                                                                4.5 out of 5 stars4.5
                                                                Price
                                                                3.3 out of 5 stars3.3
                                                                Features & equipment
                                                                2 out of 5 stars2.0
                                                                Plans start at 
                                                                $14.99
                                                                /mo.

                                                                  Overview
                                                                  Cove is a newer name in the home security market, and we wanted to know how its systems stacked up against competitors like SimpliSafe, ADT, Vivint, and Xfinity Home Security. Cove offers competitive no-contract monitoring and affordable equipment, but you don’t get many third-party equipment options to beef up your security system. That said, if you’re looking for an affordable and basic security system with flexible monitoring, strong customer service, and an ultra-easy DIY setup, Cove is definitely worth a look.

                                                                  Cove pros and cons 

                                                                  Pros
                                                                  • Pro BulletEasy installation and setup
                                                                  • Pro BulletAmazon Alexa and Google Home integration
                                                                  • Pro BulletAffordable equipment
                                                                  • Pro BulletNo-contract monitoring option
                                                                  • Pro BulletExcellent customer support
                                                                  Cons
                                                                  • Con BulletLimited smart equipment options
                                                                  • Con BulletNo in-app home automation integration

                                                                  Compare Cove cellular monitoring plans 

                                                                  Data effective as of publish date. Offers subject to change.

                                                                  *Pricing shown applies if equipment is purchased up front.

                                                                  We like Cove’s no-contract approach to monitoring. If you pay for equipment up front, you don’t have to lock yourself into a two- or three-year contract with aggressive cancellation fees looming over your head. Both plans are affordable compared to competitors like Frontpoint or Vivint.

                                                                  We’d recommend going with the Plus Plan so you get mobile access and Amazon Alexa and Google Home integration, which all make it possible to operate your system from your phone. Plus, for each month you’re on the Plus plan, Cove gives you a $5 equipment credit so you can keep building your system.

                                                                  The Cove plans above show the price you’ll pay per month if you pay for your equipment up front. If you’re not able to pay for all your equipment when you sign up with Cove, you can put $0 down, but you’ll pay for the equipment with a higher monthly monitoring rate. Financing your equipment raises your monitoring fee by about $10 per month. It also locks you into a potential cancellation fee of $200 to $400 (the cost of equipment) if you decide to cancel with Cove in the first 36 months of service.

                                                                  Data effective as of publish date. Offers subject to change.


                                                                  Cove features and equipment 

                                                                  Cove equipment

                                                                  Cove systems are made up of a proprietary touchscreen panel, sensors, and YI cameras.

                                                                  The equipment selection is extensive enough to give you everything you need in a basic home security system––like intrusion sensors for your doors and windows, motion detectors, a key fob to simplify arming and disarming the system as you come and go, and up to three YI cameras to keep an eye out while you’re not home. Here’s a list of all of Cove’s available equipment:

                                                                  Cove equipment panel
                                                                  • Cove touch alarm panel ($184)
                                                                  • Door/window sensors ($15)
                                                                  • Motion sensor ($30)
                                                                  • Security key fob ($25)
                                                                  • YI indoor camera ($40)
                                                                  • Glass break detector ($35)
                                                                  • Smoke/heat/freeze detector ($30)
                                                                  • Flood sensor ($20)
                                                                  • Panic/medical alert button ($20)
                                                                  • Carbon monoxide detector ($50)

                                                                  Limited third-party compatibility

                                                                  Currently, Cove systems are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home assistant with the Plus Plan. If you have an Echo or Google device in your home, you’ll be able to control your Cove system via voice command, which saves you a trip to the control panel every time you want to arm, disarm, or make any changes to your system.

                                                                  Despite Cove’s solid equipment selection, its app lacks a bit in third-party equipment options, like doorbell cameras or smart home devices. None of that is much of an issue if you just want a security system, but if you want to build out a more sophisticated smart home security system, Cove might not be the best option.

                                                                  Home automation is in the works
                                                                  Our Choice
                                                                  Cove is working to release a Zigbee-compatible smart home hub that would open up Cove systems to a wide variety of smart home products.

                                                                  Simple setup

                                                                  The setup and installation process is one area where Cove really shines. Before shipping your security system, Cove preprograms your equipment and boxes it neatly for a painless installation when your system arrives. Our team was able to get a Cove security system set up in less than 15 minutes—and with no muttering under our breath that any part of the process was difficult or overly complicated.

                                                                  The systems come ready with charged batteries so all you have to do is plug in the control panel, sync each piece of equipment, and place the devices where you want them. We really liked that the control panel walks you through the process as though a professional is there with you during the setup process. And you can get any questions answered quickly with Cove’s text or phone support.


                                                                  Customer service

                                                                  Cove offers a lot of customer service resources for current and potential customers. That includes phone, text, email, chat, and social media support. Cove also has a YouTube channel with dozens of videos showing customers how to install new equipment and navigate the Cove control panel. If you have issues or questions not covered on Cove’s YouTube channel, you can probably find it on the customer support page.

                                                                  Availability

                                                                  Cove is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. MT via phone, live chat, email, and its social channels. Cove also has after-hours support for emergencies.

                                                                  During regular business hours, Cove customers can text in questions and photos to get quick solutions to equipment or software issues. The text-in feature is pretty unique and we really like it as a fast and user-friendly way to diagnose and quickly solve any issues you might encounter with your Cove system.

                                                                  Cove customers can text questions and photos to get quick solutions to equipment or software issues.

                                                                  Contracts and cancellation policies

                                                                  Cove has contract-free monitoring, so you don’t have to worry about locking yourself into a long contract. Cove’s no-contract monitoring is an especially solid option for renters who might not be living in the same place for more than a year or two.

                                                                  One catch: if you finance your equipment through Cove, you’ll have to consider the cancellation policy, which ranges from $200 to $400 if you cancel within the first 36 months of your monitoring. After 36 months there is no cancellation fee. Of course, if you paid for your equipment up front there is no cancellation fee with Cove’s month-to-month monitoring structure.

                                                                  Cove also offers a super reasonable 60-day cancellation policy. If you decide to opt away from Cove in those first 60 days, you’ll get a full refund, which is a solid policy compared to other security companies.


                                                                  Our recommendation

                                                                  Cove doesn’t have the most cutting-edge equipment, and it currently lacks in widespread third-party equipment compatibility. If those are your priorities, you might be better served with a security system like Vivint.

                                                                  But if you’re looking for a flexible, affordable DIY security system that covers the basic security needs, Cove is a great option. With cheap month-to-month monitoring, easy setup, and strong customer service, Cove has found its niche in the security market.

                                                                  >> Not sold on Cove? Take a look at our favorite home security systems.