The best home security systems for 2025

When choosing a home security system for your home, you may be tempted to start by deciding between a DIY setup or one that is professionally installed and monitored. When you consider the equipment, installation, monitoring options, and other features you want, you’ll likely end up with a DIY vs. professional system solution down the road. Here are a few more parameters to consider when shopping for home security systems:

Equipment and installation

Do you just need to monitor your inputs? good video doorbell for your front door and en external camera back coverage may be all you need; easy to install and self control. If you want to keep a closer eye on your home inside and out with 24/7 monitoring and quick access to emergency response services, you’ll want a more robust system. Do-it-yourself and professional brands offer home security packages with most, if not all, of the equipment you need to get started and the ability to add individual devices as needed.

Most home security devices are compatible with Alexa and Google Home smart hubs, but if you prefer Apple HomeKit or another smart home ecosystem, you may need to shop and compare a bit more to find a system compatible with your existing smart home devices. Don’t worry about compatibility too much as Matter makes it easy to connect incompatible devices (although it hasn’t come for the security cameras yet).

Keep in mind all this equipment will need to be installed. While there isn’t much to installing a security camera or even a wired video doorbell, whole-home systems can be a bit more demanding to install and set up. Some are DIY-friendly and use glue to position devices without leaving permanent marks, but not all systems do this. If you’d rather leave it to an expert to walk you through how to use the system, a professional home security service may be the way to go.

Monitoring, alerting and emergency features

Virtually all home security systems allow for self-monitoring, possibly through an app on your phone. They will also send you push notifications when there is an event, such as when a package is delivered to your doorstep.

Consider whether you want to be in charge of all the monitoring or want some support. The professional system will come with 24/7 monitoring, but you may be able to add professional monitoring to your DIY system for a fee, depending on the brand you choose.

More advanced features such as facial recognition, glass break sensors, and communication with emergency services may not be available from all manufacturers and devices. Consider the level of monitoring you want and who you want doing it, along with emergency response options, when choosing a home security system.

Expenses, upfront and ongoing

We listed “price” last here for a reason. A complete home security system will probably cost you at least a few hundred dollars, so be prepared for that. There is the potential to spend a lot more on equipment or a lot less. Also, keep in mind that the size of the system greatly affects the price. Starter systems like many we’ve listed here typically cost between $150 and $300 and allow you to add other compatible devices over time. Larger systems with 10 devices or more will cost at least a few hundred dollars and can reach $1,000 or more, depending on the technology involved.

Running costs can weigh a bit more when choosing the best security system. Expect ongoing monthly professional service fees and possibly a contract to lock you into those fees for a year or two (although we preferred no-contract options). Signing a contract may not be ideal, but it may also include free equipment or installation and lower upfront costs.

If you are comfortable with self-monitoringDo-it-yourself systems may not involve any running costs. Monthly subscriptions (no contract) for cloud storage, enhanced features, and possibly even professional monitoring are usually an option with DIY systems, often for lower monthly fees than professional services.

Privacy and security

Always look for a brand that will keep your data safe and has a good track record in security, encryption and data breach protection. This isn’t always easy – many security companies have had problems in the past with break-ins, privacy breaches or even employees spying on home security cameras.

When we make recommendations, we look at the company’s current practices, results, and how they’ve improved over the past few years. SimpliSafe is always one of the top performers when it comes to security, which is one of the reasons they topped our list. While ringing has had missteps in the pastit’s improved in recent years and even rolled back its policy on providing video footage to the police, so we feel comfortable recommending Ring at this point as well.