Home security systems are designed to give you peace of mind: If you’re getting aggravated trying choose or install them, they aren’t working! Today’s modern homeowner has plenty of expectations when it comes to the best home security systems. We need them to be affordable, easy to set up, and connect with the other smart devices in our lives.
Finding systems that can do all of that – and more – isn’t easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the sharpest, most smart home-friendly security options on the market. Here are the companies worth looking at.
The DIY Question: For our modern lives (which may involve relocation) and modern homes (which tend to be filled with more smart, mobile devices) we favor DIY security system options. Not only do they save money, they often have more versatility when it comes to packages or device purchasing.
Along with great reviews from pretty much everyone, Frontpoint comes with an advanced system that marries traditional home security management by professionals with the best of our mobile, smart featured market. The result is a variety of different devices include sensors, cams, customizable alarms, fire/carbon monixide sensors, and generally anything else you could want. Every device is fully wireless, which both lowers the cost and makes installation extra easy. Plus, you still get monitoring services, security features from Alarm.com, risk-free trials, and other benefits more associated with traditional companies.
In addition to being extra-mobile, Frontpoint has also embraced deeper smart features that make its devices even more impressive. Live streaming is available for your smartphone, there are geo services for location-based tracking and other tricks, and the system is compatible with other smart devices like smart locks. You’ve got everything you could need in one package.
View on Frontpoint
Link Interactive increases the DIY and mobile aspects of the modern home security system even more thanks to its app-focused device management (there is a central control hub if you really prefer that method) and all-wireless sensors for motion, doors, windows, temperature and more. Everything is fully DIY and there are no installation fees. For those who want even more security, there are video monitoring services as well.
Like Frontpoint, you can also find more traditional, professional services here, including 24/7 monitoring, and a ton of customer resource and training options. Even if you’ve never installed a smart device before, the guides and video offer all the information you need to set up your own system – and automate it to match your own schedule. The customization options here are ideal for the modern homeowner – or apartment dweller – who wants to set up a system on their own terms, with what they need and nothing more.
View on Link Interactive
As you can see, Scout Alarm is one of our most affordable choices, and certainly one of the most DIY oriented. For those who don’t have a lot of money to spend and don’t want to be locked into a contract for any length of time, Scout offer great packages – while still managing to include professional services like 24/7 monitoring. The Scout app includes push notifications, backup 3G connections in case something goes wrong, and text alerts so you know when something happens.
The issue with Scout is that device options are a little limited, and offer no cam or recording services.. The bright side is that Scout makes up for this by offer integration with the Nest thermostat and the Nest cam, which is even better if you’re already a fan of the Nest platform. For younger consumers who may be on the move, this security system fills a valuable need.
View on Scout Alarm
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