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We’ve rounded up our picks of the best home security systems, including choices for renters, pet owners, those interested in a DIY installation and more. Whatever your situation or budget, our expert advice will help you choose a home security system with confidence.
Our top pick is SimpliSafe’s The Tower, which is an ideal system for self-monitoring. For those who prefer professional monitoring, we recommend the ADT Smart Home Alarm Package. For households on a budget, Abode provides some of the most cost-effective systems, while Verisure shines for its bespoke home security systems. Read on for the full guide to our tested top picks.
Budget-friendly and with the option of professional or self monitoring, The Tower wins our award for best overall home security system. It also comes without lengthy contracts.
Exclusive deal: Get 40% off with code UKINDY40 at checkout
Exclusive deal: Get 40% off with code UKINDY40 at checkout
Verisure provides bespoke home security systems tailored to match your household’s security needs. The company provides a professional installation with associated costs included in your quote.
ADT’s comprehensive professional monitoring plans offer the highest level of security. Your system is monitored via a Remote Operating Centre and checked daily. Depending on your plan, household members, keyholders, or the police are notified of security breaches.
We updated these deals in July 2024. Our top-rated smart alarm systems are all in stock, and prices are accurate.
Telcamm security expert Carlos Dhunay recently warned homeowners with CCTV and video doorbells that they could face a £100,000 fine if they fail to meet compliance standards. Any home security cameras that record footage outside your property line, such as a public sidewalk or a neighbour’s garden, are in breach of the law. This offence violates the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act (DPA).
Who’s is right for?
With a full catalogue of systems on offer, SimpliSafe is one of the UK’s leading home security brands. If you’re in the market for a ready-made package with flexible monitoring plans, we highly recommend this provider. Each of SimpliSafe’s packages is compatible with smart home ecosystems Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
The Tower is a comprehensive security package that doesn’t require any additional equipment. One of its top advantages is that it allows the option for professional or self monitoring. It’s our top pick for self monitoring, as it offers features that most brands only provide with a paid-for subscription. Without any additional charges, you can receive notifications via the app, have access to a live camera feed and have the power to control your system remotely.
SimpliSafe’s The Tower offers both indoor and outdoor protection for your home, with the entire system connected via the base station. Most of the company’s competitors don’t offer two entry sensors, but we appreciate the security for both front and back doors that The Tower provides. Most of the equipment is designed to cover a wide field of view (FOV); its wired indoor camera provides a 120-degree FOV, while its wireless outdoor camera offers an ultra-wide 140-degree FOV as well as night vision.
The system’s keypad features are also impressive. When paired with your entry sensors, you’ll be informed of any security events – including any windows being left open. Our experts also appreciated the motion sensor for its ability to protect an entire room (with its 10-metre range and 90-degree FOV) and differentiate between human and pet movements.
When considering any smart home security system, you need to measure it on both its app and monitoring services. As with other SimpliSafe packages, The Tower delivers across the board. With the SimpliSafe app, you can access security features and control your system remotely, allowing you to watch your live camera feed, arm and disarm your system and receive instant security notifications about security events.
SimpliSafe customers can choose between self or professional monitoring; two flexible monitoring plans are available starting at 53p per day.
If you opt for a monthly subscription plan, you’ll benefit from 24/7 professional monitoring. With the more advanced monitoring package, the SimpliSafe monitoring centre is alerted to any security concerns and can dispatch emergency services to your location.
The Tower package from SimpliSafe is a complete, ready-made home security system. It offers consumers the option for self or professional monitoring, and you don’t need to purchase additional equipment (though it’s easy to incorporate add-ons later).
Though not the most affordable option on the market – SimpliSafe’s The Essentials package is a cheaper alternative – we recommend The Tower for homeowners who are looking for a flexible monitoring plan as well as high-quality equipment and high-tech features.
Read our full SimpliSafe home security review.
| Reputation | ★★★★★ |
| Security and performance | ★★★★½ |
| Features | ★★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★★½ |
Who‘s it right for?
With all packages designed to suit your home’s security needs, we chose Verisure as our best bespoke home security system. Your customised quote will include installation costs.
As a partner of the renowned Arlo camera company, Verisure system cameras have excellent quality video, two-way audio, night vision and sirens.
With Verisure, you can expect everything you’d get from a smart home security system plus some trademark features, including Verisure’s ZeroVision alarm that can release a “fog” designed to deter burglars. Bear in mind that this feature can only be activated by a professional at the NSI-certified Alarm Receiving Centre.
Because all Verisure’s packages are custom-made, a technician will need to visit your home for an assessment. From this visit, you’ll get a tailored package, along with a detailed explanation of the system and how it works, ensuring you get the most from your investment. On the day of evaluation, you can ask about add-ons, which can be included in your quote. Evaluations need to be pre-arranged by phone, and you’ll be required to pay a £100 (fully refundable) booking deposit.
You can manage the whole system through the Verisure app. Alternatively, for £32 a month, Verisure will provide professional monitoring of your home. The subscription fee covers maintenance; if anything breaks, it will be repaired quickly so you don’t lose surveillance. Batteries will also be replaced by a technician when they reach 30 per cent power – you’ll receive a notification when this needs to happen. It’s this level of detail that gets Verisure top marks on TrustPilot, but whether Verisure is worth it really depends on your home’s needs and your budget.
Verisure’s security package is one of the strongest out there. According to online reviews, it has an excellent record of fitting custom security systems, and it’s our experts’ pick for the top bespoke home security system.
Read our full Verisure review.
| Reputation | ★★★★★ |
| Security and performance | ★★★★ |
| Features | ★★★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★ |
| Overall | ★★★★½ |
Who‘s it right for?
As a trusted brand in home security for many years, ADT’s Smart Home Alarm package reflects the company’s commitment to evolving with modern technology. This complete security system combines traditional ADT reliability and professional installation with smart home features.
ADT’s Smart Home Alarm package is our experts’ choice for the best system with professional monitoring. With its subscription service, users have access to ADT’s Remote Operating Centre, which can perform daily system checks and – in the case of an event – notify the police. Our favourite thing about this service is the ability to fix most technical issues remotely.
The basic package includes a Smart Home Hub (with a touchscreen control panel that serves as the command centre for your system), a bell box (with a flashing LED light) and ADT Smart Services (which allow you to control your system via the app).
From there, your system is customised to your needs. You can choose from features such as wireless door contacts, PIR motion sensors, a wifi camera and a video doorbell. As ADT’s systems are fully tailored to your needs, each package comes with a bespoke quote.
ADT’s security systems must be fitted by a professional. Once you buy a package, the company will arrange for a technician to visit your home and install the devices. Depending on the size of your home and complexity of your desired package, this process may take a few hours.
With the ADT Smart Services app, you can easily manage your home security remotely. The company plans to integrate controls for Matter-compliant devices, allowing you to control lights, thermostats and other smart technologies.
A standard ADT subscription includes access to the Remote Operating Centre, which automatically conducts daily system checks, ensuring every device runs optimally. Depending on the subscription level you choose, you, your keyholders, the police or a private security guard will be notified in the event of a security breach.
ADT’s Smart Home Alarm package is an advanced security solution, combining home automation and comprehensive protection. If you’re after a system that involves a hassle-free installation and a professional monitoring plan that includes premium features – such as daily system checks and the ability for technical issues to be fixed remotely – the Smart Home Alarm package may be a good fit. However, if you’re on a budget, you don’t want to be bound to a lengthy contract or you don’t want a professional wired-in installation, we recommend checking out other options.
Read our full ADT home security review.
| Reputation | ★★★★★ |
| Security and performance | ★★★★ |
| Features | ★★★★ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★★½ |
Who’s it right for?
Best known for its cutting-edge doorbell cameras, Ring is one of the leading brands in smart home security. It offers three preconfigured packages – each with small, medium and large options to cater for different home sizes. You can also customise any of the ready-made packages and choose between self or professional monitoring.
The Ring Alarm + Indoor Camera Pack was our experts’ choice for the best DIY installation option – thanks to its easy-to-follow instruction videos and self-adhesive devices. The installation process takes around 30 minutes, and the devices can be easily mounted using the included adhesive strips or screws, depending on your preference. If you don’t wish to take on the work yourself, you can opt for a professional installation, which can be bought via Amazon.
The Alarm + Indoor Camera Pack comes with five pieces of equipment designed to monitor the interior of your home. All devices are connected via the Ring Base Station, which must be plugged into a power source and connected to your wifi. You’ll also get a motion detector that can be wall-mounted, a contact sensor to be fitted to doors or windows and a keypad for arming and disarming your system.
The camera provides full HD video quality, live view, night vision and two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with anyone in your home. It also has motion detection and customisable privacy settings.
Our favourite element of the Ring Alarm + Indoor Camera Pack is its range extender, which allows you to increase the signal from your base station to reach alarm components that might be otherwise out of range.
The system integrates seamlessly with Ring’s mobile app, allowing you to monitor and control the security system remotely. If you go for the optional Ring Protect Plus subscription, all your home devices can be managed from the app, and you’ll have access to Ring’s 24/7 Assisted Monitoring, which – among other functions – will send alerts to your emergency contacts if your burglar alarm is triggered. If you don’t want to stretch for Protect Plus but would welcome more monitoring features, Ring’s Protect Basic may suit. This subscription includes features similar to Protect Plus, such as package alerts, person alerts and rich notifications, which you pay for per device.
Ring provides a customisable and user-friendly home security system for homeowners looking to protect their property. With optional subscription services and the availability of additional Ring devices, the system can be customised to meet the needs of any home.
Although Ring’s system is ideal for small properties, by adding more components to cover a larger home, it may be more cost-effective than buying a more extensive system from the outset.
Read our full Ring home security review.
| Reputation | ★★½ |
| Security and performance | ★★★★ |
| Features | ★★★ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★★ |
Who is the system right for?
An affordable entry-level system, Abode’s Smart Security Kit offers essential home protection. What we like most about this solution is its affordable self-monitoring plan. With no contract, this system is unlikely to break the bank yet still offers some premium features.
Abode’s Smart Security Kit includes a hub (which incorporates an alarm, LAN port, SIM card slot and battery backup), motion sensor, key fob and one door/window sensor. It’s easy to install – no tools are needed – and you’ll find helpful instructions in the Abode app.
With this security package, you can integrate and control up to 160 smart home devices, including third-party products. Without a camera, there’s no way of determining what or who triggered an alarm. However, the kit can be customised and Abode has plenty of add-on options. Alternatively, you could opt for a higher-spec package that includes the Abode Cam as well as a wireless video doorbell.
With Abode, you can choose from two paid-for monitoring plans – Standard and Pro – and basic app control without a subscription. The Standard plan has app alerts and system arming, but only the Pro plan provides professional monitoring. All devices are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and others.
At just £7.99 a month, the self-monitoring plan from Abode is one of the best we’ve come across. Features include the ability to arm and disarm your system, view camera footage and receive notifications. Compared with the Pro plan, the only major features it lacks are 24/7 UK-accredited professional monitoring and 4G backup if wifi connection fails.
Overall, the Abode Smart Security Kit is a reliable solution for basic security needs. Providing excellent connectivity and expandability, it’s suitable for smaller homes and those who want to upgrade their home security system over time.
Read our full Abode home security review.
| Reputation | ★★★½ |
| Security and performance | ★★ |
| Features | ★★★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★★ |
| Customer experience | ★★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★★ |
| Cost | £359.97 |
| Components | Smart indoor camera, smart indoor siren, three smart door and window sensors |
| Power source | Battery |
| Connectivity | Wifi |
| Maximum volume | 110dB |
| Smart home support | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit |
| Backup battery | No |
| Monitored | Self monitoring |
Who’s it right for?
The Smart Alarm System with Camera from Netatmo is both stylish and practical. Offering a basic level of security, the package is suitable for homeowners who can live without the typical bells and whistles.
A smart indoor camera with 1080p resolution is included in the kit. The camera offers a 130-degree view, infrared night vision and facial recognition to minimise unnecessary recording (making it perfect for pet owners). One of the highlights of this kit is its window and door sensors. The package includes three sensors so you can protect your front and back doors and an additional entry point without paying for extra security products. The sensors will notify you of any movement and can trigger the smart indoor siren.
All system components are connected to the Netatmo home security app, which sends you notifications of any intruder alerts and security events (eg if windows or doors are left open) and allows you to watch video footage.
Although this is a relatively basic package, our experts were impressed by the Netatmo system’s performance and ease of use. That said, adding a video doorbell and battery backup would significantly enhance security and reliability, especially during power outages.
Read our full Netatmo home security review.
| Reputation | ★★★★★ |
| Security and performance | ★★★ |
| Features | ★★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★★ |
| Customer experience | ★ |
| Overall | ★★★★ |
| Cost | £499.99 |
| Components | Smart hub, live siren, dummy siren, three motion detectors, two door/window sensors, full HD indoor wifi camera, all-in-one indoor/outdoor camera and keypad |
| Power source | Requires power source via ethernet cable |
| Connectivity | Wifi |
| Maximum volume | 104dB |
| Smart home support | Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit |
| Backup battery | Yes |
| Monitored | Self monitoring |
Who is the system right for?
Ideal for larger homes that require a vast amount of equipment to cover the entire property, the Sync Home Security System from Yale represents good value for money.
With Secured by Design accreditation – which meets the Police Preferred Specification – the package features customisable settings such as part-arm functionality, manageable through the Yale Smart Living Home app, keypad, remote key fob or voice assistants. It also includes a helpful geolocation feature that reminds you to set the alarm when you leave the house.
With Yale’s home security system, you can opt for either a DIY or professional installation and have full control over your system via the app. If you choose self monitoring, you won’t be charged additional fees. That said, many homeowners prefer the peace of mind that comes from having a team of professionals monitor their home 24/7.
Overall, the Sync Home Security System from Yale is a complete and intelligent option for home protection, providing ease of use, smart home compatibility and a sense of security for homeowners. For anyone seeking a smart way to safeguard their home, it’s a respectable solution.
Read our full Yale home security review.
| Cost | £284.97 |
| Components | Essential outdoor camera, Essential indoor camera and Essential outdoor charging cable |
| Power source | Battery or via an Arlo solar panel |
| Connectivity | Wifi |
| Maximum volume | N/A |
| Smart home support | Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit |
| Backup battery | Yes |
| Monitored | Self monitoring |
Who’s it right for?
Arlo’s catalogue boasts an extensive suite of outdoor and indoor, doorbell and floodlight cameras – all of which carry a high-end price tag.
This security system is compact, making it ideal for apartments and other properties with a single entrance. It has the advantage of both indoor and outdoor cameras, with the indoor camera incorporating a built-in privacy shield and the outdoor camera designed to monitor entry points.
Owners of smart homes will particularly appreciate Arlo’s package, as it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT and Samsung SmartThings. Although most industry competitors (including Ring and SimpliSafe) support Amazon and Google as standard, the others technologies are rarely covered.
All Arlo’s systems involve self monitoring, and you have a variety of plans to choose from. Its most basic plan has no fees, while you can access more features through its three-tiered subscription plans.
Renowned in the industry as a security camera supplier, Arlo’s product range is dominated by visual and audio equipment. Our experts feel the system would greatly benefit from the addition of at least one sensor to protect entry points.
If you’re in the market for a comprehensive package with motion sensors and alarms, we don’t recommend Arlo. However, if high-quality cameras and self monitoring are a priority, then the brand is a strong contender.
Read our full Arlo home security review.
| Reputation | ★½ |
| Security and performance | ★★★ |
| Features | ★★★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★★ |
| Cost | £159 |
| Components | HomeBase 2, keypad, motion sensor and two entry sensors |
| Power source | Battery |
| Connectivity | Wifi |
| Maximum volume | N/A |
| Smart home support | N/A |
| Backup battery | Yes |
| Monitored | Self monitoring |
Who’s it right for?
This budget-friendly Home Alarm Kit from Eufy is ideal for those after basic security needs – or as a starter kit you can customise to your own needs.
If you don’t need a comprehensive home security system, this kit may be the right fit. As suggested by the relatively low price tag, this kit doesn’t include cameras. Its main focus is on protecting entry points; with two entry sensors and one motion sensor, you’ll get security notifications through the Eufy app.
The standout feature of Eufy’s Home Alarm Kit is the keypad, which allows you to arm and disarm your system, customise security modes and trigger a panic alert. Its battery can last up to six years on a single charge, making it convenient for homeowners who prefer low maintenance or those who are absent for extended periods.
Eufy’s app has a user-friendly interface, allowing remote arming and disarming, optimised security modes and video viewing capabilities. With instant notifications, users immediately know when sensors are triggered, allowing them to take appropriate action. While Eufy doesn’t offer professional monitoring, users can easily control their system from the app.
Eufy’s Home Alarm Kit offers basic home security at an affordable cost. However, it won’t suit all situations. If you own a bigger home – which will likely need cameras or video doorbells – you’ll have to buy any additional components separately. If you’re looking to create a customisable system, Eufy is a solid choice.
| Reputation | ★½ |
| Security and performance | ★★★ |
| Features | ★★★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★★ |
| Cost | £499.99 |
| Components | Four 4K ultra HD cameras (RLC-810A) |
| Power source | Power over ethernet or 12V supply |
| Connectivity | Ethernet |
| Maximum volume | N/A |
| Smart home support | Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa |
| Backup battery | Yes |
| Monitored | Self monitoring |
Who‘s it right for?
Unlike the other brands we’ve reviewed, Reolink’s catalogue focuses on surveillance cameras. Its high-quality cameras can be bought as standalone products, or you can select one of its pre-configured packages.
The 4K Security Kit with Smart Person/Vehicle Detection comes with four Reolink 4K ultra HD cameras – more than any other package in this guide – but doesn’t include a hub, contact sensors or sirens.
Reolink’s cameras are easy to install and highly adaptable – you can fit the four cameras wherever you prefer. Reolink also provides four 18m ethernet cables to connect your cameras (longer cables are available).
Reolink’s app includes a range of standard features, such as a live video feed, alarm activation and two-way communication. However, we especially like its professional-grade desktop software and comprehensive smartphone app, allowing you to access camera feeds and events from anywhere worldwide without the need for a recurring subscription.
Overall, Reolink excels in high-quality video, multiple camera options and robust storage capabilities, which means it’s ideal for most homeowners. The user-friendly app and easy-to-install cameras make for a simple system, while Reolink’s two-year warranty provides peace of mind.
| Reputation | ★★★½ |
| Security and performance | ★★★ |
| Features | ★★½ |
| Plans and pricing | ★★★★½ |
| Customer experience | ★★★½ |
| Overall | ★★★½ |
When comparing the top home security systems in the UK, it’s crucial to consider criteria such as ease of installation, features, integration capabilities and cost.
| SimpliSafe The Tower | Verisure bespoke packages | ADT Smart Home Alarm Package | Ring Alarm and Indoor Camera Pack | Abode Smart Security Kit | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | £524.93, with professional monitoring from 53p a day. (Get 40 per cent off with code UKINDY40 at checkout) | Price on enquiry (£299-£599 typical cost); professional monitoring from £32 per month | Tailored quote; installation cost is £199; annual subscriptions start from £35.99 for maintained cover | £269.98 (professional monitoring from £8 per month) | £294.99 |
| Components | Base station, keypad, two entry sensors, motion sensor, outdoor camera and indoor camera | Varies depending on your requirements | ADT bell box, Smart Home Hub, wireless door contact, two motion sensors, plus choose from three additional options: wifi camera, video doorbell or both | Base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, range extender and indoor camera | Gateway hub, motion sensor, key fob, mini door and window sensor |
| Power source | Battery | Mains | Battery | Battery; hub and indoor camera need to be plugged in | Mains |
| Connectivity | Wifi | Wifi, ethernet and 4G sim | Wifi | Wifi | Wifi, ethernet and 4G sim |
| Maximum volume | 105dB | 105dB | N/A | N/A | 93dB |
| Voice assistant | Amazon Echo/Alexa and Google Assistant/Google Home | Amazon Echo/Alexa and Google Assistant/Google Home | Amazon Echo/Alexa and Google Assistant/Google Home | Amazon Echo/Alexa | Amazon Echo/Alexa, Google Assistant/Google Home and Apple HomeKit |
| Backup battery | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (up to 5 hours) |
| Monitoring | Self monitoring with optional paid-for monitoring | Self monitoring with optional paid-for monitoring | Professional monitoring | Self monitoring with optional paid-for monitoring | Professional or self monitoring |
Smart home security systems use wifi and wireless technology to connect and communicate among various components, including cameras, motion detectors and alarms. They can be controlled remotely via mobile devices, allowing you to protect your home from intruders, fires and other dangers. UK home security systems can be programmed to respond to specific events, such as opening doors or detecting motion. For enhanced security and automation, they often integrate with other smart home features, such as lighting and heating.
Through our research, we found that prices typically start at around £150 for a self-monitored, self-installed system, rising to several hundred pounds (with ongoing monthly subscription costs) for a professionally installed and monitored home security system.
The amount you pay for a smart home security system can vary greatly depending on the brand, features and components. Budget-friendly systems, including Abode’s Smart Security Kit and Ring’s Alarm + Indoor Camera Pack (both of which come recommended by our experts) can cost less than £300. Meanwhile, a comprehensive package with multiple cameras and sensors will set you back £500 or more. Bear in mind that packages with lots of equipment are only cost-effective if you’ll put them all to good use.
Some systems can be easily fitted by homeowners with nails and drills or self-adhesive, sparing you professional installation fees. If you need to engage a professional installer, the fees can vary depending on the brand and the individual home security system. According to our research, professional installation typically starts at around £100.
We found professional monitoring plans can start from as little as £7.99 per month with Abode (in addition to the cost of equipment), while premium plans from ADT cost up to £35.99 a month. However, certain brands offer self monitoring, which is either free or involves a small monthly fee – usually less than £10 per month.
To find the right smart home security system, make sure to consider the following factors.
Our home tech experts appreciate that everyone’s living situation is different. From renters and the budget-conscious to properties with outdoor security concerns, we’ve uncovered the right system for you.
Read our home security guides for various living situations:
Installing smart home security systems can be a straightforward process, especially if you choose a DIY-friendly option. As the installation process differs depending on your brand and system type, manufacturers typically provide step-by-step instructions – make sure to read these first.
However, if you’re planning a DIY installation for your smart security system, the process generally involves these steps:
Before you fit anything, carefully plan the placement of each component, including cameras, motion detectors, sensors and the central hub. Consider which areas of your home you wish to monitor most closely and the range of the sensors and cameras you have chosen.
The central hub, or base station, is the heart of your system, responsible for connecting all of your security devices. Ideally, place it in a central location within your home; the manufacturer should provide instructions on how to connect it to your wifi network.
Cameras should be positioned to cover entry points and high-traffic areas – while keeping within wifi range of your central hub. Most cameras can be mounted using adhesive strips or screws. Once in place, follow the instructions to connect them to the central hub.
First, make sure the two parts of a door and window sensor align when closed. Then attach the first part of the sensor to the frame and the second to the opening section of the door or window. That way, the sensor can detect when it’s opened and alert the home alarm system.
Motion detectors should be installed in areas where you want to detect movements, such as large rooms and hallways. The manufacturer’s instructions should include the optimum mounting height and angle for your sensors and how to connect them to the central hub.
If your system includes smart locks, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to replace your existing locks with the smart locks. However, it’s best to ensure your door is compatible with the smart lock you’ve chosen before purchasing.
Once each component is installed, use the applicable mobile app to configure the settings for your security devices, eg motion sensitivity, camera recording preferences and alert notifications.
By triggering each sensor, checking camera feeds and testing other components, you can confirm that your system is connected and communicating correctly with the central hub.
If your system involves monitoring services or smart home automation features, you can manage them via your mobile app.
Although both traditional and smart alarm systems work to protect homes from intruders and other threats, they differ in functionality and features.
To help you decide which type of system is right for your home, we’ve compared both below.
| Alarm system features | Smart home security alarm systems | Traditional burglar alarm systems |
|---|---|---|
| Wifi or ethernet | ✅ | ❌ |
| Mobile app | ✅ | ❌ |
| Professional monitoring | ✅ | ✅ |
| Self monitoring | ✅ | ✅ |
| Landline or cellular connection | ❌ | ✅ |
| Remote arm and disarm | ✅ | ❌ |
| Real-time notifications | ✅ | ❌ |
| Alarms and CCTV cameras | ❌ | ✅ |
| Live video footage, motion detectors, alarms and integration with other smart home devices | ✅ | ❌ |
275,919 homes in England and Wales were burgled from 2022 to 2023 according to the Office for National Statistics.
SimpliSafe’s The Tower is our overall top choice for a home security system. This comprehensive option combines outdoor and indoor security cameras, a motion detector, door and window sensors and an integrated keypad for a high level of protection and privacy.
Most home security systems use a wifi connection, with only a few select brands – such as Reolink – needing an alternative connection. For an average three-bedroom home in the UK, we found SimpliSafe’s The Tower to be the most effective home security system.
Arlo’s Essential Flat & Apartment Security Kit is a great solution for renters. It can be installed as a DIY project, and it’s affordable – the equipment included is enough to protect a flat or apartment without the need for add-ons.
Depending on your needs, the best security cameras will boast features such as two-way communication, night vision, motion detection, a wide FOV and high resolution. Reolink’s 4K ultra HD camera (RLC-810A) ticks many of those boxes, offering detailed video capture and impressive night vision, which is perfect for monitoring the outside of your home.
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) and home security cameras both capture and record video footage, helping to enhance the security of a location. The key difference is that CCTV systems transmit video feed to a specific set of monitors via a direct cable connection, whereas modern home security cameras transmit footage over the internet. Access to CCTV video footage is limited to those with physical access, while home security camera footage – live or recorded – can be accessed from anywhere.
As with any other internet-connected device, it’s possible for your smart security system to be hacked. Because these systems rely on wifi connectivity for their components, such as motion sensors and cameras, their signals are at risk of interception. That said, a hacker would require access to your home’s wireless network, necessitating a distinct set of expertise and resources. So, while hacking is possible, it’s not necessarily probable.
To provide you with fair, impartial and accurate recommendations, our Independent Advisor experts have researched and tested each home security system. We compare products, features, quality and cost alongside what others in the industry say and how customers have rated their experiences.
Our reviews are determined by the following categories:
Within these categories, we examine 18 elements, including:
To provide consumers with the knowledge they need to make an informed, up-to-date and confident decision, all our security articles are verified by our in-house team of fact-checkers. To find out more on our process, read about how we review home security systems.
