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Our team of experts have reviewed the top home security systems from the UK’s leading providers.
Home security systems are a great option for homeowners needing increased protection and surveillance. According to a report from the National Institutes of Health, improving the security of your home is essential for your mental health and well-being.
A report from Statista claims there were 275,919 burglaries from 2022 to 2023 in England and Wales. The Office for National Statistics estimates around 1.5 million “neighbourhood crime” incidents took place between January and September 2023.
To help you secure your home, our experts have put together some of the best home security systems and whom they suit best. This guide also explains the benefits of home security systems and the easiest way to install them, so you can rest easy knowing you’re well-protected.
Simplisafe offers a wide variety of packages for all types of home, including flats, large, detached properties with gardens and everything in-between. Every home needs different protection and security, and Simplisafe caters to every lifestyle – even offering an on-demand professional monitoring plan, in addition to a self-monitoring plan, so the homeowners can decide what is best for their home.
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Exclusive deal: Get 40% off with code FMB40OFF at checkout
Verisure offers bespoke packages along with a comprehensive installation process. From start to finish, Verisure assesses properties, creates a bespoke security system and offers professional monitoring. Verisure has a catalogue of sensors, sirens and Arlo security cameras with night vision for homeowners to customise their system.
Abode offers a wide range of devices, ranging from sensors to cameras, which have been designed with DIY enthusiasts in mind. The slick software and nearly universally compatible hardware allow for seamless connection to smart home devices, regardless of your preferred operating system. It’s one of the best options for households looking for flexible smart home protection, with the option for paid professional monitoring for additional peace of mind.
(image credit: SimpliSafe)
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Who’s it right for?
SimpliSafe offers a broad range of systems, making it suitable for any size property.
Who’s it not for?
SimpliSafe is not right for households requiring professional installation.
Designed to suit a range of security needs at different prices, SimpliSafe offers 9 home security system packages. Furthermore, homeowners can design their own systems to protect them against theft, fires and floods, and they can choose to include or exclude premium features.
SimpliSafe provides a free basic plan that allows you to self-monitor your equipment and sidestep professional monitoring costs. However, 2 paid-for plans that include professional monitoring are available – Pro (53p/day) and Pro Premium (93p/day). Both include 24/7 live monitoring, cellular connection to avoid interruptions in wifi service, 24/7 flood and extreme temperature monitoring and extendable warranty periods. For a comprehensive setup, Pro Premium also includes emergency service dispatch, unlimited camera recording, 24/7 guard response and video alarm verification.
You can cancel both professional plans at any time, subject to the latest terms and conditions.
SimpliSafe is easy to self-install, and live expert assistance is available to ensure you’ve installed your system correctly. If you prefer, the company also offers professional installations starting from £125.
Cost
Starting at £284.96, The Foundation is SimpliSafe’s lowest-priced 5-piece package. Meanwhile, its most expensive package is The Edinburgh, a 13-piece indoor and outdoor system that costs £664.87. With no long-term contracts, the optional paid subscription plans start from 53p/day.
Our recommendation
Our testing found that SimpliSafe is an excellent choice for anyone who wants tailored, cost-effective home protection, with or without professional monitoring.
| Provider | Best for | Starting price | Review | Find out more |
 Visit SimpliSafe |
Best overall | £142.48 | SimpliSafe review | Visit Site |
 Visit ADT |
Professional monitoring | By quotation | ADT review | Visit Site |
 Visit Verisure |
Bespoke packages | By quotation | Verisure review | Visit Site |
 Visit Abode |
Affordability | £197.99 | Abode review | Visit Site |
 Visit Arlo |
Tech enthusiasts | £479.96 | Arlo review | Visit Site |
 Visit Ring |
DIY installation | £219.99 | Ring review | Visit Site |
After hours of research on all the biggest home security system brands, our experts compiled an extensive list of the best systems available.
To help us find the best system for each household, we examine the pros and cons of each system and its integrated features. For households on a budget, or who are just trying out the home security system market, we also mention customisable kits and specific elements.
A home security system is an investment in your protection. After all, the best home security system aims to protect your family and property from burglary, fire, home intrusion and flooding, among other threats.
When considering the best systems, we consider the following factors:
For more information, read our article on how we research and review home security systems.
(image credit: ADT)
With over 148 years of experience, ADT is one of the biggest names in home security. ADT does not offer quotes directly on its website. Instead, they send qualified technicians to your home to provide a quote and go over which elements might work best for you.
The custom packages are comprehensive and professional, and the £36.99 per month subscription fee ensures 24/7 home monitoring for further peace of mind. ADT is best suited for those in larger houses who want an all-inclusive and reliable alarm system.
Image credit: Verisure
If you’re looking for constant professional monitoring and a flexible, customisable setup, Verisure is one of the best home security system brands. Within 24 hours of the initial quotation, professional installers will get your system up and running, allowing for minimal delays once you’ve decided on your ideal system.
Since each system requires professional installation, Verisure is better suited to homeowners than renters. So, if you’re renting, Abode, Ring and SimpliSafe are better options.
Abode’s packages are simple to install DIY. (Abode)
With its starter system costing just £197.99, Abode is one of the cheapest home security solutions on the market. No professional assistance is needed to install its packages, and there’s an option to subscribe to the Pro Plan for 24/7 monitoring.
Abode is one of the best options if you want to increase your home security but don’t want to break the bank. Due to its low cost and DIY installation process, Abode is also ideal for renters who cannot commit to permanent fixtures in or outside the home.
Yale’s packages can be upgraded and customised as required. (Yale)
Yale is best suited for homeowners who are looking for a home security system without the fuss of a monthly subscription plan. While Yale offers 2 plans that provide 24/7 professional monitoring and cloud recording, users can still have control by using the Yale app, email notifications, geofencing and local storage for free.
You can use the Yale app to control smart home devices within your home, thanks to its compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Philips Hue. If you want to branch out from Yale’s standard packages, you can customise its various devices, from alarms to indoor and outdoor cameras.
Ring is an affordable and highly customisable security system that can be easily be installed at home. Due to its simple interface and easy-to-set-up Ring gadgets, its devices are ideal for pensioners or those who aren’t as comfortable working with more advanced systems.
Ring is a compact yet comprehensive home security system that includes all the necessary basics. It is also adaptable to your needs, which gives you the freedom to select the devices that suit your home.
Arlo’s home security cameras are discreet and stylish (Arlo)
Arlo is one of the few home security systems to offer a wide variety of high-definition devices. For tech-savvy homeowners who want to keep a keen eye on their property, the Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell and the Essential Indoor and Essential Outdoor cameras with 2K resolution are ideal.
Selected Arlo devices also come with live video streaming in 4K, as well as activity zones and person, animal and vehicle detection to reduce false alarms. However, these features are only available with the Arlo Secure subscription or above.
When picking a home security system, cost is an important factor. As well as ensuring the initial expenditure is within your budget, you must also account for the subscription service’s monthly fees.
Below, we have ranked all the best home security systems based on their cheapest package, and we have also included the most expensive system from each company.
| Home security system | Cheapest package | What’s included? | Most expensive package | What’s included? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abode | £197.99 (Abode Security Kit) | Security hub, Mini sensor, Key fob | £384.99 (Iota Security Kit) | Iota starter kit |
| Yale | £219.98 (Sync Smart Home Alarm – 5 Piece Bundle) | Smart hub, Motion detector, Door/Window contract sensor x2, Key fob | £549.98 (Sync Smart Home Alarm 14 Piece Kit with White All-in-one Camera) | Smart hub, Yellow siren, Motion detector x5, Door/Window contact sensor x4, Keypad, Keyfob, All in one camera – White |
| Ring | £219.99 (Alarm Pack) | Base station, Alarm keypad, Alarm contract sensor, Alarm motion detector, Alarm range extender | £299.99 (Alarm, Doorbell + Indoor Camera (2nd Gen) Pack L) | Base station, Alarm keypad, Alarm contact sensor x4, Alarm motion detector x3, Alarm range extender, Video doorbell, Indoor camera |
| SimpliSafe | £284.96 (The Foundation) | Base station, Wired indoor camera x2, Keypad, Entry sensor | £664.87 (The Edinburgh) | Base station, Motion sensor x2, Key fob x2, Wired indoor camera x2, Keypad, Temperature sensor, Wireless outdoor camera, Entry sensor x3, Water sensor |
| Arlo | £479.96 (Essential Home Security Kit) | Essential spotlight camera x2, Essential wire-free video doorbell, Solar panel charger | £1529.95 | Base station, Floodlight 2K camera, Ultra 4K cameras x4, Essential wireless video doorbell and chime 2K, Solar panel charger |
The most affordable brands are Abode, Ring and Yale, while Arlo is the most expensive. Ring’s Alarm, Doorbell + Indoor Camera (2nd Gen) Pack is one of the best value-for-money systems, and it features key devices such as motion sensors, indoor cameras and a base station for under £300. You don’t want to overpay for a system you won’t fully utilise, so consider which devices come with each package.
Also consider the monthly fees of these home security systems, since key features often require a subscription. Most providers offer at least 2 subscription services that unlock various features, most often including 30-day video storage, live viewing and 24/7 professional monitoring.
Below, we have listed the subscription services available from each provider alongside the features they come with.
| Home security system | Cheapest subscription | What’s included? | Most expensive subscription | What’s included? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abode | Abode Standard (£7.99) | One-touch arm/disarm, Push notification alerts, Apple HomeKit support, Smart home integrations, Camera paring, Unlimited Users, Email notifications, Customisable notifications, Timeline, Home automation, Geofencing, 7-day storage | Abode Pro (£13.99) | One-touch arm/disarm, Push notification alerts, Apple HomeKit support, Smart home integrations, Camera paring, Unlimited Users, Email notifications, Customisable notifications, Timeline, Home automation, Geofencing, 7-day storage, 4G backup connectivity, 10-day video storage, 24/7 professional monitoring, Exclusive deals and discounts |
| Yale | Yale Camera Plan (£3.50) | Cloud recording, Advanced AI motion detection | Yale Secure Pro Plan (£36) | Cellular backup, Call alerts, 24/7 professional monitoring, Cloud recording for all cameras, Advanced AI motion detection |
| Ring | Ring Basic (£4.99) | 1-year limited warranty, Motion activated notifications, Live view, Two-way talk. 180 days video storage, Download up to 50 videos, Video saving and sharing, Snapshot capture, Package alerts, Person alerts, Rich notifications, 10% selected Ring products | Ring Plus (£8) | 1-year limited warranty, Motion activated notifications, Live view, Two-way talk. 180 days video storage, Download up to 50 videos, Video saving and sharing, Snapshot capture, Package alerts, Person alerts, Rich notifications, 10% selected Ring products, Advanced video features, Enhanced notifications, Extended warranty for all devices |
| SimpliSafe | SimpliSafe Pro (£15.99) | 24/7 live alarm monitoring, Full self-monitoring on mobile app, Up to one-year hardware warranty, 24/7 flood and extreme temperature monitoring | SimpliSafe Pro Premium (£27.99) | 24/7 professional monitoring, police response, Securitas guard response, Whole home protection, Instant alarm alerts, Unlimited camera recordings, 30-day cloud storage, Premium extended hardware warranty, Advanced app features |
| Arlo | Arlo Single Cam (£4.99) | Advanced detection, Activity zones, 30-day video storage, theft replacement, 2K video resolution, one camera covered | Arlo Secure Plus (£14.99) | Advanced detection, Activity zones, 30-day video storage, theft replacement, 4K video resolution, unlimited camera coverage, 12 months extra hardware warranty, VIP customer support |
The most comprehensive option is SimpliSafe’s Pro Premium plan, which offers agent-verified police response to emergencies. While this plan is expensive, it is ideal if you want complete coverage. However, if you’re looking to cut costs, Yale offers the least features with its subscription plans, making it the best no-contract home security system.
Subscription plans often make your system more balanced and increase security, but they are not always necessary. When picking a home security plan and provider, it’s crucial to compare subscription features and prices, as some households will benefit from higher levels of security than others.
(image credit: Adobe)
Made up of multiple electronic devices, security systems work in tandem to protect your home and increase surveillance. For a closer look at how these systems work, check out our SimpliSafe review, which is our pick for the best home security system.
Usually, several devices make up home security systems.
Smart home systems do not relate directly to home security systems; however, in some instances, you can pair them.
Smart home devices are available from several brands, but Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit and Philips Hue are the most common. These devices allow for smart control over various electronic devices in the home, including lights, thermostats, kitchen appliances and smart hubs.
As more people seek to control their homes remotely, smart home ecosystems are becoming more popular. Over time, smart home systems are becoming more seamless and are integrating with more technology, focusing on reducing people’s carbon footprint.
For example, at certain times of the day, you can remotely activate and deactivate smart lights and thermostats to save money and energy. Some smart home systems are more focused on convenience, such as smart coffee machines that turn on in the morning as your alarm goes off.
Below, we’ve listed which home security systems work best with smart home technology:
When picking the best home security system for your needs, there are multiple factors to consider. Below are some of the most important.
If money is no object, you have more systems to choose from. However, if you are sticking to a budget, you should consider more affordable packages. The cheapest systems come from Abode (£197.99) and Ring (£219.99), which you can install without the help of a professional.
Monthly contracts will also affect the cost, especially since some brands require a subscription. To avoid being locked into a costly monthly subscription, consider Yale, which is our top pick for the best no-contract home security system
Plans offering professional monitoring usually come with a contract period, and the length of these can vary Some brands require lengthy contracts that can keep you locked in for months or even years.
With that in mind, consider whether you can afford a year-long subscription and if you will be living in the same place for the duration of your contract. You can cancel SimpliSafe’s subscription plans at any time, making it one of the best choices for customers who can afford a payment plan but don’t want a lengthy commitment.
Arguably, the most important factor in determining which home security system is right for you is the type of property you live in.
If you live in an apartment, ensure any equipment, such as video doorbells and intercom systems, will work with your property and any existing infrastructure. If not, it may be cheaper to customise your package instead of buying a ready-made system that you won’t fully use.
If you live in a house, determine how many devices you need to cover all the key areas of your home. Larger houses need more cameras and sensors, especially if there are multiple points of entry. Meanwhile, smaller houses won’t need as much coverage. For a property with a garden or driveway, you should consider adding outdoor cameras, sirens or floodlights.
Finally, if you’re a renter, look at DIY packages that you can easily install and uninstall without leaving any permanent marks or causing damage to your walls or ceilings. These benefits make Abode and Ring two of the best system choices for renters.
Most home security system brands offer ready-made packages that come with specific elements. Some brands allow you to create your own package from scratch or customise an existing system to meet your needs.
To ensure you are building the right package for your home, and to find the best quote, you should always compare several ready-made packages and bespoke options.
Your equipment should be high quality, easy to use and simple to install.
Various providers also offer additional equipment that offer an extra layer of security. These devices can include:
It’s unlikely you will need to invest in additional devices if you live on a smaller property, as less equipment should provide good coverage of your home. However, if you live in a large property, it may be necessary to install more equipment to adequately protect your home.
When picking a new system, you need certain equipment to cater for specific needs. These can change the overall price of your system, so you should take this into account when deciding on your budget.
Consider investing in a battery backup system for your equipment if you frequently experience power issues. Utilising local or cloud storage can also solve this issue; however, keep in mind that the latter is usually only available with a subscription.
According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, if your home or garden is not within the range of street lights, a good option is outdoor floodlights, since a burglar is more likely to target a property that is darker both inside and outside.
Some cameras can differentiate between people, pets and vehicles and notify you if any of them come into the frame. This type of technology is ideal for households with small children or pets, as it will limit the number of false alarms and give you a better idea of who’s entering and leaving your property.
Not only are DIY home security systems just as effective as professionally installed systems but they are also affordable and flexible.
Several brands can be self-installed, with some of the most popular being Abode, Ring, SimpliSafe and Arlo. If you’re comfortable using power tools, you should be able to install a camera or video doorbell yourself. However, you should always check the instructions to ensure you’ve set up everything correctly.
If you’re not comfortable using power tools and would prefer professional assistance, many DIY systems still offer a professional installation service. Having your system installed by an expert ensures peace of mind; however, it will cost more. You can always hire a third-party technician to install your system at a lower cost if you want to save money.
No professional assistance is needed to install many of the best home security systems. For more guidance on how to install your system effectively, follow our step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Assessing and planning
First, survey your home, and identify entry points and weak security areas. This should help you decide where to install your sensors and cameras. We suggest you consider your equipment range and field of view.
Step 2: Install the central hub
Your various pieces of equipment communicate through your central hub. Wall mount it or place it on a table near a power source (if needed) somewhere central in your home. Your sensors and cameras must be able to connect to it wirelessly.
Step 3: Install sensors
Door and window sensors usually have a part for the frame and another for the moving part of the door or window. Follow the instructions to attach them. You should install motion sensors in the corners of your rooms to give them an expansive view of the space.
Step 4: Install cameras
Install security cameras on front or back doors or in the main living area of your home. When installing cameras, always ensure you appropriately position them based on their field of view, and check that your wifi signal covers the area, as you will need to connect them to your central hub via wifi. If your camera isn’t wireless, you’ll want to place it near a power source.
Step 5: Set up monitoring and your home security app
From the main app store, download the home security app onto your smartphone, create an account and follow any on-screen instructions. Once downloaded, you can set preferences for alerts, alarm volume and entry and exit delays via the app settings. Depending on your chosen system, you may also have access to other features.
Step 6: Test your system
Activate your system using the app or your central hub. To ensure full functionality and communication with the central hub, test all your sensors, alarms and cameras and make any adjustments as necessary.
Having someone else install your system puts less pressure on you, but there are still some factors to consider to ensure everything goes smoothly.
No home security system will be right for every household, but there are still features and devices you should look out for. Our top overall provider is SimpliSafe because of its quality devices and wide range of packages, but you may find other brands are better suited to your specific needs.
ADT is one of the best systems for those looking for professional monitoring, while Arlo offers some of the highest-resolution cameras on the market. For households on a budget, who want to take a DIY approach, Ring and Abode are great picks.
Make sure you compare each system’s devices, subscription fees, features and costs to find the best fit for your needs. For a deeper look at what’s currently offered and how it can protect your home, check out our other comprehensive guides on smart home security systems.
SimpliSafe is our top pick for the best home security system. Its wide range of packages offers key security devices, including cameras, sensors and video doorbells, and there’s an option to subscribe for 24/7 professional monitoring.
However, to find the best package for your home, you should compare different home security systems, and consider your budget, needs and property type. If you only need a low level of coverage, you can invest in specific devices instead of a complete system.
Our experts calculated the average price of the different brands of home security systems listed in this article. We didn’t include ADT and Verisure in our calculation, since your specific home and needs determine the cost, and their website doesn’t list any prices.
We found that the average cost of home security systems is £426.50. When looking at the average of each brand’s cheapest system, this lowered the average price to £333.65.
DIY home security systems are just as effective as professionally installed systems. However, the benefits of a professionally installed system include peace of mind and informative installers.
DIY home security systems, are better for your budget and allow for flexibility in gadget placement and usage. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your home security system, follow the instructions for each gadget and test each element to ensure they’re working correctly.
While offering increased peace of mind and protection for your home, professional monitoring can also help eliminate false alarms while still cracking down on real emergencies, including intruders or natural disasters, such as floods or fires.
You can install your home security system yourself, but it depends on the type and brand of system. Some brands, such as ADT, encourage professional installation, while others, such as Ring, are known for their DIY products.
Suppose you want to save money but are uncomfortable installing a system yourself. You can always hire a third-party technician to install your system for you, which may be cheaper than opting for a representative from the company.
Your home security system may be compatible with various home ecosystems, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit and Philips Hue.
Using your home security app, you can turn on lights, set thermostats and create timers, as long as you own smart devices from these ecosystems. Check the website or app to find out which connected devices are compatible with your home security system.
A few factors determine the right security system for your home – for example, if you live in a large house with other people, children or pets, you should invest in a comprehensive package with many elements, such as SimpliSafe’s 13-piece set, The Edinburgh.
However, if you live alone or with one other person in an apartment, smaller systems with fewer gadgets are better. If you’re a renter, prioritise systems with easy-to-remove elements that don’t require drilling or permanent fixtures. This is not a consideration if you own your property and don’t plan on moving.
We calculated the average price of all the brands listed in this article, except ADT and Verisure, since their prices depend on your home.
At £246.65, Ring had the cheapest average price, while Abode was the second most affordable, with packages averaging £292.65. The cheapest package from Ring was £219.99, while the most inexpensive from Abode was £197.99.
An article from the Police.uk suggests that using CTTV, alarms and triggered lighting can help deter burglars from your property, as they are considered a higher risk than unsecured homes.
While these devices will not make you immune to crime, they act as deterrents, and they can help you take decisive action if you become aware or suspicious of someone on your property.
Our experts have conducted hours of research to compile a list of the best security systems. There are many options on the market, and they all have their pros and cons. However, our list includes some of the best security systems for every possible need. So, whether you’re looking for a security system that’s affordable, easy to install or customisable, one of the above security systems will surely be an excellent choice.
A home security system is an investment in your protection. After all, the best home security system aims to keep your family and property safe and protected from threats such as burglary, fire, home intrusions and floods.
When comparing the above systems, we considered the following factors:
For more information, read our article on how we review home security systems.
