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Our team of experts have reviewed the top home security systems from the UK’s leading providers.
Improving the security of your home is crucial for your mental health and well-being. Our experts have rounded up the best home security systems on the market, including all the elements and features they come with, and who they’re best suited for. SimpliSafe is our top choice thanks to its customisable, easy-to-install systems, but there are plenty of other providers to choose from.
In this guide, we explain the benefits of home security systems and the easiest way to install them, so you can set your system up properly and rest easy knowing you’re well-protected.
Simplisafe offers a wide variety of packages that suit all types of home, from flats to large, detached properties with gardens. Since every home requires different protection measures, Simplisafe caters to every lifestyle. As well as a self-monitoring plan, the company even offers an on-demand professional monitoring plan, letting homeowners decide what’s best for their home.
Exclusive deal: Get 40% off with code FMB40OFF at checkout
Exclusive deal: Get 40% off with code FMB40OFF at checkout
In addition to having a comprehensive installation process, Verisure offers bespoke packages from start to finish. The company assesses properties, creates bespoke security systems and offers professional monitoring. Verisure also allows you to customise your system with a choice of sensors, sirens and Arlo security cameras with night vision.
With over 148 years of experience, ADT offers tailor-made home security systems for every home. ADT’s all-inclusive service provides professional monitoring by the company’s dedicated alarm receiving centre for peace of mind for its customers. ADT is one of the best options for professional monitoring and installation, with systems catering to smart homes to those with pets.
(image credit: SimpliSafe)
EXCLUSIVE DEAL: Get 40% off at SimpliSafe with code FMB40OFF at checkout
Who’s it right for?
With a broad range of systems, SimpliSafe is suitable for any size property.
Who’s it not for?
SimpliSafe is not suitable for households that require professional installation.
SimpliSafe offers a range of home security packages at different price points. The devices they include are ideal for DIY enthusiasts as they are easy to install, but you can opt for professional installation from £133.
Devices found in SimpliSafe packages a base station, motion sensors, cameras and entry sensors. You have the option to customise each package and add to them to create a fully bespoke system suited to your house and security needs.
SimpliSafe offers two paid plans, both of which include live monitoring, cellular connection and 24/7 flood and extreme temperature monitoring. On top of this, the more expensive Pro Premium plan also includes emergency service dispatch, unlimited recording and 24/7 guard response, allowing for a fully comprehensive set-up.
Cost
SimpliSafe’s cheapest package, The Foundation, contains 5 pieces and starts at £284.96, while its most expensive package, a 13-piece indoor and outdoor system called The Edinburgh, costs £674.87.
SimpliSafe often runs sales on its systems and accessories, making it likely you can invest in a system for a lower cost. You can currently get 40 per cent off a SimpliSafe system with the exclusive code FMB40OFF.
Our recommendation
SimpliSafe is an excellent choice if you’re looking for tailored, cost-effective home protection, with or without professional monitoring.
| Provider | Best for | Starting price | Review | Find out more |
 Visit SimpliSafe |
Best overall | £284.96 | 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 | £168.99 | Abode review | Visit Site |
 Visit Yale |
Best no contract system | £190.00 | Yale review | Visit Site |
 Visit Ring |
DIY installation | £219.99 | Ring review | Visit Site |
 Visit Arlo |
Tech enthusiasts | £399.99 | Arlo review | Visit Site |
*Prices accurate as of 09/09/2024
To find the best systems on the market, our experts spent hours looking into the biggest home security brands and the packages they offer.
We examined the pros and cons of each system and what features it comes with to find the best system for each household. We included packages at a range of different price points to suit those on a budget, as well as customisable kits for those who are after a bespoke security system.
Buying a home security system is an investment in your protection. After all, its purpose is to protect your family and property from threats such as burglary, fire, home intrusion and flooding.
When deciding on 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)
ADT is one of the biggest names in home security, with over 148 years of experience. ADT does not offer quotes directly on its website, instead sending qualified technicians to your home to give you a quote and run down of what elements would work best for you.
The custom packages provided are comprehensive and professional, and the £36.99 per month subscription fee ensures 24/7 monitoring of your home for further peace of mind. Our testing shows that ADT is best suited for those in larger houses after an all-inclusive and reliable alarm system.
Verisure is one of the best home security system brands available for households looking for constant professional monitoring and a flexible and customisable set-up. Professional installers will arrive at your home within 24 hours of the initial quotation to get your system up and running, allowing for minimal delays once you’ve picked your perfect system.
Verisure is better suited to homeowners rather than renters due to the professional installation required for each system. For those renting, Abode, Ring and SimpliSafe will be better options.
Abode is one of the cheapest home security solutions on the market, with its Starter system costing just £168.99. All its packages can be easily installed without professional assistance, with the option to subscribe to the Pro Plan for 24/7 monitoring.
If you want to increase your home security but don’t want to break the bank, Abode is one of the best options. Due to the low cost and DIY nature of the installation process, Abode is also ideal for renters who cannot commit to permanent fixtures in or outside the home.
Yale is best suited for homeowners who want a home security system without the fuss of a monthly subscription plan. While Yale does provide two different plans that offer 24/7 professional monitoring and cloud recording, users can still benefit from control via the Yale app, email notifications, geo-fencing and local storage for free.
Compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Philips Hue allows you to control smart home devices within your home using the Yale app. Its wide array of devices, from alarms to indoor and outdoor cameras, allows for some customisation if you want to branch out from its standard packages.
Ring is an affordable, highly customisable security system that can be easily installed at home. Due to the simple interface and set-up of Ring’s gadgets, its devices are ideal for pensioners or for those who don’t feel as comfortable working with more advanced systems.
Ring is a compact yet comprehensive home security system that includes all the necessary basics and is scalable to your needs, giving you the freedom to pick and choose which devices are right for your home.
Arlo is one of the few home security systems to offer a wide array of high-definition devices; the Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell, Essential Indoor and Essential Outdoor cameras can all be found with a 2K resolution, making it ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who want to keep a keen eye on their property.
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. Note that these features are only available with the Arlo Secure subscription or above.
Cost is an important factor when picking a home security system. The initial outlay should be within your budget, but you must also account for the monthly fees from a subscription service.
Below, we have ranked all the best home security systems based on their cheapest package. For your reference, 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 | £168.99 (Abode Security Kit) | Security Hub, Mini sensor, Key fob | £384.99 (iota Security Kit) | iota starter kit |
| Yale | £190 (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, Key Fob, White All-in-one Camera |
| Ring | £219.99 (Alarm Pack) | Base Station, Alarm Keypad, Alarm Contract Sensor, Alarm Motion Detector, Alarm Range Extender | £299.99 (Alarm, Doorbell + Indoor 2nd Gen Camera (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 | £371.12 (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 | £399.99 (Essential Home Security Kit) | Essential Spotlight Camera x2, Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell, Solar Panel Charger | £1,199.99 | Base Station, 2K Floodlight Camera, Ultra 4K cameras x4, Essential Wireless Video Doorbell and Chime 2K, Solar Panel Charger |
No matter your budget, consider what devices come with each package, as you don’t want to overpay for devices you won’t make use of. Many providers allow you to customise packages to better suit your needs.
You should also consider monthly fees when weighing up your budget. Most providers offer at least two subscription services which unlock various features, most commonly including 30-day video storage, live viewing and 24/7 professional monitoring.
Subscription plans are not always necessary, but they make your system more well-rounded and can offer extra peace of mind. If you do decide to go for a subscription, it’s paramount to compare features and prices when picking a home security plan and provider.
Below, we’ve listed the subscription services available from each provider and what features they include.
(image credit: Adobe)
Security systems consist of multiple electronic devices that work together to protect your home. For a closer look at how these systems work, check out our SimpliSafe review. This company is our pick for the best home security system.
Several devices typically make up home security systems.
A report from Statista claims there were 275,919 burglaries from 2022 to 2023 in England and Wales, while the Office for National Statistics estimates there were around 1.5 million “neighbourhood crime” incidents in the year ending September 2023.
Smart home systems allow you to remotely control smart devices, such as thermostats, plugs, lights, and crucially, home security systems. Smart home devices can be connected to different ecosystems including Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit.
Smart home systems are ideal for tech-savvy households looking to streamline everyday tasks. For example, a smart thermostat can be programmed to turn off and on at different times of the day to save power.
If you own these gadgets, you’ll want to ensure your smart home security system will integrate well with your existing ecosystem. Below, we’ve listed which home security systems work best with each smart home technology brand:
Many brands work with multiple ecosystems, although it’s worth noting that Apple HomeKit is usually the least likely to be supported out of the three.
There are multiple factors to consider when deciding on the best home security system for your needs. Below are some of the most important things to take into account.
The type of property you live in is arguably the most important factor in determining what home security system is right for you.
Those who rent should look to DIY home security systems, especially wireless systems that don’t require drilling or permanent installation. Abode and Ring are two of the best choices for renters.
If you own a property, you have more freedom when it comes to installation. Ensure you pick a package with multiple cameras or floodlights if you have a garden, driveway or multiple points of entry.
If money is no object for your household, you have a wider array of systems to pick from. However, if you are working on a budget you should consider more affordable packages. The cheapest systems come from Abode (£197.99) and Ring (£219.99), which can be installed without professional assistance.
SimpliSafe also runs sales on its home security system packages at different times of the year. At the time of writing, all SimpliSafe packages are 45% off, making them much more affordable.
Monthly contracts will also affect the cost, especially since some brands lock important features behind subscription fees. If you don’t want to be locked into a costly monthly subscription, consider Yale, our top pick for the best no-contract home security system.
Professional monitoring plans usually come with a contract period. Contract lengths can vary, and some brands require lengthy contracts that keep you locked in for months or even years.
With that in mind, consider if you can afford a year-long subscription and if you will be living in the same place for all that time. SimpliSafe’s subscription plans can be cancelled at any time during the contract, making it one of the best choices for those who can afford a payment plan but don’t want a lengthy commitment.
You should always compare a variety of ready-made packages and bespoke options to ensure you are building the right package for your home.
Arlo, Abode, and Yale offer ready-made packages. Other brands such as SimpliSafe and Ring allow you to create your own packages from scratch or customise an existing system to your needs.
ADT and Verisure go a step further and offer to create a bespoke package customised to your needs and property. This is a lengthier process, which requires a technician to visit your property and assess which areas of your home require higher security, but it may be better for customers who desire professional installation and a hands-off experience.
You should always compare a variety of ready-made packages and bespoke options to ensure you are building the right package for your home and find the best quote.
Your equipment should be high quality, easy to use and simple to install.
You can also find additional equipment from various providers which offer an extra layer of security. These devices can include:
If you live in a smaller property it’s unlikely you will need to invest in additional devices, as you should get good coverage of your home with less equipment. If you live in a large property, however, installing more equipment may be necessary to adequately protect your home.
significantly change the overall price of your system.
Here are some common property features and the devices you can invest in to help keep your home safe.
DIY home security systems are just as effective as professionally installed systems and come with the benefit of affordability and flexibility.
Most brands can be installed yourself, although you must be comfortable using power tools when installing certain products, most commonly video doorbells. Always check the instructions to ensure everything is set up correctly.
Professional installation is more expensive but will be better for those who prefer professional assistance. If you want to save money, look into third-party technicians to install your system at a lower cost.
Many of the best home security systems can be installed at home without any professional assistance. For more guidance on how to install your system effectively, follow our step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Assessing and planning
You should first survey your home. Identify entry points and weak areas of security in your home, this should help you decide where to install your sensors and cameras. We suggest considering your equipment range and field of view.
Step 2: Install the central hub
Your central hub is how your different equipment pieces communicate. You should wall mount it or place it on a table near a power source (if needed) somewhere central in your home. It’s crucial that your sensors and cameras can wirelessly connect to it.
Step 3: Install sensors
Door and window sensors usually have two parts, one for the frame and the other for the moving part of the door or window. Attach them by following the instructions you have to hand. Motion sensors should be installed in the corners of your rooms, giving them an expansive view of the space.
Step 4: Install cameras
Security cameras are typically installed on front or back doors or in the main living area of your home. When installing cameras, always ensure the positioning is appropriate based on their field of view and your wifi signal strength covers the area – you will need to connect them to your central hub via wifi. You’ll want to place your camera near a power source if it isn’t wireless.
Step 5: Set up monitoring and your home security app
Download the home security app onto your smartphone from the app store, create an account and action any prompted on-screen instructions. Once downloaded, via the app settings you can set preferences for alerts, entry and exit delays and alarm volume – depending on your chosen system you may have access to other features.
Step 6: Test your system
Activate your system via the app or your central hub. Make sure you test all of your sensors, alarms and cameras to ensure full functionality and communication with the central hub, making any adjustments as necessary.
Having your system installed by someone else puts less pressure on the homeowner, but there are still some factors to consider to ensure everything goes smoothly.
In conclusion, no one home security system will be right for every household, but there are still features and devices to look out for. SimpliSafe is our top overall provider due to its quality devices and wide range of packages, but other brands may cater more closely to your specific needs.
ADT is one of the best systems for those looking for professional monitoring, Arlo offers some of the highest resolution cameras on the market, and Ring and Abode are great picks for households on a budget that want to take a DIY approach.
Make sure you compare devices, subscription fees, features, and costs of each system to find the one that best fits your needs. Check out our other comprehensive guides on smart home security systems for a deeper look at what’s currently on offer and how it can protect your home.
We think SimpliSafe is the best home security system provider on the market. Its wide range of packages come with key security devices, including cameras, sensors and video doorbells. The company also gives customers the option to opt for 24/7 professional monitoring with its subscription service.
Based on the brands included in this guide, the average price of home security systems is £411.43. Looking only at the cheapest system from each brand, the average price was £252.79.
*ADT and Verisure were not included in our calculation since they only provide bespoke packages.
DIY home security systems are just as effective and professionally installed systems. That said, professional installations can bring you added peace of mind if you’re unsure you’re installing your security system right.
A DIY home security system tends to be cheaper and allows for more flexibility in terms of gadget placement and usage. To ensure you are getting the most out of your home security system, follow the instructions for each gadget and test each element to guarantee they’re working correctly.
Professional monitoring offers increased peace of mind and protection for your home. It can also help eliminate false alarms while still cracking down on real emergencies, whether from intruders or natural disasters like floods or fires.
Depending on the type of home security system and the brand, you can install them yourself. Some brands, such as ADT, encourage professional installation, while some brands are known for their DIY products, such as Ring.
Ring is the brand that offers the cheapest average package price, at £246.65. Abode was the second most affordable, its packages averaging £292.65. The cheapest package from Ring costs £219.99, while the cheapest from Abode is just £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 marked as higher risk than unsecured homes.
It’s important to understand that these devices will not make you immune to crime, however, these elements do act as a deterrent and can help you make decisive action if you do become aware or suspicious of someone on your property.
Our experts conducted hours of research to compile a list of the best security systems. Many options are available on the market, and each has its 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, as its purpose is to keep your family and property safe from threats such as burglary, fire, home intrusions and floods.
When comparing the above systems, we considered the following factors:
Read more about how we review home security systems.
