By BCR Staff
January 2019
According to the FBI, there are more than two million home burglaries reported each year in the United States. While that number may seem frightening, we are living in an increasingly technological world, and that means you can employ safe, effective, and affordable home security techniques to reduce the likelihood of a break in. Listed below, you’ll find 10 of the most effective all-in-one smart home security systems available.
Following this review, you will find a brief buyers guide to help you choose the system that is right for you.
1. Ring Alarm
Ring Alarm Home Security System With Optional 24/7 Monitoring
If you want the world of smart home security at your fingertips, Ring Alarm can help you out. This all-inclusive smart security system includes contact sensors, motion detectors, a range extender, and a keypad hub. Thanks to a sleek mobile application, you’ll be able to monitor the security of your home while out and about. This entire system fits into a small box but is more than strong enough to secure your property.
Opt to upgrade to their 8-piece and 14-piece kits for enhanced security features. You’ll also be able to enjoy a flat $10 monthly subscription to professional monitoring services.
2. DIGOO
DIGOO HOSA 2G Wireless Home & Business Security Alarm System
With the DIGOO HOSA wireless home security system, you’re getting a 2G monitored network that can handle up to 99 different accessories. The base package of this system focuses on a touchscreen and automation thanks to a beautiful iPad-like touchscreen control panel. This home security system comes packaged with door and window sensors, the aforementioned touch screen hub, a mobile phone alert system and an SOS remote control for emergency situations. The star of this system, however, is the specialized PIR sensor which uses a 120′ wide angle sensor network to read up to 12 meters of distance in every direction.
3. Samsung SmartThings
Samsung SmartThings ADT Wireless Home Security Starter Kit
Samsung has been a significant player in the tech field for a while and their SmartThings ADT Security Starter Kit is as polished as you’d expect. This security system comes rigged with all of the basics in home monitoring: door/window sensors, motion detectors and a smart alarm hub that you can connect to your cellular device. Additionally, you’ll have access to a no-contract agreement with ADT to keep your entire property monitored by professionals. This home automation system can be used with IP Network Protocol, Zigbee, and Z-Wave networks for maximum usability. This system is compatible with nearly every ‘SmartThings’ applicable device, such as cameras, lights, and thermostats.
4. Blink Home Security
Blink XT Home Security Camera System w/ Motion Detection
If you want to maximize your home security, you need a network of great cameras. The Blink XT Home Security system comes with three weatherproof cameras that can be placed indoors and outdoors. All cameras are battery powered to prevent disruption due to outages. This smart home system operates over WiFi, and all data and information can be sent to a hub or your mobile device. You’ll be able to access live HD video on the go, right from your smartphone, after you have your system set up. An instant alert notification system also allows you to stay abreast of any potential security concerns, even when you are out of town. Upgrade to their larger camera systems to cover bigger properties.
5. Arlo Technologies
Arlo Pro Wireless Home Security Camera System w/ Siren
Arlo makes smart home security easy with their 3-camera indoor/outdoor package. The Arlo Pro 3 camera system package is ideal for individuals with small homes and apartments who want to sleep with security and peace of mind. These cameras are weatherproof and capable of live streaming HD video to a mobile device. This system comes with easy-mount kits for indoor and outdoor use. All cameras feature 2-way audio so you can stay completely plugged into the security matters of your property. What makes the Arlo Pro so appealing, however, is the fact that it is completely wireless. No mess, no fuss, just great security.
6. Zmodo
Zmodo Wireless Security Camera System (4 Pack)
Do you want a smart home security system that can completely blanket your property? The Zmodo 4-pack wireless system is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. All cameras are equipped with night vision, and they can broadcast over WiFi IP. The cameras will also automatically switch to night vision when a certain darkness threshold is met. Video footage is HD and can be accessed from your hub or your mobile device. This wireless system is rigged directly up to the Zmodo Cloud Service thanks to a month of free data when you purchase the system new. You can wirelessly access, review, and share any footage at any time.
7. SimpliSafe
Home Security System 24/7 Monitoring 9 Piece Alarm System
The SimpliSafe base home security system comes packaged with a ton of power. This 9-piece system is easy to install all on your own. You’ll receive a keypad, hub, four sensors, two motion detectors and one SimpliCam camera with your purchase. Our favorite feature is the 95dB home security siren that goes off in the event of an emergency. Without any kind of contract, you’ll be able to stay secure without the hassle of a financial commitment looming over you. This system operates over WiFi but is reinforced by a cellular connection if you experience WiFi disruption. SimpliSafe takes home security seriously, and their power backup redundancy is evidence of that fact.
8. Fortress Security Store
Fortress Security Store S03 WiFi & Landline Security Alarm System
The Fortress Security Store offers an Alexa-compatible security system that can work via landline or wireless technology. This base kit comes equipped with a touchpad hub, a handful of entrance sensors and a couple of motion detectors. You’ll also have a panic button, a massive siren and a pair of remote security keyfobs. The two-way intercom system on the touchpad hub is a great addition that furthers the impact of this security system. This entire security system is manageable from a remote location by way of their nifty smartphone application. Fortress Security advises buyers to use this smart security system in houses, apartments, and businesses.
9. Isotect
Isotect 8CH Full HD Wireless Security Camera System
Isotect takes your security seriously— and if you are considering this product, so are you. This system is built for complete coverage. With an eight channel dash and an array of indoor/outdoor IP security cameras, you’ll be ready to monitor every inch of your property from your mobile phone or desktop computer. All cameras are equipped with night vision up to 65 feet, and the storage hard drive that the system comes with can handle up to 2 TB of footage. This system operates via wireless technology but even novice tech enthusiasts can easily install it.
10. ANNKE
ANNKE Home Security Camera System 8 Channel 1080p
Rounding out our list is the ANNKE Home Security 8 Camera System. Like the Isotect product above, this is an 8-camera setup that is all tied to a 1 TB DVR dashboard/HDD. These cameras offer 1080p video monitoring, live viewing, and weatherproof packaging. You can rig your cameras to automatically flag your email with images when their motion detecting sensors go off. Smart playback and H.264+ video compression mean that you will always have access to the crispest security footage available. The entire system is easy to install, comes backed by a 2-year warranty, and can be controlled from your mobile device.
Choosing The Right Home Security System For You
The first home security system was invented by Marie Van Brittan Brown in 1966. Her idea of a security system was a camera rigged up to an old television. Her invention worked and thus changed the world. Nowadays, you don’t have to rely on such cumbersome appliances to secure your home. Thanks to the advent of smart technology, you simply have to make a few small decisions. Let’s walk you through the four key steps to purchasing your first smart home security system.
1) Select Your Monitoring System.
The core of your smart home security system will rely on what kind of monitoring you rely on. As you’ll see below, there are three different options available to you:
a) Landline – Using a landline installed in your home, your security system will network directly with your home. Older security systems rely on landlines to stay professionally monitored through the advent of WiFi and Cellular Data has changed the landscape dramatically.
b) Broadband – Using an internet connection, your entire smart home security system will exist on a single network. This is a quicker and safer monitoring choice than landline-based systems.
c) Cellular – Finally, cellular monitoring requires a mobile connection to remain effective. This is an increasingly popular option due to the stability and security that it offers.
2) Pick Your Security System Features.
Smart home security systems will begin with a smart hub and an array of cameras. From there, you can add many different features to your security system to enhance the system itself. Some features you can consider include:
a) Door & Window Detectors
b) Motion Activated Indoor/Outdoor Lights
c) Emergency Activated Sirens
d) Remote Automation Via Cell Phone/Computer
3) Monitored vs. Unmonitored Systems.
Deciding whether you want a professionally monitored or unmonitored security will be the biggest decision that you have to make. A monitored security system has a direct link to the authorities. Any time that a monitored security system is triggered, law enforcement will be notified. Unmonitored systems will notify the homeowner of problems where it will then be their decision whether or not to call the police. Monitored systems typically require some sort of monthly subscription fee.
4) DIY vs. Professional Installation.
Finally, you’ll have to decide whether or not you want your system to be installed by a professional company or if you’d rather handle the job yourself. Thanks to continual improvements in the field of smart home security, most homeowners can handle setting up their own systems with minimal feedback from a professional, typically by way of the telephone. If you opt for a professional installation service, there will be fees involved.
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