How to Pick the Best Home Security System (Without Going Crazy)

Choosing the best home security system can be like dating online: there are too many choices, the features are complicated, and you’re afraid of making the incorrect choice. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you cut through the noise and pick the one that really keeps your home safe (and doesn’t ask for flowers every month). This is the no-BS method to locking everything down, literally.

First, think about what you’re really safeguarding

If you live in a quiet area, a few cameras and motion sensors might be plenty. But if your neighbourhood has more foot traffic than a mall on Black Friday, you might want to hire someone to keep an eye on it and call 911 when you’re busy watching Netflix. It’s important to know about crime statistics, so do a quick search (hint: Google “[your area] crime rates”).

So, wired or wireless?

Wired systems are like that old automobile that always works but is hard to set up. Is it wireless? Very versatile, however the batteries always fail at the worst possible time (Murphy’s Law). Wireless is better if you rent or move a lot. If you own your home and want a permanent arrangement, wired might be for you.

Next, do you want to do it yourself or hire a pro?

If you have trouble putting together IKEA furniture, you might want to let the pros do it. But if you want to work on things on the weekend, DIY solutions like Ring or SimpliSafe enable you make changes without having to drill holes in strange locations. Plus, no salesperson trying to sell you something.

Things get interesting when smart home integration comes into play

Do you want your lights to flash when a sensor goes off? Or to use a camera speaker to yell at intruders like a bad guy in a sci-fi movie? Find systems that work well with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. “Hey Google, lock up and scare off thieves.” A kiss from the chef.

And, of course, the price. Some systems get you to buy them with cheap hardware, but then they charge you a lot every month. Some companies are honest yet charge you for every extra sensor. If you do the maths, $30 a month for monitoring gets up, but so does replacing things that are taken.

Last piece of advice: Try it out before you buy it

Take advantage of the trial periods that many companies provide. Make sure your Wi-Fi doesn’t drop out like a poor call, check the angles of the cameras, and test the alarms. Because the best way to stay safe? The one you will really utilise. Now go out and secure your castle (or flat; no judgement).