Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Our test covers indoor and outdoor wireless cameras that plug into mains power, as well as "wire-free" models that are battery powered and don't require a power cable. These cameras work locally and over the internet, giving you access via your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Our expert testers give every security camera a thorough workout to help find the models that:

  • are the best performers
  • are easiest to install and use
  • have the best features.

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We see a lot of home security companies advertise “wireless security systems” these days. But just because they’re wireless doesn’t automatically mean they are user-friendly, reliable, and modern. In fact, the reliability of some wireless systems is questionable.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you should avoid wireless security systems. If you look at our roundup of the top home security options right now, you’ll see that most if not all of them are wireless. You just have to know where to look and what to look for. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered. We tested and reviewed the best wireless security systems.

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
The SimpliSafe security system

Before we get into them, first we need to understand what “wireless” actually means. Because the truth is, even the best wireless security systems have components and parts that have wires. It boils down to how the equipment connects to the main hub or control panel. All the pieces pair wirelessly via radio frequencies. That means there aren’t going to be any wires connecting sensors and cameras to your system’s main hub or a box in the basement.

Wireless systems also use wireless signals to communicate between the main hub and the monitoring center. They use either Wi-Fi, cellular signals, or a combination of both — not the old-school telephone wires we saw in the 1990s and early 2000s.

FYI: We’ve seen concerns on Reddit about wireless home security systems and video quality, like this one from amd2800barton: “The wireless lags means there’s a lot of traffic. Even with very high-end routers, they’re just not stable enough to support multiple continuous streams from a camera.” We’ve tested all the systems on this list, and none had video quality issues, no matter how much traffic we had on our Wi-Fi.

As a team, we’ve tested dozens of wireless home security systems to bring you this list of the top options for 2024. Here are our favorite wireless security systems.

A Comparison of the Best Wireless Home Security Systems

System

ADT

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

SimpliSafe

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Vivint

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Frontpoint

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

Ranking 1st 2nd 3rd 4thRatings 9.8/10

Best professional pmonitoring

9.2/10

Best DIY option

9.4/10

Best smart home integrations

8.9/10

Easiest system to set up

Installation Professional or DIY Professional or DIY Professional only DIY onlyBest subscription price $45.99 per month $9.99 per month $19.99 per month $49.99 per monthProfessional monitoring cost Included $29.99 per month $40 per month $49.99 per monthEquipment package prices Starting at $599 Starting at $249.96 Starting at $600 Starting at $541.91Read Review ADT Review SimpliSafe Review Vivint Review Frontpoint Review

The Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2024

  1. - Best professional monitoring
  2. - Best DIY option
  3. - Best smart home integrations
  4. - Easiest system to set up
  • 1. ADT - Best Professional Monitoring

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

    Product Specs

    Equipment Costs Packages starting at $599 Monitoring Options Professional Monthly Monitoring Costs Starting at $25 per month Contract Lengths 36 months and up Installation Options Professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home

    ADT Overview

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    ADT’s Yard Sign ADT has been in business for over 150 years, so you know the company knows a thing or two about security. It takes a more traditional approach than most contemporary security companies. It requires professional installation (except for the DIY ADT Self Setup system). However, if you want a robust system with powerful monitoring capabilities and you don’t mind paying a little extra, ADT may just be the best wireless system for you.

    ADT’s Benefits

    ADT offers a powerful traditional security system, but it hasn’t lost touch with the ways the industry is evolving. ADT recently partnered with Google to integrate Google Nest products into ADT systems. And lucky for me, that includes my personal favorite security camera, the Google Nest (battery), and other versions of the Nest Cam. ADT also offers serious home automation capabilities, as it works with third-party smart home platforms like Google Nest and Alexa.

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Arming the ADT System. ADT’s monitoring is also a major selling point. I’ll get into more detail about that below. I also loved the professional installation service. It’s not for everyone, especially avid fans of everything DIY. But if you’re looking for a system you won’t have to install yourself, ADT is a great option. My ADT technician walked me through the entire process and explained exactly how the system works. And at least in my experience, they keep the upselling to a minimum. When I tested the system, I constantly asked ADT’s consultant and the technician if I really needed specific pieces of equipment. They’d explain the benefits of what they were suggesting, but I never felt any pressure to purchase.

    ADT’s Drawbacks

    ADT’s main drawback is its price tag. I’ll get into more detail below, but just know the system isn’t cheap. I listed the professional installation and monitoring as benefits — and they are — but the flipside is that they both cost money. White-glove service isn’t free. \>> Read More: ADT Frequently Asked Questions Another drawback is the long-term contract you have to sign. If you go with ADT, you’re on the hook for at least 36 months if you need to finance your equipment package over a longer term. It offers a pretty generous six-month opt-out period, though, if you decide the system isn’t for you.

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    ADT’s contact sensors.

    ADT’s Costs

    Let’s drill a little deeper into the price. ADT offers three primary packages, which can all be customized with additional equipment to suit your needs. It also offers a build-your-own option, but prices for that will depend on how much equipment you need and the monitoring option you land on. Let’s focus on the three core packages for now. I have a lot more detail in my guide to ADT’s costs, but here’s a quick breakdown. Secure Home Smart Home Video and Smart Home Digital control panel 1 1 1 Contact sensors 3 3 3 Motion detector 1 1 1 Smart door lock No 1 1 Smart plug No 1 1 Remote arm/disarm No Yes Yes Indoor camera No No 1 Video doorbell No No 1 Remote live streaming No No Yes Customizable alerts No No Yes Monitoring Starts at $25.99 per month Starts at $34.99 per month Starts at $34.99 per month Equipment costs Starts at $599 Starts at $919 Starts at $1,049 Those are the basic versions of each package. Each one can be expanded with more equipment for an additional fee. And, if you know what you’re looking for, you can just build a package from scratch. \>> Keep Reading: The Best Professionally Installed Security Systems If you don’t know what you’re doing though — and who could blame you — let me tell you that those costs are a little steep. A thousand bucks for a video doorbell, an indoor camera, a smart plug, a smart lock, a motion detector, some contact sensors, and a control panel is a bit much, but it’s not totally outrageous. You’re paying for the convenience of having it all packaged for you and administered by one of the most trusted names in the industry. There are other options, though, that will save you some cash in the long run. \>> Learn More: Most Affordable Home Security Systems

    ADT’s Monitoring

    ADT’s monitoring starts at $25.99 per month, but it can go up significantly from there depending on the size of your system and the types of equipment you have. For instance, adding security cameras can drive up the price by $10 because cameras require cloud storage, which isn’t included in the basic monitoring package. $35 per month doesn’t sound so steep though. For context, the most affordable system on our list, SimpliSafe, offers professional monitoring with cloud storage for $29.99 per month.
    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    ADT’s window sensor. ADT’s monitoring is also essentially the Cadillac of security monitoring. For starters, ADT has nine monitoring facilities across the country, each with its own redundancies built in. Redundancy on top of redundancy — multiple monitoring centers — ensures you’ll never be out of service. ADT also uses the latest technologies to provide the most reliable monitoring possible, such as the SMART monitoring feature, a text-based communication system that aims to reduce dispatches from false alarms. \>> Explore More: The Best Self-Monitored Security Systems I actually used that during my testing period. I was trying to see how accurate the contact sensors were on my windows, and I must have left one ajar. My phone buzzed to let me know the alarm had been tripped, and asked me to confirm if I needed assistance. With a quick text, I was able to avoid having an embarrassing conversation with New York City’s finest. FYI: If ADT doesn’t sound like the option for you, don’t worry. We have three more wireless security providers to get through — or you can pop over to my list of the best ADT alternatives.
  • 2. SimpliSafe - Best DIY Option

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

    Product Specs

    Equipment Costs Packages starting at $280 Monitoring Options Professional and DIY Monthly Monitoring Costs $19.99 per month Contract Lengths Month-to-month Installation Options DIY or professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home

    SimpliSafe Overview

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    The SimpliSafe security system. SimpliSafe came on the scene in 2006 as a security system for renters primarily, focusing on affordable equipment that could be installed easily without having to forfeit any security deposits. \>> Keep Reading: The Best Security Systems for Apartments The company has since expanded its offerings to include a larger equipment lineup, some higher-tech cameras, and advanced professional monitoring — all while keeping costs low and service standards high.

    SimpliSafe’s Benefits

    First and foremost, SimpliSafe is extremely affordable. Notice I didn’t say “cheap.” Despite the small price tag, each piece of equipment is durable and really well designed. During my test, I purposefully “accidentally” knocked cameras off mantles, dropped motion detectors, and spilled coffee on keypads. This stuff holds up to the trials of everyday life. \>> Learn More: A Review of the SimpliCam SimpliSafe is also one of the best security systems that doesn’t require a monthly contract. Even though you have the option for full-blown professional monitoring, you don’t have to commit to anything. In uncertain financial times, that freedom can be a major selling point.

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    The SimpliSafe keypad.

    SimpliSafe’s Drawbacks

    I’m not a big fan of SimpliSafe’s requirement that its customers purchase a $60 analog, push-button keypad for the system to function. Seriously? On a system I’m going to control from my phone anyway? That seems a little outdated. I’d prefer the option to buy a touch-screen control panel, like the ones offered by ADT, Vivint, Frontpoint, and other systems. \>> Learn More: Best Security System With Apps It also seems like SimpliSafe’s QA team didn’t do a lot of testing on the equipment’s mounting configurations. Most of the pieces affix to walls using sticky command strips. I get why — the company wants to appeal to DIYers who don’t want to bust out a power drill — but it can be pretty challenging to get certain pieces to stick long term. In my test, my motion detector fell off the wall and caused a false alarm. Most pieces, however, come with anchor points so you can use more traditional hardware if you want, which I recommend if you’re going for longevity.

    SimpliSafe’s Costs

    I go into a lot more detail in my guide to SimpliSafe’s subscriptions and packages, but the long and short of it is that SimpliSafe has two ways of doing things. You can purchase a prepackaged system or piece one together yourself. Here’s a breakdown of the first. Package Number of components Regular price The Haven 14 $519.86 The Knox 13 $479.87 The Beacon 10 $709.90 The Hearth 9 $399.91 The Lighthouse 7 $469.93 The Essentials 6 $279.95 The Foundation 4 $249.96 One thing that immediately jumps out to me is that SimpliSafe’s largest equipment package is still cheaper than ADT’s most affordable package. These are also the regular retail prices. SimpliSafe is always offering deals. \>> Compare: SimpliSafe vs. ADT You’ll also save pretty significantly if you select one of the equipment packages as your base and then add on any additional equipment you may need. For reference, here’s everything SimpliSafe offers and how much it costs. Component Cost Entry sensor $14.99 Motion sensor $34.99 Glass-break sensor $39.99 Outdoor camera $189.99 Smart Alarm Indoor Camera $139.99 SimpliCam Indoor Camera $99.99 Video doorbell $169.99 Water sensor $19.99 Smoke and carbon monoxide detector $59.99 Smoke detector $34.99 Temperature sensor $29.99 Panic button $19.99 Key fob $24.99 Extra-loud siren $59.99 Who is going to keep an eye on all this security equipment? Glad you asked.

    SimpliSafe’s Monitoring

    SimpliSafe offers a few monitoring options, as well as the option to self-monitor. That’s what makes it one of the best security systems with no monthly fees. Check out the options below, and then I’ll give you some recommendations. Features Free plan Camera recording only, five cameras Standard plan Fast Protect plan Live streaming Yes Yes Yes Yes 24/7 professional monitoring No No Yes Yes Cellular connection No No Yes Yes Environmental monitoring No No Yes Yes Remote control Yes Yes Yes Yes Notifications Yes Yes Yes Yes Secret alarms No Yes No Yes Video-verified alarms No No No Yes Unlimited cloud storage None 5 cameras None 10 cameras Smart home integrations No Yes No Yes Monthly price Free $9.99 $19.99 $29.99 If you’re going for a good balance of affordability and protection, you should start with the Standard Plan. It’s affordable, you’ll get professional monitoring, and you’ll get all the features your security system needs to be effective. Just note that it doesn’t include any form of video storage for cameras, so if you have any SimpliSafe cameras, they won’t be able to record.
    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    The SimpliSafe base station. If you’re looking to significantly increase your protection, consider the Fast Protect Plan. It includes cloud storage that the Standard plan lacks, plus access to integrations with select smart home brands. It has unique features, too. For instance, monitoring agents can use live camera feeds to verify alerts. They can immediately relay information to authorities in real time if they spot an intruder on your premises or smoke coming out of the hallway. In theory, it should speed up emergency-response times.
  • 3. Vivint - Best Smart Home Integrations

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

    Product Specs

    Equipment costs Starting at $449 Monitoring options Professional Monthly monitoring costs $40 per month Contract lengths Starting at 42 months Installation options Professional Smart platform integration Alexa and Google Home

    Vivint Overview

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Vivint Smart Home signage. Similar to ADT, Vivint takes a pretty traditional approach to home security. Its systems have to be professionally installed and monitored, and it focuses on the customer experience — which means you don’t have to lift a finger. In my experience, Vivint’s professional installation service is on par and as top-notch as ADT’s. \>> Compare: Vivint vs. ADT That said, it’s also one of the most technologically advanced security systems out there. That’s why Vivint home automation is a favorite for folks looking to automate their homes. Vivint works with all sorts of third-party smart device manufacturers, so this may be the right system if you want to be able to control your thermostat, lights, and security cameras all from one place.

    Vivint’s Benefits

    The headline here is Vivint’s smart home integrations. Not only does it work with Alexa, Google Home, and, to a lesser extent, Apple HomeKit, but it also works with Philips Hue smart lights, Nest thermostats, and a whole slew of smart home equipment to modernize your life. When I was testing the Vivint system, I couldn’t get enough of controlling everything with my voice — so much so that my partner had to poke her head out of her office and politely ask me to shut my trap. \>> Read More: The Best Home Security Systems for Google Home Aside from making you feel like Captain Kirk, Vivint’s equipment is all top of the line and outfitted with the latest and greatest in artificial intelligence analytics and other high-tech protections. I’d specifically point out Vivint’s cameras’ smart detect and deter features that identify potential lurkers and scare them off with light and sound. The feature works surprisingly well, and it noticed me every time I tried to slink up to my walkway or hop the gate to my backyard. More on that in my review of Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro.

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Vivint Outdoor Cam Pro

    Vivint’s Drawbacks

    Similar to ADT, the primary drawback of Vivint is the eye-watering price. I’ll get into more detail below, but the systems can easily cost thousands of dollars. If that’s in your budget, then no problem. But if you’re trying to protect a bigger property with a Vivint system, expect your bill to rack up quickly — especially if you want both indoor and outdoor cameras. \>> Learn More: Best Security Systems for Large Homes Another potential drawback is that since the majority of its equipment is proprietary, no other security provider will be able to use it. If you decide to cancel your service with Vivint, the high-tech cameras you purchased will become obsolete. That’s where ADT has a bit of an advantage, since it has a partnership with Google. Even without ADT monitoring, you can use Nest Cams as standalone security cameras.

    Vivint’s Costs

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Our Editor, Gabe Turner, Installing Vivint Each one of Vivint’s security systems is bespoke, which means you won’t find pricing information for packages on the website. The company says its systems start at $29.99 per month, but it’s unclear how long the contract term is or the size of the system. (Our plan cost $60 per month for five years.) If you’re interested in Vivint’s pricing, the best thing to do is request a quote. It’s free, and there’s no huge pressure to buy. To give you an idea of what you might pay, here are the rough costs of each piece of equipment the company offers that I received when I tested the system. Component Retail price Smart drive (storage) $250 Car guard $200 Smoke detector $100 Carbon monoxide detector $100 Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide monitor $100 Smart lock $180 Garage door controller $100 Smart thermostat $170 Lamp module $50 Doorbell Camera Pro $250 Outdoor Camera Pro $400 Ping Indoor Camera $200 Indoor Camera Pro $200 Spotlight Pro $250 Water sensor $50 Flood, freeze, and heat sensor $50 Smart sensor $50 Panic pendant $50 Key fob $50 Tilt sensor $50 At $200 to $400, just one Vivint outdoor camera costs the same as SimpliSafe’s whole midrange system. You can see how things can add up pretty quickly. Keep in mind, though, that the system is extremely powerful and extremely advanced, which comes at a premium. \>> Compare Options: Vivint vs. SimpliSafe

    Vivint’s Monitoring

    Similar to the equipment costs, your monitoring costs will depend entirely on the size of the system. Vivint says it starts at $40 per month, but you should expect to spend $50 to $60 monthly. But that gets you around-the-clock professional monitoring protection. \>> Read More: Vivint Sales and Deals You can add home-automation features and video security to your monitoring package, but those options both cost more. The best option is to get in touch with Vivint, describe your security needs, and ask for a quote, and then weigh that estimate against what you see in my review. If you’re decking out your home with lots of smart home products and features, expect to pay at least $1,500 to $2,000 up front and $60 monthly.
  • 4. Frontpoint - Easiest System to Set Up

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024

    Product Specs

    Equipment Costs Starting at $99 Monitoring Options Professional only Monthly Monitoring Costs Starting at $49.99 Contract Lengths 1-36 months Installation Options DIY or professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home

    Frontpoint Overview

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Frontpoint’s yard sign. Let’s head back over to the world of DIY home security with Frontpoint. It’s not as big of a name as, say, SimpliSafe or Ring, but I’d argue that’s more a function of marketing than service. Frontpoint has been in the industry for over 20 years, and it’s every bit as powerful as its bigger-name competitors. Compare Options: Frontpoint vs. Ring Frontpoint does a good job of offering the best of both worlds when it comes to the ease of a DIY system and the power of professional monitoring. Just make sure you’re budgeting for a pretty significant monthly monitoring fee.

    Frontpoint’s Benefits

    One of the most interesting things about Frontpoint is how scalable it is. You can start with a very basic system and work your way up incrementally. Each system requires a monthly monitoring fee, but each system can accommodate up to 80 sensors and over 200 smart home devices. I ran up a $600 tab when I tested it because I wanted to test every piece of equipment the company offered, but you can get a perfectly reasonable system for a lot less and grow it over time. That’s its advantage as a DIY system compared to ADT and Vivint that require professional installation. Anytime you need new equipment, you can order it online and install it yourself. \>> Learn More: Frontpoint Frequently Asked Questions Similar to Vivint, Frontpoint is very accommodating to third-party smart home technology. It didn’t feel as futuristic or expansive, but it still felt plenty entertaining to tell Alexa, “Secure the perimeter.”

    Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
    Frontpoint’s keypad.

    Frontpoint’s Drawbacks

    The biggest drawback of Frontpoint is that every system requires a $49.99-per-month monitoring fee. That’s a pretty tough pill to swallow when you consider SimpliSafe’s most advanced monitoring is only about half the cost, and it includes live video verification. I’d like to see a self-monitored option, but you can read more about that in my SimpliSafe vs. Frontpoint comparison guide. Another turnoff is that nothing in Frontpoint’s tool belt really wows me. With SimpliSafe, it’s clearly the Fast Protect monitoring coupled with the cameras. With ADT, it’s the world-class monitoring. With Vivint, it’s the slick smart home integrations. Frontpoint, on the other hand, is pretty whole-wheat toast. It’s good for breakfast, but it’s nothing to get excited about. If I had to pick one thing that stood out with Frontpoint, it’s the web dashboard, where I was able to customize my system to my liking.

    Frontpoint’s Costs

    Despite a notable lack of a “wow” factor, Frontpoint offers solid security systems that will get the job done right. What’s more, they’re very affordable. I have more detailed information in my guide to Frontpoint’s costs, but here’s a quick rundown of its security packages. Pay no attention to that “regular price” column; I’ll tell you why in a second. Name Equipment Regular price Sale price Ultimate Home Security System

    • Hub
    • Keypad
    • Touch screen
    • Door sensors (5)
    • Glass-break sensor
    • Smart door lock
    • Flood sensor
    • Indoor camera
    • Doorbell camera
    • Yard sign and stickers $1,351.83 $419 Premier Home Security System
    • Hub
    • Keypad
    • Touch screen
    • Door sensors (3)
    • Doorbell camera
    • Yard sign and stickers $771.90 $169 Starter Home Security System
    • Hub
    • Keypad
    • Door sensor (1)
    • Yard sign and stickers

      $541.91 $99.99 There’s a trend I’ve noticed in the home security industry, particularly with DIY providers. They like to make up exorbitant “regular” prices, and then offer deep discount “sales” that they attach artificial deadlines to, usually in the form of big banners at the top of their websites that say something like, “Ending at Midnight!” Here’s a tip though: It never ends at midnight. I’ve been covering Frontpoint for years, and I’ve never seen its packages cost full price. Don’t feel like you have to act quickly to take advantage of savings. You’ll always get a “discount.”

      Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
      The Frontpoint security system. Frontpoint isn’t the only offender either. SimpliSafe is guilty of it, and so is Abode. I’m sure there’s some pseudo-psychological marketing reason behind the tactic (it creates false scarcity), but it just feels a little weird to me. \>> Learn More: Abode Home Security Review Keep in mind, though, that there are legitimate ways to save on a home security system from the company. Check out my guide to Frontpoint’s deals for more information. Similar to SimpliSafe, Frontpoint lets you add individual pieces of equipment to any system or even build your own. Here’s a list of what it offers and the prices. Component Price Carbon monoxide sensor $65.49 Door or window sensor $19.24 Doorbell camera $109.99 Extra keypad $30.24 Flood sensor $24.74 Garage door tilt sensor $24.74 Glass-break sensor $41.24 Indoor camera $65.99 Keychain remote $17.59 Motion sensor $38.74 Outdoor camera $126.49 Outdoor smart plug $27.49 Premium indoor camera $109.99 Smart door lock $109.99 Touch screen $82.49

      Frontpoint’s Monitoring

      Here’s a breakdown of everything that comes with the Frontpoint monitoring package:
    • 24/7 monitoring
    • Cellular backup
    • Automated system check
    • Unique user codes
    • Crash-and-smash protection
    • Geo-location services
    • Mobile alerts
    • Text notifications
    • Remote access and control
    • Sensor history
    • Live video streaming
    • Video and image history
    • Motion triggered alerts That’s a pretty robust monitoring system — a lot more than SimpliSafe offers with its standard plan. Is it worth $50 per month? That’s for you to decide, but I wouldn’t consider it bare-bones by any means.

How Do Wireless Security Systems Work?

Wireless security systems typically connect devices together using a wireless protocol. This could include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Zigbee, although some use a proprietary radio frequency to make their devices talk. Most wireless systems also connect to a monitoring center for professional monitoring, and they do that wirelessly too. Internet-connected systems are the most common, although cellular systems are much more reliable.

Through the mobile application, the user can control the system’s wireless components, arming and disarming sensors, checking the status and battery level of devices, and other capabilities. If the user has professional monitoring, the wireless protocol will also connect the components to the company’s monitoring centers so their staff will be alerted if any of the sensors go off. Then, remotely, they can check on the situation and call emergency personnel if needed.

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
ADT Control App Main Screen

Are There Benefits to Using a Wireless Home Security System?

There are a few major benefits to using a wireless home security system. One of the key factors is reliability, specifically with systems that offer cellular backup.

Back in the day, the only thing a thief had to do to disable your alarm system was cut your landline — a pretty simple task for anyone handy with a pair of bolt cutters. Now, with data traveling over Wi-Fi with cellular backups, nothing — not even power outages — will take out your system. That’s pretty handy.

What Are the Drawbacks of Using a Wireless Home Security System?

Most people prefer wireless systems, but there are cons to consider too. One is the cost, since wireless features can drive up the price of security systems.

Another is the possibility of signal interference, especially if you live in a larger space. Without the use of signal repeaters, for instance, wireless sensors may be prone to disruptions.

Finally, the price of professional monitoring isn’t always cheap. Landline systems are cheaper to monitor, whereas cellular systems cost about $10 more per month.

Methodology: How We Test Wireless Security Systems

We tested the six security systems on this list for three to six months each before making our decisions, drawing from testing nearly 40 different home security systems. We installed all the systems in our actual homes and offices, judging them on a variety of criteria, as we explain in our home security guide. Based on those tests, we compared different home security systems to see which wireless ones performed best. Below are some of the criteria we used to develop the list.

Wireless Protocol

Wireless home security systems typically connect to their mobile applications via Wi-Fi. The big disadvantage of Wi-Fi–only systems is that if your Wi-Fi is unstable or if your power goes out, you may not be able to control or monitor your system, which could be a huge issue.

Some other options that aren’t affected by power outages are cellular or landline backup, the latter of which, as you may have guessed, requires a landline. Although these forms of backup may require additional fees, their biggest advantage is that they can’t be cut, unlike an internet router. Power blackout or not, those backups will keep your wireless home security systems connected to both your app and the monitoring center.

Equipment

You’ll need to consider exactly what equipment you’ll need. There are a lot of different components to consider, but the most important are motion sensors, entryway sensors, and security cameras. Bonus points for providers that also provide environmental-protection devices, such as flood, fire, and carbon monoxide sensors.

Best wireless home security system reviews năm 2024
SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera

Monitoring

Are you going to monitor your system yourself, leave it to the professionals, or a combination of the two? All smart security companies offer some form of self-monitoring through their mobile app, but some also require professional monitoring, which is optional with others.

Contracts

Some security systems don’t require any recurring costs whatsoever, but many do. With those recurring costs come contracts — typically month to month, yearly, or more. Be sure to find out the true length of your contract and whether you can get out of it without losing more money. Some security companies have come under fire for not disclosing the true length of their contracts, so that’s something you’ll want to nail down before purchasing.

FAQs About Wireless Home Security Systems

Now I’ll go over some of the questions I get asked most frequently.

  • How reliable a wireless security system is really depends on the company it comes from, as well as its wireless protocol and mobile application. Less-reliable systems rely purely on Wi-Fi, which can go out, or have buggy mobile applications that can lose connectivity to the wireless components.
  • You don’t need a home security system, but you don’t have to lock your doors at night either. A burglary happens almost every 30 seconds in the U.S., and unless you’re taking proactive measures to protect yourself, you may become a victim.
  • In the past, the answer would have been yes. Today’s home security systems are fairly reasonable, however, especially if you select a DIY provider. Most modest homes can be protected comprehensively for around $200 to $500.
  • Absolutely. Modern DIY home security providers make it extremely easy to install an alarm system in your home. Most of the time, you won’t even need power tools. If you can stick a magnet to a fridge, you can set up a SimpliSafe motion sensor.

Some home security providers offer the option to self-monitor their systems, but it’s not recommended. You’ll usually miss out on important system functionality, and you won’t have access to powerful protections such as professional monitoring.

Who has the best wireless security system?

Summary: Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2024.

What are the best wireless security cameras in Australia?

Best wireless security cameras.

Reolink Argus 3 Pro. : Best overall..

TP-Link Tapo (Static) : Best budget camera..

Eufy S340. : Best for outdoors..

Google Nest Cam (Battery) : Best design..

TP-Link Tapo (Pan-Tilt) : Best viewing range..

Ring Stick Up Cam Battery. : Best for Alexa..

What is the best wireless CCTV system?

Compare the best wireless security cameras.

What is the best security system for residential home?

The Best Home Security System.

Our pick. Ring Alarm Pro. The best DIY security system. ... .

Our pick. Ring Alarm (2nd Generation) If you don't need the Eero router. ... .

Runner-up. SimpliSafe The Essentials. Easy, reliable monitoring. ... .

Also great. Abode Smart Security Kit. The best security system for smart-home enthusiasts..