Best home security system

A home security system will alert you whenever someone enters your residence while you're away.

home security system
(Image credit: Ring)

Installing a home security system doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. The options in our collection come with the same types of hardware found in professional installations, but you can save money by doing it on your own. Whether you need door, window, or motion sensors, we have you covered. There are also some options with loud sirens or quick access to first responders. Read on to find the home security system that meets your needs.

Staff pick

home security system

(Image credit: Amazon)

Ring alarm 8-piece kit

Ideal for homes with multiple entry points

Your security system can do more than alert you when someone enters your dwelling. For instance, this option from Ring offers emergency contact buttons for the police, fire department, and paramedics. The set includes four window or door sensors, a motion sensor, a range extender, a base station, and a keypad. The entire system works with Alexa, so you can operate it with voice commands. As a bonus, the base station has a 24-hour backup battery for unexpected power outages. 

Sound the alarm

home security system

(Image credit: Amazon)

SimpliSafe 8-piece wireless home security system

Cellular connectivity built-in

If you'd prefer to have all of the bells and whistles a security system has to offer (literally), consider this option from SimpliSafe. You'll be able to deter unwanted guests with the incredibly loud (95dB) siren built into the base station. The set includes sensors to detect intruders but also has a panic button you can place in your bedroom or office in case of emergency. And for times when the internet service is unavailable, the base station offers a cellular connection, so you can still get help when you need it.

The basics

home security system

(Image credit: Amazon)

GE personal security alarm kit

A mesh network with sirens

These manually operated door alarms can be set to play a chime when someone enters through a door or sound the 120 dB alarm. You can set the individual sensors to home or away, allowing you to avoid hearing the chime if your family members are using the doors often. The included keypad requires a code to be entered within 45 seconds before the loud alarm sounds. This basic set is best suited for apartments where neighbors will hear the alarm since it does not have the functionality to alert authorities.

On video

home security system

(Image credit: Amazon)

Wyze home security system sense v2 core kit with hub

This set includes a camera

Install the sensors for this security system in minutes, thanks to the adhesive backing that you can place on any flat surface. There are two door or window sensors, a motion sensor, a camera, a keypad, and the Wyze system hub all included in this kit. The sensors also have an IP56 water resistance rating, so you can use them on a porch door without issue. Capturing video clips after dark is also possible because the included 1080p camera has a color night viewing feature.

Choosing your new home security system

If you want total control over your home security system, it's best to install it yourself. You'll be able to select the perfect amount of sensors, without paying monthly fees to rent all of the equipment. For most homes, we think the Ring alarm 8-piece kit is the best option. When you're experiencing an emergency, this system will help you contact first responders without finding and dialing your phone. There are buttons for the police, the fire department, and paramedics. We also like the Alexa integration, so you can command it from another room in your home. Finally, the 24-hour battery backup gives you peace of mind when power is unavailable.

We also think the Wyze home security system sense v2 core kit with hub is a good choice. Setting it up is as simple as attaching sensors with adhesive around your home and pairing them with the included keypad. This is the only kit in our collection that has a camera included, so you can get video clips of any detected activity while you're away, even after dark.

Which system will you set up to protect your family and belongings?

Nicole Cozma is a freelance writer for Future. She's known for being inquisitive and finding the tiny details that may otherwise go unnoticed. When she's not writing about products, she can be found playing Blizzard game titles, doing copy editing work, cooking, or expanding her photography skills.