Best Security Items for Your Home 2025- Best Security Devices

Best Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Perhaps the most important item to have in your home is a quality smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. These simple devices sound the alarm in the case of any fire, gas leak, or kitchen disaster so you can put out potential fires or call the fire department as soon as possible. Many of the models we recommend cover smoke and carbon monoxide, so you only need to purchase one unit. This includes the First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm which has lighting indicators as well as a voice location feature to alert you to where the fire or leak is.

For a step up, there are also smart devices like the Google Nest detector which not only provide emergency visual and audio alerts but also send notifications to your phone. While they cost more than basic detectors, it’s hard to put a price on the peace of mind you get from being alerted of an emergency situation when you aren’t home.

Best Smoke-Specific Option

First Alert SA3210 Battery-Powered Dual-Sensor Smoke Alarm

Now 16% Off

Best Smart Option

Google Nest Protect Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Best Combination Detector

FIRST ALERT SCO501CN-3ST Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Best Hardwired Option

First Alert BRK 3120B Hardwired Dual-Sensor Smoke Alarm

Best Security Cameras

Security cameras—both indoor and outdoor—serve as a deterrent for robbers and are the best way to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. Many feature motion-sensor lights, which automatically switch on when anyone is close enough to the camera. Options like the Ring Floodlight Cam Pro are great for front and back porches for visibility and while locking and unlocking the door.

Wireless security cameras connect via Bluetooth and are easy to install practically anywhere. The Google Nest Cam goes a step further, featuring a magnetic attachment on its mount for removal when it needs a charge.

Indoor cameras are typically wired due to the easier access to outlets and so you can install them and leave them be without needing to recharge every few months. Cameras like the Blink Mini 2 come with interactive features like two-way audio so you can talk back and forth with any kids or pets when you’re not in the same room.

Best Outdoor Camera

Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera

Now 33% Off

Best for Porches and Back Doors

Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro

Best Hybrid Camera

Google Nest Cam Outdoor or Indoor

Now 16% Off

Best Indoor Camera

Blink Mini 2 security camera

Now 50% Off

Best Smart Locks

Using your smartphone or smart home devices, you can lock and deadbolt your door from anywhere with a smart lock. Some have keyless number pads, like the Yale Assure lock and the Schlage Encode deadbolt, which is helpful if you have house guests or Airbnb renters.

Other smart locks, like the August Home Pro, work with your existing deadbolt and are quick and easy to install. The smart lock simply fits over any cylinder deadbolt and works by physically turning the bolt itself.

Best With a Keypad

Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt

Most Versatile

August Home Smart Lock Pro + Connect Hub

Best Low-Profile

Level Bolt Smart Lock

Now 19% Off

Best for Wi-Fi Connection

Best Doorbell Cameras

If you’ve got nosy neighbors, constant deliveries, or lots of visitors, doorbell cameras are the perfect greeter. They provide imaging of who is at the door, automatically detect motion and begin recording, and even offer two-way audio so you can chat with the person at your door even if you aren’t home. Most of the doorbell cameras we tested have these features and more. The Google Nest doorbell also comes with recognition software that automatically differentiates between packages, animals, and people for more accurate notifications.

Other key smart features offered by doorbell cameras like the Ring Doorbell Pro include integration with other smart devices in your home, so you can check who is at the door through your Alexa device. These devices sound a doorbell chime, too.

Best Recognition Software

Google Nest Doorbell

Now 21% Off

Most Comprehensive Features

Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

Now 22% Off

Universal Compatibility

eufy Security Video Doorbell Dual Camera

Easy Setup

Best Whole-Home Security Systems

If you want a complete overhaul, these comprehensive security systems are designed to cover every door, window, and hallway and come as complete kits. The Ring Alarm security system has contact sensors that automatically alert your phone and sound an alarm when a door or window opens, or if it detects motion. We also like this security camera system from Zosi, which provides 4K footage, surveillance, and motion-triggered light alarms for deterring intruders. Some newer smart home security systems, like the one we write about from SimpliSafe, automatically alert the police or fire department to emergencies.

Best Camera System

ZOSI 4K Ultra HD Security Cameras System

Most Complete

Ring Alarm Pro 8-Piece Kit

Easiest Installation

SimpliSafe 8-Piece Wireless Home Security System

Now 26% Off

Most Affordable

Wyze Home Security System Core Kit

Tom Price is an Associate Editor of Reviews for Popular Mechanics, and also contributes to Runner’s World, and Bicycling. He has previously covered product reviews, startup news, and even professional wrestling. In his free time, he enjoys watching pretentious TV, low-brow movies, and exercising for beauty, not health. If you are interested in exploring more of his work, check out his website.