Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2025
1. ADT – Best Professional Monitoring
Product Specs
| Equipment Costs | Packages starting at $269 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional and DIY |
| Monthly Monitoring Costs | Starting at $24.99 per month |
| Contract Lengths | Month-to-month or 36 months and up |
| Installation Options | Professional and DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
ADT Overview
ADT offers professional installation for its wireless home security system, or you can do it yourself. We set up an ADT Self Setup system and found it easy to get everything up and running. It even comes with ADT’s 24/7 professional monitoring service.
Pro Tip: We also tested a professionally installed ADT system and found we preferred this option. The technician chose the best places to set up the equipment and tested everything to make sure it worked properly.
What We Like
- Choice between DIY and professional installation
- Professional monitoring redundancy with 12 monitoring locations
- Wireless gear from Google Nest, including Nest Cams
- Dependable sensors
What We Don’t Like
- Cost could stack up if you spec up your system
- Professional monitoring can cost as much as $49.99 per month
- Requires a contract for professionally installed systems
ADT Wireless Equipment
Only one of ADT’s equipment requires hardwiring – the Nest Cam with floodlight – and that one connected to our Wi-Fi so it’s still partly wireless. On the other end of the spectrum, the Nest Cam (battery) we tested and the Nest Doorbell both have batteries and are completely wire-free.
Every other device in ADT’s lineup operates wirelessly. During our testing, the motion sensors, door sensors, glass break detectors, smoke alarms, and auxiliary sirens all ran on batteries. The ADT Base hub connects via Wi-Fi and cellular, using multiple, redundant wireless protocols to ensure uptime. It also supports the DECT ULE standard for interference-free communication.1
ADT Monitoring
While ADT Self Setup systems can function with self-monitoring, we recommend choosing a professional monitoring plan. During our tests, ADT’s average response time hit the industry standard of 30 seconds. If you’re using Nest Cams, the Complete package becomes essential. The plan includes features equivalent to a Nest Aware subscription, like activity zones and facial recognition.
| ADT Monitoring Plans | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|
| Secure | $24.99 |
| Smart | $29.99 |
| Complete | $39.99 |
During our testing, the dual-path connectivity proved invaluable. When we simulated a Wi-Fi outage, the system seamlessly switched to 4G LTE cellular backup in under two seconds. This redundant connectivity comes standard with all ADT monitoring plans, giving you peace of mind that help is always just a button press away.
>> Keep Reading: The Best Professionally Installed Security Systems
ADT Pricing
We found ADT’s pricing well within the average cost of home security systems, but significantly higher than the best affordable security systems. SimpliSafe, for example, charges as low as $31.99 per month even if you have security cameras. Ring Alarm Pro offers professional monitoring for just $19.99 per month, though it lacks ADT’s monitoring center redundancy.
If you’re starting fresh, ADT’s basic system now costs $349 and includes the Command Panel, three door/window sensors, and a motion detector. From there, you can customize with additional equipment. Most households will invest $600 to $1,000 for comprehensive coverage including cameras.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for ADT deals. During major shopping events like Black Friday, we’ve seen equipment discounts reach 30 percent. Just watch out for the terms and conditions. To learn more, see ADT’s FAQs.
Our Recommendations About ADT
ADT earns our top spot for reliable wireless security. Beyond the cellular and battery backup systems, their infrastructure is impressive. The 12 monitoring centers operate with full redundancy, including backup generators, duplicate communication lines, and real-time failover capabilities that kick in within seconds.
Something to Consider: ADT is in the middle ground in terms of cost. If you want something cheaper, our next pick, SimpliSafe is a great ADT alternative. It’s also one of the best self-monitored security systems, which means there are no required monthly fees.
2. SimpliSafe – Best Intrusion Prevention
Product Specs
| Equipment Costs | Packages starting at $250.96 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional and DIY |
| Monthly Monitoring Costs | Starts at $21.99 per month |
| Contract Lengths | Month-to-month |
| Installation Options | DIY or professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
SimpliSafe Overview
SimpliSafe started as a security system for renters. Now it’s just as good a security system for apartments as it is for large homes, largely thanks to their new intrusion protection features. Their Core, Pro, and Pro Plus plans now feature active monitoring, where agents can verify threats through your cameras and actively intervene. They warn intruders they’re being watched and recorded before sounding sirens and dispatching police. This also makes SimpliSafe one of the best security systems for businesses.
FYI: SimpliSafe’s monitoring prices have increased over the years. The Standard plan jumped from $17.99 to $21.99, while new premium tiers were added at higher price points.
What We Like
- No contracts
- Real-time agent intervention with premium monitoring plans
- Affordable prices with regular discounts
- 60-day money-back guarantee
What We Don’t Like
- Video doorbell requires hardwiring
- Monitoring price increases regularly
- All systems require an analog keypad
- Intruder Intervention feature is only available for the premium Wireless Indoor Camera
SimpliSafe Wireless Equipment
SimpliSafe’s equipment lineup is almost entirely wireless, with one exception. The Video Doorbell Pro requires connection to existing doorbell wiring, though it does support Wi-Fi connectivity. During our installation, this took about 20 minutes compared to the five minute setup for battery-powered alternatives.
The rest of SimpliSafe’s catalog can operate wire-free. The only exception is the latest Outdoor Camera. It can still work as a battery-powered device, but to access the new Active Guard Outdoor Protection feature, it needs to be plugged in to an outlet.
>> Learn More: Best Security System With Apps
SimpliSafe Monitoring
SimpliSafe offers some of the most advanced monitoring we’ve tested on a month-to-month basis making them one of the best no-contract security systems. Their tiered approach means you can scale monitoring based on your needs and budget:
| SimpliSafe Monitoring Plans | Monthly Fee |
| Self-Monitoring with Cloud Storage | $9.99 |
| Standard Monitoring | $21.99 |
| Core Monitoring | $31.99 |
| Pro Monitoring | $49.99 |
| Pro Plus Monitoring | $79.99 |
We strongly recommend at least the Core plan to access Intruder Intervention features. In our tests, monitoring agents spotted and deterred suspicious activity in under 10 seconds – significantly faster than traditional verification methods. Just remember, this feature requires the Smart Alarm Wireless Indoor Camera.
>> Read About: Best No Monthly Fee Home Security Systems in 2025
SimpliSafe Pricing
When you compare SimpliSafe and ADT prices, SimpliSafe is clearly more affordable. Sure, their Pro Plus monitoring plan costs more than any ADT monitoring plan, but that’s not required and every other aspect of SimpliSafe’s pricing is lower.
ADT also offers features like facial recognition and smart home automation, so it’s not comparing apples to apples. If you compare SimpliSafe’s costs to Cove’s pricing, SimpliSafe is the premium choice. You can get a Cove starter bundle for about $100, while SimpliSafe’s equivalent package costs $250. However, SimpliSafe’s advanced detection algorithms and faster response times justify the price difference.
Pro Tip: SimpliSafe often runs deals throughout the year, with savings up to 60 percent off. We recommend waiting for SimpliSafe’s Black Friday sale, which often brings the biggest discounts with free equipment thrown in.
Our Recommendations About SimpliSafe
If you want premium monitoring with flexibility, we recommend SimpliSafe. Their month-to-month contracts let you upgrade your monitoring during high-risk periods (like extended vacations) then scale back to save money. This flexibility, combined with their advanced AI detection, makes SimpliSafe ideal for security-conscious homeowners on a budget.
3. Vivint – Best Smart Home Integrations
Product Specs
| Equipment costs | Starting at $599 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monthly monitoring costs | Starting from $30 per month |
| Contract lengths | Starting at 42 months |
| Installation options | Professional |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Vivint Overview
Vivint’s wireless security system is state-of-the-art, featuring advanced home automation and burglar-deterrent features. The Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro we tested uses AI-powered Smart Deter technology to detect threats and then scare them off with a bright spotlight and a loud siren.
>> Compare: Vivint vs. ADT
Did You Know: Enhanced street lighting has been shown to decrease criminal activity in several studies.2 That’s why we consider the automated spotlight in the Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro to be so effective.
What We Like
- Hybrid wireless approach ensures a strong Wi-Fi connection to outdoor cameras
- Strong automation capabilities that prioritize security
- 4K HDR cameras with enhanced night vision
- High-quality mobile app
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive equipment with packages starting at $599
- All systems require a professional monitoring subscription
- Free installation is only available with certain deals
- Pricing is not transparent
Vivint Wireless Equipment
Most Vivint equipment operates wirelessly, with strategic exceptions for reliability. The Outdoor Camera Pro uses a hybrid Wi-Fi connection with a cable routed through the wall to ensure a strong connection. The Spotlight Pro also requires a cable to draw power from the Outdoor Camera Pro.
Thankfully, we didn’t need to stress over how we were going to make this work. All Vivint home security systems require professional installation. Our technician used specialized tools and weather-sealed connections, completing what would have been a weekend DIY project for us in a few hours.
>> Read More: The Best Home Security Systems for Google Home
Vivint Monitoring
Vivint’s Smart Home monitoring includes LTE cellular backup and 24/7 professional monitoring from their two monitoring centers. While they operate fewer monitoring centers than ADT, their advanced AI reduces false alarms, allowing agents to focus on real threats.
We should point out that Vivint’s monitoring plan also includes 10 days of continuous recording for its latest generation of cameras. To get that from ADT, you’d need to purchase a separate Nest Aware Plus subscription from Google.
>> Read More: Vivint Sales and Deals
Vivint Pricing
Similar to ADT, the primary drawback of Vivint is the eye-watering price. It’s possible to start for as low as $599, but realistic systems with adequate coverage typically cost $1,500 to $3,000. Our test system with four cameras, smart locks, and environmental sensors totaled over $2,000. Comparing Vivint to SimpliSafe, that’s well over double the price.
Beyond steep equipment costs, Vivint requires professional monitoring at $30 to $50 per month. Unlike ADT or SimpliSafe that allow self-monitoring, Vivint equipment becomes non-functional without an active plan, essentially turning your investment into expensive paperweights.
>> Learn More: Best Security Systems for Large Homes
Heads Up: Vivint’s contracts run 42 to 60 months with applicable early termination fees. There’s also a three-day cancellation window, which pales in comparison to SimpliSafe’s 60-day and ADT’s six-month satisfaction guarantees.
Our Recommendations About Vivint
Vivint suits anyone looking fora high-tech security system. Their AI-powered cameras prevented incidents during testing. The Outdoor Camera Pro scared off a suspicious individual before they even approached our door. f smart home integration matters more than price, Vivint’s seamless automation and professional-grade equipment justify the premium cost.
4. Frontpoint – Easiest System to Set Up
Product Specs
| Equipment Costs | Starting at $69.00 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
| Monthly Monitoring Costs | Starting at $14.99 |
| Contract Lengths | 1-36 months |
| Installation Options | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Frontpoint Overview
Frontpoint was one of the smoothest DIY installations we’ve tested. Each component arrived pre-paired to the hub with placement stickers and QR codes for instant app pairing. Our full eight-piece system installation was up and running in 22 minutes. Most of that time was spent deciding where to place sensors.
Compare Options: Frontpoint vs. Ring
Did You Know: Frontpoint’s not the only cost-effective DIY security system to offer impressive home automation capabilities. We were similarly impressed when testing abode’s CUE automation system.
What We Like
- Fastest setup time of any system tested (under 25 minutes)
- Affordable equipment with packages starting at $69
- Impressive home automation capabilities
- Helpful customer service
What We Don’t Like
- Required monitoring that’s comparatively expensive
- Purchasing a lower tier monitoring plan requires a phone call
- Constant sales makes pricing confusing
- Analog keypad required even if you buy a touchscreen control panel
Frontpoint Wireless Equipment
Almost all of Frontpoint’s equipment is wireless. They offer a wired video doorbell, but it also comes in a wireless configuration. It costs more and has a slightly lower field-of-view. We understand it costing more, but we wish it had the same 180-degree field-of-view as the wired one. That limitation prevented ours from seeing our packages, although it’d be able to see a porch pirate running off.
Their Premium Outdoor Camera still needs an outlet. However, its 15-foot weatherproof power cable can reach an outlet at most installation spots without extension cords. The constant power also enables advanced features like color night vision that quickly drains the battery of wireless cameras.
>> Learn More: Frontpoint Frequently Asked Questions
Frontpoint Monitoring
Frontpoint’s monitoring structure is frustrating to navigate. While they advertise comprehensive Ultimate Monitoring online, they do have more affordable options. However, these options require a call to their sales department. Here’s their pricing:
| Frontpoint Monitoring Plans | Monthly Price |
|---|---|
| Video-Only | $14.99 |
| Interactive Monitoring | $45.99 |
| Ultimate Monitoring | $49.99 |
Frontpoint Pricing
Pricing for Frontpoint’s equipment is great. They offer some of the best value in the industry with basic systems consisting of two entry sensors, a base station, and a keypad costing under $70. Add a wireless doorbell camera and that price only goes up by $90. That’s even lower than SimpliSafe’s prices.
The monitoring value proposition still struggles to keep up with the industry. At $49.99 for the plan that most people opt for, it costs more than ADT’s premium plan and the same as SimpliSafe’s Pro plan. The Essential plan that includes video storage and smart home integrations also costs more than the comparable self-monitoring plan from SimpliSafe.
>> Compare: SimpliSafe Vs Frontpoint
Our Recommendations About Frontpoint
Frontpoint excels for tech-savvy DIYers who value speed and simplicity. The 22-minute setup means more time for customizing automation scenes – like our favorite that flashes porch lights and sends camera snapshots when the doorbell detects motion after sunset. Just be prepared for occasional upselling when contacting support.
link
