In today’s environment, most self storage facilities are safer than your home. State-of-the-art security systems are a must. Digital video monitoring, electronic gates with keypad access, bright lighting, and secure perimeter fencing are evident on most properties. Many facilities are equipped with smart technology security that does everything from monitoring unauthorized activity at your unit to allowing for mobile entry and digital key sharing.

Searching for the best home security system for your needs can be mind boggling. There are so many companies with so many features that it’s hard to narrow down your options. We know you want your home to be as secure as the items in your self storage unit, and we put together some information to help you find the best system for your needs. When you are ready for a home security system, we hope that this information will help you make an informed decision. Safety.com has identified what, in their opinion, are the top providers and best values in home security systems for 2020. Take a look.

How to Compare and Choose Home Security Systems

Choosing a home security system can be an overwhelming task. Do you want all the bells and whistles or just the basics? This information from Safety.com will give you the details and information that you need to make the best decision for you and your family.

ADT 

• ADT has the most experience and the best guarantee in the industry.
• They have certified monitoring centers, a competitive equipment lineup that includes intrusion protection, environmental monitoring, video surveillance, and smart home automation.
• There is a contract required, no option for self installation, and no mobile app access.

Vivint 

• Vivint provides professional monitoring, home automation, mobile app access and extensive smart home options.
• You’ll have flexibility with your equipment configurations.
• They also offer flexible payment options; but, if you decide to finance, you’re facing an extended contract.
• Vivint has no self-installation option.

Frontpoint 

• Frontpoint has a great customer service reputation and a competitive range of security equipment and monitoring services.
• They also offer flexible month-to-month contracts, which are perfect for renters.
• The outdoor and doorbell cameras are only available as add ons.
• Their home automation devices are limited.

Protect America

• If you’re looking for a no-frills home security system that you can install yourself, Protect America is a low-priced option.
• They offer a price-match guarantee, smart home devices, and mobile app access.
• There is a contract required.
• Video surveillance, smart features, and smoke detection are upgrades.
• Cellular monitoring is the most expensive option.

SimpliSafe

• A 60-day risk free trial is a plus with SimpliSafe.
• They offer self-installation, self-monitoring, video verification and month-to-month pricing. You can take advantage of inexpensive professional monitoring, wireless equipment and cellular monitoring.
• Mobile alerts and smart home devices and capabilities are not available in the basic monitoring plan.

Alder

• Alder does not have a selection of packages, but works with customers to build security systems that are the best fit for their needs.
• The price of professional monitoring varies depending on the equipment you choose.
• You are covered by a lifetime warranty.
• DIY installation is easy, but there are no smart home devices.

Cove

• Cove is relatively new to the home security market and features the advantage of locked monitoring rates and a lifetime warranty.
• They offer a $5 credit each month, which can be used toward future equipment purchases.
• Cove does not offer packages, but you can easily build your own online.
• You will be able to use the InstaText function for fast notifications of activity in your home.
• A premium app subscription is necessary for many of the features, and there are no smart home devices.

Blue by ADT

• Blue home security systems give families flexible and affordable DIY security solutions.
• Their focus is more on privacy for your personal and home data with encrypted networks.
• You’ll find smart cameras, ADT professional monitoring, and smart home compatibility.
• There is a 7-day practice period but no smart-home add ons.

Brinks

• Brinks has flexible pricing and bridges the gap between DIY smart home security and conventional professional monitoring systems.
• Your options run from flexible monitoring for a Google Nest system up to a long-term plan with extensive equipment.
• A contract is required for all packages, and only top tier packages include the smart home hub.
• Award-winning customer service is a plus.

Link Interactive

• Link is the nationwide DIY branch of Mountain Alarm Fire & Security, a commercial and residential protection company founded in Utah in 1952.
• It’s family owned and operated and professional installation is not an option.
• You can build your own equipment package, but there are no smart home or video monitoring capabilities in the base plan.
• Contracts are offered on a 1-, 2-, or 3-year basis.

Make the Best Decision for Your Needs

If you’re in the market for a home security system, you want to make the best decision and get the best value for your needs. We hope this article helps you to think about your personal pros and cons and makes your decision easier. Stay safe!