Monday, July 14th
2025 Home Security System Reviews
CPI Security
- Technician-installed home security system
- Bespoke packages, not one-size-fits-all
- Two-way audio and video communication to verify emergencies
- 24/7 monitoring starting at $29.99/month
- Minimum equipment purchase of $499
- Smart home integrations available
- Free professional installation
- "No False Alarm” Guarantee
CPI Security, founded in 1991, is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based company that started with only 10 employees and 300 customers. Today, it has grown to become one of the top 10 largest security providers in the country with over 750 employees. Throughout its history, CPI has been recognized with numerous awards for excellence, including the SDM Dealer of the Year award twice, Central Station of the Year, and the Marvel Award. The company has achieved fast alarm response times and consistently ranks among the top 10 electronic security businesses.
Skip this company if you don't leave in the Southeast
Before we get too far in, it's important to know that CPI's home security services are only available in select areas of the southeastern United States, including the major metropolitan areas of Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Atlanta, and Knoxville. If you reside outside of these regions, you won't have access to their services.
Clients love these home security systems
CPI has built a strong reputation for itself within that service area. With over 30 years of service, it has earned accreditation and an "A+" rating from the BBB. Additionally, CPI has increased its average rating to 4.7 out of 5 stars based on nearly 2,000 reviews on Trustpilot, with 75% of those being a perfect five-star score. Clients have nothing but love for the customer support received from CPI and the overall performance of their home security systems. A big part of that satisfaction comes from CPI's "No False Alarm” guarantee, which pays fines for any system malfunctions or errors on their part, as long as the customer provides a copy of the alarm fine.
Pricing information is too hidden
However, CPI could do a lot more to let prospective customers know what to expect before making that call to a salesperson. In today's home security system marketplace, having to call for a quote is going to be an instant turn-off for a lot of people who are wary of getting signed up for pushy texts and calls from eager representatives. They don't provide any information upfront - about equipment pricing, monitoring fees, or contracts - and it was even harder this time around to sleuth that out.
Going deep
We went deep into the Terms and Conditions to find this: "For homeowners with approved credit, a minimum equipment investment of $499 and additional equipment may be paid in installments over 39 months at a 0% annual percentage rate through the CPI Smart Pay program.” If you're having CPI take over an existing system, the T&C also says that you'll need to make a minimum equipment investment of $549, on top of whatever equipment you already have.
Need more info on monitoring fees and contract lengths
And, poking around among user feedback, we feel fairly confident in saying that you should expect your monthly monitoring fees here to be at least $29.99 per month. As for contract lengths, we've seen reports ranging anywhere from 3-5 years, but there wasn't anything on the CPI Security website to confirm it. You'll want to read the terms of your contract very carefully, should you opt to use one of these home security systems.
Not a bad company but won't work for everyone
Although CPI Security has a good reputation and has won many awards, it's not the best choice for everyone. Unfortunately, they only provide services in a limited area of the US. On top of that, their equipment can be expensive and they might have long contracts with monitoring fees that are more costly than other companies. Because of this, CPI Security just doesn't make it anywhere near the top of our list of recommended home security providers.
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The 14 Best Home Security Systems
Which Home Security System is the Best?
Home security systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people seek to protect their homes and families from potential threats. With a wide variety of options available on the market, choosing the right system for your needs can be overwhelming. We can help you take the stress out of the decision-making process and ultimately select a home security setup that's perfect wherever you live.
Let's get started. As you already know, a home security system is a network of electronic devices designed to secure your home against theft, vandalism, and other possible dangers. A typical system may include sensors, cameras, alarms, and monitoring services.
Home Security System FAQ
Continued from above...
Sensors are the backbone of a home security system. They detect any unusual activity in and around your home and alert the system. The most common types of sensors are door and window sensors, motion sensors, and glass-break sensors. Door and window sensors are placed on the frames of doors and windows and detect any movement when the doors or windows are opened or closed. Motion sensors detect movement within a room, while glass-break sensors detect the sound of breaking glass. Pretty self-explanatory.
Cameras are an essential component of many home security systems. They provide visual evidence of any unusual activity around your home and can help identify intruders. Most cameras are connected to the internet, allowing you to view the footage remotely from your phone or computer.
Alarms are designed to alert you and your neighbors to any potential threats. When a sensor is triggered, the alarm will sound, and a notification will be sent to your phone or monitoring service. These companies monitor your home security system 24/7, and if a sensor is triggered, they will usually contact you to verify whether there is a genuine threat. If they are unable to reach you, they will contact the authorities on your behalf.
Now that you have a solid understanding of the basics of any home security system, what other factors might have an impact on your decision? Here are some criteria to consider:
- Professional install vs. DIY. Professionally-installed systems are designed for those who want a more comprehensive setup, often including cameras, sensors, alarms, and monitoring services. The professional install makes these systems more expensive than DIY systems but provide a higher level of security. DIY systems are designed for those who want affordability and are willing to install and maintain their home security system.
- Cost. Will you pay upfront for the service and/or equipment? What monthly fees are involved? Contracts can often range from 3-5 years, but not every home security system requires one.
- Portability of service. Can you take your home security system with you if you move, either by taking the equipment itself or transferring your contract and having a new install?
- Cancellation. What happens if you decide you don't need a home security system anymore? Many providers have hefty cancellation fees, especially if you signed a lengthy contract in exchange for no upfront equipment costs.
- Trial period. The best home security providers give you a grace period to see how the system works. After all, there's a pretty steep learning curve involved, and you want to make sure your system gives you the coverage and peace of mind you're paying for.
- Satisfaction guarantee/refund policy. Can you get your money back if you don't like how your security system works once it's installed?
- Customer feedback. What do other homeowners have to say about the home security system? Is the customer service team responsive? How often does the system register false alarms?
Top Consumer Reviews brings you the ultimate guide to the best home security systems on the market today. Our comprehensive review and ranking system is designed to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision and protect your loved ones both now and in the future.
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