The Best Wireless Security Systems

Sunday, March 23rd

2025 Wireless Security System Reviews

Frontpoint

• Security system kits from $99 to $499
• Monitoring from $44.99 to $59.99 per month
• Custom systems upon request
• Buy equipment upfront
• High tech with smart integrations
• ID protection as an optional add-on
• No contract required
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• "A+” rating from the BBB

For over 10 years, Frontpoint has dominated the wireless home security scene, offering a unique blend of self-installation and professional monitoring. What sets them apart is their ability to integrate with a wide range of home automation devices, regardless of their origin. This means customers can create a customized security system by combining Frontpoint's products with their own smart home devices, such as a Nest thermostat, for a truly personalized experience.

Pick your own devices or get a custom recommendation

Frontpoint's online store offers a competitive variety of wireless home security products, categorized by type, including home automation devices, cameras, and more. While their selection isn't overwhelming, you can easily integrate products from other retailers, such as Z-Wave smart home devices. For a truly customized system, you can contact Frontpoint's experts to receive a personalized quote and design a wireless security system for an exact fit with your home.

Pick a premade kit or build your own

If you want to go with a pre-built package, Frontpoint has that too. You can pick between three pre-made kits and a build-your-own service. All Frontpoint packages come with access to the Frontpoint app, providing you with a convenient and user-friendly way to manage your security system. Let's take a look at the options in greater detail:

• Starter Home Security System: This option features a selection of essential wireless devices. This package includes:
• 1x Frontpoint hub and keypad
• 3x Door/window sensors
• 1x Home defense kit (3 items)
• Indoor camera
• Cost: $99
• Premier Home Security System: This system is best for more in-depth home security. This package includes:
• 1x Frontpoint hub and keypad
• 1x Touchscreen
• 3x Door/window sensors
• 1x Doorbell camera (wireless or wired)
• 1x Home defense kit (3 items)
• Cost: $169 to $199
• Ultimate Home Security System: This system is best if you're looking for total coverage. It offers full control with more sensors, cameras, and home automation equipment than other packages:
• 1x Frontpoint hub and keypad
• 1x Touchscreen
• 5x Door/window sensors
• 1x Motion sensor
• 1x Glass break sensor
• 1x Smart door lock (satin nickel)
• 1x Flood sensor
• 1x Indoor camera
• 1x Wired doorbell camera or a wireless doorbell camera
• Cost: $419 to $449
• Build Your Own: This service allows you to pick and choose your components with pricing varying based on your choices. At the time of this review, Frontpoint's Build Your Own package started at $99 with just the Frontpoint hub and keypad.

Monitoring from $44.99 to $59.99 per month

Finding the pricing information for Frontpoint's monitoring services was a bit of a challenge. After navigating the website's "Monitoring" tab, it wasn't immediately clear. However, a chat with Frontpoint's representatives ultimately provided the necessary details. The company offers three distinct monitoring packages, each with its own monthly price. The Starter Home package comes with a monthly fee of $44.99, while a more complete monitoring option costs $49.99 per month. These prices apply to customers who sign up for a 1- to 5-year contract. For customers who prefer month-to-month payments, the price increases to $59.99 per month.

Add ID theft protection

One of the standout features of Frontpoint's monitoring service is its inclusion of ID Protect, a unique identity theft protection program. Powered by Allstate, this service offers customers a safeguard against identity theft, potentially eliminating the need for separate plans like LifeLock. As an optional add-on, ID Protect sets Frontpoint apart from other security providers and provides customers with added peace of mind.

Top customer service and 30-day guarantee

Frontpoint has earned an impressive "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. On review sites like Trustpilot, customers give Frontpoint an average rating of 4 stars, with over 10,000 reviews showcasing widespread satisfaction. Homeowners frequently praise the system's impressive performance and user-friendly interface. For instance, one customer transferred their Frontpoint system to a new home without any issues with reinstallation. With Frontpoint's 30-day risk-free guarantee, you can try out the system and service, and if it fails to meet your expectations, you can receive a full refund without any questions or conditions.

Our top pick for wireless home security

Frontpoint stands out from the crowd as a top-tier home security provider, offering packages that cater to a wide range of customers. The company's flexibility is evident in its easy-to-add features and exceptional customer service, which is available not only in the US but also in Canada. With an impressive "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau, Frontpoint earns a well-deserved 5-star rating from us, with no major drawbacks to report.

SimpliSafe

• Security system kits from $124.95 to $709.90
• Monitoring from $9.99 to $29.97 per month
• Buy equipment upfront
• High tech with smart integrations
• No contract required
• 60-day money-back guarantee
• 4.5-star average rating
• "A+” from the BBB

SimpliSafe stands out among home security providers by offering a genuine wireless approach, allowing customers to manage both installation and monitoring themselves. Established in 2006, the company has earned the trust of over one million customers across the US and UK. While SimpliSafe emphasizes self-installation, those who prefer professional setup can opt for installation services starting at $99, depending on location and system complexity.

Put together your perfect kit

SimpliSafe offers multiple avenues for creating your wireless home security system. You can either customize your system with SimpliSafe's assistance or choose from preset packages designed for different homes or security levels. The selection process walks you through choosing necessary components, so your system meets your home requirements while remaining within your budget. Options like cameras, hazard sensors, and add-ons are available, with transparent pricing displayed for each item.

7 kits to consider

For those seeking simplicity, SimpliSafe provides seven pre-designed kits, each addressing specific security concerns:

• The Beacon: Includes two Wireless Outdoor Security Cameras, two Motion Sensors, and four Entry Sensors. Priced at $709.90 or $345 on sale.
• The Lighthouse: Comprises one Wireless Outdoor Security Camera, one Motion Sensor, and three Entry Sensors. Priced at $7469.93 or $234.96 on sale.
• The Haven: A kit featuring various sensors and devices for water and fire detection. Priced at $519.86 or $259.93 on sale.
• The Knox: Offers double smoke detection, motion sensors, entry sensors, and two 105dB sirens for increased security. Priced at $479.87 or $239.93 on sale.
• The Hearth: Includes smoke detection, motion sensor, entry sensors, and an extra 105dB siren. Priced at $399.91 or $199.95 on sale.
• The Essentials: Covers main entry points with motion and entry sensors. Priced at $279.97 or $139.97 on sale.
• The Foundation: Designed for small homes, featuring entry and motion sensors. Priced at $249.96 or $124.95 on sale.

Monitoring from $9.99 to $29.97 per month

SimpliSafe offers four monitoring options, ranging from unmonitored to professional monitoring with 24/7 support. Your service also comes with a 3-year warranty on your equipment. Regardless of the plan, you can remotely control your system and receive alerts for alarms and camera activity. The monthly monitoring fee stays the same no matter how many devices are in your system. Self-monitoring starts at $9.99/month, while professional monitoring is priced at $29.97/month for full monitoring coverage. You can also choose to opt out of monitoring, which has no cost but still includes the warranty.

User-friendly and reliable

SimpliSafe offers a risk-free trial period, allowing you to test their services and equipment for 60 days without commitment. If you're not satisfied, you can cancel and receive a full refund. With an impressive "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau, SimpliSafe has earned a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. In fact, customers and security experts alike have praised SimpliSafe for its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing options, giving it an average rating of 4.5 stars.

Top budget-friendly security

SimpliSafe has reclaimed its position as a top contender in the wireless home security market. With a range of pricing options and frequent sales, SimpliSafe's wireless systems offer affordability and ease of use. Backed by positive customer feedback and BBB accreditation, SimpliSafe can be trusted as a reliable choice for securing your home and earns a very high rating in our review.

Cove

• Security systems under $500
• Monitoring from $18 to $27.99 per month
• Quiz-based assistance for creating a bespoke system
• Buy equipment upfront
• High tech with smart integrations
• Triple Touch Alarm Response
• No contract required
• 60-day return policy
• 4.4-star average rating

Cove offers a reliable and budget-friendly wireless home security solution that has quickly gained recognition in the industry. As a relative newcomer, Cove has already received accolades, including a top spot from US News and World Report. The company's innovative approach to alarm response is what sets it apart. When an alarm is triggered, you'll receive an instant text notification and the LiveAssist feature will engage, attempting to reach you through your control panel. If you verify an emergency, Cove will dispatch emergency services. This system minimizes false alarms, saving you from unnecessary fees and potential consequences.

Tailored recommendations for your space

Cove makes it simple to get started with a customized security system. Begin by answering a few questions, and you'll receive a recommendation based on your home. You'll need to provide details on if you already have an existing alarm system and information about your pets. Once you've completed the questionnaire, Cove will generate a personalized security system recommendation for your home. The best part is the flexibility to customize the setup to suit your unique situation. You can add or remove components, such as extra cameras for increased coverage or skipping sensors for certain areas, without having to purchase a pre-packaged system.

Custom systems without high premiums

Cove's unique approach allows you to build a system designed for your specific home, rather than relying on pre-packaged kits. This means you have the freedom to start with the quiz or simply select individual components that fit your needs. With Cove, you won't pay a premium for customization, and you'll have the assurance that your system is designed specifically for your space, rather than being a generic solution for all customers.

Monitoring for $18 to $27.99 per month

Following the system selection, you'll decide between two monitoring options: Cove Basic and Cove Plus. Both plans provide reliable, 24/7 monitoring of all alarms and environmental alerts through AT&T's 4G LTE network. This way, your system is always protecting you and your home. The plans also feature a 24-hour battery backup, smash-and-grab protection, and regular automated system checks. The Basic plan costs $18 per month and comes with a one-year equipment warranty. The Plus plan, at $27.99 per month, offers lifetime warranty coverage, a locked-in rate, and a monthly credit toward new equipment purchases. Plus, it enables camera integration and remote control through smartphones, Alexa, or Google Home. With no contract required, you can cancel your monitoring plan at any time.

Highly satisfied customers

Before committing to Cove's system, you'll have a 60-day window to test it out without any financial risk. If you're not completely satisfied, you can return the equipment and Cove will take care of the shipping costs. Despite being a relatively new company, Cove has established a strong reputation. They've earned a "B" rating from the Better Business Bureau and have only received a handful of complaints. On top of that, all reviews currently available at the BBB have 5-star ratings, and Cove's overall average rating on Trustpilot is 4.4 out of 5 stars. With over 4,000 customers giving Cove a perfect score for its exceptional support, seamless setup, and reliable security equipment, it stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Best in class for a system tailored for your home

Cove's products offer a convenient and budget-friendly solution for homeowners. With no contracts to bind you, you're free to try out their equipment and services without commitment. Customers rave about Cove's wireless home security systems, making it a top choice for those looking for a hassle-free solution. The company's transparent pricing for equipment and monitoring makes it easy to see what you're getting. Given its affordable pricing and customer-driven approach, Cove is definitely worth considering for your wireless home security setup.

Alarm Relay

• Security kits from $198 to $438
• Monitoring from $8.95 to $19.95 per month
• Buy equipment upfront
• Simple low-tech systems
• Contract required
• "A+” rating from the BBB

Many homeowners haven't heard of Alarm Relay, even though the company has been around for over 50 years. Alarm Relay serves the US, Puerto Rico, and parts of Canada. If you're looking for a wireless home security system loaded with the latest gadgets, Alarm Relay might not be the best fit. This company focuses on providing the essential components needed for a reliable security setup without the high-tech frills. However, if you need a straightforward system with dependable monitoring, Alarm Relay is worth a look.

Not a lot of devices available

Alarm Relay doesn't have a lot to offer, but it does cover the basics. For example, under the Sensors category, you'll find options for detecting smoke, carbon monoxide, and flooding, as well as entry sensors for doors and windows. On the other hand, the Cameras section includes only three choices for both indoor and outdoor use, along with video doorbells.

Add your old tech to your Alarm Relay system

Unlike many wireless home security systems that require you to buy their specific equipment, Alarm Relay allows you to use what you already have. By clicking the "Need Help" button on their site or calling their customer service number, you can get assistance in integrating your current tech into an Alarm Relay setup. Even if you're starting fresh, Alarm Relay can help you evaluate your security needs and recommend the right equipment for your situation.

Five kits to choose from

If you don't know where to start or you don't want to piece together a home security system from scratch, you can grab one of Alarm Relay's five kits. Here's what you can expect from the options:

• Alula Connect Standard Kit: This kit contains Alula Connect+ with On-Board Ethernet, along with 2 door/window transmitters and 1 pet-immune PIR/motion detector for $198.
• Alula Connect + Full Kit: This kit comes with the same features as the standard kit but adds a pre-installed Z-Wave card, an extra door/window transmitter, and one wireless TouchPad for $288.
• Alula Connect + Premium Kit: This includes all of the features of the Full Kit but also includes a pre-installed Verizon or AT&T LTE M1 cellular card for $388.
• Honeywell Pro A7 Kit: This kit includes one Resideo ProA7 touchscreen panel, a Wi-Fi card, three door/window transmitters, and a motion detector for $338.
• Honeywell Pro A7PLUS Kit: This includes all of the features of the A7 Kit plus a Verizon or AT&T cellular card for $438.

Monitoring from $8.95 to $19.95 per month

If you're looking to add monitoring from Alarm Relay, there are three pricing options to pick from including landline, internet, and cellular connectivity. The prices for these plans cost $8.95, $13.95, and $19.95, respectively. Some reviews showed that customers' monitoring costs increased within the first three years, but after that, the cost remained constant. However, we couldn't find any statements about cost increases on Alarm Relay's website. You are required to have a contract with Alarm Relay.

Reviews show a reputation decline

Alarm Relay has an impressive "A+" rating and accreditation. The company also has zero complaints filed on the BBB. Despite their flawless BBB record, Alarm Relay has recently received a lot of complaints from customers on other review sites. Recent comments state that Alarm Relay "used to be good” but is no longer a reliable security company. Since 2022, customers have been leaving reviews that highlight systems being offline, individual components breaking, and difficulties with customer service. On Trustpilot, the average rating for Alarm Relay is just 2.9 stars.

Now a mid-tier service

At one time, Alarm Relay was one of our top choices for basic wireless security systems. However, with the recent decline in its reputation, we're not as confident in Alarm Relay anymore. Getting a totally wireless system that isn't reliable makes it hard to actually protect your home. For this reason, Alarm Relay isn't as competitive as it used to be. You might want to look for a company that provides better support for your wireless home security system. Given the changes in its reputation, Alarm Relay gets a mid-tier rating.

ADT

• Security system kits from $194.98 to $744.92
• Monitoring from $45.99 to $49.99 per month
• Buy equipment upfront
• Returns within 6 months
• "A+” rating from the BBB

If you're considering buying a wireless security system, ADT is probably one of the first names that comes to mind. With nearly 150 years in the business and over six million residential clients in the US, ADT has been recognized by Newsweek, PCMag, Forbes, and other publications for their services. Many homeowners choose ADT for their excellent monitoring. ADT provides 24/7 coverage like any other provider, but its nine customer service and monitoring centers offer an extra layer of reliability. This extensive coverage is especially valuable during widespread power outages or storms, when smaller home security companies might struggle to provide assistance.

Start with a build-your-own system

While the ADT selection is available as individual products at first glance, trying to actually purchase any products leads you to a page where you can build out a kit. The kit starts with basic items and you can add anything else you like on top of it. The required items include:

• 1 ADT Smart Home Hub
• 1 ADT Door/Window Sensor
• 1 ADT Yard Sign
• 1 ADT Window Sticker
• 1 ADT+ App

This starts at $194.98 and the price cap depends on how many devices you add to your build before you check out.

Pick from two kits

ADT offers two other pre-built kits outside of the build-your-own option:

• Starter: This basic package costs $389.96 and includes:
• 1 ADT Smart Home Hub
• 2 ADT Door/Window Sensors
• 1 Google Nest Doorbell (battery)
• 1 ADT Yard Sign
• 1 ADT Window Sticker
• 1 ADT+ App
• Premium: This more advanced package costs $744.92 and includes:
• All of the features of Starter
• 1 Google Nest Cam (indoor, wired)
• 1 Google Nest Cam (outdoor/indoor, battery)
• 1 ADT Smoke Detector
• 1 ADT Water & Temperature Sensor

Not everything is wireless

However, during our research, we did notice that not all of the features in these kits are wireless. For example, the Google Nest Cam for indoor use is wired. While this doesn't change how easy it is to use with the rest of your system, if you're looking for 100% wireless home security products, you may not find that at ADT.

Monitoring from $45.99 to $9.99

Depending on where you live, ADT's monitoring costs typically start at $45.99 to $49.99 per month depending on which package you choose. The higher fees will apply if you have equipment for remote video viewing and recording. As a bonus, you can install your own system, but if you want ADT to do it, it can cost well over $500 to do so. There are also contracts required with ADT, which may not appeal if you're looking for something with no commitment.

Double-check the reputation of your local ADT

ADT offers a six-month money-back guarantee, but it has some conditions. To qualify for a refund, there must be a system-related issue that ADT can't resolve within the first six months. This means you can't simply change your mind about the system. Big companies often receive a lot of complaints, and ADT is no exception. Despite its "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, ADT has a significant number of negative reviews. Out of 2000 reviews outside of the BBB, 85% gave ADT the lowest rating of one star. Customers report major issues with resolving equipment problems. However, your experience can vary greatly depending on the local ADT partner. Some local partners have excellent reputations, so you may want to research the ADT retailer in your area.

Best for those who want a big-name

Is ADT worth the investment? It depends. We appreciate ADT's long history and extensive monitoring coverage. However, the high installation costs, long contracts, and higher-than-average monthly fees might not be worth it for everyone. If you have the budget and prefer a well-known company, ADT could be a good choice. Otherwise, you might get better value from a higher-ranked wireless security provider.

Guardian Protection Services

• Prices after calling for a quote
• Monitoring from $34.95 to $59.95 per month
• Buy equipment upfront
• No-contract option offered
• "A+” rating from the BBB

Guardian Protection has been providing reliable security systems for over 70 years. They take pride in being the first provider to be named Security Company of the Year twice, thanks to their excellent monitoring services and US-based customer support team. However, Guardian Protection's biggest limitation is its service area. They only cover parts of Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington DC. This means most Americans cannot use their services, so you may not be able to even consider Guardian Protection Services if you don't live in one of these areas.

Only purchase after calling for a quote

To see pricing for any of the security systems at Guardian Protection, you'll need to request a quote. While this used to be common in this industry in years past, modern sites are much more transparent, which sets Guardian Protection behind the pack. You can view and explore Guardian Protect's security devices and options, but you can't buy any directly from the site.

Kits have confusing names and no prices

Guardian Protection offers several equipment bundles, though their names don't clearly indicate what each includes. For example, what's the difference between a "Healthy (Green) Home" and a "Family First" setup? Instead of guessing, it's easier to use their "Get Started" button to take a short quiz that helps you find the right package for your needs. At the time of our review, there were 9 different packages to browse, which could take a lot of time searching for something you can't actually buy until you call. To give you an idea of what to expect, here's a look at three of Guardian's packages:

• Bachelor(ette) Pad: Designed for "young professionals moving into a starter home," this package includes a portable touchscreen panel, three door/window sensors, one motion detector, one smoke detector, and a video doorbell with package notifications.
• Home Security Essentials: Similar to the Bachelor(ette) Pad, but it swaps the doorbell for a smoke and heat detector. Guardian claims it includes basic home automation, but we didn't see any such equipment listed.
• The Works: This is their most comprehensive package, featuring a medical pendant, various smart home devices (like a thermostat, garage door opener, and door lock), and room temperature sensors.

Remember, you can't buy any of these packages from the site. You have to call Guardian Protection to learn more.

Monitoring with contract from $34.95 to $59.95

From our research, their monthly monitoring costs range from $34.95 to $59.95, plus the price of the equipment you choose, though you'll need to call Guardian Protection to get solid numbers for your home. Guardian Protection doesn't openly disclose its contract requirements, but its Terms and Conditions reveal that most of its systems come with a monitoring contract of one to five years. There is a no-annual-contract choice, but you do need to spend a lot on devices to qualify for the no-contract option.

Mixed reviews, but a solid BBB score

Guardian's reputation with the Better Business Bureau is impressive as it holds the highest rating of "A+" Despite this, the third-party reviews for Guardian Protection aren't ideal. The company only shows a 1.6-star average from review sites like Consumer Affairs. There are some better reviews on sites like Trustpilot, which show a 3.9-star average rating, but there are still a number of reviews complaining about false alarms or frustrating customer service.

An average option with limited service area

For those within Guardian Protection's service areas, this is a decent service for a wireless home security system. They offer a good range of packages that provide the necessary equipment without unnecessary extras. However the lack of transparency is a major drawback, and with a range of companies offering better deals and clear pricing, Guardian Protection Services is really just average. It's a good idea to explore all your options before committing to Guardian Protection.

Ring

• Security system kits from $199.98 to $944.84
• Monitoring from $4.99 to $20 per month
• Buy equipment upfront
• High tech with smart integrations
• No contract required
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Ring, founded in 2013 by Jamie Siminoff and acquired by Amazon in 2018, is known for its smart home gadgets like video doorbells, security cameras, and alarms. It's a popular system, often advertised online. Many customers try it due to the helpful connectivity features and fully wireless setup. They offer services in both Canada and the US, and their systems use the Utah-based Link Interactive. This means your system can connect to home Wi-Fi or use the 4G LTE network if Wi-Fi is unreliable; this way alerts are always sent through the fastest pathway available.

Pick your ideal system with free shipping on $49+

Ring lets you build a custom home security system with a variety of wireless components. Whether you want just the basics or a full suite of devices, you can select what you need. Rather than using a quiz like other companies, you can just pick through the different Ring devices and add them to your online cart. Ring includes all the major wireless security system tools as well as some advanced monitoring devices like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, or smart home devices like light dimmers and thermostats and electronic locks. To save money, you can also check out the Certified Refurbished section on Ring's website. As an added bonus, orders over $49 qualify for free shipping.

Three kits to get started

If you prefer a ready-made kit, Ring offers three categories to choose from: Connected Starter Kits, Protected Starter Kits, and Whole Home Starter Kits. Each category has several price ranges to fit different needs, whether you want to secure just your front door or your entire home. You can either get the most basic option of a particular package or add on extra devices to service a larger home. Here's a breakdown:

• Connected
• 3 bundle options
• Focus on front door only
• Cost: $199.98 to $479.99
• Starter
• 3 bundle options
• Include 5-14 pieces for alarms and door monitoring
• Cost: $344.94 to $694.85
• Whole Home
• 3 bundle options
• Include 5-15 pieces for alarms, cameras, and doorbell
• Cost: $444.93 to $944.84

Monitoring for $4.99 to $20 per month

Ring offers three monitoring plans. The Basic Plan costs $4.99/month or $49.99/year, the Plus Plan is $10/month or $100/year, and the Pro Plan is $20/month or $200/year. Both the Plus and Pro Plans cover an unlimited number of devices in your home.

• The Plus Plan includes:
• 24/7 professional monitoring
• Alarm cellular backup
• SOS request for help
• Extended warranties for all devices
• For the Pro Plan, you can expect all of the Plus Plan features and:
• Camera home and away modes
• Arm and disarm your ring alarm digitally
• Create home security automations with alarm
• Alarm notifications
• Alarm event history
• Package detection

The Basic Plan allows you to self-monitor through smartphone alerts, with no contract required.

Customers report issues with service reps

Ring's reputation is mixed. They offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee for returns and have a "B+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. However, customer reviews are varied. On Trustpilot, over 70% of more than 4,800 reviews are 1-star, citing issues like short battery life and frequent system "offline" status. Many customers have reported negative experiences with Ring's customer service and complained about the fact that their Ring devices weren't actually monitoring due to outages.

Offline too often to be competitive

While Ring has benefits like a good return policy and affordable pricing, its customer service is a major concern. Compared to companies with better reputations and services, Ring falls short. In order to rise in the rankings, Ring would have to show a much higher commitment to customer service and offering more reliable equipment that is regularly online and monitoring as it is supposed to be. While it's not the worst wireless home security option, there's room for improvement, especially in customer service and the amount of time that the devices and services are actually online.

Skylink

• Security system kits from $89.99 to $189.99
• Buy equipment upfront
• Integrates with home automation
• No contract required
• 4.5-star average rating
• "A” from the BBB

In operation since 1990, Skylink is a global home security company with a presence in various countries, including the USA, Canada, and Vietnam. The company's US office, located in California, is its primary distribution center for the US and South America. Skylink oversees multiple brands in North America, such as Skylink, SkylinkNet, Atoms/Atoms Pro, SkylinkHome, Otodor, Household Alert, and Multi-Link. You can expect a pretty basic experience with Skylink, and the company doesn't offer any monitoring services. However, if you're interested in home automations, this service is a great place to start browsing.

A basic site with basic devices

While Skylink's Wordpress-based website may not immediately impress, browsing for devices is relatively straightforward. There is some clunkiness to a site designed on Wordpress, but you can find the products quickly despite the website being slow to load. The odd part is that Skylink primarily offers products for automating home entry, with garage door openers and home automation kits being the main categories. Overall, security seems to be a secondary focus of the company. Security options are limited to the SkylinkNet Security system items, with only a few standalone devices available for purchase.

Three kits to choose from

Skylink presents three kits priced between $89.99 and $189.99. You can find options that serve small or basic homes and those that need more security for a larger footprint:

• Mini System SK-150: Priced at $89.99, it includes an Internet Hub, Window/Door sensor, Motion sensor, Power adapter, Ethernet cable, and Mounting accessories.
• System SK-200: Valued at $129.99, it encompasses all features of the mini system along with two Window/Door sensors and a Keychain remote.
• System Plus SK-250: At $189.99, it offers additional components like two Motion sensors, a Wireless indoor camera, two Power adapters, and two Ethernet cables, in addition to the features of the SK-200.

No listed monitoring services

Despite offering surveillance cameras, Skylink's monitoring services appear to be solely self-administered. There is no mention of or pricing for professional monitoring. So, if you have professional monitoring on your list of must-haves, Skylink may be a disappointment for you. Depending on your feelings about monitoring, Skylink's DIY approach may send you off to explore alternative services. However, for those comfortable with self-monitoring and seeking a contract-free service, Skylink provides a viable security solution.

Hard to find legit reviews of Skylink

Skylink's parent company, Skylink Solutions LLC, has an "A" rating from the Better Business Bureau. Yet, reviews on other sites are scarce for a company operating since 1990. Third-party reviews on platforms like Facebook present an average 4.5-star rating. However, upon closer examination, most reviews cite complaints. The Facebook reviews sometimes had nothing to do with Skylink and were actually ads for other businesses, which was odd. Skylink-specific reviews talked about a range of complaints including camera malfunctions and challenges in reaching customer service, contradicting the high ratings.

An option if you want to self-monitor

While Skylink may be appealing if you're disinterested in professional monitoring services, the actual experience with their devices may fall short of expectations. Despite a generally positive reputation, customer reviews raise concerns about faulty devices and customer service challenges. Given the mixed feedback, Skylink ranks a little below the middle tier in our review.

Abode

• Security kits from $159.99 to $800
• Monitoring from $69.99 to $149 per year
• Buy equipment upfront or get monthly financing
• 30-day risk-free trial
• 1-year device warranties
• No contract required

Abode is based in San Francisco and was founded by a former ADT executive. The company offers wireless home security systems that focus heavily on smart home integrations. This allows you to connect various devices, even those bought from other smart-home brands. You can either build your own security system from scratch or choose from Abode's pre-made kits. The company promises easy installation and compatibility with outside systems, to provide both security and convenience for your household.

Abode has a home security quiz

Abode claims to simplify the process of building your home security system. By clicking the "build a system" button, you'll be taken to a quiz that asks if you want cameras, the type of property you have, and the number of doors and windows in your residence. You'll also be asked about smart-home integrations you might be interested in, like Alexa or Google, and if you're considering 24/7 monitoring. For our custom build, the cart included enough sensors for all our doors, glass-break sensors for less than half of our windows, two motion sensor cameras, and two video recording cameras. However, we needed more sensors to cover all our windows, which was odd given that we had specified the exact number of windows in the quiz.

Three pre-built kits

If you prefer not to customize each component, Abode offers three fully equipped kits to get you started:

• IOTA Package: This bundle includes an IOTA camera/motion sensor, a mini door and window sensor, and a key fob, priced between $379.99 and $800, depending on the number of pieces in the upgraded kits.
• Smart Security Kit: This package comes with a Smart Security Hub, a mini door/window sensor, a motion sensor, and a key fob, with prices ranging from $279 to $740 for upgraded kits.
• Abode Security Kit: This kit includes an Abode security hub, one mini door and window sensor, and a key fob, priced between $159.99 and $540, with options for upgrades.

Monitoring for $69.99 to $149 per year

If you'd like to add monitoring to your system, Abode charges monitoring fees on an annual basis. The standard plan costs $69.99 per year, while the pro subscription is $149 per year. There's also a self-monitoring option, but it only includes live video footage that you must review yourself.

Wireless system is often offline

Abode allows you to return your purchase within 30 days if you're not satisfied, and all devices come with a standard 1-year warranty. However, their reputation doesn't fully reflect this promise. The company currently holds a "C-'' rating from the Better Business Bureau, and customer feedback is mixed. While recent reviews are more positive, praising Abode's customer service, there are many complaints about the quality of the parts. Customers complain that devices in the Abode systems break within a matter of months. Numerous reviews from 2023 onwards also mention connectivity issues and cameras not staying online, which is a significant problem for a wireless home security system.

Pick a system that's reliably online

While Abode's quiz is a cool way to start building your security system, it isn't foolproof and often leads to more adjustments than a quiz-based system should. Plus with a range of connectivity issues once the system is installed, this Wi-Fi based system has some red flags. Despite having a decent return policy, Abode has too many issues to be a standout option. Until improvements are made, you're likely to have a better experience with a higher-ranked wireless home security provider so you get a system that actually stays online.

Brinks

• Call in for pricing
• Custom systems
• "B+” rating from the BBB

Brinks Home is a well-known name in wireless home security systems, recognized by Newsweek as a Best-in-State Winner for Customer Service. With over a million customers across North America, Brinks Home has made a significant mark in the industry. However, it has switched from offering packages and individual security items to a "call for a quote” policy, making it hard to gauge the cost of its services unless you call and talk to one of their sales professionals.

No devices for sale directly

While Brinks Home offers custom systems with over 100 smart home devices, you won't be able to get started just by browsing. Instead, you'll have to call in to get a quote for all the flood sensors, smart door locks, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for your home. Spend some time exploring the Brinks Home website to see which components you consider essential and which ones you might add later. This will give you a good idea of what to discuss with a sales representative.

No kits, all systems are custom

While Brinks used to have kits to browse, that is no longer the case. All of their wireless security systems are built for your home. So, to get an idea of the price or what items you'll be getting for your home, you have to call their toll-free number to talk to a sales rep. We're a little disappointed in the lack of transparency which could definitely turn some customers away if they prefer to do research before having to talk to a rep.

No pricing transparency at all

If you were hoping to get details about 24/7 monitoring costs on the Brinks website, you'll be sorely disappointed. Like all other aspects of the service, the pricing for monitoring isn't available unless you (yep, you guessed it!) call a sales rep. However, our research shows from reviews and customer feedback that most customers pay at least $39.99 for monitoring fees. These costs can vary depending on your location, the dealer, and any current promotions. Brinks Home doesn't make it clear, but our research also shows you can expect a minimum contract length of three years.

1-star average from multiple sites

Customer feedback on Brinks Home is not great by any means. The company has a mid-tier "B+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, along with about 1,000 one-star reviews from dissatisfied customers. Brinks also shows a 1-star average from other review sites like Yelp and Consumer Affairs. Given that Brinks Home has over a million clients, it's expected to have some issues; however, this is a distinctly poor reputation. The concerning number of 1-star ratings and Brinks' lack of price transparency raises a lot of red flags for us.

An example of what not to be

When comparing well-known names in wireless security, Brinks Home stands out, but not in a good way. With the total lack of transparency and 1-star rating averages, Brinks Home looks like the poster child of what not to do for home security. Our recommendation? Go with a wireless home security system that is more transparent to customers and has a better reputation for actually helping its homeowners.