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After testing the best business security systems on ease of use, technology, and more, we found ADT is the best option for owners.
Updated October 4, 2024
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If you own a business, having a security system isn’t an option – it’s a necessity. But while the market is full of business security systems, it’s not so easy finding the right one for your business. There’s a myriad of factors to consider, not to mention that every business has unique security needs.
We’re here to help. In addition to testing the best security systems in our homes, we also tested several security systems in our 1,000-square-foot office to see how they would perform in a business setting. We concluded that ADT – with its 12 monitoring centers, some of which are equipped to cater to businesses – is the best choice for many businesses. But since each business is unique, we also have four other picks that offer solid business security: Vivint, SimpliSafe, Cove, and Frontpoint. Let’s find out more about them.
We find the best way to make trustworthy and unbiased recommendations is by testing home security systems ourselves. We buy the equipment with our own money, install the systems in our houses, and test them for weeks or months. This approach means we can get a feel for what it’s like to live with the security system and learn about the apps, features, and response times. We then use these experiences to rank and recommend the best security systems.
We consider multiple variables when testing home security systems, but we find ways to make like-for-like comparisons. For example, we test all equipment in the same building – our own 1,000-square-foot office space. Using a real office helps us simulate real-life scenarios and make accurate recommendations.
We also purchase the same devices for every test system and place them in identical locations. That way, we can compare the individual performance of the devices.
Now, to select and rank the best business security systems, we used our knowledge and experience in the industry to establish the factors that should be top-priority. We came up with these:
Using these criteria, here is how we scored our top five picks:
Rating the Best Business Security Systems
We’re not like other websites that cover everything from photo frames to air fresheners. Our team of experts is trained to review safety and security equipment, and we focus on nothing else. We know what it takes to thoroughly assess security systems so our readers get in-depth and honest recommendations. The team members who wrote this review were:
Our team has over 75 years of combined experience, making us the most accomplished home security team online. Since SafeHome.org began in 2016, our work has been featured in multiple major outlets, including The New York Times and The Washington Post. As a team, we have achieved:
All of our recommendations are based on first-hand product experience and a deep understanding of the home security industry. Now, let’s take a closer look at our top picks.
ADT has been in business for over 140 years. In addition to its highly-rated home security system, it offers security solutions for both small businesses and enterprises. It has a vast network of over 200 locations in the U.S. in Canada, besides its 12 monitoring facilities. Those 12 facilities made ADT a great pick for businesses in particular because they allow it to offer highly-efficient and reliable professional monitoring. Based on our tests, ADT has one of the fastest response times in the industry.
Unlike the ADT home security system we reviewed, we had to schedule a consultation with an ADT rep to get our office security system. But that’s all good. When they learned that we’re security experts ourselves, they discussed their equipment options and showed how scalable ADT business systems can be. They even have automation options like access control and intercom systems, but they didn’t try to upsell us. We told them what we needed and they gave us a quote based on that.
The sleek ADT touch screen control panel orchestrates the whole system wirelessly.
We got a small system with a couple of motion sensors, two indoor cameras, a glass break sensor, an entryway sensor for our office front door, and a smoke alarm. The indoor cameras stood out because they were from Google Nest, and we know that they are some of the best indoor security cameras in the market. They even have facial recognition; you can learn more in our Nest Cam review.
Another aspect we liked was the scalability of ADT monitoring plans. We went with the top-tier subscription option to get 24/7 monitoring, and with a small additional fee, our Nest Cams recorded continuously. They kept a 10-day rolling video history, which we think is necessary for most businesses. And then with professional monitoring, we always got phone call notifications within 30 to 45 seconds after a sensor had been triggered and Alarm Messenger (text alerts) within five to 15 seconds.
ADT owes that efficiency to its 12 monitoring centers. They have more monitoring facilities than any other system we’ve tested. Some of those facilities are dedicated for businesses, especially enterprise-level companies. They deal with more than just physical security; ADT also offers managed cybersecurity solutions.
Pro Tip: Ask the consultant if the system comes with cellular backup. Most ADT systems do. Cellular backup ensures connectivity to the monitoring center in case the internet is down, which is why ADT is one of the best cellular security systems.
ADT offers outdoor cameras as well. It has a battery-powered outdoor camera and a wired-in floodlight camera, particularly for businesses with a parking lot.
We taught our Nest Cams to recognize our faces so that it would only alert us to the presence of strangers.
All ADT security cameras are from Google Nest. That’s good for businesses because Nest Cams are customizable. You can set detection zones, customize the types of notifications you receive, and even teach your cameras to recognize faces. Our office Nest Cams alert us only when a stranger comes in and pretty much ignores us while we’re working. We only set it to monitor all types of activities at night, when no one is supposed to be around.
The downside of these Nest Cams is their lack of local recording. We have a pretty strong internet connection, but if your place of business doesn’t, you might want to supplement ADT with better business security cameras.
Expert Tip: You may want to have your legal team or a legal professional review the security camera laws where your business is located before installing security cameras. Doing so could help you avoid legal trouble down the line.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $269 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $29.99 per month |
| Contract length | Starting at 36 months |
| Installation options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Vivint is one of our top automation home security systems, and that goes for business too. It’s simply more technologically advanced than options like SimpliSafe and Cove. For example, we learned from the Vivint specialist we spoke with that they have Car Guard vehicle monitoring systems, which can be useful for businesses with fleets of vehicles. But what we like about Vivint is its flexibility. It has equipment for different business types, and not just normal equipment – everything works with Vivint’s automations.
Our Vivint business security system was customized for us by a Vivint specialist, and afterwards, a technician installed our system too. We decided to get the same pieces of equipment as we did when we tested ADT and noticed right away that the Vivint system has the technological edge, even with just the hub. Vivint’s touch screen control panel allowed two-way talk with the Vivint response center, displayed live footage from our cameras, and synchronized our automation devices.
Our Vivint control panel showing security camera recordings.
We have what we like to call a smart office. We have a smart thermostat to keep ourselves comfortable throughout the day, our smart light bulbs respond to ambient light, and we have smart speakers all over. Vivint fitted right in, thanks to its Z-Wave compatibility. Vivint automation is truly among the best in the business.
Vivint roughly matched ADT’s professional monitoring service. It doesn’t have ADT’s 12 response centers, but it has two – one in Utah and another in Minnesota. That still gives Vivint an edge over other companies, especially the likes of SimpliSafe, Cove, and Frontpoint that outsource the service.
The response times were also impressive. Every time we triggered the system, we received a text alert in under 10 seconds and then a call alert 30 to 60 seconds later. One time that a team member stayed late and accidentally triggered the motion sensor, Vivint even spoke to her via the touch screen panel. She was asked to confirm her identity and give the secret passcode to cancel the alarm, so she did. Had she not been able to, Vivint would have called the police on her.
Pro Tip: Make sure all essential personnel know the passcode to cancel alarms. Your business could face false alarm fees and even legal charges if the police are repeatedly called to your business for false alarms.
While Vivint’s cameras don’t have the facial recognition feature of Nest Cams, they have something else. It’s called Active Deterrence, which works to deter potential criminals. It uses alarm tones and LED lights around the camera lens to warn potential lurkers and trespassers.
Here’s the Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro we tested at home.
We used the feature extensively when we tested the Vivint home security system, particularly the outdoor camera. But since we bought only the indoor camera for the office, we didn’t use it very much. We still had the feature turned on after office hours, and we set it to set off the Active Deterrence alarm when the camera sees a person for more than one minute. Fortunately, we never had any break-in incidents.
Pro Tip: We find that automated response from security equipment – whether it’s alarm tones or lights – is effective in deterring crime.
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $599.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $40 |
| Contract Length | 48 to 60 months |
At first glance, SimpliSafe looks like a simple security system. It started as one back in 2006, but the latest SimpliSafe equipment we tested in the office had the most advanced video monitoring feature. It’s even better than ADT’s facial recognition and Vivint’s Active Deterrence, because SimpliSafe’s response center itself monitors our office camera during emergencies. More on that below.
We didn’t have to call in to buy our SimpliSafe system; we did everything online, and it was quick and easy. They even have pre-made packages for businesses specifically, although we preferred to build our own system.
Here’s the SimpliSafe system we ended up buying.
What jumped out immediately was SimpliSafe’s more limited equipment options than ADT and Vivint. It doesn’t offer a touch screen keypad, nor does it have smart automation devices like the other two brands do. But in our opinion, SimpliSafe offers enough options if you want to focus on security alone. It even offers a dedicated panic alarm button, which is great to keep behind the counter if you’re running a store.
Pro Tip: For businesses, it’s better to build your own SimpliSafe package, with only the exact pieces of equipment that you need. SimpliSafe has an Office Protection package, for example, but we found that it includes too many entryway sensors for our office.
SimpliSafe is the only business security system we recommend that you can self-monitor. That’s great if you want to be hands-on and you have personnel that can monitor the system 24/7, but if you don’t, we highly recommend professional monitoring. It’s very affordable. Prices start at $19.99 per month for basic monitoring, and $29.99 per month for more advanced features like video monitoring. Cloud video storage for up to 10 cameras is also included in the latter, which is why that’s what we picked.
The alarm response we experienced with our office security system was consistent with our SimpliSafe home security review. After all, they are exactly the same systems. Alarm texts were included in our Fast Protect ($29.99) plan, which arrived about 10 to 20 seconds after triggered alarms. Phone call alerts followed shortly – about 30 to 60 seconds. SimpliSafe isn’t the fastest, but it’s far from slow.
Our favorite SimpliSafe feature is Live Guard Protection – the video monitoring feature described above. And in our opinion, a lot of businesses can benefit from it, especially if the building is empty after-hours.
This is the wireless indoor camera, also known as the Smart Alarm, that works with Live Guard Protection.
Basically, a response agent accesses the wireless indoor camera after an alarm is triggered. The first goal is to verify the alarm, as video verified alarms are usually responded to faster by the police. However, if the agent sees a potential intruder, they would use the camera’s two-way talk to dissuade them. That’s even better than Vivint’s automated Active Deterrence feature. We tested Live Guard Protection both at home and in the office, and it worked seamlessly everytime.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $249.96 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $9.99 |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
Cove hit the DIY home security market in 2018 with a cheap, lightweight security system. But even though it’s our budget pick, it offers reliable and efficient professional monitoring thanks to Cove’s partnership with RapidSOS. We’ll share more about that below when we discuss Cove’s professional monitoring service. But just so you know, Cove also offers the most affordable monitoring plans on this list starting at $17.99 per month.
We think Cove is best for small business because it’s not as scalable as ADT and Vivint are. It doesn’t even have a panic alarm button, which we believe is essential to most businesses. But just like SimpliSafe, it’s a solid option if you want to focus on just security. It has security sensors and cameras, plus it also offers environmental sensors like smoke and gas leak detectors.
Here’s the Cove control panel, which is the central component of the system.
We bought our Cove system online, and we had to build our own package. Again, we see that as an upside. It may have been easier if there were pre-made packages, but Cove requires every user to really consider their unique security needs by offering only custom security systems. And don’t worry about the cost. Cove is always running deals that cut the price of individual components; not entire packages.
Pro Tip: If you see a limited-time deal on Cove’s website, there’s no need to rush. In the several times we bought a Cove security system, there were always deals and discounts, sometimes up to 65-percent.
Limited equipment aside, we believe Cove is a strong option if you’re looking for a professionally monitored security system. It partnered with RapidSOS, a platform that links security systems directly to emergency responders to relay useful information.
We didn’t have any incidents that required police response in the office, but when we reviewed Cove at home, the police showed up during a break-in simulation we conducted. What’s amazing was that he knew which sensor was triggered (front door), which prompted him to knock on the front door first. He said that if it were a back door sensor that was triggered, he might have gone around the back of the house to catch the potential burglar.
FYI: Cove’s response was pretty fast, too! We received both alarm texts and app notifications within 15 seconds of the alarm.
Unfortunately for Cove, it doesn’t have its own security cameras. It offers cameras from a brand called eufy, but a few years before, it used cameras from Yi. That lack of consistency could be a downside, especially since the third-party cameras aren’t as well-integrated with Cove as the Nest Cams are with ADT. We remember having to use a third-party app to view footage from Yi cameras when we tested Cove back then. The eufy cameras now use the Cove app, but that could change if or when the partnership ends.
We still kept the Yi camera we got from Cove, even though it no longer works with the system.
FYI: We’ve seen a lot of brand partnerships fall through over the years. Back in 2016, ADT partnered with Ring to integrate Ring products into the ADT Pulse system. That partnership lasted only four years.
| Monitoring Options | Professional |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $90 for hub and keypad |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $17.99 |
| Contract Length | 1 month |
Aside from being one of the best security systems overall, Frontpoint is also known as a top pick for customer service. They have been in business for over a decade and currently have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. But aside from that, Frontpoint offers a wide range of equipment, which is something we don’t often see from DIY options.
Like SimpliSafe and Cove, Frontpoint is a DIY system. But unlike those two, Frontpoint has no problem with equipment scalability. It’s actually one of the best security systems for large homes because of that, and we believe it’s also good for medium and large businesses.
One issue we have with Frontpoint is the bulk and size of its entryway sensors.
We bought our Frontpoint system online, starting with the very affordable ($79) Starter package that comes with a hub, analog keypad, and entry sensor. Then after that, we took our pick from more than a dozen different options, from indoor and outdoor cameras to automation products like light modules, smart locks, and smart plugs.
One of the truly unique things about Frontpoint is that it’s fully cellular. If your business doesn’t have Wi-Fi, you can still use Frontpoint and most of the components will still work. The only exceptions are security cameras and automation devices that offer remote control.
Frontpoint is also reliable because of its cellular connectivity. Cellular signals don’t travel as fast as internet data. It’s probably why it took Frontpoint 45 to 60 seconds to alert us via a phone call. However, cellular signals don’t have as frequent downtimes as internet connections.
Pro Tip: If your place of business has Wi-Fi, we still highly recommend connecting Frontpoint to the internet. Doing so enables you to monitor the system remotely and allows the cameras to stream live videos to your phone or computer.
We were surprised to find out that Frontpoint’s outdoor camera also offers a deterrent feature similar to that of Vivint. Frontpoint calls it Perimeter Guard, and it worked surprisingly well. We tested it at home when we did our Frontpoint review, but we think it could work great for businesses with parking lots as well as stores that close down at night.
Here’s the Frontpoint outdoor camera with the Perimeter Guard feature.
Another great thing about Frontpoint’s cameras is that they can record 24/7. They don’t need an internet connection either, unlike with ADT’s Nest Cams that record continuously to the cloud. Instead, the Frontpoint cameras use a microSD card for local recording.
Pro Tip: If continuous recording interests you, check out our Lorex review. Instead of an on-board memory card, it uses a separate recording box to store footage. The advantage of this is that in case someone vandalizes your cameras, your video evidence is safe inside your store.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $79 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $49 per month |
| Contract lengths | Monthly or 36 months |
| Installation options | DIY |
| Smart platform integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
In our expert opinion, most businesses would benefit from installing security cameras.
If you have a business, installing a top-quality security system is not optional. There are a number of reasons a security system is necessary; otherwise, you could risk losing everything.
A security system will help protect your business and your employees from crime. If you were to encounter a break-in it could cost you thousands of dollars in stolen assets which could take time and money to recover and/or recoup the losses if you are able to at all.
Unfortunately, there are people out there who make a living at suing businesses for money. A well-placed security camera will serve as undeniable proof of the staged “accident.” The same goes for employee/customer accusations of harassment, discrimination, etc.
The best way to make sure your customers and/or employees aren’t making off with your inventory is by installing security cameras. A surveillance camera will help you monitor and control what comes in and what goes out of your place of business and whether it's being paid for…or not.
Pro Tip: If you’re running a store, it’s wise to have a dedicated security camera pointed right at your cash register.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert
As you could imagine, there is a broad spectrum of costs associated with a business security system. Some systems are available as package deals and others can be built and customized to fit your specific needs.
When choosing a security system for your business, it’s important to determine how you plan to install the system. Do you want an industry-leading professionally installed system? Or would you rather keep the installation DIY? The DIY systems are usually wireless and fairly easy to install. A hardwired security system will almost always require professional installation due to the complexity of the electrical factors and wiring of the components.
Expert Advice: We recommend professional installation if you’re having advanced security equipment installed, such as security cameras and access control systems. That will ensure that the devices are installed and are working properly.
Our Vivint technician installing a window sensor
Unfortunately, most business security system providers don't disclose the associated costs upfront which means you have to request a quote before you will even know if any given system will fit your budget. However, the overall costs will depend on how large of a coverage area you have. A top-quality DIY business security system can generally be purchased for less than $500. A professional installation will usually range somewhere between $100 for small business spaces all the way up to $2,000 or more for larger business spaces.
You can also expect an annual cost for your security equipment to run you about $300-$500. And the monitoring costs will generally run somewhere between $50-$300+ per month depending on the service plan you selected.
Is all that worth it? Well, here’s what a burglary might cost you, according to data from the FBI:
And that’s only burglary. Businesses also lose a lot of money to vandalism, trespassing, and petty theft. Considering that, our stance as experts is that having a security system is not only worth it; it’s the logical thing to do.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert
Here are some of the most common business security system features and how they are used.
Specialized Alert Zones is a powerful feature included with the best business security systems. For an added layer of security, protect ‘micro-areas’ and guard high-risk rooms with these specialized alert zones. Your system will alert you of any activity in these zones, and will even record real-time video if you have the right cameras. Recommended for businesses with high-ticket inventory.
Turnover happens. And it makes you wonder who has the keys to your business. Avoid instances of foul play with smart door locks. This business security feature automates your door locks, and many even boast a sleek keypad. Simply assign employees a key code and delete when needed. Most electronic locks even offer an incredibly useful activity report.
The Security Camera is a key component to any business security system. Set up an ecosystem of surveillance cameras and rest easy knowing your livelihood is better protected from crime, fraudulent lawsuits, discrimination, and the like. It has never been easier and more affordable to outfit your business with indoor and outdoor cameras — many of which deliver features like pan, zoom, tilt, and cloud storage.
Mobile Alerts are another must-have feature for the vigilant business owner. Thankfully, most business security systems include real-time mobile alerts with their plans. You’ll receive helpful alerts if and when there’s a security breach. And you can customize your alerts to be notified when customers and employees enter and exit your business, when detectors sense motion, when video begins recording, and more.
Most business security systems now offer Remote Access with a nifty companion app. Mobile apps put your security commands close-at-hand, no matter where you are. If your business is in Pittsburgh, but your vacationing in Palm Springs, simply login to monitor and control your business security system with a few taps of the screen. How’s that for safe and sound?
Entryway Sensors are the backbone of business security systems. You’ll mount these magnetic sensors on door frames and windows. When the sensors trip, they will sound the alarm and send you an alert. If you have 24/7 monitoring, your system will also alert the monitoring center on your behalf. When the dust settles, Entryway Sensors dramatically reduce break-ins and loss of inventory.
Your business is your baby. That’s why many business owners purchase Motion Detectors for an added layer of security. Strategically place these devices inside to protect extra-sensitive areas. The moment they detect motion, they sound the alarm and send real-time alerts. Some motion detectors even boast smart features like facial recognition. Stop a burglar in his tracks with motion detectors.
Security Lights are your first line of defense and a crime deterrent for businesses big and small. This feature often comes with advanced options like flood lights, motion lights, photocell sensitive lights, and the list goes on. As an added benefit, indoor and outdoor security lights help to protect your customers and employees from criminals lurking in the dark.
Let’s be honest, a wise business owner keeps a close eye on taxes. And outfitting your business with security just so happens to be tax deductible. That’s money in your pocket. Small- to medium-sized businesses can write off 100% of their security system purchases on an existing commercial building. This can lower your security system costs by a cool 25-30%. Not bad.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert
CDE. (2022). Expanded Property Crime Data
https://cde.ucr.cjis.gov/LATEST/webapp/#/pages/explorer/crime/property-crime
