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ADT’s network of 12 response centers and exceptional installation service is why it sits at the top of our list.
Updated September 20, 2024
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Even the best DIY security systems require quite a lot of work to set up. That’s why a lot of folks still prefer professional installation. The fact that you’re here tells me that you’re one of them. It also shows that you’re looking for the best security system. But here’s the thing: It’s hard to tell how good a company is at installing and monitoring its systems without testing the system yourself.
That’s where we come in. We test every system we recommend. So to look for the best professionally installed systems, my colleagues and I bought six of the highest-rated security systems and had them installed in our homes. Of those six, ADT stood out for its overall professional service, from installation to monitoring. Vivint and SimpliSafe are well-rounded options as well. Keep reading to learn what we liked (and didn’t like) about these security systems.
The best way to provide you with trustworthy and unbiased recommendations is by testing home security products ourselves. That means we buy the equipment, install it in our homes, and test it for weeks or even months. We aim to get a good feel for the app, features, response time, and what it’s like to live with each security system. That way, we can give you recommendations you can trust based on our actual experiences.
Multiple factors affect the testing of home security systems, but we do our best to compare apples to apples. We had all security systems installed in a two-story, 2,200-square-foot house owned by one of our team members. That’s where we conducted all our tests since we find that using a real home environment helps gather the most accurate findings.
We even purchased the same devices for every security system and set them up in identical locations. Here is where we typically place components:
We considered multiple factors when narrowing down the best professionally installed home security systems. We determined these criteria should be top priority:
We reviewed each system using these criteria, and here is how we arrived at the top five:
Rating the Best Professionally Installed and Monitored Security Systems
We’re not like those websites that review everything from socks to hedge trimmers. Our experts exclusively review safety and security equipment. This means they uncover details others might miss, giving our readers more accurate recommendations. The experts who contributed to this review were:
With over 75 years of combined industry experience, we are the most accomplished home security team on the internet. Since SafeHome.org began in 2016, our work has been highlighted in several major outlets, including The New York Times and The Washington Post. Together, we’ve achieved:
Every recommendation is based on first-hand product experience and our understanding of the home security industry. Now, let’s find out more about the best professionally monitored and installed home security systems.
| System | ADT | Vivint | SimpliSafe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd |
| Rating | 9.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Contract length | 36 months | Monthly or yearly | Monthly |
| Installation type | Professional | Professional | Professional and DIY |
| Professional monitoring cost | Starting at $29.99 per month | Starting at $39.99 per month | Starting from $9.99 per month |
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $450 | Packages starting at $599 | Packages starting at $249.96 |
| Smart platform integrations | Alexa and Google Home | Alexa and Google Home | Alexa and Google Home |
| Review | ADT review | Vivint review | SimpliSafe review |
With 150 years of experience behind them, ADT has picked up a thing or two about professional installation and monitoring. My technician knew the best places to install the equipment for maximum coverage. They even explained how to use the devices and shared details on the monitoring centers. I felt assured I’d be taken care of from one of their 12 locations across the country, which is more than what Vivint and SimpliSafe offer.
Even though ADT’s professional installation comes with a price tag of about $150, I must say it creates a smooth installation process. The technicians showed up on time and went right to work. I was told to set aside two hours for the installation, but it only took about an hour.
The perfect spot for my ADT Outdoor Camera
He then walked me through the placement of every security camera and sensor he installed, showing me what areas of my home were covered. My ADT tech also customized the sensitivity settings on my motion sensors and helped me do an initial integration with Google Home.
Pro Tip: My installer also integrated my ADT smart devices. While I could have done this myself after they left, it was easier to set everything up all at once. He even showed me some automation features, like scheduling arming and disarming times, so I’d never forget to do it when I leave the house for work.
In the last couple of years, ADT significantly dropped their price for professional monitoring down to as low as $29.99 per month, compared to over $40 before. It still comes with 12 in-house monitoring centers, which makes ADT’s professional monitoring one of the most reliable in the industry. With the lowered cost, ADT’s pricing makes it one of the most cost-effective too.
Of course, ADT’s monitoring options don’t stop at the $29.99 price point. They also have a more premium option:
| Plan | Secure | Smart | Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 professional monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Automation capabilities | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Live camera feed | No | No | Yes |
| Cloud storage | None | None | Up to 30 days expandable to 60 days for an additional fee |
| Price | $29.99 | $34.99 | $45.99 |
ADT’s installer set up a few automations for my system. For example, he set my front door that had an ADT Security Smart Door Lock to automatically lock when my ADT Video Doorbell detects someone if I am away, but if I’m home, it turns on my entryway light.
Testing the ADT Control Panel.
Another good aspect of ADT’s home automation capabilities is that the system runs on the Z-Wave platform. In theory, this wireless protocol allows over 4,000 smart devices to communicate with my ADT system. I have a set of Z-Wave smart bulbs that the technician helped me integrate.
I will say, one issue I had with ADT for home automation was its lack of support for Apple HomeKit. Even though I’m not a big Apple fanboy, having this limitation can become a pretty big bottleneck for anyone who already owns a few Apple smart devices. This also means that if Apple comes out with a great smart home product that you want, it still won’t work with your ADT system.
Did You Know? I recommend setting up motion zones for your cameras in the ADT+ app. Otherwise, your phone won’t stop vibrating from all the notifications. Choose a space that won’t detect cars passing by on the streets and dogs roaming around while their owners are at work.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $499 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
My Vivint professional installation experience was similar to my experience with ADT. My technician analyzed my property, talked me through where he would install the equipment, and explained why they were the best spots. While the monitoring service isn’t to the same standard as ADT, the devices are far more advanced, especially as they’re now powered by AI.
There’s no question about it, the cost of Vivint’s professional installation is high. But, is it worth the premium price? With prices as high as $200 for installation alone, on top of reinstallation fees if you move, I need high-quality services to justify pulling that much out of my bank account.
One of the things I had a tough time with was having to call Vivint for everything from picking out my package to scheduling the installation. While it made the process pretty smooth, I could feel my salesperson taking every opportunity to try and upsell me on the wide range of Vivint indoor, outdoor, and doorbell camera options. A simple “no thanks” got them to stop pushing for me. It wasn’t nearly as bad as when I had to call my internet provider.
All the equipment I got for my Vivint home security system
When the day came for my scheduled installation, I was really surprised at how complicated the installation looked. The technician ran wires and cables throughout my home to hook up the system. He did a great job at hiding the cabling, which I appreciated (can’t say the same about ADT). It made the entire system look professional without taking away from the aesthetic of my home.
FYI: You can usually get professional installation for free if you wait for one of Vivint’s Black Friday sales. Most years, they run a promotion that gives you a percentage off on all of your equipment and free professional installation. You’ll still need to pay a reinstallation fee if you move though.
To be quite frank, Vivint doesn’t have the same robust system as ADT for professional monitoring. Instead of 12 monitoring centers, Vivint only has two – but those two monitoring centers provide award-winning service.1 So, it’s not that Vivint’s professional monitoring is bad, they just don’t have the same built-up network of monitoring centers as ADT.
Previously, Vivint made up for only having two monitoring centers by offering monitoring at a lower price than ADT. But, with ADT’s recent price reduction for professional monitoring, it’s actually a bit less expensive than Vivint for most systems. ADT’s pricing ranges from $29.99 to $44.99 while Vivint’s pricing starts at $39.99 but can go up to over $50.
>> Read More: Vivint vs ADT Home Security System Comparison
What Vivint might lack in terms of a robust professional monitoring network, it makes up for with its home automation capabilities. Vivint makes its lineup of smart home devices go way beyond what most offer by including:
This is more significant than just allowing you to buy security and smart home devices from one place. By creating smart home products as well, Vivint’s home automation capabilities give you full control of your home through its high-quality mobile app.
Some of the notifications from the Vivint app
For example, you can create an automation using Vivint’s smart locks, smart lights, and doorbell cameras. I set up a rule that caused my entry light to blink and my front door to lock when my doorbell camera saw someone past 11 p.m.
FYI: Vivint’s cameras can tell the difference between people and pets. This reduced the number of notifications I had to swipe away. I don’t need to know how often my neighbor’s cat is stopping by and scratching up my welcome mat.
| 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 |
We know SimpliSafe is one of the best DIY security systems, but it also has a pretty good professional installation service. They sent a technician from OnTech to set up my equipment, and teach me how to use it. But the reason it’s sitting in third place is because of some of the great features in its monitoring plans.
Sure, I could have set up my own SimpliSafe equipment. Setting up a home security system is easier than most people think. But I wanted to make sure every device was configured and optimized to perfection.
My SimpliSafe equipment unboxed and ready to be set up
I booked my appointment through OnTech. But because they have an on-going partnership with SimpliSafe, the vibe felt almost like ADT and Vivint’s in-house installation service. The OnTech technician not only installed everything but also took the time to show me how every device worked. The appointment lasted just under two hours, and I even learned a few tricks that I wasn’t aware of, like using the key fob to arm and disarm the system.
It didn’t cost me as much as ADT or Vivint. I paid $130, but pricing starts from $124.99. The final bill depends on how many devices OnTech has to set up.
Learn More: SimpliSafe Pricing, Plans, and Package Costs 2024
You could opt for SimpliSafe’s self-monitoring plan, which gives you live streaming, remote control access, and notifications. But I recommend upgrading to one of the professional monitoring plans.
| Feature | Fast Protect Monitoring | Standard Monitoring |
|---|---|---|
| Video verification | Yes | No |
| Cellular backup | Yes | Yes |
| Camera recording | Yes | No |
| Cloud storage | 30 days | No |
| Extended warranty | Lifetime | 3 years |
| Discount on new hardware | 10 percent | No |
| Price | $29.99 per month | $19.99 per month |
I found the Fast Protect monitoring plan to be the best option. During my testing, the Standard Plan worked fine while I was simulating break-ins. I got an alert within 30 seconds and a call from the monitoring center within 60 seconds.
But Fast Protect was quicker. SimpliSafe agents would access my camera’s livestream when I’m away to check up on my house. I used my friend for the tests. As he tried to open a window, I got a text message within 30 seconds, and someone from the center spoke to him through the indoor camera.
Pro Tip: If you’re like me and turn your phone on “Do Not Disturb” before going to sleep, make sure to allow the SimpliSafe app to override this mode. It will ensure you never miss an alert.
Unfortunately, SimpliSafe’s smart features don’t stack up against ADT or Vivint. The only third-party platforms you can connect to are Alexa and Google Home.
I used Alexa to arm the system, which worked as you would expect. It also lets me get status updates and check up on what the devices are doing. I liked that I didn’t have to talk like a robot. SimpliSafe – or rather, Alexa – understood what “batten down the hatches” meant.
The home screen of the SimpliSafe App
There is one other third-party item SimpliSafe does work with, which is August Locks. However, you can’t use your voice to operate them. I had to open the app or use the main hub to check the locks.
FYI: Unfortunately, you can’t disarm the system with Alexa or Google Home. But you can use Alexa to ask SimpliSafe, “what’s shakin’?” So it’s not all bad news.
| 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 |
Brinks has been around for decades. But it still hasn't quite nailed professional monitoring and installation like our top picks.
Here’s all the Brinks components we received prior to the installation.
We love how you can customize your packages and finance the equipment to make it easier on your monthly costs. You can also choose to install the equipment yourself if you want. But we recommend professional installation as the devices are of high quality and manufactured by GE. The response time from the monitoring is also good, but you’re going to be paying for it with prices starting from $39.99. Throw in a long-term contract (36 months minimum), and you can start to see why we didn’t rank it higher.
Alder’s claim to fame was its 3.7-second average monitoring response time in 2017, which was certainly faster than the industry average. But now that the company has grown and started servicing more users, we haven’t experienced response times that fast anymore. We’d say it’s more or less within the 30- to 60-second industry average now.
Our Alder security system and security cameras on installation day.
Alder is still fast, but it doesn’t offer a lot of equipment options. That’s mainly why it didn’t make our top three. While it offers all the necessary components like sensors and cameras, it doesn’t offer any smart home devices at all. It could be a good option for apartments and rental properties because of the wireless equipment, but when we reviewed Alder, we just weren’t impressed by the overall selection of equipment.
The days when you had to have your home security system professionally installed are gone. And when I review systems like abode that make installing the system myself as easy as applying adhesives to my door frames, it can seem like professional installation is just an extra fee. But, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
A quality professional installation includes a qualified technician to help you lay out your system maximizing its security coverage on top of the actual installation. This expert advice helps you make the most of your home security system. After all, most of us don’t spend all day, every day obsessing about home security like I do. So, this extra help goes a long way in securing your home.
The costs of ADT and Vivint security systems might make you do a double-take, so it’s normal to look for ways to save a few dollars. One of those ways might be choosing to install the equipment yourself.
There are plenty of home security systems from companies like SimpliSafe that even my Grandpa could install. Most of the equipment just plugs into a wall or sticks to a door frame. It can be done within an hour and save you a minimum of $125.
I managed to install all these Frontpoint devices in under 45 minutes.
But even for companies like SimpliSafe, parting with the cash has its benefits. Besides eliminating the risk of human error, every single device is optimized and installed by a professional who knows the perfect location to place it. Plus, if the equipment needs to be connected to my internal wiring, there’s no way I want to mess around with all those cables. I’m happy to leave that job to the experts.
The decisions don’t end at installation. You’ll also have to choose who is going to monitor the system. Will it be you or a professional monitoring center? Well, we certainly prefer the latter. Here’s what we know about the crimes and dangers that can take place at home:
All those stats show that having a monitored security system that can get help to your residence on your behalf is valuable. It means you won’t have to stay on top of everything. And in case you or your family is in danger and unable to call the police, professional monitoring can also get you the help you need.
The police were called to our place during one of our break-in simulations.
Sure, adding another $20 to $50 monthly monitoring subscription can feel like a lot. Especially right after getting hit with the cost of your home security equipment.
>> Check Out: How Much Does a Home Security System Cost?
It might seem expensive, but you’re also getting a lot from professional monitoring. There’s nothing quite like the confidence that comes with knowing a professional is looking out for your home’s security 24/7. And, how many incidents would your professional monitoring need to prevent for it to pay for itself anyway? Maybe one every 10 years? If you’re anything like me, those two factors make professional monitoring well worth the extra price tag.
However, as much as I would like to tell you professional monitoring takes your home security completely out of your hands, it doesn’t. It puts someone else in the driver's seat, but you still need to stay involved to maximize your security. Here are a few things you can do to get the most out of your professional monitoring:
Sometimes you don’t want to spend the time installing and monitoring your own home security system. Whether you have a big house and installing an entire system would take hours or you just don’t feel like figuring out the optimal layout for your security cameras, professionally installed and monitored security systems take you out of the equation. This gives you the ultimate customer experience where all you need to do is buy the system and enjoy its benefits.
But, not every home security system provider gives the same quality when it comes to installation or monitoring. You’ll often need to sign a long-term contract before you can even try out the system too. My recommendations of personally vetted home security systems with professional monitoring and installation take the guesswork out of choosing a system as well.
Most providers do not offer a guarantee with their professional monitoring although ADT and a few others offer reimbursement for stolen items up to a certain amount.
Yes, most homeowner’s insurance includes a discount for a verified professionally monitored home security system. ADT even gives you money towards your homeowner’s deductible.
I won’t lie, getting a professionally installed and monitored home security system isn’t cheap. But, the most affordable home security systems still offer professional monitoring.
Most providers offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that include free professional installation. You might be able to negotiate free installation with your system if you talk to your provider as well.
In my experience, ADT is the best overall system for professional installation and monitoring. Vivint’s great if you want smart home capabilities and Xfinity fits the bill for existing customers.
Vivint. (2021, April 19). Vivint Smart Home Named the TMA Monitoring Center of the Year for 2021.
https://www.vivint.com/company/newsroom/press/vivint-named-tma-monitoring-center-of-the-year-2021
Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2019). Crime in the United States.
https://ucr.fbi.gov/crime-in-the-u.s/2019/crime-in-the-u.s.-2019/tables/table-23
