- DIY security systems start at around $200 for equipment and may include motion-activated lights, Wi-Fi cameras, door/window sensors and yard signs – which 83% of burglars look for before a break-in.¹,2
- Centrally monitored systems include cameras, motion sensors, glass-break sensors and fire alarms; monitoring companies can dispatch police or firefighters even when you're not home.
- Before buying, check BBB ratings, contact at least three companies, understand all charges (installation, monthly fees) and read contract terms carefully.
- Some insurers offer discounts for qualifying burglar alarms; ask your agent whether the system you're considering qualifies.
Tips for Selecting the Best Home Security System
If you're wondering how to buy a home security system that fits your needs, it helps to understand which features matter most for your home, budget and routine. Whether you’re comparing a basic camera setup or looking for the best home security system with professional monitoring, it helps to understand which features matter most for your home, budget and routine.
Key Takeaways
Here’s what to look for in a home security system, how cameras and monitoring can work together, and how some systems may connect to potential homeowners insurance discounts.
Quick tip: If you’re comparing the best security system options, start with your priorities – entry-point protection, camera visibility, monitoring support and monthly cost.
Compare home security system types
Home security systems generally fall into a few categories, from basic DIY setups to professionally monitored systems.
| System type | What it may include | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Basic DIY setup | Door and window sensors, alarm, app alerts, single camera | Homeowners who want a lower-cost way to protect their home |
| DIY with monitoring add-on | Self-installed equipment plus optional professional response | People who want flexibility with some added support |
| Centrally monitored system | Cameras, sensors, alarms, monitoring center and app access | Homeowners looking for a more full-service security option |
DIY setup
Basic do-it-yourself security systems are becoming more popular due to their affordability, convenience and ease of installation.¹ These systems may offer simple features such as:
- Motion-activated lights or alarms
- A Wi-Fi-connected camera on the front porch or near another main entry point
- Door and window sensors
- A yard or window sign, which 83% of burglars look for before a break-in¹
These basic preventive measures can be extremely cost-effective, often starting at as little as $200 for the equipment.² Basic defenses can help bolster your home’s security. If you’re wondering what to look for in a home security system, this level may be enough if you mainly want alerts, visible deterrence and a simple camera view from your phone.
For an additional cost, some DIY systems can be connected to a monitoring service.
Centrally monitored system
A centrally monitored security system – often equipped with cameras, motion sensors, door and window sensors, glass-break sensors and fire alarms – is connected to a monitoring firm. When the alarm is tripped, the monitoring company will contact you and dispatch police or firefighters to your home, if needed.¹
Having an extra set of eyes on your home has several advantages:
- It can help reduce how much fire damage or theft you experience because responders will handle the situation, even if you’re not home.¹
- Some monitoring companies offer other perks, such as carbon monoxide monitoring and smartphone apps that allow you to access your system from anywhere.¹
- Various systems can be integrated with smart home devices to respond to voice commands.
If you opt for a centrally monitored system, choose your company wisely. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) suggests you:3
- Choose a reputable business and check if it’s on BBB.
- Contact at least three companies before picking one.
- Ask about all charges, including system installation and monthly service fees.
- Talk to your insurance agent so you know whether the system you’re considering qualifies for an insurance discount, such as Amica’s safety discounts.
- Read the contract carefully to understand the duration of the agreement and how the system will be monitored.
What to look for in a home security system
If you’re trying to decide how to buy a home security system, think about whether you want a visible camera deterrent, professional monitoring, smart-home compatibility or a lower monthly bill. The best home security system for one household may not be the best security system for another.
Wired and wireless options
Most home security systems on the market use both hardwired and wireless technology to function. What does that mean? Many home systems:
- Need to be connected to the home in a wired capacity – for example, a keypad that must be plugged into an outlet4
- Also use wireless solutions, such as the internet and/or cellular backup, which offer protection in the event of a power outage, to enable communication
Avoid systems that use an analog phone line to enable communication, as they’ll be obsolete soon. When choosing a system with wireless capability, look for one that uses the home internet for communication and your cellular network as a backup.¹ This is especially useful if your camera or alarm needs to keep working during an outage.
Cameras, sensors and smart-home features
Look for a system that offers more than just sensors. You might also consider:
- A security camera that you can monitor through an app on your phone when you’re not home²
- An intercom connected to your system so that if someone is at your door, you can talk to the person via a mobile app5
- A smoke or fire detection system that, when activated, shuts off your HVAC to mitigate further damage while notifying local authorities
If camera coverage is important to you, think about where you need visibility most – front door, driveway, backyard or common entry points. A camera may help deter unwanted activity, but placement, lighting and app reliability all matter.
Questions to ask before buying a security system
- Is the system professionally monitored or self-monitored?
- What are the up-front equipment and installation costs?
- What are the monthly monitoring fees and contract terms?
- Does the system work during power outages (cellular backup)?
- Will this system qualify for an insurance discount?
Do your research and chat with home security companies to determine how to buy a home security system that meets your needs. You may also want to compare these options with broader steps to help secure your home and home safety and security guidance.
Can a home security system lower insurance costs?
A central monitoring system will cost more than a simple DIY security system. However, that cost may be somewhat offset by insurance savings for this kind of system.6
When considering home security systems, pick one that fits your lifestyle and budget. Amica offers discounts on homeowners insurance policies for properties with burglar alarms.⁷ Talk to your insurance company to learn which systems may qualify for homeowners insurance discounts. You can also explore premium discounts for detection devices and home insurance discounts for related information.
Get a home insurance quote today
FAQs about home security systems
Start with the basics: entry sensors, alarm alerts, camera coverage, monitoring options, app controls and total monthly cost. The right mix depends on how you want to protect your home.
Compare up-front equipment costs, installation fees, subscription charges and contract terms. A lower-cost DIY setup may work well if you mainly want alerts and a visible camera presence.
The best home security system depends on your priorities. Some homeowners want central monitoring and smart-home integrations, while others prefer a simpler system with a camera, sensors and app notifications.
They may help by making the property look less vulnerable and by giving you visibility into activity around entry points. Camera placement, lighting and video access can all affect how useful they are.
It may, depending on the system and your insurer. Some companies offer discounts for qualifying burglar alarms or other protective devices.
Why Get a Home Security System, U.S. News and World Report, 2024.
How Much Does A Security System Cost in 2024?, Forbes, 2024.
BBB Tip: 4 tips on buying a home security system — and 4 red flags to avoid, Better Business Bureau, 2021.
If the Power Goes Out, Does My Security System Still Work?, SafeWise, 2023.
Home Security Apps: Managing Your Security System Remotely, StaySafe.org, 2024.
Terms and conditions apply, must qualify for each discount. Not all discounts are available in all states.
Discounts may vary.
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