<p>To find our top picks, we tested the leading smart home security systems in real homes, according to <a href=”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/productreviews/abouttheinstitute/a24657702/goodhousekeepinginstituteproductreviews/” target=”_blank”>Good Housekeeping Institute</a> protocols. We assessed everything from unboxing to installation, and used each system for several weeks, checking reliability, how intuitive the app feels, home and away, and how quickly alerts arrive when sensors are triggered.</p><p>We also evaluated design, build quality, battery longevity, the clarity and flexibility of settings, and how well each system integrates with platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Home. Finally, we looked at expandability (adding extra sensors or cameras), ongoing costs (including any subscription services) and overall value for money.</p>” datanexthead/>
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He spent several years working as tech support while freelancing on the side, then went freelance fulltime in late 2018. He helped build a new tech site at Gfinity and later joined , where he built out the Software & Downloads section.
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Daryl is also the author of three books on video game development, and he runs a copywriting business, Springboard, alongside a of the same name.
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Since leaving Future in 2024, he’s returned to freelancing with bylines across a range of tech and culture outlets, including , , , , and more.
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When there’s a day off, Daryl is usually found walking his dog, Jolly, as well as teaching his son the alphabet via Sesame Street. You can also follow Daryl on and .
“,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/bea64cd43bd746178d71d5e54d704e25_1758798654.file”},”about”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”numberOfItems”:11,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:1,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Essentials Kit”,”description”:”Score: 91/100SimpliSafe’s Essentials Kit offers a sleek, modular approach to home security for those who want to start out with a system that’s straightforward to expand. Installation was one of the smoothest on test, taking under 30 minutes with minimal effort. Plus, the included keypad, sensors, and camera meant we had a complete setup ready to go, straight out of the box.It was impressive in use too. The sensors were reliable, and the app was intuitive, with straightforward controls for arming and disarming when needed. The 95dB siren, however, felt weaker compared to competitors like ERA or Yale, both of which passed the 100dB mark. While still audible enough to deter potential intruders, if you’re looking for the loudest noise, you may find it underwhelming. Its battery life is a highlight, though, reportedly lasting up to 12 months. That makes it less demanding than Bosch or Ring, though it falls short of Eufy’s twoyear claim.A big part of what makes SimpliSafe a tempting purchase is its flexibility. The Essentials Kit includes plenty to get started, but the system can be expanded over time, whether that’s with more sensors, cameras, or other accessories. It’s a smart option if you’re not sure what level of coverage you’ll eventually need for your home.The main drawback is its subscription model. It’s at least 66p a day, and some of the most useful features sit behind the paywall, such as professional monitoring. It’s also not the cheapest option to start with, but you do get a lot, regardless of whether you use the optional monthly subscription. If you want the most flexibility, SimpliSafe is the way to go.”,”image”:”https://vaderprod.s3.amazonaws.com/1758801184simplisafe68d52c838d797.jpg”,”sku”:”B08F2P4DJV”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”SimpliSafe”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Essentials Kit”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Daryl Baxter”}],”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Quick and easy installation process”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Up to 12 months of battery life”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”The system can be expanded if required”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Some features are locked behind the subscription”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”The siren could be louder”}]}},”offers”:[{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08F2P4DJV”,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”189.99″,”availability”:”https://schema.org/InStock”,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”Amazon”}}]}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:2,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Smart Security Starter Kit II”,”description”:”Score: 87/100Bosch’s Smart Home Security II made a great impression, thanks to its stylish design that easily blended into our home. This may sound like a small detail, but it matters if you want something that’s almost invisible. The Bosch app was also one of the most intuitive we’ve used, allowing us to access key features like arming and disarming the alarms when leaving and arriving home, servicing the alarms, and more.Setting up the system was straightforward, thanks largely to the app, and everything was live and working within 20 minutes. It was smooth in daytoday use, as you can arm and disarm the system quickly, while alerts arrived almost instantly on our smartphones. This was noticeably faster than Abode’s product, which sometimes lagged by several seconds. The 100dB siren proved loud enough to turn our heads. But, enabling it through the app wasn’t always intuitive, which struck us as strange, given how polished the rest of the experience felt.Unlike Abode and Yale, the promised integration with Apple HomeKit and Google Home caused issues for us, which was disappointing, especially at the £349 price point. Despite this, it works well if you want an alarm system that’s selfcontained. Plus, if you’re looking for a smart alarm system that offers great design and ease of use, especially during installation, Bosch is the one to go with.”,”image”:”https://vaderprod.s3.amazonaws.com/1758801991boschsecuritysystem68d52fe1ed367.jpg”,”sku”:”B0CN3G9YQN”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Bosch”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Smart Security Starter Kit II”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Daryl Baxter”}],”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Highquality design that will fit into most homes”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Quick setup thanks to an elegant and easytouse app”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Very loud siren”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Lack of integration with HomeKit and Google Home is disappointing”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”It can be difficult to enable the siren via the app”}]}},”offers”:[{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CN3G9YQN”,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”266.17″,”availability”:”https://schema.org/InStock”,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”Amazon”}}]}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:3,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Alarm Security Kit”,”description”:”Score: 83/100Ring’s Security Alarm system is a great purchase, especially if you’re a Ring customer and use one of the brand’s video doorbells, or another part of Amazon’s ecosystem. Its app is one of the best we’ve tested, thanks to the elegant user interface and ease of use. This kit feels like a natural extension of the ecosystem, with smooth voice control and quick setup. Within 20 minutes, the base station and sensors were live, and the app guided us through the process clearly.Ring’s kit was reliable during testing. The motion detector and contact sensor were both accurate and responsive, though alerts weren’t as instant as Bosch’s system, which remains the fastest we tested. The siren was a step behind ERA’s 104dB unit, despite it reportedly having the same 104dB volume. That said, Ring’s sensors felt robust and consistent, with fewer quirks than Abode’s, which sometimes misfired with pets.The app is a highlight, though. It’s clean, intuitive, and far more userfriendly than Yale’s, which often felt cluttered. However, Ring’s subscription structure is confusing, with three tiers – Basic, Standard and Premium – all offering different feature sets. It’s difficult to figure out which tier would suit you best, and if you choose the wrong one, it could mean it’s not great value, especially when it is £219.99 to start with.If you’re already using Ring cameras or Amazon Alexa devices, this alarm kit is a logical choice that ties everything together neatly. But for those outside Amazon’s setup, alternatives could offer better experiences, especially for integrations with thirdparty devices.”,”image”:”https://vaderprod.s3.amazonaws.com/1758802072ringsecuritysystem68d5308191bf6.jpg”,”sku”:”B08L5TWL9D”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Ring”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Alarm Security Kit”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Daryl Baxter”}],”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Great app that’s simple and intuitive to use”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Accurate sensors and a compact hub”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Amazon Alexa voice control”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”No thirdparty assistant support”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Three subscription tiers with confusing features”}]}},”offers”:[{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08L5TWL9D”,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”219.00″,”availability”:”https://schema.org/InStock”,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”Amazon”}},{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.scan.co.uk/products/ringalarm5pcstarterkitwbasestationkeypadcontactsensormotiondetectorrangeextender”,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”176.99″,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”scan.co.uk”}}]}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:4,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Security 5Piece Home Alarm Kit”,”description”:”Score: 80/100Eufy’s 5Piece Home Alarm kit is one of the most affordable options on our list. At £159.99 upfront, you get a full starter kit that comes with a very simple setup process, a claimed twoyear battery life from the sensors, and plenty of reliability. These make it a great option for those who have holiday homes or want to maintain the sensors as little as possible.During testing, the performance was solid. The siren was surprisingly quiet at 72dB compared to those offered by Bosch, ERA, and Yale. But when it came to arming and disarming the alarms, it did the job reliably (though Bosch was faster). The app was simple to use, with easy access to enable the alarm when needed, and its support for Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant was welcome too.One of Eufy’s biggest selling points is longevity. It claims a twoyear battery life, making this one of the lowestmaintenance options available, so there’s no need to worry about constantly changing the batteries. The lack of a monthly subscription fee is great, too, as it doesn’t add on to the monthly bills to keep your home secure, and it sets it apart from others in this list. However, there is a lack of monitoring options and a 4G SIM backup option, which could fail to notify you if your home wifi fails.Overall, Eufy’s 5Piece Home Alarm Kit is fantastic value, especially if you’re new to smart alarms. But if you want something with more coverage, we’d recommend rival options from ERA, Bosch or SimpliSafe.”,”image”:”https://vaderprod.s3.amazonaws.com/1758802212eufysecuritysystem68d53109234fd.jpg”,”sku”:”T8990321″,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Eufy”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Security 5Piece Home Alarm Kit”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Daryl Baxter”}],”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”No monthly fee to get the most out of the kit”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Great installation process”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Siren sounded quieter than the others here”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Controls are not as sensitive as you’d expect”}]}},”offers”:[{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.eufy.com/uk/products/t8990321?variant=37778684444865″,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”159.00″,”availability”:”https://schema.org/InStock”,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”eufy”}}]}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:5,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”Sync 6Piece Home Alarm Kit”,”description”:”Score: 74/100Yale’s 6Piece Home Alarm Kit is a solid entry point into smart alarms. In our tests, the initial setup was quick, and Yale includes batteries in the box, too. The sensors were easy to place, and the system was up and running in under half an hour. Performance was great, with reliable alerts and a loud siren at 100dB, one of the noisiest of those we tested. The kit’s support for Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Philips Hue are welcome additions if you use one of these platforms, and its reported 200metre range of coverage is the standout feature. That could make it an essential buy if you have a large home or garden, and you want to cover a big area.The app is a mixed bag, however. While it offers plenty of options for customisation, the sheer amount of menus and settings can feel overwhelming at first. It’s not as streamlined as the Ring or Bosch apps, and less techliterate users may need time to adapt.The three subscription tiers also muddy the waters. Starting at £3.50 per month, they unlock features like cloud storage and cellular backup, but the differences between plans aren’t clearly explained. Certain features included on the cheapest “Camera Plan” are missing from the midtier “Alarm Plan”, which adds cellular backup. Essentially, you need the “Secure Plan” if you want all the features on offer.Despite these drawbacks, Yale’s alarm kit is a great choice for homeowners looking to start small and gradually expand, or for larger properties wanting to cover a wide area. For a smoother app experience, Ring or Bosch are strong alternatives, but Yale delivers a good, expandable foundation.”,”image”:”https://vaderprod.s3.amazonaws.com/1758802530yalesecuritysystem68d5323fe507d.jpg”,”sku”:”B07FR78X16″,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Yale”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”Sync 6Piece Home Alarm Kit”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Daryl Baxter”}],”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”The app was clear to follow and use”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Support for thirdparty assistants”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Great 1km range”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”4″,”name”:”Loud siren at 100dB”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Three subscription tiers that can be confusing”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”The app could be clearer, some settings were hard to find”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”It can be a learning curve to customise the system”}]}},”offers”:[{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07FR78X16″,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”229.97″,”availability”:”https://schema.org/InStock”,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”Amazon”}},{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.diy.com/p/5011802307087_BQ.prd”,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”269.00″,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”B&Q”}},{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://www.argos.co.uk/product/1409868″,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”269.99″,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”Argos”}}]}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:6,”item”:{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”Product”,”name”:”iota AllInOne Security Kit”,”description”:”Score: 70/100The Abode iota kit is a great choice for those wanting a premium package that has all the essentials for a security system, and works seamlessly with Apple’s HomeKit, something that sets it apart. Abode’s hub also works with thirdparty products, connecting to other Matter devices (a crossbrand smarthome protocol) and Philips Hue lights, which makes managing them simple. It’s these factors that make it a good choice if you want a smart security system that also works with other devices around your home.On test, we found setup easy, taking less than 30 minutes from unboxing to installation, and the app easily spotted the enabled devices around our home. As the hub also works as a motion sensor and 93dB siren, it means you get three devices in one here, saving you the time and expense of fitting a separate sensor and siren.Abode was great throughout daytoday use, although it had some quirks. Alerts from the mini door/window sensor were fast, though some came with 10second delays, and the motion sensors usually notified us when they picked up pets, something we didn’t see with Bosch’s smart alarm kit. Abode’s app isn’t as intuitive as Ring’s, either, and arming/disarming did feel slower than Bosch and Eufy’s products.But the biggest disadvantage here is price. It’s £384.99 at full price, and that’s before you factor in the added subscription costs of £7.99 £13.99. These are ongoing costs, and there isn’t a free trial that allows you to sample the service, either.Ultimately, if you’re an Apple household, Abode’s smart alarm kit could be ideal, especially if you use other thirdparty smart home peripherals. It’s far more integrated than Ring or Yale, but if you want something with a lower initial cost, we’d consider Yale, Ring, ERA or Eufy instead.”,”image”:”https://vaderprod.s3.amazonaws.com/1758802594abodesecuritysystem68d53281ec5eb.jpg”,”sku”:”iotaallinonesecuritykitdiyhomesecurityalarm”,”brand”:{“@type”:”Brand”,”name”:”Abode”},”review”:{“@type”:”Review”,”name”:”iota AllInOne Security Kit”,”author”:[{“@type”:”Person”,”name”:”Daryl Baxter”}],”positiveNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Easy installation process with no tools required”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”Compact design with multiple features builtin”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”3″,”name”:”Compatible with thirdparty devices through Matter, for automations”}]},”negativeNotes”:{“@type”:”ItemList”,”itemListElement”:[{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”1″,”name”:”Subscription required to use the full feature set with no free trial”},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:”2″,”name”:”No free cloud storage”}]}},”offers”:[{“@type”:”Offer”,”url”:”https://goabode.co.uk/products/iotaallinonesecuritykitdiyhomesecurityalarm”,”priceCurrency”:”GBP”,”price”:”288.75″,”availability”:”https://schema.org/InStock”,”offeredBy”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”goabode.co.uk”}}]}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:7,”item”:{“@type”:”Thing”,”name”:”How we test the best smart home security systems”,”url”:”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/productreviews/tech/g32912843/bestsmartalarmsystems/”,”description”:”We put each of these smart alarm systems through rigorous testing in our own homes. We start with unboxing, seeing how they’re packed, how easy it is to set them up, and whether the instructions are clear. We note every stage, up until they’re installed, and then we use them as normal for several weeks.During this time, we monitor how the security system fares in daytoday use, as well as how the app works when we’re away from home. We assess how easy it is to use, as well as how fast the alerts are if the sensors detect something. Its settings and compatibility with other products and platforms like Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Home are also reviewed. We also examine the design and build quality, the longevity of the battery if one is builtin, and how easy it is to expand the alarm system with extra devices like sensors and new cameras, as well as seeing if any subscription services are offered.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmgprod/images/smartsecuritysystemsontest68d52674053f9.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:8,”item”:{“@type”:”Thing”,”name”:”Why you should trust the Good Housekeeping Institute”,”url”:”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/productreviews/tech/g32912843/bestsmartalarmsystems/”,”description”:”We rigorously test and review all the latest smart home security devices at the Good Housekeeping Institute – from the best wifi security cameras to video doorbells and smart heating thermostats. Our tech experts follow detailed testing protocols to evaluate each product’s realworld performance, ease of installation and use, and overall reliability. This handson approach and expertise ensure that our recommendations are based on proven results rather than marketing claims.This guide was written by Daryl Baxter, a technology journalist with over a decade of experience in consumer tech writing. Daryl was previously the Software & Downloads Writer at TechRadar and later the Features Editor at iMore, and is now a freelance writer covering all things tech. He has written countless articles and reviews on software, gadgets and smart home devices throughout his career, bringing a wealth of knowledge to this piece.For this guide, Daryl set up and tested each smart home security system in his own home and followed protocols outlined by the Good Housekeeping Institute. He assessed key factors for every system, including how simple the installation process was, the responsiveness and accuracy of the sensors/alarms, how userfriendly the companion app is, and how well each system integrates with other smart home platforms or devices. You can trust that we have tested each security system in this article just as you would use them at home. “,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmgprod/images/listiclelinebreaktransparency6475e995b822b.png”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:9,”item”:{“@type”:”Thing”,”name”:”How to buy the best smart home security system”,”url”:”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/productreviews/tech/g32912843/bestsmartalarmsystems/”,”description”:”Choosing the best security system comes down to several key factors. This usually includes cost, how many peripherals you need, the ease of installing them yourself, how loud the siren is, smart assistant support, and whether there are any subscriptions needed to unlock more features. The best way to start is by keeping things small and simple, and building out your setup from there. This way, you can learn how the security system works in your home initially, and figure out if you need anything else, like a camera or another sensor. Most of the products we tested allow for expansion.When shopping, these are the key specs to keep in mind.SensorsMost manufacturers offer a mix of sensors in an alarm bundle, so you’ll need to work out the combination you need for your property.CamerasIf you’re interested in keeping an eye on your home while you’re out, it’s worth looking for a mix of indoor and outdoor security cameras. This way, you’ll be able to see whether anyone is sneaking around in your garden or if mischievous pets misbehave in your hallway, and they’ll act as additional motion sensors.Keypads and fobsSome smart home security systems feature keypads and fobs that make arming and disarming the alarm easier than via an app. This may be useful if you have dog walkers, cleaners or others who may let themselves in and out of your home when you’re not there.SirensMost brands should include a loud siren to scare off intruders, but we’ve noted if this is not included or is an optional extra. We’ve also included the maximum volume – 85 decibels (dB) is comparable to a kitchen blender, while 100db is as loud as a motorbike.InstallationMost of the models we’ve tested require you to set them up yourself using the provided sticky pads or screws. Ensure you put any cameras or sirens high enough on a wall to make sure your pets don’t set it off.Backup batterySome smart alarms include a backup battery, which means it will continue to work even if there’s a power cut.Compatibility with other devicesIf you’ve got other smart home devices, such as lights or plugs, it’s worth looking for a home security system that’s compatible. For example, you can set up a smart light to turn on if a door is opened or get a radio connected to a smart plug to spring to life if a motion sensor detects any movement. Some will also connect to voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri or Google Assistant.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmgprod/images/yalealarm116661bff7d683e.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:10,”item”:{“@type”:”Thing”,”name”:”Frequently asked questions”,”url”:”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/productreviews/tech/g32912843/bestsmartalarmsystems/”,”description”:”What is a smart home security system?A smart home security system is a wireless setup that uses your home’s wifi network (via a central hub) to link together sensors, sirens, keypads and often cameras. You control it through an app on your phone or tablet – and usually via a voice assistant – so you can arm or disarm the system, change settings and get instant alerts wherever you are. Because there are no trailing wires and most parts can be installed easily, these are typically more affordable and renterfriendly than traditional alarms that need to be fitted by professionals.The core components are sensors and a siren. Two of the most common sensor types are:Open/close (contact) sensors for doors and windows: two pieces form a circuit when closed; if the connection breaks while the system is armed, the alarm sounds, and you’re notified.PIR (passive infrared) motion sensors for hallways and other entry points: when armed, they detect movement and trigger the siren and an alert.Many systems include – or work seamlessly with – wireless security cameras and video doorbells from the same brand. These can double as motion detectors and, crucially, let you see what triggered an alert so you can tell a false alarm from a real emergency! Most kits tend to rely on a hub to keep everything connected without cables. These systems will also allow you to expand later with extra sensors or cameras, as your needs grow.How much does a smart home security system cost?Home security systems can vary in price – from as little as £50 to over £500 – depending on how many devices you need in order to feel that your home is secure. While your starter kit might set you back somewhere between £120 to £300, additional sensors will drive that cost up. Extra sensors, if needed, will be roughly £15–£45 each, depending on the brand and type, while additional cameras could be £100 to £200, per camera!Most products are designed to be easily installed, but you can get a professional to fit them for you, which could be an additional cost of £40 to £150. Professional installation won’t be necessary for most, but it is a convenience that will save you from working out where to drill holes and position sensors and cameras.Many will also have an additional subscription fee, which can be monthly or yearly. These offer more features, like unlimited cloud storage, which can start from as little as £4.99 a month but may go up to well over £30 a month, depending on the alerts and camera storage you might need. Adding professional monitoring will be an extra cost, too.Are smart home alarms as effective as burglar alarms?Smart home security systems are just as reliable as traditional burglar alarms, but they don’t always have an external siren for the front of your home, which can act as a deterrent to wouldbe intruders.While most models offer optional monitoring services to alert police, they cost extra and are not as comprehensive as those offered by traditional alarms, which often notify the authorities if the alarm has been triggered and not confirmed as a false alarm.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmgprod/images/primaryimageringalarm2ndgenerationkeypadimage68d527b27452e.jpg”}},{“@type”:”ListItem”,”position”:11,”item”:{“@type”:”Thing”,”name”:”Verdict: Best smart home security systems”,”url”:”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/productreviews/tech/g32912843/bestsmartalarmsystems/”,”description”:”Our winner on test was the SimpliSafe Essentials Kit (91/100). It’s the strongest choice if you want dependable monitoring with room to grow: installation is quick, batteries last up to a year, and you can easily add sensors or cameras later. For a fussfree setup without an ongoing subscription fee, choose the Bosch Smart Security Starter Kit II, which scored 87/100. The hardware looks great, the app is polished, setup is speedy, and the siren is impressively loud.If you live in the Amazon ecosystem, the Ring Alarm Security Kit (83/100) is the obvious pick. Its app is simple, the sensors and compact hub are reliable, and Alexa voice control is excellent.On a tighter budget? The Eufy Security 5Piece Home Alarm Kit earned a score of 80/100 in our tests, is affordable and delivers great value. It has local storage, with no monthly fees to unlock key features. During testing, we found setup easy, and it works with Alexa and Google.”,”image”:”https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmgprod/images/listiclelinebreaktransparency654513ffd4d04.png”}}]}}]
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Best smart home security system for monitoring and expansion
SimpliSafe Essentials Kit
Score: 91/100
SimpliSafe’s Essentials Kit offers a sleek, modular approach to home security for those who want to start out with a system that’s straightforward to expand. Installation was one of the smoothest on test, taking under 30 minutes with minimal effort. Plus, the included keypad, sensors, and camera meant we had a complete setup ready to go, straight out of the box.
It was impressive in use too. The sensors were reliable, and the app was intuitive, with straightforward controls for arming and disarming when needed. The 95dB siren, however, felt weaker compared to competitors like ERA or Yale, both of which passed the 100dB mark. While still audible enough to deter potential intruders, if you’re looking for the loudest noise, you may find it underwhelming. Its battery life is a highlight, though, reportedly lasting up to 12 months. That makes it less demanding than Bosch or Ring, though it falls short of Eufy’s twoyear claim.
A big part of what makes SimpliSafe a tempting purchase is its flexibility. The Essentials Kit includes plenty to get started, but the system can be expanded over time, whether that’s with more sensors, cameras, or other accessories. It’s a smart option if you’re not sure what level of coverage you’ll eventually need for your home.
The main drawback is its subscription model. It’s at least 66p a day, and some of the most useful features sit behind the paywall, such as professional monitoring. It’s also not the cheapest option to start with, but you do get a lot, regardless of whether you use the optional monthly subscription. If you want the most flexibility, SimpliSafe is the way to go.
Key specifications
| In the box | Base station, keypad, x3 entry sensors for doors/windows, x1 motion sensor, and x1 indoor camera |
|---|---|
| Integrations | Supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant – integrations require a Pro Premium Monitoring Plan |
| Siren | 95db siren, and the SimpliCam Indoor Camera has a builtin siren feature (an optional external siren is also available) |
| Power | Mainspowered, with a rechargeable backup battery that’s good for 24 hours of use – the keypad and sensors run on included batteries, while the indoor camera uses mains power |
| Subscriptions | It can be used without a subscription, but professional monitoring adds extra features – the two plans are Pro (66p per day) and Pro Premium (93p per day), with Premium including police alerts after verification |
Best smart home security system for style and quick setup
Bosch Smart Security Starter Kit II
Score: 87/100
Bosch’s Smart Home Security II made a great impression, thanks to its stylish design that easily blended into our home. This may sound like a small detail, but it matters if you want something that’s almost invisible. The Bosch app was also one of the most intuitive we’ve used, allowing us to access key features like arming and disarming the alarms when leaving and arriving home, servicing the alarms, and more.
Setting up the system was straightforward, thanks largely to the app, and everything was live and working within 20 minutes. It was smooth in daytoday use, as you can arm and disarm the system quickly, while alerts arrived almost instantly on our smartphones. This was noticeably faster than Abode’s product, which sometimes lagged by several seconds. The 100dB siren proved loud enough to turn our heads. But, enabling it through the app wasn’t always intuitive, which struck us as strange, given how polished the rest of the experience felt.
Unlike Abode and Yale, the promised integration with Apple HomeKit and Google Home caused issues for us, which was disappointing, especially at the £349 price point. Despite this, it works well if you want an alarm system that’s selfcontained. Plus, if you’re looking for a smart alarm system that offers great design and ease of use, especially during installation, Bosch is the one to go with.
Key specifications
| In the box | Hub, x1 motion sensor, x1 entry sensor for doors/windows, x1 smoke detector (which doubles as an alarm siren) |
|---|---|
| Integrations | Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit |
| Siren | The Bosch Smoke Alarm II functions as a 8590dB siren – optional Bosch indoor sirens or smoke alarms can be added for more coverage |
| Power | The hub is mainspowered but doesn’t have a battery for backup power, while all the sensors and siren run on included batteries and can communicate with the hub even if the power is out |
| Subscriptions | No subscription fees, and professional monitoring is not offered |
Best smart home security system for Amazon users
Ring Alarm Security Kit
Score: 83/100
Ring’s Security Alarm system is a great purchase, especially if you’re a Ring customer and use one of the brand’s video doorbells, or another part of Amazon’s ecosystem. Its app is one of the best we’ve tested, thanks to the elegant user interface and ease of use. This kit feels like a natural extension of the ecosystem, with smooth voice control and quick setup. Within 20 minutes, the base station and sensors were live, and the app guided us through the process clearly.
Ring’s kit was reliable during testing. The motion detector and contact sensor were both accurate and responsive, though alerts weren’t as instant as Bosch’s system, which remains the fastest we tested. The siren was a step behind ERA’s 104dB unit, despite it reportedly having the same 104dB volume. That said, Ring’s sensors felt robust and consistent, with fewer quirks than Abode’s, which sometimes misfired with pets.
The app is a highlight, though. It’s clean, intuitive, and far more userfriendly than Yale’s, which often felt cluttered. However, Ring’s subscription structure is confusing, with three tiers – Basic, Standard and Premium – all offering different feature sets. It’s difficult to figure out which tier would suit you best, and if you choose the wrong one, it could mean it’s not great value, especially when it is £219.99 to start with.
If you’re already using Ring cameras or Amazon Alexa devices, this alarm kit is a logical choice that ties everything together neatly. But for those outside Amazon’s setup, alternatives could offer better experiences, especially for integrations with thirdparty devices.
Key specifications
| In the box | Base station, x1 keypad, x1 motion sensor, x1 entry sensor for doors/windows, x1 alarm range extender |
|---|---|
| Integrations | Supports Amazon Alexa |
| Siren | The Ring Base Station has a 104dB siren builtin, the keypad has a smaller 75dB siren builtin, and an additional outdoor siren is available as an addon |
| Power | Mainspowered, with a rechargeable backup battery that’s good for 24 hours of use – the sensors and keypad run on included batteries |
| Subscriptions | Some advanced video history and notification features require a subscription – the available Ring Protect plans are Basic (£4.99 per month), Standard (£7.99 per month) and Premium (£15.99 per month) – but Ring does not offer professional monitoring |
Best budget smart home security system
Eufy Security 5Piece Home Alarm Kit
Score: 80/100
Eufy’s 5Piece Home Alarm kit is one of the most affordable options on our list. At £159.99 upfront, you get a full starter kit that comes with a very simple setup process, a claimed twoyear battery life from the sensors, and plenty of reliability. These make it a great option for those who have holiday homes or want to maintain the sensors as little as possible.
During testing, the performance was solid. The siren was surprisingly quiet at 72dB compared to those offered by Bosch, ERA, and Yale. But when it came to arming and disarming the alarms, it did the job reliably (though Bosch was faster). The app was simple to use, with easy access to enable the alarm when needed, and its support for Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant was welcome too.
One of Eufy’s biggest selling points is longevity. It claims a twoyear battery life, making this one of the lowestmaintenance options available, so there’s no need to worry about constantly changing the batteries.
The lack of a monthly subscription fee is great, too, as it doesn’t add on to the monthly bills to keep your home secure, and it sets it apart from others in this list. However, there is a lack of monitoring options and a 4G SIM backup option, which could fail to notify you if your home wifi fails.
Overall, Eufy’s 5Piece Home Alarm Kit is fantastic value, especially if you’re new to smart alarms. But if you want something with more coverage, we’d recommend rival options from ERA, Bosch or SimpliSafe.
Key specifications
| In the box | Hub, x1 keypad, x1 motion sensor, x2 entry sensors for doors/windows |
|---|---|
| Integrations | Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit |
| Siren | The Eufy HomeBase 2 hub acts as an alarm siren, which gets as loud as 72dB – there’s no external siren accessory available, though |
| Power | The hub is mainspowered but doesn’t have a battery for backup power – the sensors and keypad are batterypowered |
| Subscriptions | No monthly fees needed for full functionality, while you can pay for cloud video backup (from £2.99 per month), the hub holds onto about 23 months of clips from a single camera |
Best smart home security system for expanding over time
Yale Sync 6Piece Home Alarm Kit
Score: 74/100
Yale’s 6Piece Home Alarm Kit is a solid entry point into smart alarms. In our tests, the initial setup was quick, and Yale includes batteries in the box, too. The sensors were easy to place, and the system was up and running in under half an hour.
Performance was great, with reliable alerts and a loud siren at 100dB, one of the noisiest of those we tested. The kit’s support for Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Philips Hue are welcome additions if you use one of these platforms, and its reported 200metre range of coverage is the standout feature. That could make it an essential buy if you have a large home or garden, and you want to cover a big area.
The app is a mixed bag, however. While it offers plenty of options for customisation, the sheer amount of menus and settings can feel overwhelming at first. It’s not as streamlined as the Ring or Bosch apps, and less techliterate users may need time to adapt.
The three subscription tiers also muddy the waters. Starting at £3.50 per month, they unlock features like cloud storage and cellular backup, but the differences between plans aren’t clearly explained. Certain features included on the cheapest “Camera Plan” are missing from the midtier “Alarm Plan”, which adds cellular backup. Essentially, you need the “Secure Plan” if you want all the features on offer.
Despite these drawbacks, Yale’s alarm kit is a great choice for homeowners looking to start small and gradually expand, or for larger properties wanting to cover a wide area. For a smoother app experience, Ring or Bosch are strong alternatives, but Yale delivers a good, expandable foundation.
Key specifications
| In the box | Hub, x1 keypad, x2 motion sensors, x1 entry sensor for doors/windows, x1 external siren |
|---|---|
| Integrations | Supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Siren | The external siren reaches 104dB, and the hub itself emits a chime during an alarm – you can also buy additional sirens for expansion |
| Power | Mainspowered, with a rechargeable backup battery that’s good for 8 hours of use – all the external sensors and siren are batterypowered |
| Subscriptions | No subscription fees required, and professional monitoring is not offered, but you do need to subscribe (either £3.50, £5 or £9 per month) for cloud video recording and cellular backup |
Best smart home security system for Apple Home users
Abode iota AllInOne Security Kit
Score: 70/100
The Abode iota kit is a great choice for those wanting a premium package that has all the essentials for a security system, and works seamlessly with Apple’s HomeKit, something that sets it apart.
Abode’s hub also works with thirdparty products, connecting to other Matter devices (a crossbrand smarthome protocol) and Philips Hue lights, which makes managing them simple. It’s these factors that make it a good choice if you want a smart security system that also works with other devices around your home.
On test, we found setup easy, taking less than 30 minutes from unboxing to installation, and the app easily spotted the enabled devices around our home. As the hub also works as a motion sensor and 93dB siren, it means you get three devices in one here, saving you the time and expense of fitting a separate sensor and siren.
Abode was great throughout daytoday use, although it had some quirks. Alerts from the mini door/window sensor were fast, though some came with 10second delays, and the motion sensors usually notified us when they picked up pets, something we didn’t see with Bosch’s smart alarm kit. Abode’s app isn’t as intuitive as Ring’s, either, and arming/disarming did feel slower than Bosch and Eufy’s products.
But the biggest disadvantage here is price. It’s £384.99 at full price, and that’s before you factor in the added subscription costs of £7.99 £13.99. These are ongoing costs, and there isn’t a free trial that allows you to sample the service, either.
Ultimately, if you’re an Apple household, Abode’s smart alarm kit could be ideal, especially if you use other thirdparty smart home peripherals. It’s far more integrated than Ring or Yale, but if you want something with a lower initial cost, we’d consider Yale, Ring, ERA or Eufy instead.
Key specifications
| In the box | Allinone hub (combines security camera, motion sensor and siren in one unit), x1 mini entry sensor for doors/windows |
|---|---|
| Integrations | Supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit, along with acting as a smart home hub and integrating directly with thirdparty products |
| Siren | The Abode hub has a 93dB siren built directly into the device – an external siren is also available, but not as part of the basic kit |
| Power | Mainspowered, with a rechargeable backup battery that’s good for 5 hours of use – any additional sensors are batterypowered |
| Subscriptions | No monthly fees needed for functionality, however Abode’s plans (from £7.99 per month) add video, notification and automation features, along with professional monitoring on the Pro plan (£13.99 per month) |
How we test the best smart home security systems
We put each of these smart alarm systems through rigorous testing in our own homes. We start with unboxing, seeing how they’re packed, how easy it is to set them up, and whether the instructions are clear. We note every stage, up until they’re installed, and then we use them as normal for several weeks.
During this time, we monitor how the security system fares in daytoday use, as well as how the app works when we’re away from home. We assess how easy it is to use, as well as how fast the alerts are if the sensors detect something. Its settings and compatibility with other products and platforms like Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Home are also reviewed.
We also examine the design and build quality, the longevity of the battery if one is builtin, and how easy it is to expand the alarm system with extra devices like sensors and new cameras, as well as seeing if any subscription services are offered.
Why you should trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
We rigorously test and review all the latest smart home security devices at the Good Housekeeping Institute – from the best wifi security cameras to video doorbells and smart heating thermostats. Our tech experts follow detailed testing protocols to evaluate each product’s realworld performance, ease of installation and use, and overall reliability. This handson approach and expertise ensure that our recommendations are based on proven results rather than marketing claims.
This guide was written by Daryl Baxter, a technology journalist with over a decade of experience in consumer tech writing. Daryl was previously the Software & Downloads Writer at TechRadar and later the Features Editor at iMore, and is now a freelance writer covering all things tech. He has written countless articles and reviews on software, gadgets and smart home devices throughout his career, bringing a wealth of knowledge to this piece.
For this guide, Daryl set up and tested each smart home security system in his own home and followed protocols outlined by the Good Housekeeping Institute. He assessed key factors for every system, including how simple the installation process was, the responsiveness and accuracy of the sensors/alarms, how userfriendly the companion app is, and how well each system integrates with other smart home platforms or devices. You can trust that we have tested each security system in this article just as you would use them at home.
How to buy the best smart home security system
Choosing the best security system comes down to several key factors. This usually includes cost, how many peripherals you need, the ease of installing them yourself, how loud the siren is, smart assistant support, and whether there are any subscriptions needed to unlock more features.
The best way to start is by keeping things small and simple, and building out your setup from there. This way, you can learn how the security system works in your home initially, and figure out if you need anything else, like a camera or another sensor. Most of the products we tested allow for expansion.
When shopping, these are the key specs to keep in mind.
Sensors
Most manufacturers offer a mix of sensors in an alarm bundle, so you’ll need to work out the combination you need for your property.
Cameras
If you’re interested in keeping an eye on your home while you’re out, it’s worth looking for a mix of indoor and outdoor security cameras. This way, you’ll be able to see whether anyone is sneaking around in your garden or if mischievous pets misbehave in your hallway, and they’ll act as additional motion sensors.
Keypads and fobs
Some smart home security systems feature keypads and fobs that make arming and disarming the alarm easier than via an app. This may be useful if you have dog walkers, cleaners or others who may let themselves in and out of your home when you’re not there.
Sirens
Most brands should include a loud siren to scare off intruders, but we’ve noted if this is not included or is an optional extra. We’ve also included the maximum volume – 85 decibels (dB) is comparable to a kitchen blender, while 100db is as loud as a motorbike.
Installation
Most of the models we’ve tested require you to set them up yourself using the provided sticky pads or screws. Ensure you put any cameras or sirens high enough on a wall to make sure your pets don’t set it off.
Backup battery
Some smart alarms include a backup battery, which means it will continue to work even if there’s a power cut.
Compatibility with other devices
If you’ve got other smart home devices, such as lights or plugs, it’s worth looking for a home security system that’s compatible. For example, you can set up a smart light to turn on if a door is opened or get a radio connected to a smart plug to spring to life if a motion sensor detects any movement. Some will also connect to voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri or Google Assistant.
Frequently asked questions
What is a smart home security system?
A smart home security system is a wireless setup that uses your home’s wifi network (via a central hub) to link together sensors, sirens, keypads and often cameras. You control it through an app on your phone or tablet – and usually via a voice assistant – so you can arm or disarm the system, change settings and get instant alerts wherever you are. Because there are no trailing wires and most parts can be installed easily, these are typically more affordable and renterfriendly than traditional alarms that need to be fitted by professionals.
The core components are sensors and a siren. Two of the most common sensor types are:
- Open/close (contact) sensors for doors and windows: two pieces form a circuit when closed; if the connection breaks while the system is armed, the alarm sounds, and you’re notified.
- PIR (passive infrared) motion sensors for hallways and other entry points: when armed, they detect movement and trigger the siren and an alert.
Many systems include – or work seamlessly with – wireless security cameras and video doorbells from the same brand. These can double as motion detectors and, crucially, let you see what triggered an alert so you can tell a false alarm from a real emergency! Most kits tend to rely on a hub to keep everything connected without cables. These systems will also allow you to expand later with extra sensors or cameras, as your needs grow.
How much does a smart home security system cost?
Home security systems can vary in price – from as little as £50 to over £500 – depending on how many devices you need in order to feel that your home is secure. While your starter kit might set you back somewhere between £120 to £300, additional sensors will drive that cost up. Extra sensors, if needed, will be roughly £15–£45 each, depending on the brand and type, while additional cameras could be £100 to £200, per camera!
Most products are designed to be easily installed, but you can get a professional to fit them for you, which could be an additional cost of £40 to £150. Professional installation won’t be necessary for most, but it is a convenience that will save you from working out where to drill holes and position sensors and cameras.
Many will also have an additional subscription fee, which can be monthly or yearly. These offer more features, like unlimited cloud storage, which can start from as little as £4.99 a month but may go up to well over £30 a month, depending on the alerts and camera storage you might need. Adding professional monitoring will be an extra cost, too.
Are smart home alarms as effective as burglar alarms?
Smart home security systems are just as reliable as traditional burglar alarms, but they don’t always have an external siren for the front of your home, which can act as a deterrent to wouldbe intruders.
While most models offer optional monitoring services to alert police, they cost extra and are not as comprehensive as those offered by traditional alarms, which often notify the authorities if the alarm has been triggered and not confirmed as a false alarm.
Verdict: Best smart home security systems
Our winner on test was the SimpliSafe Essentials Kit (91/100). It’s the strongest choice if you want dependable monitoring with room to grow: installation is quick, batteries last up to a year, and you can easily add sensors or cameras later.
For a fussfree setup without an ongoing subscription fee, choose the Bosch Smart Security Starter Kit II, which scored 87/100. The hardware looks great, the app is polished, setup is speedy, and the siren is impressively loud.
If you live in the Amazon ecosystem, the Ring Alarm Security Kit (83/100) is the obvious pick. Its app is simple, the sensors and compact hub are reliable, and Alexa voice control is excellent.
On a tighter budget? The Eufy Security 5Piece Home Alarm Kit earned a score of 80/100 in our tests, is affordable and delivers great value. It has local storage, with no monthly fees to unlock key features. During testing, we found setup easy, and it works with Alexa and Google.
Daryl Baxter has been writing since 2012. While studying Computer Systems (Networks) at Nottingham Trent University, his first published interview set him on a path into tech journalism.
He spent several years working as tech support while freelancing on the side, then went freelance fulltime in late 2018. He helped build a new tech site at Gfinity and later joined , where he built out the Software & Downloads section.
Daryl is also the author of three books on video game development, and he runs a copywriting business, Springboard, alongside a of the same name.
Since leaving Future in 2024, he’s returned to freelancing with bylines across a range of tech and culture outlets, including , , , , and more.
When there’s a day off, Daryl is usually found walking his dog, Jolly, as well as teaching his son the alphabet via Sesame Street. You can also follow Daryl on and .
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