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The Ultimate Guide to Home Security Systems - A 2024 Independent Review

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, December 23rd 2025 at 9:18 GMT by The Independent

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The Ultimate Guide to Home Security Systems – A 2024 Independent Review

When a burglar breaks in, the first thing you want to know is how you could have stopped it. The Independent’s exhaustive 2024 review of the best home security systems cuts through the noise to tell you exactly which set‑ups deliver the greatest protection, for every budget and lifestyle. After scouring dozens of DIY kits, professional‑monitoring giants, and the newest AI‑driven solutions, the paper arrives at a clear hierarchy: ADT and Frontpoint lead the pack for peace‑of‑mind and 24/7 monitoring, while Ring Alarm, SimpliSafe, and Canary offer top‑tier DIY options that pack a punch at a fraction of the cost.

How the Review Was Conducted

The Independent team evaluated over 30 different brands by testing each system in a controlled, simulated break‑in scenario. They measured response times, sensor accuracy, and mobile‑app reliability. In addition to technical testing, the reviewers conducted field‑tests at 15 different households—both urban and rural—to gauge how well each system handled real‑world challenges such as interference from other Wi‑Fi devices, low‑light camera performance, and integration with smart‑home hubs.

The criteria for ranking were:

1. Reliability – how often the system triggers false alarms and how quickly the monitoring centre responds.
2. Ease of Installation – the time and complexity of setting up the system.
3. Feature Set – sensors, cameras, mobile alerts, and integration with voice assistants.
4. Cost – hardware, monthly fees, and optional add‑ons.
5. Customer Support – availability of 24/7 helplines and on‑site service.

The Best Overall – Professional‑Monitoring Giants

1. ADT Home Security

Why it wins: ADT remains the gold standard for professional monitoring. With a dedicated, 24/7 dispatch team that can contact police, fire, and medical services within seconds, ADT’s response time is unmatched. The system includes a comprehensive sensor suite—door/window, motion, glass‑break, and even CO detectors—plus optional indoor and outdoor cameras that stream HD video to your phone.

Installation & Setup: ADT’s system is not DIY; you’ll need an on‑site installer. The installation takes about a half‑day, and the company provides a mobile app that lets you arm/disarm and view live feeds from anywhere.

Cost: The basic kit starts at £120 per month, with a £50 monthly monitoring fee. However, the paper notes that many consumers appreciate the long‑term reliability and the fact that ADT’s customer support is often described as “prompt and friendly.”

Add‑ons: Water‑leak sensors and smart‑door locks can be added for an extra £20–£30 per month.

2. Frontpoint

Why it wins: Frontpoint strikes a balance between professional monitoring and a relatively lower upfront cost. The system uses a self‑installable, battery‑powered kit but offers optional on‑site installation and a 24/7 monitoring service for a monthly fee of £35–£45, depending on the package.

Installation & Setup: Frontpoint’s DIY approach means you can set up most sensors yourself in under an hour. The app, praised for its intuitive interface, lets you arm the system, schedule alerts, and view live video.

Cost: The basic hardware kit costs about £150–£200, with monitoring starting at £35 per month. For renters or those wanting a minimal system, Frontpoint offers a “Security‑only” plan that excludes cameras.

Add‑ons: You can add smart‑locks and additional sensors at an extra £10–£15 per month.

The Best DIY – Self‑Installed, Battery‑Powered Systems

3. Ring Alarm

Why it wins: Ring Alarm is the perfect solution for those who already own Ring’s popular video doorbells. The system is plug‑and‑play, with a base‑station that connects via Wi‑Fi and a suite of battery‑powered door/window sensors, motion sensors, and an optional alarm speaker.

Installation & Setup: Most users can install the entire system in 30 minutes. The ring app allows you to arm the system, set schedules, and receive push notifications. Integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant lets you control the system with voice commands.

Cost: The basic ring alarm kit starts at £70–£90. Monitoring is optional: a £10–£15 per month plan that will notify a local police station if you activate the “Alert Police” feature.

Add‑ons: The system is compatible with the Ring Video Doorbell Pro, and optional cameras can be added for indoor/outdoor coverage.

4. SimpliSafe

Why it wins: SimpliSafe offers a complete DIY kit that is highly regarded for its reliability and no‑contract monitoring. The system includes motion sensors, door/window contacts, a glass‑break detector, a camera, and a smoke/CO detector—all wired to a small, battery‑backed control panel.

Installation & Setup: SimpliSafe’s sensors are battery‑powered, making placement flexible. The app is praised for its straightforward “Setup Wizard,” which guides you through sensor placement and testing.

Cost: The base kit starts at £119 (includes 10 sensors and a camera). Monthly monitoring costs £14.99 for the “Security & Monitoring” plan. The paper notes that SimpliSafe’s “No-Contract” policy means you can cancel at any time without a penalty.

Add‑ons: Optional sensors, such as motion‑detection for high‑traffic areas or extra cameras, are available at an additional £5–£10 per month.

5. Canary

Why it wins: Canary is a newer entrant that distinguishes itself with AI‑powered, always‑on video and a single‑box design that replaces the separate control panel. The camera uses motion‑based triggers and offers night vision and face‑recognition options.

Installation & Setup: The unit is simply plugged into a power outlet and connected via Wi‑Fi. The accompanying app allows you to manage sensors, set motion zones, and view live footage.

Cost: Canary’s base price is £99 (includes a camera and a few sensors). The monitoring plan is £20 per month. Canary is praised for its quick setup but noted to be slightly more expensive than Ring or SimpliSafe for comparable features.

What Features Matter Most?

1. Battery‑Powered Sensors – Allow flexible placement and avoid running wires around the house.
2. Smart‑Home Integration – Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit expands control options.
3. Video Capability – Live feed and recorded footage add a powerful deterrent.
4. Smart‑Lock Compatibility – Enables remote lock/unlock and secure access.
5. Customer Support – A 24/7 helpline and local response teams dramatically improve peace of mind.

The review highlighted that false alarms remain a perennial issue. The top-rated systems have advanced motion‑sensing algorithms that minimize false positives from pets or moving foliage.

How to Choose the Right System for You

• High‑Security, Low‑Risk Homes: If you live in a high‑crime area, a professional‑monitoring system like ADT or Frontpoint is ideal. The cost is higher, but the risk mitigation is significant.
• Mid‑Range Security: If you want reliable monitoring without the overhead, Frontpoint offers a compelling mix of DIY and professional support.
• DIY on a Budget: Ring Alarm and SimpliSafe deliver excellent performance for under £200, especially if you’re comfortable installing the sensors yourself.
• Tech‑Savvy Homeowners: Canary’s AI features and single‑box design appeal to those who value cutting‑edge tech and want a seamless, app‑controlled experience.

Final Verdict

The Independent’s 2024 review underlines that no single system is best for everyone. However, the evidence is clear: for the highest level of reassurance, ADT and Frontpoint top the list. For those who want solid protection without a hefty monthly bill, SimpliSafe and Ring Alarm deliver remarkable value.

If you’re still uncertain, the paper recommends starting with a free demo from a local provider or ordering a sample kit from the manufacturer’s website. Most brands, including Ring, SimpliSafe, and ADT, now offer risk‑free trial periods—so you can test the system’s responsiveness before committing long‑term.

Bottom line: Invest in a system that aligns with your security needs, your tech comfort level, and your budget. With the right home security system, you’ll not only protect your property—you’ll also safeguard the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved ones are safe.