Smart alarm systems are to old hard-wired systems what Netflix is to cable. Gone are the days of mandatory multi-year contracts, wires running down widow frames, and keypads requiring home phone lines. The new generation of DIY alarms can be both self-monitored and professionally monitored, their behavior is fully customizable, the cellular and battery backup means you don’t need a phone line and you don’t have to worry about losing power. They integrate with other smart home devices and ecosystems, as well as with smart cameras, smart locks and smart bulbs. And they can save you money on your home insurance.
Today, there are more DIY alarm systems on the market than ever before, and it’s time to get smart about smart home protection. We found that all of the systems we tested were easy to get up and running in a matter of minutes. We did spend some time with tech support to restart a sensor that became unpaired, and we had some disruptions to our home wifi that required a firmware update, but all issues were easily remedied. The only feature that none of the systems had that we’d like to see in the future is an app-based panic button accessible to every user right on their phones.
Ring Alarm
The Shark Tank investors who turned down the founder of Ring are likely still kicking themselves. We love the Ring Alarm app, which has a localized neighborhood watch, as well as localized police blotter, addition to full control of the system. The hardware is attractive, though the indicator lights on the hub and keypad could be an issue if someone were sleeping in the same room with the system. The siren has a unique tone, and was the most intimidating of the group. Ring’s professional monitoring also presents what we felt to be the best value of the systems we tested.
Accessories: Ring video doorbells, flood and freeze sensors, smoke and CO2 sensor, additional siren, Ring smart lighting, and a broad range of Ring indoor and outdoor security cameras. (You can check out all Ring’s accessory offerings, here.)
Compatibility: Google Assistant, Alexa and Z-Wave smart locks.