Best Apple Home Security Systems in 2024

ADT Overview

If you’ve been even tangentially interested in getting a home security system, you’ve likely heard the name ADT. It’s one of the most popular providers, with 6 million active customers across the country.1

>> Compare Options: Brinks vs. ADT

And that’s not by dumb luck. ADT delivers some of the most advanced security features using white-glove service. From its professional installation to its exceptional customer service, the experience of using this service is pretty outstanding. And we should know; we’ve tested ADT security systems from ADT Pulse (launched in 2010) to ADT Plus (launched August 2024).

ADT for Apple

One thing we know that can cause confusion among new ADT users is the number of apps available. There’s ADT Pulse, ADT Control, and ADT+. So to clear that up, if you’re buying an ADT security system in 2024, you’re most likely going to use the ADT+ app. That’s what the new ADT Plus security system works with.

We’ve tested all three apps though, and at the very least, they can:

• Arm and disarm the system
• Display video monitoring
• Control temperature
• Control lighting
• Set up custom notifications
• Lock and unlock doors

The ADT+ app is even more useful now that ADT has ditched its touch screen control panel for a screen-free base station. We’re not big fans of this move, but it goes to show the criticality of having a reliable, user-friendly, and functional security system app. Fortunately, the ADT+ app doesn’t disappoint.

ADT Monitoring

As a more traditional home security system, ADT requires professional monitoring. Exactly how much that will cost depends on the size of your system. To give you an idea, monitoring starts at $29.99 per month. That’s certainly not the most affordable option on the list — that would be abode at $24.99 per month — but it didn’t make us flinch because we know how seriously ADT takes professional monitoring.

ADT has 12 control centers across the country, all with their own redundancies built in, to ensure its services never go down. It also deploys some of the latest and greatest technologies like SMART Monitoring to help reduce false alarms and connect with authorities as quickly as possible. Rather than wait 30 to 60 seconds to give you a call, ADT immediately sends text alerts that you can respond to in order to confirm or cancel an alarm.

ADT Costs

Unfortunately, you’re going to end up paying quite a bit for an ADT system, but, as an Apple user, you know that high-quality equipment doesn’t come cheap. We have a lot more information in our breakdown of ADT’s prices, but the short version is this: It offers four security packages that you can customize to your needs. Here’s how they look side by side:

Also keep in mind that because it offers financing options, you’re not going to have to drop a huge chunk of change upfront like you would with some of the other DIY home security systems out there, and ADT also offers several deals and sales throughout the year that you could take advantage of.

“Wow” Factor

The best part about using an ADT system has to be how seamless everything is. The system is professionally installed and tested, so you know exactly how everything works before the technician walks out the door. From the first day, it just works without you ever having to lift a finger. No getting out the power drill. No cursing because your base station won’t connect to your WiFi.

Learn More: Professional vs. DIY Home Security Systems

The Drawbacks

The major drawback of ADT is the long-term contract. Even if you pay for the equipment upfront, you’re still going to have to sign up for at least a 36-month contract to enjoy the benefits of this system. For some people, that’s not a huge deal, but if you’re looking for the best security system for your apartment, it might be a dealbreaker.

Vivint Overview

Vivint’s smart home automation is some of the most technologically advanced on the market today. You can’t control it with Siri – abode is the only one on this list you can do that to, thanks to its HomeKit compatibility – but everywhere else in the smart home security category, Vivint is the standout. Even the biggest Apple fans among our team don’t use HomeKit anyway, so we like having a smart home system independent from Apple.

When we tested Vivint, we went with a comprehensive system with smart devices like the Nest Learning Thermostat and a Yale smart lock. We were able to control everything from our Vivint iOS app, but also from our Vivint Smart Hub control panel and our non-Apple smart speakers. We were also able to automate them through schedules and rules, which ultimately improved our overall security posture. More on that later.

>> Learn More: Best Smart Security Systems

What We Like:

• Futuristic and stylish equipment
• Customizable app automations
• Excellent professional installation service
• Speedy alarm response through text, app, and phone alerts

What We Don’t Like:

• Pricey equipment, especially security cameras
• No Siri voice controls
• Lack of pricing transparency
• Contract is required

Vivint With Apple

We loved using the Vivint Smart Hub to control the security system, but if you’re as glued to your iPhone as we are, you can make the Vivint iOS app your main point of control. Using it, you can:

• Arm and disarm the system
• Watch live feeds from cameras
• Receive notifications
• Answer doorbell cameras
• Control lighting
• Control smart thermostats
• Unlock and lock smart locks
• Set up automations using connected equipment

The Vivint app takes some getting used to, though, but only because it’s one of the most feature-rich security system apps out there. But once we got it going – and after setting up all the automations we wanted – it was smooth sailing from there. It even locks our front door automatically at exactly 11 p.m. every night.

Vivint Monitoring

Again, Similar to ADT, Vivint’s security systems require professional monitoring, and the cost of that monitoring is going to depend on the size and scope of your system. It starts at $40 per month and goes up there, depending on the package you’ve selected.

>> Compare Options: Brinks vs. ADT

Vivint’s monitoring is worth the cost — at least in our opinion. The response times were extremely fast during our tests and we felt secure that Vivint got our backs. We even received text alerts and app alerts on our Apple Watches, so we had peace of mind knowing that wherever we may be when an emergency occurs, we’d hear about it in the blink of an eye.

Vivint Costs

If you’re interested in Vivint’s pricing, the best thing to do is call for a free quote. There are no security packages — everything is bespoke. When we bought our Vivint system, here are the prices we paid for the main components.

Vivint is not exactly cheap – it’s the most expensive on this list. We reviewed the Outdoor Camera Pro and while it was impressive, it cost us almost as much as some of the best DIY security systems we’ve tested. Just something to keep in mind if you’re trying to protect your property on a budget.

“Wow” Factor

One of the coolest things about Vivint is just how futuristic it feels thanks to all the automation features available. Just look at the screenshot below showing the alerts we received from our Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro. It didn’t just tell us that movement was detected, but also that that movement was a person. It did the same every time it saw packages dropped off.

And the best part? We could create automatic responses for each type of event. For example, we made it so that every time the doorbell sees a person, our outdoor lights turn on so we get a better view from the doorbell camera’s live stream. We think that’s very Apple of Vivint.

The Drawbacks

The biggest drawback of Vivint is the price. Similar to ADT, it does offer financing, but $2,000 over two years is still $2,000. Put simply, there are a lot more affordable options out there — like SimpliSafe, abode, and Ring — if you’re looking for a security system. But again, you get what you pay for with this smart home security system.

Frontpoint Overview

Both ADT and Vivint take a pretty traditional approach to home security, while Frontpoint has always aimed to disrupt the home security space with its DIY-focused approach. And that means it has simple equipment, it’s easy to set up, and it is overall user-friendly. Sounds familiar? Well, we’re sure you also saw those things when you set up your iPhone for the first time.

Another thing about Frontpoint that reminds us about Apple is its approach to customer service. The user experience is clearly one of Frontpoint’s top priorities. We didn’t have to speak with a salesman to buy a security system like we did with Vivint. We also didn’t need to schedule an installation appointment. We were completely in the driver seat throughout the process.

>> Learn More: Frontpoint FAQ

Founded in 2007, this company always looked to leverage the latest security technologies and keep costs low by focusing on a DIY approach. It’s also made a commitment to providing some of the best customer service in the industry today, which I’ll talk more about below.

Frontpoint for Apple

Frontpoint also offers an extremely easy-to-use app for its customers to control their systems with. Now, unlike Vivint and ADT+, the Frontpoint app isn’t the prettiest to look at. It’s more utilitarian, but it gets the job done. Which job exactly? These:

• Arm and disarm the system
• Receive push and text notifications for events
• Check email notifications
• View live and recorded videos
• Control locks
• Control lights
• Control thermostats

Everything we needed was really easy to find, and the settings were simple to adjust. There were deeper customizations in the settings section as well, and they were almost as comprehensive as Vivint. So while Frontpoint isn’t exactly on par with Vivint, it makes for a more affordable alternative.

Frontpoint Monitoring

Like ADT and Vivint, Frontpoint also requires its systems to be professionally monitored, and that monitoring costs $49.99 per month. We understand that can be a tough pill to swallow, but here’s what you get for that fee:

• 24/7 professional monitoring
• Cellular backup
• Automated system check
• Unique user codes
• Crash-and-smash protection
• Geolocation services
• Mobile alerts and notifications via email and text
• Remote access and control
• Sensor history
• Live video streaming
• Video and image history
• Motion-triggered alerts
• Light control
• Smart lock control

That crash-and-smash protection is a pretty interesting function. It practically detects tampering, so if a burglar were to smash your Frontpoint base station, it would trigger an alarm response. This happened when we forgot to plug the base station back in. It turned off after the 24-hour battery backup ran out, which triggered the crash-and-smash protection thinking that someone turned off the hub on purpose.

Frontpoint Costs

Frontpoint offers packages, and they are pretty affordable. We mean, where else can you get a home security system with two entry sensors, a hub with crash-and-smash protection, and a wireless keypad for $79? Nowhere else besides Frontpoint.

See our Frontpoint pricing guide for the full details, but the two main packages are:

Also, Frontpoint is pretty much always running a deal for add-on equipment that will keep your costs low, which makes it one of the most affordable security providers out there.

Here are the popular options you can add to a Frontpoint package:

Notice how that outdoor camera is essentially a quarter of the price of Vivint’s? If you’re looking to keep costs low, DIY is usually the way to go.

>> Compare: ADT Self Setup vs. Frontpoint

“Wow” Factor

One thing that really impressed us was how easy the Frontpoint setup process was. “DIY” might as well be a four-letter word to some folks, but even without experience, you can set up a Frontpoint security system in 30 minutes – more or less.

Keep in mind that a lot of these pieces of equipment adhere to the walls using command strips, so be careful when you’re taking them down, or you’re going to need some touch-up paint. But note that there was no drilling or wiring required. It’s a true DIY system, just like you get with Ring or SimpliSafe.

The Drawbacks

We’d say the biggest drawback to picking up a Frontpoint system is that the $50-per-month professional monitoring is required. If you’re on a budget, that might be a bridge too far. If that’s the case, check out our guide to the best self-monitored home security systems. You’ll be responsible for tracking everything, but you’ll save a bundle.

abode Overview

HomeKit may not be as popular as Alexa or Google Assistant because of its closed-off nature, but some people found good use for it. And if you’re one of those people and you want your security system to work with HomeKit, abode is pretty much your only good option.

We like abode’s high-tech equipment focused on smart home automation paired with a DIY setup, unlike Vivint. As such, abode has a lower entry price. You’ll have to shell out a little more money if you want that HomeKit compatibility we mentioned though. Only the abode iota security system works with HomeKit, and it happens to be the most expensive option from the brand. It’s still pretty affordable though. Packages start at $229.

What We Like:

• HomeKit-compatible
• Hub includes a 1080p HD security camera built into the casing
• Small form factor of devices
• Deep home automation capabilities

What We Don’t Like:

• Limited security camera options
• No touch screen keypad
• Confusing equipment packages
• Features like home automation require a monthly fee

abode for Apple

That HomeKit compatibility really ups a notch abode’s integration with Apple. None of us in the team use HomeKit, but we have the equipment required to at least set up abode with it. And let us tell you, it worked with Apple like no other security system we tested. If Apple compatibility were our only criteria, abode would have won the top place hands down. Siri voice commands alone would have been enough to secure its spot.

The abode app worked pretty great too. From there, we could:

• Arm or disarm the system
• Access live streams
• Check sensor statuses
• Create Shortcuts
• Automate using CUE
• Receive alerts
• Add or remove devices

abode Monitoring

abode offers three tiers of monitoring — one being totally self-monitored and hence free. This is why it places so well on our list of the best no-monthly-fee home security systems. We have a lot more information in our guide to abode’s pricing structure, but here’s a quick breakdown of what you get with each tier:

Even its top tier of service is about half of what the others on our list cost. Note that if you want professional monitoring, that’s the tier you’re going to have to select.

abode Costs

Similar to Frontpoint, abode offers a few security packages as well as an a la carte menu that you can use to bolster one of the existing systems or build your own. And again, if you want a HomeKit-compatible system, you’d need the Iota hub. The starter kit costs $229.99 and includes the iota hub, a door/window sensor, and a key fob.

Of course, you can buy additional equipment to truly round out your security system. Here are some of the options:

Similar to Frontpoint, you don’t really need to pay attention to those regular prices. abode is always running a sale — I’ve never seen it charge full price for anything.

That said, here’s the list of its individual components and their prices:

Pretty reasonable, right? So, if you’re looking for a smart security system and you’re not really excited about Vivint’s prices, this is definitely an option. You’re just going to need to install it yourself.

>> Read About: Best Google Home Security System

Don’t worry — I’ve tested plenty of abode equipment. Everything is really easy to set up and network together. Just remember to set up the hub first! Everything follows from there.

“Wow” Factor

abode’s biggest selling point is how easy it is to integrate other pieces of equipment into its network. We have a Google Nest thermostat, for instance, and it automatically showed up as a piece of equipment we could add and control. If you already have some smart home equipment in your house and don’t want to start from scratch, abode might be a good option.

The Drawbacks

The main drawback of abode is the buying experience. Simply put, its website is really difficult to use because it offers three different security systems. Only one of those works with HomeKit, so make the right choice. Start with the system called “iota Security Kit.” After that, you can fill the blanks with extra equipment.

We’d also like to see more indoor and outdoor security camera options from abode. As it stands, it’s pretty slim pickings.

Brinks Overview

You know how when you purchase a new iPhone, the staff at the Genius Bar will help you set it up? It was kind of like that with Brinks, only it was a full-home security system installation service. It’s free if you buy a Brinks system worth over $500, but will cost you about $100 or more if your purchase is below the threshold.

The service is nothing to sneeze at either. It was almost as good as ADT’s installation, which we paid over $100 for. The technician installed everything and made sure to hide the exposed wires (particularly on the control panel), and then took the time to explain how everything works. He did leave some sawdust on the floor from when he drilled the pilot holes for the control panel’s mounting screws, but we’re just nitpicking here.

>> Compare Options: Brinks vs. ADT

What We Like:

• Free professional installation for systems over $500
• App is easy to work with and functional
• Offers a touch screen control panel
• Solid selection of security cameras

What We Don’t Like:

• Doesn’t offer video verification
• Decent but not very fast alarm response
• Old-school looking app
• Lack of pricing transparency
• Brinks for Apple

A lot of security apps can be a little lacking, but not so with Brinks. Its iOS app is extremely robust, allowing users to control almost every single function of their security system as well as any smart home automations they might have set up. This includes:

• Arming and disarming the system
• Entry management
• Viewing live feeds and recorded footage
• Answering doorbells
• Setting temperatures
• Opening and closing garage doors
• Geofencing

If you noticed that the Brinks app looks a bit like that of Frontpoint, good eye. That’s not by accident. Both apps are powered by Alarm.com – one of the biggest manufacturers of security system equipment. And that’s not bad; we liked Frontpoint’s functionality and we saw the same in Brinks.

Brinks Monitoring

Brinks offers three tiers of monitoring, and, taking a nod from the DIY disruptors in this space, it also offers users the ability to self-monitor to save a little money. I have more in my guide to Brinks’ costs, but here’s a quick breakdown:

Now, we didn’t mention this feature earlier because it’s so common now, but we’d like to point out that Brinks doesn’t do video verification even if you’re on the top-tier plan. Video verification means the control panel gains access to your cameras during emergency events to verify incidents. It’s a great feature that can potentially speed up police response, so Brink’s lack of it is a pretty big blow to its overall score.

Brinks Costs

Another thing Brinks lacks is pricing transparency. You’d need to call in to get a quote, but here’s the price list we got last time we tested a Brinks system. We’re not sure if these are accurate at the time you’re reading this, but it gives you a pretty good idea of how much Brinks costs:

Some of this is a little pricey, like the $40 entryway sensor, and some of it is downright expensive, like the $240 video doorbell. There are a lot of manufacturers that have equipment that costs much less than that. If you’re interested, you can check out our guide to Ring’s video doorbells.

That said, with providers like Vivint, ADT, and Brinks, you’re paying for the convenience of having everything packed up and installed for you. How much you’re willing to pay for that is up to you.

“Wow” Factor

One of the most interesting things about Brinks is that it really positions itself as being the best of both worlds. It’s a traditional system with all the power of a massive company, but it still gives you perks like free professional installation.

But as they say, when you try to target everyone, you reach no one. Brinks hasn’t been able to set itself apart in any way (jack of all trades but master of one!). So, it tends to end up somewhere in the middle of our ‘Best’ lists.

The Drawbacks

The biggest drawback of Brinks is the one area where it’s inflexible. If you go with Brinks, you are going to have to sign up for a long-term contract — at least 36 months. This can help if you’re trying to spread out the cost of the system, but some people don’t like making that long of a commitment, especially when they can go with a no-contract system like SimpliSafe, Ring, abode, Frontpoint, and most other brands out there. Food for thought!