#1 Pick for 2025: Cove Leads the Best-Rated Home Security Systems
Info current as of publish date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
When it comes to home security, real customer experiences matter most. That’s why we dug into thousands of reviews and tested the top security systems ourselves—to see which ones genuinely deliver. After all that research, one system stood out across the board: Cove.
Cove takes the top spot in 2025 for combining budget-friendly equipment, quick DIY setup, and highly rated 24/7 professional monitoring. Customers love how easy it is to use—and how responsive Cove’s support team is when it counts most.
Cove dominates when it comes to keeping customers happy, with an average customer rating of 4.2 stars (out of five) across multiple third-party review sites. That's nearly one full star better than the 3.3 average among all of our top-recommended home security systems.
How much does a security system cost?
Security equipment costs can range from $99 for a self-monitored system to $599 or more for a monitored system. Monthly monitoring subscriptions range from $19.99 to $60. Our data gathered from over 30 home security providers shows that $29.97 is the median price for wireless security subscriptions in the U.S.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer. See how average customer ratings are calculated.
We don’t just read specs—we actually live with these systems. Our team has spent thousands of hours testing 20+ security systems in real homes over the past 12 years. We install them ourselves, use them daily, and push them to see what really works (and what doesn’t). We test everything from setup to smart home features and monitoring response to customer support—so you don’t have to guess which setup makes sense for you.
Cove: The best customer-rated security system
We've tested every iteration of Cove's security system, and we've been consistently impressed with how this company incorporates feedback to improve its offerings and the user experience.
Unboxing the Cove home security system, showing the control panel and yard sign in the box. Image credit: SafeWise
Why Cove is the customer-favorite DIY system
Cove is a great value, with low-cost monthly monitoring that doesn't require a contract, and allows easy cancellation if the system doesn't suit your needs. Cove sets you free without punishing penalties and fees, unlike other security solutions that charge 75% to 100% of your remaining contract.
Cove has some more customer-first goodies we love:
- Large 7-inch touchscreen panel that comes with every package
- InstaText service that lets you confirm an emergency through a quick text message
- Rapid response with RapidSOS to get you help sooner
- Cove Equipment Rewards let you upgrade to the newest safety equipment or smart home device for free
- Lifetime equipment warranty (only one other brand on our list offers a lifetime warranty)
Cove security system equipment, including control panel, sensors, cameras, keyfob and smart smoke alarm. Image credit: Cove
—Lex, Cove customer review, Trustpilot, May 2025
What Cove customers are saying
We found over 6,300 reviews of Cove on third-party sites like Consumer Affairs, Trustpilot, and the BBB. Across those sites, Cove has an average* of 4.2 stars out of 5, which is the highest rating of any system on our list.
Customers often highlight Cove as a great budget-friendly alternative to bigger names like ADT. Cove earns high marks for its simple DIY setup, affordable pricing, and responsive customer service. Many users appreciate how easy it is to customize their system, order additional equipment, and manage everything through a user-friendly app. As of May 2025, Cove's app is rated 1.6 stars out of five in the Apple App Store and has 3.1 stars on Google Play—one of the only security system apps to do better on Android than iOS.
That said, reviews also reveal some recurring challenges. Technical issues with cameras, hubs, and app connectivity are common sources of frustration. Canceling service can also be a hassle, with reports of multiple calls and delays.
Is Cove the best DIY security system for you?
- Best for: DIYers who want affordable security and top-notch customer service
- Standout feature: Monthly equipment credits + lifetime warranty with Cove Plus
- Biggest trade-off: Limited smart home compatibility compared to other brands
- Bottom line: Cove is an excellent pick if you appreciate free perks and strong customer service, but keep looking if you want advanced home automation or prefer a system without monthly fees.
Vivint: Professional installation alternate
If you’re on the hunt for a smart wireless security system that doesn’t require you to lift a finger, Vivint is the best of the bunch. Vivint’s high-end equipment with pro installation, 24/7 monitoring, smart home features, and state-of-the-art security tech make it the best wireless security system available.
Vivint control panel showing what it looks like when the system is disarmed, how many doors are open and unlocked. Image credit: SafeWise
—Leon, Vivint customer review, Trustpilot, May 2025
What Vivint customers are saying
We found over 83,000 customer reviews for Vivint from third-party review sites like BBB, Trustpilot, and Consumer Affairs. Across those sites, Vivint has an average 4.1-star rating out of 5.* That's impressive, especially for a company that's come under tight scrutiny (and run into some legal trouble) over the years. It's also the second-highest customer rating after Cove.
Vivint gets high marks for its professional installation process and sleek, all-in-one smart home features. Many customers praise the knowledgeable technicians and seamless integration of cameras, thermostats, and security devices in a single app. As of May 2025, Vivint's app has 4.6 stars (out of 5) on the Apple App Store and 3.6 on Google Play.
Reviews over the long term are more mixed. One theme we saw is frustration with customer service—especially around billing issues, contract cancellations, and inconsistent follow-up. Some users also report technical glitches, like cameras going offline or motion detection lagging, which can undermine confidence in the system.
Go with Vivint if you want the reassurance of professional installation, robust smart home security, and expert-guided customization. Like any luxury item, you’d expect Vivint to come with a luxury price tag. It’s a balance: its equipment is pricey, but Vivint’s monthly monitoring fees remain in line with other top security companies. The Smart Home Video monitoring plan delivers video plus smart home control and integration for around $40 a month.
Frontpoint: Wide equipment selection
There’s DIY home security—and then there’s Frontpoint.
When I first set up a Frontpoint system, I realized it had something most DIY options don’t: the depth and polish you usually only find with companies like Vivint or ADT. It’s packed with professional-grade features, serious equipment variety, and—best of all—you can still install it yourself without breaking a sweat.
Systems like SimpliSafe are great for the essentials, but if you want more choices (think garage sensors, outdoor cameras, smart plugs), Frontpoint's where it’s at.
Frontpoint home security hub. Image credit: SafeWise
—Tom, Frontpoint customer review, Trustpilot, April 2025
What Frontpoint customers are saying
We found nearly 21,000 customer reviews for Frontpoint on third-party sites like Trustpilot, Consumer Affairs, and the BBB. Across those three websites, Frontpoint earns an average rating of 3.5 stars out of five.*
Frontpoint gets a lot of love from longtime customers who appreciate its easy DIY setup, reliable equipment, and personable customer service. Reviewers often highlight how simple it is to expand their system with cameras, locks, and other devices over time, and many praise Frontpoint’s knowledgeable reps for walking them through issues step by step. Users also like the app, which is currently rated 4.3 stars out of five in the Apple App Store and has 3.7 stars on Google Play.
But not all experiences are smooth. Some customers report frustration with billing, contract renewals, and the cancellation process. A few mention false alarms or camera issues, while others feel the service hasn’t kept pace with expectations—especially at its comparatively higher price point.
If you want more equipment options, smarter tech, and a super-easy DIY install, Frontpoint delivers. It’s flexible enough for small apartments or big houses—and it grows with you if your needs change.
Security system related questions
Yes, a home security system is worth the investment over time. It would take at least six years of paying for a home security system to match the cost of being burgled just one time. The average loss from a burglary is over $4,000.
With the average annual cost of a home security system coming in around $400 after equipment, it’s a preventative measure that’s worth it. Plus, you can get discounts on home owners insurance, and most burglars say they’d skip a house that has a security system.
A professionally monitored security system has trained professionals keeping an eye on your home 24/7. Monitoring centers contact you if the alarm is triggered, and they can dispatch emergency services to your home. We recommend professional monitoring because it’s your most direct line to help if something happens.
With a self-monitored system, you and other authorized household members check in to make sure everything’s okay at home. Depending on the security system you choose, that may or may not include motion detector alerts, outside security camera alerts, and life-saving alerts like notifications that your smoke alarm went off.
You can save money with self-monitoring by avoiding monthly monitoring fees. But that can leave your home more vulnerable because you won’t have experts watching around the clock.
It depends on which security company you choose. Many professionally monitored home security systems require a contract, and contract length can range from three to five years. But you’ll find more home security options than ever before that offer shorter contracts and month-to-month (contract-free) terms—especially if you can pay for equipment up front.
Most home security companies will charge you around 75% of the remaining term of your contract if you cancel early—and some require 100%.
The difference between a traditional alarm system and a smart one is that different components can communicate with one another. Not only does smart technology give you the ability to control and monitor your home alarm system from anywhere using an app on your phone—it also makes your system able to respond to your habits and routines.
Wireless refers to the use of wireless technology like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for monitoring and connecting the components of your system. Wired refers to a home security system hardwired into your home’s electrical system.
Both protect your home just fine, but wireless home security systems have more flexibility if you move or don’t want to put holes in walls. A hardwired system could be the perfect option if you want a complete smart home or if you can incorporate the installation into a renovation or new construction.
Yes. Most insurance companies offer a discount when you install a security system. Depending on your insurance, 24/7 professional monitoring may qualify you for as much as 15% off your premium. When you’re looking for the best home security system to buy, verify that you’ll get a certificate to submit to your home insurance company after installation.
The best home security systems use tools and technology to help keep you, your family, and your property safe—think burglar alarms, security cameras, entry sensors, motion sensors, and reinforced door locks. Home automation uses technology to automate everyday activities like locking the doors, turning up the thermostat, or starting the coffee pot.
Combined with home security, home automation can help increase your home’s energy efficiency, remotely control your alarm system, and let you check in on kids or pets when you’re away from home.
How we picked the best customer-rated security systems
Katie getting "hands-on" with home security equipment. Image: SafeWise.
Our honest reviews and expert insights come from hundreds of hours of hands-on tests, interviews with real customers, and meetings with technical pros, owners, and CEOs of large and small home security companies.
While we research, we look at factors that matter most for protecting your home and family:
- Cost and contracts
- Response time and monitoring options
- Security features and smart home integration
- Customer service and reputation
- Ease of installation and use
We’ve been reviewing home security systems for 12 years. During that time, we’ve:
- Put in over 4,000 hours of hands-on testing
- Installed and tested 21 home security systems in 23 homes
- Surveyed over 30,000 people about their crime experiences, perceptions, and preventions
- Surveyed 2,500 home security buyers
- Analyzed more than a decade of national and statewide crime data
- Met with dozens of industry leaders
- Interviewed criminologists, police officers, dispatchers, and first responders
- Read hundreds of real customer reviews
- Toured one professional monitoring center
Learn more about our rigorous testing process in our full methodology.
Why we recommend Cove home security
Cove doesn't try to be everything—it focuses on what matters most: easy installation, rapid emergency response, and seriously customer-first policies.
Is Cove the best DIY security system for you?
- Best for: DIYers who want affordable security and top-notch customer service
- Standout feature: Monthly equipment credits + lifetime warranty with Cove Plus
- Biggest trade-off: Limited smart home compatibility compared to other brands
- Bottom line: Cove is an excellent pick if you appreciate free perks and strong customer service, but keep looking if you want advanced home automation or prefer a system without monthly fees.
*Deals and discounts are valid as of the publication date. Offers are subject to change.
Endnotes
To calculate the weighted average for customer reviews, we use the following formula:
(R1×N1)+(R2×N2)+(R3×N3) / N1+N2+N3
R = Avg. star rating from review site
N = Total number of reviews
SafeWise star ratings: Star ratings reflect the editorial assessment of each company for the purposes of this particular article (e.g., SimpliSafe vs. Vivint, Best Apartment Security Systems, etc.). These ratings may differ from star ratings found on other articles, such as Best Home Security Systems of 2025.
Disclaimers
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.