Ring and SimpliSafe are top-tier DIY security systems. Ring excels in smart home compatibility (Amazon Alexa) and expansive camera options. SimpliSafe is ideal for those seeking traditional, tamper-resistant alarm hardware, stronger privacy, and localized, professional monitoring without heavy smart-device integrations.
SimpliSafe is widely rated as the best overall home security system for 2026. It offers the perfect balance of DIY-friendly installation, robust optional 24/7 professional monitoring, and reliable cellular/Wi-Fi connectivity without requiring long-term contracts.
People are removing their Ring doorbells due to rising subscription fees, privacy concerns over how footage is shared, and a desire to avoid cloud reliance in favor of local storage.
Ring cameras act as a visible deterrent to burglars, as most thieves actively avoid properties with visible security cameras. While they don't physically prevent a break-in, features like motion-activated spotlights, two-way audio, and real-time alerts can spook intruders away.
While SimpliSafe is highly popular for its easy DIY setup and lack of long-term contracts, it has several key downsides:
Using a keypad and a base station from a SimpliSafe system, and an off-the-shelf microcontroller — all of which cost roughly $250 — Zonenberg demonstrated how easy it is for a burglar to disable the alarm.
Protecting your home's access points means making sure your doors, windows and locks are sturdy. "Deadbolts are definitely a good thing," says Hsiung. Also, make sure your door is a solid wood or metal construction with a good frame. "If the wood is deteriorated, it won't take much to force open," he says.
Yes, Ring security cameras can be hacked. More often than not, it's not due to an innate flaw in the device or its security system. Rather, it usually comes down to weak security practices by users, like using a common or reused password, skipping 2FA, and connecting over an insecure Wi-Fi network.
Burglars hate anything that makes a break-in noisy, time-consuming, or highly visible. Criminals look for the path of least resistance; if a target requires too much effort or poses a high risk of getting caught, they will simply move on to an easier home.
Yes, wired security cameras are generally more secure than wireless ones because data transmitted via cable is less susceptible to hacking than data sent over a Wi-Fi network.
The Sharks rejected Ring (then called Doorbot) because they doubted its growth potential, questioned the necessity of the technology, and balked at the company's valuation. Additionally, founder Jamie Siminoff turned down a stringent counteroffer from Kevin O'Leary.
Ring cameras are frequently passed over by security and privacy experts due to significant privacy concerns, invasive data-sharing practices, and required subscription fees.
The key rule is simple: you can't invade your neighbors' reasonable expectation of privacy. Think of it this way. If someone can see an area from a public street, you can probably record it too. But if an area is private - like inside someone's home - you can't record there.
Choosing between Ring and SimpliSafe depends on your budget and how you plan to monitor your home. Ring is ideal for heavy camera use and smart home flexibility, while SimpliSafe is better for traditional, dedicated alarm systems with robust privacy and professional monitoring.
2026 Rankings: The Top Security Systems of the Year
The best security cameras without a subscription rely on local storage (like a microSD card or a Network Video Recorder) for saving footage, rather than hiding smart features and video history behind paywalls.
Which homes do burglars target?
A good place to hide valuables could be the entrance area, for example, as it is often overlooked. An unused fireplace can also be used as a hiding place: simply remove the cover, place valuables inside and then close it again. It is unlikely that a thief will look there.
Avoid keeping your items in the prime spots like your master bedroom, bedroom closet, desk drawer in your study room, your jewelry box, or the cabinet in the hallway. These are the most common places where burglars search for these items.
People are removing or canceling their Ring cameras primarily due to escalating privacy concerns and data-sharing policies.
People are removing their Ring doorbells due to rising subscription fees, privacy concerns over how footage is shared, and a desire to avoid cloud reliance in favor of local storage.
In 2022, security firm Checkmarx reported a flaw in the Ring Android app that allowed other applications on the same device to access sensitive Ring data. Specifically, a misconfigured deeplink or activity interface exposed information such as video recordings and user location.
For police, holding up 4 fingers generally means "Code 4," which is law enforcement shorthand for "no further assistance needed," "everything is secure," or "all clear."
Leaving a light on at night can deter burglars by eliminating dark hiding spots, but leaving the same light burning 24/7 can actually signal that you are not home. Security experts recommend specific lighting habits to maximize your home's safety:
ADT Home Security with ADT Plus
This is an option for those who like Google Nest or. While there are self-install options, ADT's long-term experience makes it one of the best brands for professional quotes and installation.