A non-monitored (or self-monitored) alarm system detects threats like break-ins or fires, but does not connect to a professional security center. When triggered, it relies on loud local sirens and directly notifies you via smartphone, leaving you responsible for contacting emergency services.
Unmonitored smart home security systems: These rely on your ability to self-monitor, even when you're away. This means you'll be responsible for calling the authorities in case your system is triggered.
In simple terms, monitored alarms offer consistent, professional 24/7 response, while auto‑dial alarms depend on personal contacts being available and able to act. For anyone with health risks, a history of falls or periods of time spent alone, these differences can significantly impact how quickly help reaches you.
For the best home security system without a monthly monitoring fee, Abode is top-ranked for overall features and home automation, while SimpliSafe and Ring offer the best local alarm and push notification experiences. You own the equipment outright and control it yourself for free.
For some, peace of mind comes from knowing a dedicated person is monitoring your home 24/7. For others, control and cost-savings matter more, and self-monitoring is the perfect fit. Monitored systems offer a layer of backup that makes many homeowners sleep more easily.
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.
ADT monitoring costs typically range from $24.99 to $61.99 per month, depending on whether you choose professional installation or a DIY self-setup.
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.
The Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2026
Choosing between ADT and Ring comes down to your budget, preference for installation, and whether you want a traditional monitored system or a smart, DIY setup.
Another way criminals may try to defeat burglar alarms is through wireless alarm jammers. These very expensive devices are sometimes able to block cellular signals, such as the ones used in wireless home security systems. But due to the high cost of cell jammers, wire cutters are still the tool of choice for thieves.
Many insurers will offer discounts for video surveillance cameras and home security systems equipped with an alarm, door and window sensors, and motion sensors. These devices are designed to help deter potential criminals and alert you (and your neighbors) of an intrusion.
Alarm systems can be categorized in several ways, but they are most commonly grouped by their connection method or their specific purpose.
Most Burglars Admit Alarm Systems Deter Them
Both experts and actual burglars say alarm systems deter break-ins, mainly because most burglars are amateurs. In a University of North Carolina at Charlotte study that surveyed 422 convicted burglars, 83% of burglars admitted they check homes for alarms before breaking in.
Unmonitored Systems $
They do not have any communication devices (GSM/IP Modules), meaning that the system is unable to send you an alert if your alarm is triggered. Instead, a local alarm will rely on you or someone nearby your property alerting the authorities in the event of an emergency or break in.
People are ditching Ring cameras due to mounting privacy controversies, mandatory cloud subscription costs, and the desire for better hardware.
The best home security systems are categorized below by their specific strengths. SimpliSafe is the top overall choice for flexible, do-it-yourself (DIY) intruder prevention, Vivint offers advanced home automation and smart learning, and Cove is a highly rated budget alternative.
Whether a "better" system exists depends on your needs, but there are highly rated alternatives. For no-contract flexibility and easy DIY setup, SimpliSafe is widely recommended. For high-end smart home automation, Vivint is the top choice.
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.
The most common trick questions police ask, particularly during traffic stops, are designed to get you to unknowingly incriminate yourself. The most infamous example is, "Do you know why I pulled you over?"
Effective home invasion deterrents rely on a layered approach: visual deterrents to make your home look unappealing, physical reinforcements to delay entry, and alarm systems to alert you. The most actionable defenses include installing heavy-duty deadbolts, reinforcing door jambs with steel strike plates, and adding motion-sensing exterior floodlights.
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."
ADT does not offer a standalone "senior discount," but seniors aged 50+ who are AARP members receive 5% off monthly professional monitoring services. To redeem this, you must call ADT directly (e.g., at 1-800-973-0958) and provide your AARP membership number.
Best No-Monthly Fee Home Security Systems
Whether ADT or Ring is "better" depends entirely on what you value more: professional-grade, hands-off security (ADT) or budget-friendly, DIY smart home flexibility (Ring).