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If you want to integrate a home security system with Apple devices, we suggest ADT, which works with iPhones, iPads, and watches.
Updated October 3, 2024
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In an ideal world, controlling your home security system with Apple tech would be easy. You would tap your Apple Watch against your smart lock to open the front door. You’d call out, “Hey, Siri. I’m home,” as the lights turned on to greet you. And you’d turn on the Apple TV if you wanted to stream your security camera footage.
Unfortunately, we don’t live in that Apple nerd’s paradise. We live in the real world, where tech companies battle over the smart home market. Every nifty trick I just listed is technically possible — but only with the right combination of platform and device.
Did You Know? We might be one step closer to that perfect, platform-agnostic world. Apple, Amazon, Google, and Samsung have agreed on Matter, a new smart home protocol that would let smart devices talk to each other.1
I searched far and wide and tested the best Apple-compatible security systems. I can recommend a grand total of one that officially works with Apple HomeKit (it works great). Don’t be too disappointed. I found three more that integrate well with your iPhone, iPad, and iMac — and are great security systems, to boot.
Read on to learn why ADT, abode, Vivint, and SimpliSafe are great options for an Apple fan's home security.
| ADT | abode | Vivint | SimpliSafe | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SecureScore™ | 9.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| HomeKit compatible | No | No | No | Yes |
| iPhone app rating | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Apple Watch app | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Apple TV app? | Yes | No | No | No |
| Review | ADT review | Vivint review | SimpliSafe review | abode review |
The best way to write unbiased and trustworthy recommendations is by testing home security systems ourselves. That means buying systems with our own money, setting them up in our own homes, and testing them for weeks or even months. We want to get a feel for each product's equipment, app, and response time and experience what it’s like living with the system. That way we can share our honest and accurate findings.
To ensure we compare apples to apples (no pun intended), we install all of our test systems in the same house – a two-story, 2,200-square-foot home owned by one of our security experts. We believe testing systems in a real house versus a simulated environment yields the most accurate results.
We also purchase the same components from each brand and set them up in identical locations. Take a look at our typical system setup:
We draw upon our extensive security expertise to decide the most important factors for security systems that work with Apple. These features should be the top priority:
After comparing our top picks based on these criteria, here’s how we rated them:
Ranking the Best Security Systems That Work With Apple
Unlike many other review sites that review everything from treadmills to electric kettles, our team of security experts exclusively reviews security and safety equipment. Our experts include:
We are the most experienced home security team online with over 75 years of combined industry presence. Our work on Safehome.org started in 2016 and has since been featured in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and many other major outlets. Together, we have accomplished:
Rest assured, our recommendations are always based on first-hand product experience and a deep knowledge of the home security industry. So keep reading to learn more about the best security systems for homes with Apple devices.
Despite its partnership with Google, ADT works flawlessly with Apple devices. I spent most of my time using the ADT+ app on my iPhone to manage every aspect of the security system. But the reason it’s the best overall is the quality of the equipment and the best-in-industry professional monitoring service.
Let’s get this out of the way, ADT isn’t cheap. I paid about $1,200 for the equipment, another $100 for installation, and $45 for monitoring, which is an ongoing monthly expense. I also had to sign up for a 36-month contract. The good news is that I didn’t have to call the bank for a loan to pay for all this. ADT let me spread the payments over three years, which worked out to be around $33 per month.
To be fair, I chose the Premium package. It includes contact sensors, motion detectors, a smart door lock, and an indoor camera, to name a few. Plus, having every device installed professionally meant it was set up perfectly. The technician assessed my home, pointed out vulnerabilities, and made recommendations about where to place them. So I feel like I got my money’s worth.
Choosing the perfect spot for the ADT Motion Sensor
But what sets ADT apart from the other brands on this list is its monitoring service. There’s nothing else like it. ADT has 12 response centers across the country and monitors for police, fire, and medical emergencies. SimpliSafe outsources it to a third-party provider and Vivint only has two centers. That was one of our talking points when we compared Vivint and ADT.
For the amount of money I’m spending, I want the response to be fast, and it was. While simulating a break-in, I got a call from ADT in less than 30 seconds. But even before that call, my family and I were added to a group text to verify the alarm. I could cancel or confirm with a link.
FYI: ADT can verify alarms by connecting to your cameras. This type of verification is often prioritized by police, so they should show up faster if its an emergency.
ADT can transform your place into a smart home with the number of devices they sell. Some of the ones I grabbed were:
But that’s not all. I saw an option in the ADT+ app to add third-party devices. The first thing I did was connect my Sonos soundbar. It saves me from having to reach for the remote on the table in front of me. Instead, I just open the app and turn up the volume to drown out the noisy neighbors.
Sadly, it doesn’t work with Siri or HomeKit. But since it connects to Nest products, you can use Google Assistant if you really want to operate the system with voice commands.
FYI: Google Nest cameras are great, but the Nest Secure security system is no more. If you just love the hardware, ADT might be a good Nest alternative.
Is spending all this money on ADT worth it? I think it is. They’ve been protecting homes for over 150 years and continue to innovate in ways that keep the rest of the industry on its toes.
Reviewing my activity on the ADT Control Panel
You don’t have to spend as much money as I did. They have other equipment packages starting from $450, and they recently introduced self-install kits. They include a range of Google Nest devices that are easy to install and less of a burden on the bank account.
The $45 monthly fee isn’t mandatory as well. While you’ll need a monitoring plan to use ADT, prices start at $29.99 per month for just professional monitoring. I recommend at least the $44.99 per month plan to access smart home features though.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $269 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $29.99 per month |
| Contract length | Starting at 36 months |
| Installation options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Vivint has some of the most technologically advanced security equipment available today. From AI-powered cameras to the ability to control almost every smart device in the home, regardless if they made it or not. I felt like I was living in the year 3000 while I was testing it.
One thing Vivint shares with ADT is that the equipment is expensive, especially compared to SimpliSafe and Abode.
I couldn’t go to the website to get a price. Vivint made me call and speak to a specialist to design the best home security system for me. During the call, I also booked someone to install the equipment, which added another $199 to the bill.
FYI: Another similarity with ADT is that Vivint offers financing. I chose to pay $2,000 for the equipment over two years, but you can request a term as long as 60 months.
This turned out to be a bonus as a lot of the devices require the use of a drill for mounting. Some also require hardwiring, and I break into a sweat when I have to remember if it’s the blue or red wire I’m supposed to cut.
Monitoring is also a mandatory cost and starts from $40 per month. The amount is based on the number of devices you have. One reason it’s more expensive than other brands is it uses the cellular network to monitor your home rather than relying on your Wi-Fi connection. It’s a more secure solution, especially if the burglars decide to cut any cables before entering the home.
Vivint’s person detection feature in action
While testing the monitoring service, I got text messages within ten seconds, which let me validate the alarm and the need for assistance. I decided to ignore it to see how long it would take them to call. Sure enough, it was within 30 seconds. During the call, they told me that if I couldn’t be reached, they’d send emergency personnel immediately.
All the security equipment I purchased from Vivint
Vivint brands itself as a smart home security company, and it shows in its equipment packages. You have the chance to buy a whole lot more than security sensors and cameras.
FYI: Vivint is not HomeKit-compatible (boo), but it works with lots of other smart devices (nice). Kwikset smart lock fan? Me too. You can buy one with your Vivint package.
During my testing, I found that Vivint’s smart tech, like the Outdoor Camera Pro, connected seamlessly with other smart home devices. For example, I set up my front porch smart lights to turn on when the camera sensed motion. And the camera itself has active deterrents, such as a siren and spotlights, to scare away would-be burglars. You won’t see these features in most cameras today.
>> Check Out: Vivint Camera Review
While testing Vivint, I truly felt like I was using a high-quality, intelligent system — just like I do when I use my Apple products. It might not be the cheapest option available, but I know I’m getting high-quality products built with the future in mind.
When I compare SimpliSafe to Vivint, I can’t help but think of a cheap Android versus the latest iPhone. The former is undeniably cheaper, but sometimes it’s worth it to spend a few extra dollars for the latter.
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $599.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $40 |
| Contract Length | 48 to 60 months |
While it’s nice leaning back in my favorite chair and watching an expert install security equipment around the house, I actually prefer doing it myself. I felt a sense of achievement setting up my SimpliSafe setup and confirming that everything worked in the app on my iPhone. The best part is that the whole installation only took around 30 minutes, so I got to enjoy this feeling for the entire day.
I enjoyed everything about building my SimpliSafe security system. For a moment, I had the same feeling I get in The Cheesecake Factory, where I want one of everything. But I restrained myself and ordered a base station, keypad, entry sensor, glass break sensor, some cameras, and hazard sensors.
FYI: If you’re not sure what devices you need for your home, SimpliSafe offers equipment bundles with everything you need for different types of properties.
Most of the devices either plug into a wall socket or are battery-powered. For the sensors, all I had to do was peel the sticker off the adhesive and attach it to the wall. Everything connected to the Wi-Fi, and I downloaded the apps for my iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.
Getting up close and personal with the SimpliSafe wireless indoor camera
SimpliSafe has a free self-monitoring plan that includes notifications when an activity is detected. It works well, but I prefer the Fast Protect Monitoring Plan, which is cheaper than ADT and Vivint at $29.99 per month and includes many of the same features.
One of my favorites is Live Guard. When it detects a human-triggered motion, SimpliSafe starts monitoring the live feeds to see if you need help. I tested it out with a friend of mine and got a call from the monitoring center within 30 seconds. So while it might be tempting to take the free self-monitoring plan, I recommend paying for the premium option.
SimpliSafe equipment
The reason SimpliSafe isn’t higher up on the list is its limited smart home potential. SimpliSafe doesn’t sell a lot of smart equipment, and it’s not compatible with much smart home technology.
In short, it’s just not possible to control a smart home with SimpliSafe. And because SimpliSafe isn’t compatible with Apple HomeKit, you can’t use the Apple Home app to make up for it. When I compare SimpliSafe to ADT, for example, that lack of smart home capability is unacceptable.
There’s one notable exception: a cheap, solid smart lock. SimpliSafe’s smart lock is the most affordable I’ve ever seen. At $119, it’s half the price of the Kwikset Halo Touch. If you don’t want an advanced smart home system, but you do want to lock your door with a tap of your Apple Watch, SimpliSafe might interest you.
Are you skeptical about a security system that costs less than a used iPhone 12? I don’t blame you. It might not have the experience of ADT or Vivint’s state-of-the-art equipment, but it lets you pick and choose your security equipment and install it yourself for a fraction of the cost.
FYI: You can arrange for a professional to come and install your SimpliSafe devices. Prices start from $124.99.
You won’t end up spending money on a bunch of smart home features you may never use. Instead, you’ll get exceptional professional monitoring that will keep you safe year-round. Plus, you can always put the extra money you’ve saved towards the next iPhone model.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $249.96 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $9.99 |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
abode is near the top of my list for one simple reason: It’s one of the only home security systems on the market that work with Apple HomeKit. I saved a ton of time using the smart home automation features that are built right into the system. The CUE platform even let me automate dozens of devices right from the iPhone app.
If you like what you read about Vivint, you’ll love abode. They focus on high-tech solutions and smart home automation. The big difference is they take a DIY approach and have cheaper monitoring plans.
abode also lets you build a solution as SimpliSafe does. I browsed a few of their equipment packages but once again opted to build my own home security system. I grabbed the iota Hub, sensors, cameras, and hazard detectors.
My abode equipment haul
It took me about an hour to install everything and regain the pride I felt when I set up my SimpliSafe system. The main reason it took a little longer was that I had to use an Ethernet cable initially to set up the Wi-Fi. I’m sure there’s a more user-friendly approach like I’ve seen from SimpliSafe, but this wasn’t a dealbreaker. While I was at it, I integrated a bunch of smart devices I own. But more on that in a minute.
Next, I chose a monitoring plan. abode has a self-monitoring plan, which is featureless. So I chose the Pro Plan, which is $24.99 per month, slightly cheaper than SimpliSafe Fast Protect plan, but without live video monitoring.
FYI: You can store video storage locally with a micro SD card from the hub or the camera itself. I found out while I was setting everything up, as the slot is right above the Ethernet port.
The Pro Plan is also the only option with 24/7 professional monitoring, and it’s worth the price. While testing the sensors, I got a call from the center within 30 seconds to check everything was ok. I also like that the plan has cellular backup, just in case there’s an internet outage or my landline is cut.
abode supports Z-Wave, Zigbee, and IFTTT, as well as Apple HomeKit (I’ll get to that in a minute). I connected almost every smart device in my house to the abode hub. That means my Hue smart bulbs, Sonos speakers, and Ecobee thermostats.
FYI: abode keeps a handy list of compatible devices on its website. But if you’re looking for other smart systems, check out our roundup of the best security systems that work with IFTTT.
I could control it all from the abode app or the Apple Home app. It’s the sort of seamless user experience Apple fanboys and girls dream of. When I compare abode and SimpliSafe, this is one category abode easily wins.
I even set up automations using the CUE platform. My favorite was automatically closing the garage door after I’ve left the house. I’ve been paranoid so many times sitting in traffic because I couldn’t remember if I hit the button or not. Now I can just sit back and listen to the symphony of honking from the other impatient travelers while I’m in gridlock.
Setting up automations in the Cue platform
So, it’s affordable and smart-home ready, but is it any good? In my experience, it is. All my security equipment worked as advertised — even the security cameras, which can be laggy in cheaper systems. And remember, abode has all the basic sensors (entryway and motion) that its competitors offer, so you’ll get industry-standard burglary protection at a bargain price.
But it was abode’s CUE smart platform that impressed me the most. Because of this innovative platform, abode is up there with the best home automation security systems I’ve ever tested.
| Monitoring Options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit |
| Equipment Cost | From $139.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $6.99 |
| Contract Length | Month-to-month |
ADT, Vivint, SimpliSafe, and abode are my top recommendations. But Cove just missed out on making the list. I love how easy it is to set up the products. Each device is packaged in the exact order to be installed. There’s also a booklet titled “Start Here” so there’s no room for error.
The instruction booklet for my Cove Security System
You can read more about my thoughts in my Cove review. However, the main reason it didn’t make our list of top recommendations is because some of the equipment is a bit of an eyesore, and there aren’t a lot of home automation options. I set up a few basic “If This, Then That” commands in the app, but otherwise, the functionality is limited compared to ADT, Vivint, SimpliSafe, and abode.
Maybe your security system doesn’t offer every Apple-friendly feature you want. Maybe that’s OK. You can always mix and match security gear to get all the features you need — even if your security system doesn’t support Apple.
Pro Tip: You can find hundreds of options on Apple's list of compatible devices. We noticed some SafeHome favorites on there, including Schlage smart locks — one of our picks for best smart lock of 2024.
For fans of Apple’s sleek design, Arlo cameras will look mighty enticing. And they work pretty darn well too. I loved the high resolution on the Arlo Pro. I love it even more now that I know I can boss it around with Siri, as Arlo works with Apple HomeKit.
Is Arlo a little too pricey for you? Go for eufy instead. Its cameras are a fraction of the price (though that may be for a reason — do your research about eufy and privacy breaches).
FYI: eufy was caught lying about local storage. Users who thought their data was totally safe on their own SD card were misled; it was actually being sent, unencrypted, to the cloud.2
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
“Cameras are a great way to protect your home from would-be criminals. Outdoor cameras can help law enforcement identify and solve crimes much more quickly and at a higher rate. As a patrol officer, when I arrived on a burglary call, one of the first questions I would ask is if there is any video footage. Outdoor cameras are also great for identifying any vehicles involved, hopefully catching the license plate number or identifying other suspects. Sometimes criminal teams use lookouts that don’t actually make entry into the home. So, exterior cameras can capture images of any suspects that don’t make entry.
Internal cameras can help you identify suspects as well. They can get good clear images of the suspect's face. They can also help law enforcement know the areas the suspect touched while in the home. This will help with knowing what areas to take fingerprints from.
If you’ve really bought into the Apple ecosystem, you probably use HomeKit (aka Apple Home). Apple’s smart home platform lets you connect all your favorite Apple products, HomePod speakers, and smart devices.
Except for your security system. There are not many security systems on the market that officially work with Apple Home.
You can expand your options with Homebridge. Homebridge is open-source software that, well, bridges Apple Home to incompatible smart devices. Do you want to build Apple HomeKit automations that incorporate your Ring Alarm? With Homebridge, you can.3
Just proceed at your own risk. Homebridge is an open-source project unaffiliated with Apple. You’re trusting your fellow man, not Tim Cook and the gang.
Once you’ve chosen a security system that works with Apple, make the most of it with these advanced features.
Our recent research found that video surveillance tools are the most widely used home security technology. We also learned:
To easily stream security camera footage on your Apple devices, try HomeKit Secure Video.6 The first and biggest hurdle: You need to install and configure a compatible camera (Aqara, Eve, eufy, and Logitech sell options). Once that’s done, you can watch recordings on any Apple device you’re signed in to.
One of the coolest security features Apple offers is its Home Key, which lets you unlock your door with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. Again, you have to install a compatible lock first (Aqara, Level, and Schlage sell them). After that, you can get into your house with a virtual key, and you can send temporary access to visitors.
Security systems and other smart devices record a lot of information about you. When you’re sharing a home with an abuser, that can be dangerous.
Safety Check is a quick way to stop sharing that information. You can tap Emergency Reset to immediately lock down all your data or tap Manage Sharing & Access to sort through your options, app by app.7
FYI: Lots of useful features, including Safety Check, are available only on iOS 16 or above.
So, you’ve bought into the Apple ecosystem. I don’t blame you. The devices are pretty — and pretty powerful.
The one downside? Not every security system can thrive (or even survive) in that ecosystem.
abode is the only system on the list that integrates with HomeKit. But there are other great options that mesh well with iPhone, Apple Watch, and even Apple TV. You could do a lot worse than combining your Apple products with ADT, Vivint, or SimpliSafe.
Whichever system you choose, make the most of it. Install a smart lock with Apple Home Key. Use Siri to arm your system. Set up home automations that work for you. You’ll get more value out of your iPhone and your security system.
abode is the only system we’ve tested that is compatible with Apple HomeKit.
The answer is almost certainly yes. It’s 2024. If your security system doesn’t offer a powerful iPhone app, it’s time to start looking for a new one.
It depends on your security system. SimpliSafe does not facilitate Siri shortcuts, but abode and ADT do.
Yes, you can, if your security camera is compatible with HomeKit Secure Video.
ADT is the best combination of Apple compatibility and overall excellence. abode, Vivint, and SimpliSafe are other great options.
Unfortunately, most security systems aren’t compatible with Apple HomeKit. So, the few security systems that are stand out. These systems can be controlled in their own apps or in the Apple Home app. They work seamlessly with Siri. And they take the guesswork out of Apple Home automation.
Let’s be honest: You always have your iPhone on you. That’s why it’s so convenient to control your security system through an iPhone app — ideally, a top-rated, bug-free iPhone app.
Need a bigger screen to manage your home security system? You need a security system with an iPad app. The extra space is ideal for complex home automation and security camera streaming.
Get security alerts at a glance with your security system’s Apple Watch app. The mini screen is also ideal for quick tasks (like arming and disarming). And, if you have a compatible smart lock, it sure is convenient to tap your wrist against the door to open it.
“Hey, Siri. Arm away.” Just like that, your security system could be armed. You can also set up more complex voice commands in your security system’s app, like “Hey, Siri. Turn on the kitchen lights” or “Hey, Siri. Good night.”
Cutting-edge smart locks work with Apple home key, which allows you to unlock your door with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. Less advanced models can still make an impact on your security with scheduled or automated locking.
When your security alarm goes off, your lights could turn on — if they’re smart enough. Use your security system’s iPhone app to connect your smart lights to your motion sensors.
If your security system comes with a smart thermostat, use it. You can automatically set your temperature to match your sleep schedule and the seasons. A quality security iOS app should make it easy.
The right home security system will let you create scenes you can trigger with a tap of the screen. “Going to Work” could mean opening the garage door, turning down the thermostat, and, of course, arming the security system. “Vacation” could mean locking all the doors and flickering the smart lights at random intervals.
Connectivity Standards Alliance. (2024). Matter.
https://csa-iot.org/all-solutions/matter/
The Verge. (2022). Anker’s Eufy lied to us about the security of its security cameras.
https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/30/23486753/anker-eufy-security-camera-cloud-private-encryption-authentication-storage
Homebridge. (2024). Homepage.
https://homebridge.io/
ScienceDaily. (2013). Through the eyes of a burglar: Study provides insights on habits and motivations, importance of security.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130516160916.htm
Policygenius. (2024). Are there home insurance discounts for security systems?
https://www.policygenius.com/homeowners-insurance/how-much-can-you-save-on-home-insurance-with-a-security-system/
Apple. (2024). Set up HomeKit Secure Video on all your devices.
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/icloud/mm7c90d21583/icloud
Apple. (2023). Use Safety Check on iPhone to stop sharing and secure your account.
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/personal-safety/ips16ea6f2fe/web
