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With more smart devices than any other brand and strong integrations with Google Nest, it's no surprise ADT took our top spot.
Updated April 16, 2025
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Home automation is more than scheduling the arming and disarming of your home security system. We’ve set rules to lock our door after it closes and reminders if the garage door is open for more than 15 minutes. But only a few of the top-rated security systems offer this level of functionality.
ADT is all in on home automation, offering more smart products on its website than other brands. But Vivint, SimpliSafe, Frontpoint, and abode take different approaches, ranging from voice commands to IFTTT integration. We’ll break down each system’s pros and cons, so you know which one will suit you best.
>> Keep Reading: How to Choose a Home Security System
We believe the best way to give you trustworthy and unbiased recommendations is by testing security systems ourselves. That means spending our own money to buy the equipment, setting them up in our homes, and testing them extensively for weeks or even months. We like to get a good feel for the features, app, usability, and response time so we can make accurate and honest recommendations.
Our team has to consider multiple factors while testing security systems, and we do our best to create a level playing field. For example, we install all test units in the same environment. We use a two-story, 2,200-square-foot home owned by one of our security experts. In our experience, testing security systems in a real home delivers the most accurate results compared to using a lab.
We also buy the same pieces of equipment for each system and install the devices in identical locations. You can see in the image below our typical testing setup.
For this specific guide, we used our extensive security expertise and knowledge about security and automation to determine the most important factors to consider. They are:
After comparing dozens of systems on these criteria, here’s how we scored our top picks:
Rating the Best Security Systems With Home Automation
Our team of experts exclusively tests and reviews home security equipment, unlike other websites that review everything from lawnmowers to doormats. This way, we can provide high-quality recommendations. The security specialists who contributed to this guide include:
With over 75 years of combined industry experience, we are the most accomplished home security team on the internet. Since starting in 2016, we have been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and many other major outlets. As a team, we have achieved:
All of our top picks are selected based on our first-hand product experience and a thorough understanding of the home security industry. Now it’s time to learn more about the best security systems with home automation.
| Features | ADT | Vivint | SimpliSafe | Frontpoint | abode |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SecureScore™ | 9.2 | 9.1 | 9.2 | 8.7 | 8.0 |
| Touch screen control panel | Yes | Yes | No | No (touch screen keypad optional) | No |
| App automation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Works with Alexa or Google Assistant | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Works with HomeKit | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Smart locks | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smart lights | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Smart thermostats | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Read our review | ADT review | Vivint review | SimpliSafe review | Frontpoint review | abode review |
We all know ADT. It has been around for a really long time, but that doesn’t mean it’s old-school. With the inclusion of Google Nest products, ADT now makes it easier to create a smart home. We managed everything through the ADT+ app. It let us control our security system and other devices connected to it, including the smart lock, smart bulbs, and even our Nest Thermostat. The ADT app is as polished as you’d expect from one of the best security systems with a mobile app.
Home automation has been a standard feature for ADT systems since ADT Pulse. But now, the current ADT system is leaps and bounds better than the old one.
The new Base Station is the main hub for all of ADT’s smart automations
The ADT+ app improved the most. Now you can create smart automations that autonomously trigger actions based on your input. For us, we set rules to lock the front door when we arm the system, set the thermostat to 80 degrees when we go out, and arm our motion and entry sensors at exactly 10 p.m. every night.
Our one gripe with ADT is that it wouldn’t let us control smart home devices from the touch screen keypad like our Vivint system does.Instead, we have to use the app or web dashboard whenever to make changes.
FYI: You’ll find multiple ADT apps on app stores. ADT+ is the only app you’ll need to manage your security equipment and Google Nest cameras and devices. For existing customers, check with ADT is you need to use ADT Pulse or Control.
In addition to ADT security cameras, security sensors, and smoke alarms, you can add these smart home devices from ADT to your security system:
The Nest Cam Floodlight can double as a sensor light and security camera, which is pretty smart.
Compared to simple security systems like SimpliSafe, ADT’s smart security systems are pricier. But relative to other smart systems like Vivint (our No. 2 pick), ADT is one of the more affordable security options.
You can learn more in our in-depth guide of ADT’s pricing, but just to summarize, a basic equipment package starts from $349. From there, you can add smart home devices. For example:
| Nest Hub | $99.99 |
|---|---|
| Nest Hub Max | $229.99 |
| Yale Smart Lock | $189.99 |
| Nest Thermostat | $129.99 |
You also don’t have to pay for everything upfront. ADT has flexible financing options for up to 60 months, although you’ll need to sign a monitoring contract. You can set up everything yourself, though ADT is known for being of the best professionally installed security systems due to its white-glove service – but it will cost you at least $100 for the service. You’ll also need professional monitoring, which starts at $29.99 per month for smart home integrations.
Pro Tip: We’re always on the lookout for home security deals. You can check out ADT’s current deals and discounts here. Also, keep an eye out for ADT Black Friday deals (November).
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $349 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional or DIY |
| Monitoring Cost | Starting at $24.99 per month |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
| Installation Options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
Vivint takes a tech-forward approach to home security. For example, Vivint security cameras use AI to detect and actively deter intruders. The company also designs and manufactures most of its equipment. That can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it integrates seamlessly with the security system. On the other hand, no other brand can service the equipment. If you cancel your Vivint account in the future, the equipment is essentially useless.
FYI: Vivint requires a monitoring contract for customers buying equipment via financing. Vivint contracts can be up to five years long, depending on your financing plan. Be sure to read the contract thoroughly because Vivint has only a three-day cancellation window.
I’m going to go out on a limb and say that Vivint offers the best automation features out of all the systems we’ve tested. For starters, Vivint integrates with just about any platform, from devices that use the Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols to the Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant systems. The only other system we’ve tested that works with as many platforms is abode – which is further down the list.
If you can integrate a device into your Vivint system, you can likely create custom automations as well. For example, we scheduled our Zigbee bulbs to turn on after sunset and switch off at sunrise. We even programmed them to turn red when an alarm is triggered.
Pro Tip: Some automations can help improve your home security, from speakers that blast loud sounds to lights that turn on when security sensors are tripped. You can also make your home appear occupied while you’re away using smart appliances. That’s one way to prevent home invasions and burglaries.
Vivint’s equipment is designed for the purpose of streamlining the user experience. One example is the Vivint Smart Hub. As we mentioned earlier, ADT’s touch screen control panel can’t control smart home devices; the Vivint Smart Hub can. It can even display live security camera footage. And during alarm events, Vivint’s monitoring center agents can talk to you through the hub itself.
We also received text alerts like this one, which is another unique way Vivint handles alarm events.
Vivint also offers plenty of options both for security and automation. Our Vivint system includes security sensors, an outdoor camera, a smart lock, and the Vivint Doorbell Camera we reviewed separately. It also provides options for:
We were also able to integrate smart home equipment we already owned through the Works with Vivint portion of the app. Some of the devices we paired include our Zigbee lights, a couple of Z-Wave smart plugs, and even the Nest Thermostat we bought from ADT.
If not for Vivint’s premium cost, it could have taken the top spot on this list. We’re calling Vivint’s pricing “premium” because while it costs more than most smart security systems — ADT included — we feel like we got our money’s worth.
| Equipment | $1,200+ |
| Monitoring | $49 per month |
| Installation | $99 |
Take note that Vivint’s installation fee isn’t fixed. It scales with the number and types of items being installed, but Vivint sometimes offers free installation packages as well.
Here’s our Vivint technician setting up the smart security system for us.
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $599.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $30 |
| Contract Length | 48 to 60 months |
No matter what SimpliSafe equipment you choose, it’s easy to set up, even if it’s your first home security system. We plugged the base station into a socket, and the rest were battery-operated. It only took us 30 minutes to install the base station and keypad, a couple of cameras, and a few sensors. It was even easier to manage everything in the app and with our voice via Alexa and Google Assistant.
>> Find Out: How to Install a Home Security System
FYI: If you’re worried about setting up your security system incorrectly, SimpliSafe can arrange for someone to come out and do it for you. We were quoted $154.99 for our 14-piece system, but prices start at $124.99 for systems with less than 10 components.
After connecting SimpliSafe system to Wi-Fi, Alexa, and Google Assistant, it was easy to set up simple automations in the app. These are called “recipes” in the app, and they let you schedule when your system should arm and disarm. We set ours to activate at 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, which is when we leave for work. It would automatically turn off at 5:30 p.m. before we walked in the door.
With its subtle underglow, we also use our SimpliSafe base station as a stylish nightlight.
You can also Google or Alexa to perform these tasks. It’s as simple as saying, “Alexa, tell SimpliSafe to arm in away” or “Hey Google, arm SimpliSafe to home.” However, unlike Vivint, SimpliSafe doesn’t integrate with a lot of other smart devices. It’s limited to smart locks from August, which you can also manage with the SimpliSafe app, Google, or Alexa.
Pro Tip: SimpliSafe might not work with HomeKit, but you can control the system with your Apple Watch. You will need to be within range of your iPhone as it relies on a Bluetooth connection, but it will let you review notifications while you’re out of the house.
SimpliSafe sells all the essential security products you need. There’s the base station, burglary sensors, cameras, hazard sensors, and a keypad.
Speaking of the keypad, it’s not a touch screen like Vivint or ADT. It’s an old-school one with buttons like those telephones in your Grandpa’s place. One advantage is that the screen won’t malfunction, but it does look dated.
We set up the SimpliSafe keypad near the front door for easy access.
The rest of the equipment is stylish and easy to use. It’s so simple to arm and disarm that we recommend it as one of the best security systems for seniors. However, it’s missing a few devices like smart thermostats and garage door sensors. We’d also like to see it integrate with third-party devices, like Vivint does with Z-Wave equipment.
SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring costs are more affordable than those of ADT and Vivint, with prices starting from $21.99 per month. There’s even a free self-monitoring plan. However, if you want to use the smart home features, you’ll need to pay for a subscription. The cost of the equipment is also reasonable if you buy them separately or choose one of the packages. SimpliSafe even sells refurbished devices to keep costs down.
| Package | Included Products | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Refurbished equipment | Base station Keypad 4 entry sensors 1 motion sensor 1 panic button 1 wired indoor camera |
From $413.92 |
| The Foundation | Base station
Keypad Entry sensor Motion sensor |
$249.96 |
| The Starter | Base station
Keypad 3 entry sensors Motion sensor |
$279.94 |
| The Hearth | Base station
Keypad Key fob 3 entry sensors Motion sensor Auxiliary siren Smoke detector |
$409.91 |
| The Lighthouse | Base station
Keypad 3 entry sensors Motion sensor Outdoor camera |
$479.93 |
| The Knox | Base station
Keypad Key fob 6 entry sensors 2 motion sensors Auxiliary siren Smoke detector |
$489.87 |
| The Haven | Base station
Keypad Key fob 4 entry sensors 2 motion sensors Auxiliary siren Panic button Freeze sensor Smoke detector Water sensor |
$529.86 |
| The Beacon | Base station
Keypad 4 entry sensors 2 motion sensors 2 outdoor cameras |
$729.90 |
| 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 $21.99 |
| Contract length | Monthly |
Frontpoint is 100 percent wireless and uses cellular technology to stay online. This is one reason it ranks high on our list of the best cellular security systems. Like SimpliSafe, Frontpoint is a DIY system. It took us less than an hour to install our equipment. While it’s one of the most affordable security systems on this list, it shouldn’t be underestimated. As you’ll see, Frontpoint has a few unique home automation features, like geofencing.
Like Vivint, Frontpoint allows for the creation of schedules and automation rules in its app. The Frontpoint Hub can also connect with Z-Wave, Alexa, and Google Assistant, but not Zigbee. Our Frontpoint app discovered the Z-Wave plugs, and we could control them remotely (turn on and off).
We used third-party devices and security equipment to create Frontpoint automation rules. The geofencing feature was the standout. We set up a virtual fence around our property in the Frontpoint app. When we stepped outside the fence, Frontpoint would
When we returned within the geofenced radius:
Pro Tip: The hub makes a chirping noise if it senses a device is being tampered with. We heard it throughout the night and it turned out we’d knocked the plug for the hub, and it was hanging from the socket.
Frontpoint’s equipment is high quality, as it comes from reputable suppliers, including GE, Alarm.com, and Yale. The system offers different types of intrusion sensors, and has a number of security cameras for video security. We also like that the indoor and outdoor cameras can record 24/7, not only motion event clips.az
Here’s the Premium Indoor Camera that just looks stylish with its mesh fabric body.
The Frontpoint Hub is less desirable. Don’t get us wrong, it’s great for security because it has battery backup, Crash and Smash detection, and wireless cellular connectivity. However, it doesn’t have a screen or a built-in keypad. You need a separate keypad to control Frontpoint as the one included is analog, like SimpliSafe’s. There’s no way to control smart home devices using that. It’s a good thing that the Frontpoint app is intuitive. It was our main point of control for my Frontpoint automation, besides the web dashboard, which is best accessed on a computer.
Pro Tip: When installing a Frontpoint system, we recommend keeping the hub hidden in a central location. The hub doesn’t do much besides connect to your devices, so it doesn’t have to be super accessible. Besides, hiding the hub can prevent an intruder from smashing it.
Frontpoint’s equipment is on the more affordable side. /the starter system costs $386.93 and includes the hub, keypad, and two entry sensors. But Frontpoint often runs sales, and we’ve seen this package drop to as low as $69. It obviously doesn’t come with smart home devices, but you can easily add those individually.
These Frontpoint door sensors are some of the largest door sensors we’ve held in our hand.
For a smart home system, we recommend building your own security system from the ground up. This way, you can tailor the package to your home. Frontpoint guided us through the steps so we didn’t miss anything. It even displayed our cart on-screen, so we could keep an eye on the total cost. The only downside is that you might need to contact customer support to discuss Frontpoint monitoring costs. That’s if you don’t want to sign up for the $49.99 per month plan listed on the website. Frontpoint offers cheaper plans starting at $14.99 per month, but they’re not available online.
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $386.93 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional |
| Monitoring Cost | Starting at $14.99 per month |
| Contract Lengths | Monthly or 36 months |
| Installation Options | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
Abode is another DIY security system. But unlike SimpliSafe and Frontpoint, you don’t need to pay a monthly fee to use it. You can self-monitor with abode and still enjoy smart home control and feature-rich home security. That’s why it’s one of the best self-monitored security systems. That said, we recommend getting a monitoring subscription to unlock CUE, abode’s proprietary automation platform. Plans start from just $7.99 per month, and you can choose to pay yearly to bring the cost down further.
The CUE home automation engine was the highlight of our abode experience. If you’ve ever heard of security systems that integrate with IFTTT, abode works kind of like that. You can set up automated actions by defining triggers and conditions. And what sets abode apart is the sheer number of triggers, actions, and conditions available.
Fresh off installation, we created these abode automations that tell the system when to arm/disarm and what to do in a break-in scenario.
One example is having our abode Cam 2 record a short clip every time the front door opens, but only during the day for privacy reasons. The automation rule we used was: “When my front door sensor detects “door opened” (trigger), capture a video clip from the Living Room Camera (action), if it’s between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays (optional condition).”
FYI: You can access the CUE home automation engine on a computer via the abode web dashboard or a mobile device via the abode app. In our experience, the web dashboard is more user-friendly for creating automation rules.
abode offers a lot of equipment, which can complicate the buying process. For instance, abode sells three different hubs. Thankfully, all of them are compatible with any abode device. So what sets them apart? Mainly their third-party integrations.
| Compatible platforms | abode Security Hub | Smart Security Hub | Iota All-in-One Hub |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexa and Google Home | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi connectivity | Yes | No (Ethernet only) | Yes |
| Z-Wave and Zigbee | No | Yes | Yes |
| HomeKit | No | Yes | Yes |
| IFTTT | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sonos, Bose, ecobee, Philips Hue, LIFX, etc. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, the Iota hub offers more third-party integrations than the other two hubs. On top of integrations, the Iota hub also comes with a built-in security camera and motion sensor. It really is an all-in-one hub for abode systems. That’s one of the things that makes the cost of an abode security system worth it.
We activated the high-tech iota hub in five simple steps, following the provided instructions.
We should point out that abode doesn’t come with a touch-screen controller. There’s an analog keypad and key fob, or manage the system through the smartphone and web apps. If this all sounds too complicated, we’d recommend checking out Arlo instead.
>> Compare: Arlo Vs. abode
Abode offers two subscriptions, and both have access to CUE. The first is the Standard plan at $7.99 per month. It’s a premium self-monitoring plan that includes security camera recordings, customizable push notifications, a 10-day history of events, and premium customer support. For professional monitoring, you’ll need the Standard plan at $24.99 per month. It’s cheaper than ADT and Vivint, and it even comes with cellular backup in case your Wi-Fi drops out.
Pro Tip: If you want to save, buy a subscription one year at a time. The Standard plan costs $74.99 for one year, saving you $21. The Pro plan costs $239.99 for one year, saving you around $70.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit |
| Equipment cost | From $159.99 |
| Monthly monitoring cost | From $7.99 |
| Contract length | Month-to-month |
The latest reports show that as many as 70 million households in the U.S. are actively using smart home devices.1 That doesn’t mean that all of them are using home automation. There’s a slight difference between the two.
Smart home devices are products capable of home automation. They are usually IoT (Internet of Things) products, which means they are connected to the internet in some way. And because of that, you can control them and potentially link them to another smart home device. For example, we have Zigbee smart bulbs that we can turn on and off with our phone because their main hub is connected to the internet.
In contrast, home automation means putting those devices to work by making them act autonomously based on events, schedules, or certain conditions; for example, turning on our Zigbee smart lights automatically at sunset.
These simple Vivint door sensors play a big role in our home automation setup.
The biggest benefits of an automated home are convenience, efficiency, and comfort. When it comes to efficiency, a lot of home automation systems will let you control multiple devices with one command. You can do that either with a voice command given to Alexa or Google Assistant, the press of a button on the control panel, or a “rule” on the app.
Pro Tip: Alexa is currently the most capable voice assistant when it comes to home automation. If you’re looking for a smart security system you can control with your voice, check out this list of the best Alexa-compatible security systems. Many of them work with Google Home too!
There are some safety benefits too. For example, a number of smart thermostats can communicate with smoke detectors and shut off air vents in case of fire to prevent it from spreading.2 Some other examples include:
Our research also shows the security benefits of installing a home security system. These are the statistics that jumped out at us:
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert
There are different types of smart home equipment, like smart coffee makers and smart window blinds. Not all of them can work with security systems. Here are some devices you can expect to be compatible with the top home automation security systems.
Pro Tip: You can link some smart locks with your doorbell camera. Check out our list of the best smart locks to get started and see if they work with the top doorbell cameras on the market.
We bought two Vivint smart locks to secure our front and back entrances.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert
When choosing a home automation system, start by listing what you’re looking for. If you want voice control, ADT, Vivint, or SimpliSafe might be the right choice. For custom features, we would recommend Frontpoint or abode.
Ultimately, security should be your top priority, even for the best home automation security systems. Check out our security system buying guide for tips on how to choose an effective security solution for your home, and then come back here to compare home automation features.
We recommend features like remote access via apps or web portals, smart device integration, and compatibility with third-party equipment like Z-Wave or Zigbee products.
Google Assistant and Alexa are the most popular platforms compatible with security systems. If you’re an Apple Home user, we recommend checking out abode.
Some brands allow you to arm and disarm your security system with voice commands. With ADT and Vivint, you can use your voice to activate routines that control multiple devices at once.
A good place to start is the security company’s website. We suggest checking the support section for relevant articles. If you can’t find any information, contact the company directly.
Companies like ADT and SimpliSafe require a specific professional monitoring plan to use smart home features. But others like abode don’t require subscriptions for device integration.
Oberlo. (2024). US SMART HOME STATISTICS.
https://www.oberlo.com/statistics/smart-home-statistics
7Nox. (2022, Feb 3). 3 Ways Your HVAC System Impacts Fire Protection.
https://7nox.com/3-ways-your-hvac-system-impacts-fire-protection/
Alarms.org. (2019). Burglary Statistics: The Hard Numbers.
https://www.alarms.org/burglary-statistics/
Florida Commnity Association Professionals. (2023). Smart Home Solutions for Community Safety.
https://www.fcapgroup.com/flcaj/flcaj-articles/smart-home-solutions-for-community-safety/
