Best burglar alarms and smart security systems

Smart home security systems combine many of the features of a traditional burglar alarm with the ability to monitor, control and interact with your alarm from an app on your smartphone or tablet.

Below you can compare the two types, plus find out how monitored alarm brands are rated by their owners.

The best burglar alarms and smart security systems from our tests

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The burglar alarms and smart security systems we tested

All the burglar alarms and smart security systems we tested are listed in alphabetical order below.

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Abode Iota Security Kit

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Available from Abode (£385)

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Most recently tested January 2024

Type Smart

Need to know 82dB alarm, compatible with Alexa, Apple Homekit, Google Assistant and Philips Hue, key fob included, software update period until at least 2028

Abode Smart Security Kit with Outdoor Siren

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Available from Abode (£295)

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Most recently tested January 2024

Type Smart

Need to know 104dB alarm, compatible with Alexa, Apple Homekit, Google Assistant and Philips Hue, key fob included, software update period until at least 2028

Abode Security Kit

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Available from Abode (£198)

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Most recently tested January 2024

Type Smart

Need to know 98dB alarm, compatible with Alexa, Apple Homekit, Google Assistant and Philips Hue, key fob included, software update period until at least 2028

Amalock ALM1000 Wi-Fi Alarm Kit

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Available from Amalock (£120)

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Most recently tested January 2024

Type Smart

Need to know 87dB, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, key fobs included, software update period unknown

Bosch Security Starter Kit

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Most recently tested June 2022

Type Smart

Need to know 94.3dB alarm, compatible with Alexa, Apple Homekit, Google Assistant and Philips Hue, no key fob included, software update period until end of March 2026

ERA HomeGuard Pro Smart Home Alarm System

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Most recently tested June 2022

Type Smart

Need to know 70.9dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, key fobs included, software update period until December 2024

ERA Protect Alert Kit

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Most recently tested September 2021

Type Smart

Need to know 92dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, key fobs included, software update period until January 2028

Eufy 5-Piece Home Alarm Kit

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Most recently tested June 2022

Type Smart

Need to know 79.7dB alarm, compatible with Alexa, Apple Homekit and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period unknown

Netatmo Smart Alarm System with Camera

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Most recently tested September 2021

Type Smart

Need to know 98dB alarm, compatible with Alexa, Apple Homekit and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period unknown

Ring 5 Piece Kit (Second Generation) with Outdoor Siren

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Most recently tested June 2022

Type Smart

Need to know 95.3dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period until at least 2028

Ring Alarm 5 Piece Kit (2nd Generation)

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Most recently tested September 2021

Type Smart

Need to know 92dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period until at least 2028

SimpliSafe The Starter

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Available from SimpliSafe (£320)

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Most recently tested September 2021

Type Smart

Need to know 89dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period unknown

SimpliSafe The Starter Kit with Bell Box

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Most recently tested January 2024

Type Smart

Need to know 109dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period until December 2025

Somfy Protect Home Alarm Security System

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Most recently tested June 2022

Type Smart

Need to know 102dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, key fobs included, software update period unknown

Yale HSA Essentials Alarm Kit

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Most recently tested September 2021

Type Bells-only

Need to know 96dB alarm, no key fob included

Yale IA320 Starter Kit

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Most recently tested June 2022

Type Smart

Need to know 96dB alarm, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, no key fob included, software update period unknown

Yale Mini Wireless Alarm Kit (YSGA02-W)

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Most recently tested January 2024

Type Bells-only

Need to know 98dB alarm, key fob included

How we test burglar alarms and smart security systems

We test the two main types of alarms:

• Bells only: these traditional-style alarms are simple but often effective deterrents to burglars. Best Buy bells-only alarms will be easy to install and use, and have a loud and sensitive alarm. They must score at least 80% to qualify.
• Smart alarms: These more modern alarms enable you to control your home security via an app on your phone. We have plenty of top quality smart alarms that have scored more than 85%, and so qualify as Best Buys. Any burglar alarm that qualifies to be a Don't Buy, whether that is a smart or bells-only alarm, will score under 45%.

Only the best burglar alarms and smart security systems excel in all of these areas:

• Alarm sensitivity How effectively the alarm system responds to a motion detector or sensor being breached, and then triggers the alarm. We base this on a number of scenarios, including a burglar approaching the sensors from various angles, moving slowly or at a fast motion. We also see if the systems work just as effectively at night as in the daytime. With smart alarms we check how quickly an alert notification is issued to your phone. Best Buy alarms will alert you as soon as a sensor is breached so you can take immediate action.
• Ease of use All the alarms we've tested should be suitable for you to install yourself, according to the manufacturers. However, our testing has found that some alarms are simply too complicated to be installed by the average DIY user, and so will require you to shell out for a professional installation. Once set up, we assess the alarms for how easy they are to use – including arming and disarming the alarm, and using additional features such as panic alarms. With smart alarms, we do a full assessment of the app, including how easy it is to use, the quality of notification messages and whether multiple people can be logged into the app at once, such as you and your partner.  
• Loudness of the alarm We check how loud every alarm is – they range on test from a relatively modest 82 decibels (dB) to an ear-splitting 104dB. We check the sound level both inside the home and also outside. Some alarms lack external sounders and so will struggle to alert the neighbours and anyone close to your property that there could be a break in. 
• Smart security We put all smart alarms and their associated apps through an in-depth security assessment. Our test program is aligned with the EN 303 645 security standard, but goes beyond that in several areas. Security doesn’t currently contribute to the alarm’s score, but if we find any concerning issues in our testing, we contact the manufacturer to get them fixed.

We regularly revisit the burglar alarms and smart security systems on sale to see if there are any more popular models that need testing and when we find them we do. 

Why you can trust us: at Which? we're free from manufacturer and retailer influence. Find out more about our impartiality and how your support helps us to stay editorially independent

How do different types of burglar alarm systems compare?

Firstly, you need to decide what type of burglar alarm you want, and crucially what you would like to happen when your alarm goes off:

• Bells-only alarms: these alarms usually consisting of a box with an alarm sounder, and then sensors/detectors placed in key locations around the home, such as near doors or windows. The alarm is controlled via a fixed panel and/or key fobs supplied with the product. The alarm only sounds when the system is triggered and doesn't directly alert you or anyone else.
• Dialler burglar alarms: these alarms automatically dial your phone number, or that of nominated friends and family, when the alarm is triggered. Dialler alarms aren't common these days; instead most alarm brands offer a contact alert monitoring service.
• Smart security systems: control your home security via an app on your phone with a smart alarm. You can sometimes link your alarm system to other home security devices, such as cameras, and they often work with voice assistants. 
• A monitoring contract: You can pay a monthly or annual fee and a company monitors your alarm for you. They could call/text you or key contacts if the alarm goes off, or send out the police or even a private security team to investigate what has happened, depending on how much you are willing to pay.
• Wired/wireless Wireless alarms use battery-powered sensors that communicate with a control panel using radio signals. Wired systems, on the other hand, need wires running to each of the sensors and device to work. They are trickier to install, so you may have to consider the additional cost of paying a professional to install your alarm.

Monitored alarm brands rated

With an alarm monitoring service, you or your key contacts could be called if the alarm goes off. Or - depending on your package - the monitoring firm could also contact the police or send a private security team to your home.

To find the best alarm monitoring companies, we surveyed more than 3,800 real customers of companies such as ADT, Ring, Amco and Verisure to see which offer genuine value for money.

We asked customers to rate various aspects of the brands, their alarms and the monitoring service, including how easy the alarm was to use (including smart alarms if the brand offered them) and whether the service represents value for money.

In the table below, you'll find the overall customer score for each alarm brand, which is based on how satisfied customers are with the service and how likely they would be to recommend it to a friend if asked. We also have star ratings covering everything from value to how quickly the firm responds when an alarm is triggered.

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Smart security systems: what you need to know

A smart home security system is a set of internet-connected security gadgets, which typically include a combination of a hub, siren, motion detectors and contact sensors that detect when an intruder is trying to get into your property.

Some alarm systems also sync with other smart gadgets, including wireless security cameras, smart locks and voice-controlled devices, such as an Amazon Echo. 

All smart home security systems are driven by a central internet-connected ‘hub’, which wirelessly connects to and communicates with an app and the other components of the system.

Using the app on your smartphone or tablet, you can monitor your home by receiving alerts when the alarm is triggered, and then you can take action, such as calling the police.

Smart security: Five features to consider

• Outdoor sounder These boxes provide a visual deterrent to help deter burglars from attempting to breach your home. However, some smart security systems don't have an external sounder/box or you have to buy one at an additional cost. We cover this in our reviews.
• Multiple logins For all smart alarms, we assess the mobile app and whether multiple people can use it at once to control the alarm, such as you and your partner.
• Device compatibility Some devices only work with gadgets made by the same brand, while others will be compatible with other brands, such as Phillips and Amazon. Check our reviews before you buy.
• IFTTT If This, Then That (IFTTT) is a software platform that enables you to connect devices and make them work together, such as based on set routines.
• Software updates Updates can add features, maintain the product, and give protection against hackers. However, many manufacturers aren't upfront with how long they will offer software updates to products. Our reviews cover what information we do know about update support periods for each smart alarm.

Which smart alarm brands offer the best security support?

If you're installing a smart alarm on your property, it's not just physical intrusions you'll want protection from. As with any smart device that connects to the internet, cyber threats are also a consideration. Security updates allow companies to ensure your alarm system is always up to date with the latest protections. Nobody wants an alarm system that leaves the door open to hackers.

So you can make the best choices, we ask all smart alarm brands that we test how long they will support their device with updates.

• ERA didn't have a general support policy for its products, but lists end dates under documentation on its website.
  
• Amazon has said that it will support all of its Ring alarm systems with software updates- for 'at least four years' after the device is last available to buy on the Ring website. 
• Yale said it will support its products for four years. 
• Simplisafe supports its alarms for at least three years from when the device was first available for sale. 
• Texecom told us it supports smart alarms for a minimum of two years from launch.
• Somfy will support products for two years from date of manufacture. 

We contacted a range of other brands, including Netatmo and Texecom, but none of them committed to a number of years for support. 

Hive has said that it will end support for the the Hive Homeshield smart burglar alarm (including sirens, keypads and sensors), along with the Hive View indoor camera and Hive View Outdoor camera, on 1 August 2025. 

If an alarm you own is no longer supported, it won't immediately be hacked, but the risk increases and - with a security-focused device - it's a risk not worth taking. So, if the alarm is no longer supported, you should consider upgrading to a new one when you can. For more information on updates, read our guide to smart devices and security.

What puts burglars off the most?

We've surveyed ex-burglars and spoken to security experts to discover exactly what really puts off intruders, including everything from dogs to different alarm brands.

Burglars look for the weakness in your security, and this starts with the front of your house. A potential burglar will look for signs that you aren’t security conscious: doors with a single cylinder or Yale lock, or a lack of window locks.

They also look out for tell-tale mistakes, such as keys left in a back door or window locks with the keys still inside.

A burglar will look for tools, such as ladders, that have been left lying around. They will also check if sheds or outbuildings are properly secured.

The ex-burglars we surveyed told us that they were most likely to target detached houses. According to our interviewees, this is likely to be due to ease of access.

In our survey, we asked what puts burglars off. The top five things were:

• 71% having a burglar alarm system
• 71% having a dog in the home
• 52% people in the property
• 46% CCTV
• 21% outdoor/sensor lights.

How to keep your doors secured

• When fitting a lock to a window or door, use the strongest screws you can, not necessarily the ones supplied, and make sure they're all to British Standard BS7950.
• Ensure the door frames and doors are solid. Your external doors should be at least 4.4cm thick and hung with 10cm hinges.
• Doors should ideally be fitted with a five-lever mortise deadlock tested to BS 3621.
• Wooden doors can be made stronger with steel strips fitted to the frame and around the lock. Doors with glass panels are less secure, but can be fitted with laminated glass or plastic glazing film for extra protection.
• If you're getting new doors, get door sets (the door itself, frame and locks) that are PAS 24 certified. Fit a chain or a latch to the door, and opt for a viewer so you can check who’s there before letting them in.
• Letter boxes should be fitted at least 40cm from the door lock, and valuables and keys shouldn't be within sight of it - an internal cover plate will offer extra protection.

How to keep your windows secured

• Don't leave windows open or unlocked anywhere in the house. 
• Easily accessible windows should ideally be fitted with double glazing.
• Laminated glass or plastic glazing film is harder to break, so consider this for easily accessible windows.
• New windows should be in line with the British Standard 7950 or PAS 24.
• Ideally get locks that secure the window to the frame, rather than ones that only secure the handle.