It might seem counterintuitive, but we found Cove’s text communications to be quite useful. Whenever the system gets tripped, Cove sends a link to a text-based communication system, where everyone in your family circle can communicate. Unlike traditional alarm systems that only call one member of the family to verify alerts, Cove’s InstaText system allows for a more efficient and faster emergency response. That’s one of the reasons that Cove’s response rate is three to four times faster than its competitors. Most brands should include a loud siren to scare off intruders, but we've noted if this is not included or is an optional extra. We’ve also included the maximum volume below – 85db is comparable to a kitchen blender, while 100db is as loud as a motorcycle. Installation

Smoke/ CO alarm listener: Already have smoke and CO detectors that aren’t smart (no offense)? Smoke and CO alarm listeners can detect the sounds of your existing smoke and CO alarms going off and alert you via your mobile app, essentially turning your “dumb” devices into smart ones. This is a more affordable option than buying smart smoke and CO alarms to begin with, although not every company sells them. Additionally, you also have full control of your surveillance options, and don't need to wait for alerts in case you may be unavailable to take them. As a monitored solution, Frontpoint can call 911 for you if they detect a clear incident, ensuring that your home remains protected even if your smartphone is switched off. ADT Control transmits alarm signals to ADT’s nine redundant monitoring centers over wireless means, namely, Wi-Fi and cellular signals. About ADT Control EquipmentSimpliSafe is designed for use with or without a professional monitoring plan, and as such, it comes with powerful alert features right out of the box. In case of a breach, the base station itself will ring a loud siren and alert you via text or app notification. For three days, the Abode app stored our system activity for free. Longer storage was available to us with paid contracts. Professional Monitoring Garage: We faced similar issues with our garage and our outdoor spaces. For this issue, we looked into companies that sold entry sensors for garage doors specifically, like Vivint.

On the bright side, you can choose to sign a long-term or month-to-month service agreement. Long-term contracts are for those who will finance their equipment, and the term is usually four to five years. Month-to-month contracts, on the other hand, apply to those who will pay the equipment cost up-front. Simplisafe is another full service provider of alarm system for homes. Simplisafe system is specially designed for single family homes and apartment unit dwellers. It has built in features for alarms, monitoring and camera systems. Doorbell Camera Pro– Vivint’s doorbell camera with night vision lets you see who’s at your door anytime. It’s triggered by motion and sends alerts to your mobile phone as needed. For instance, “A visitor approached your door” will be sent with video. Video is recorded with a 180-degree lens, and a sound system lets you talk with visitors. Then, there are the options SimpliSafe provides. You can choose from a wide variety of equipment, you can DIY the installation process or hire a professional, you can self-monitor for free or pay for professional monitoring, and there are no long-term contracts for the monitoring plans should you choose to get one. You’ll pay month-to-month and you can stop anytime. Motion sensors: A motion sensor will trigger your alarm system if an intruder manages to gain entry to your property without triggering your entry sensors.

This is an ideal system for smaller homes – a single motion sensor works up to nine metres – and there are no additional subscription fees for extra features. If you do add a camera and want to save footage, the base contains up to 16GB of internal storage.