The Best Apartment Security Systems of 2024

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The best apartment security systems will help you keep an eye on your home without causing damage to a rented space.

A security system can make renters feel much safer when living in an apartment building, especially a nonsecure one. Security products like alarms, keypads, indoor cameras, video doorbells, and sensors make it possible for renters to know what’s happening in or around their home at all times. But shopping for a home security system for an apartment is slightly different than shopping for a single-family home security system.

While single-family home dwellers often look for products that cover their exterior property and the perimeter of their home, apartment dwellers typically look for products that emphasize front door security and indoor security. Additionally, apartment renters may want to look for products that will cause minimal damage when applying them to walls and/or ceilings. We’ve scoured the market to find the best apartment security systems and outlined all of the major points for renters to consider.

Editor’s Note: Prices listed in this article are accurate as of the last update, but may vary. For the most up-to-date costs, please see each home security company’s website.

BEST OVERALL: Abode
RUNNER-UP: SimpliSafe
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Ring
BEST PRO MONITORING: Cove
ALSO CONSIDER: Frontpoint

The Best Apartment Security Systems Options — Photo: istockphoto.com

What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Apartment Security Systems

Enhancing apartment security is not always as straightforward as protecting a single-family home, but apartment home security systems can provide renters with extra protection and peace of mind. When choosing the right home security system for an apartment, shoppers will want to look for a system that provides the protection they need without breaking the bank or requiring complicated installation. There are several additional factors for apartment dwellers to consider when shopping for a security system.

Pricing and Fees

There are two main costs for renters to consider when purchasing a home security system for an apartment: the up-front cost of the equipment and the monthly fee for any professional monitoring or subscription-based services.

Shoppers will want to keep in mind that some security system companies require customers to sign a contract. These contracts often come with perks such as extended warranties, but they also mean that customers are on the hook for their monthly payment for an extended period of time. This may not be a concern if the customer is happy with their choice of system, but if they don’t like the system they may be stuck with it for the duration of the contract or be required to pay a hefty cancellation fee.

On the other hand, there are plenty of companies that do not require a contract and allow customers to cancel their service at any time. Shoppers will want to weigh the pros and cons of a contract before choosing their home security system.

Packages and Plans

When choosing home security equipment, customers typically have two options: They can choose from a variety of kits offered by the company, or they can build their own system. Most companies offer both of these options, as well as the ability to purchase individual pieces of equipment later if a customer decides they need additional protection.

The price of the equipment is usually accompanied by a monthly monitoring fee, though some companies offer a free self-monitoring option. One provider may appear to be the most affordable choice based on its low equipment costs, but customers will want to make sure that they fully understand all the costs before committing to a system.

For example, when comparing Frontpoint vs. SimpliSafe, customers will find that both companies have comparable up-front costs, but Frontpoint charges a significantly higher monthly monitoring fee which might make it out of reach for some customers.

Installation and Equipment

When it comes to equipment installation for an apartment, there are a few factors for customers to consider. For one, customers will need to decide between professional and DIY installation. Professional installation tends to be more common for houses where indoor and outdoor cameras are being put in or the equipment is wired.

Since apartments are often smaller and thus require fewer sensors and cameras, many renters feel comfortable with performing the installation themselves. However, renters with physical limitations or who opt for a more complex system may find it beneficial to leave the job to a professional. Some systems are DIY only, but a Ring security system for apartments, for example, offers both DIY and professional installation options, allowing customers to choose the option that works for them.

Most security systems offer a wide range of equipment that extends far beyond cameras. Often, kits will come with a hub or control panel as well as add-ons that can include doorbell cameras; glass-break and door sensors; environmental detectors for smoke, carbon monoxide and floods; and more. Usually, a base package with minimal equipment is the best security system for renters because it allows them to only pay for the features they need—although first-floor apartment safety might call for a few more sensors or cameras because the unit is accessible from outside.

It’s also important for customers to consider the amount of damage that equipment may do to their apartment. These days, many DIY security systems are attached with peel-and-stick adhesive rather than being drilled into the wall, making them ideal for renters who want to preserve their security deposit. Wireless and battery-operated products also tend to create less damage than wired products. And as a bonus, intruders can’t cut the power to a wireless camera, which lessens the odds that the equipment will be tampered with or rendered inoperable.

Monitoring

With professional monitoring, a team of professionals is on standby 24/7 if an alarm goes off and a renter needs the authorities to come to their apartment. According to Mike Silva, owner and principal consultant at Silva Consultants, “DIY monitoring assumes that the homeowner will always have their smartphone with them, that they are paying attention to their phone, and can make a quick decision of what should be done when the alarm goes off.”

There’s almost always an associated monthly cost with professional monitoring, and renters will need to decide whether the benefits outweigh that monthly cost. They will also want to look into any additional advantages, as some companies offer equipment discounts or extended warranties as a bonus for choosing professional monitoring.

With one of the best DIY security systems, the renter listens for the alarm and calls the authorities if needed. Even with self-monitoring, a renter might incur a small monthly subscription fee that unlocks more product features such as video recording and storage. Without paying the fee, renters may not be able to access past video recordings. On the plus side, most self-monitoring subscription fees are relatively affordable, typically starting at around only $3 per month. Some companies even offer free self-monitoring, although opting for free services sometimes limits how the equipment can be used.

Trial Period and Warranty

Most home security systems offer a trial period, which lets a user try out the system for a certain period without committing. If a renter is uncertain whether or not they’ll be happy with the system long-term, they might want to look for a company that offers a longer trial period. Not only will this give customers plenty of time to decide whether they like the system, but a generous trial period indicates that the company has a history of customer satisfaction and is confident in its product quality.

Warranty length is another important consideration, as it can be an indicator of how confident a brand is in its products and their longevity. According to Silva, “All systems usually include at least a 1-year warranty. Most equipment manufactured these days is quite reliable, and if it survives the warranty period, will probably last for many years thereafter.” Additionally, brands that offer lengthy warranty time frames display confidence in the quality of their products.

Home Automation and Device Compatibility

Renters that use a specific smart-home assistant, like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit will want to make sure that the security system they buy is compatible with their existing devices and voice assistants. One of the big benefits of a home security system is integrating it with the home’s smart ecosystem so users can more easily monitor their home’s security or control the system with their voices. If customers forget to arm their system, lock the door, or turn off the lights when they leave, many systems will allow them to do so remotely.

Most of these features can be accessed via smartphone through the security system’s app, so it’s important for renters to consider app functionality. In an emergency, time is of the essence; so if the system’s app is unintuitive or slow, this can be a major frustration, not to mention a security risk. Renters will want to be sure to check the app’s ratings and take customer reviews into account.

Reputation and Customer Reviews

Renters and homeowners rely on home security systems to protect their families and belongings, so a security company’s reviews and reputation should not be taken lightly. Getting firsthand accounts of a company’s commitment to customer service, the quality of its equipment, the reliability of its monitoring services, and other factors can make it simpler to choose which one is the best fit.

Websites like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau can be a useful starting point, but renters will want to take reviews with a grain of salt as even the best home security systems are bound to receive a few harsh reviews (and customers are generally more likely to write a review if they are dissatisfied). Renters can look for reviews written by reputable sources that weigh the pros and cons of a system honestly. They may also consider reaching out to friends, family, and neighbors with questions about their systems.

Our Top Picks

We looked at dozens of home security brands on the market and found the best options for those who live in an apartment.

Best Overall

Abode

Base cost: $139.99
Monthly cost: Free or $0.20 per day for self-monitoring; $0.66 per day for professional monitoring
Trial period: 30 days
Warranty: 1 year
Monitoring: Professional and self-monitoring

Pros

Screws or hardware not necessary for mounting
Flexible free and paid monitoring options
Systems are compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant
System is compatible with 160 other smart-home devices

Cons

Voice assistant compatibility is only available with a paid plan

Why It Made the Cut: With reasonable pricing, no-contract options, and broad compatibility with smart-home devices and voice assistants, Abode offers a great deal of flexibility for security-conscious renters. Abode offers prepackaged home security kits, but it also lets customers build a custom system that works for their specific needs. Most systems cost under $300, and Abode has products like indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, door sensors, light bulbs, and a keypad in addition to its wireless gateway and key fob. A standout feature is that no screws or hardware are needed to mount the equipment, so renters won’t need to worry about losing their security deposits.

Abode is compatible with more than 160 smart-home devices and Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. However, voice assistant compatibility is only available with a paid plan, which may be a limitation for some customers.

Users can opt for self-monitoring or professional monitoring. Self-monitoring has two options: free or $0.20 per day for features like video storage and notifications. With professional monitoring, which starts at $0.66 a day, users get a rapid emergency response if the alarm system sounds and cellular backup in case the system’s Wi-Fi goes down. With professional monitoring, users could also benefit from discounts on their renters insurance.

Abode offers a 30-day trial period and a 1-year warranty, which can give customers additional peace of mind when purchasing a security system for their apartment.

Runner-Up

SimpliSafe

Base cost: $249.96
Monthly cost: $10 for self-monitoring; $20 to 30 for professional
Trial period: 60 days
Warranty: 1 year
Monitoring: Professional and self-monitoring

Pros

Easy-to-install wireless cameras
Batteries last for up to a decade
Add-ons include entry, motion, and glass-break sensors; panic buttons; and indoor and outdoor cameras

Cons

No option for free self-monitoring

Why It Made the Cut: SimpliSafe offers a variety of products with long-lasting battery life, easy installation, and no-contract options. SimpliSafe is a respected home security name with moderately priced equipment and reasonable monitoring prices. SimpliSafe has two choices when it comes to professional monitoring services: standard monitoring (which includes 24/7 emergency dispatch) costs around $20 per month, and Fast Protect Professional Monitoring (which adds monitoring for flooding and extreme temperatures and intruder deterrence with two-way agent audio) costs around $30 per month. Self-monitoring comes with unlimited camera recording and costs around $10 per month. The company doesn’t provide an option for free self-monitoring, and the self-monitoring option is somewhat limited.

Preselected or custom equipment packages are available, and the base cost is $249.96 for the equipment (ranging up to $709.90 for the top-tier package). SimpliSafe has a variety of components, including entry, motion, and glass-break sensors; panic buttons; and indoor and outdoor cameras. The batteries in all the wireless equipment last for up to a decade, and the equipment is easy to install and creates minimal damage.

SimpliSafe has a 60-day trial period and a 1-year warranty; customers can extend the warranty for a total of 3 years with self-monitoring or standard monitoring plans, or for the lifetime of the subscription with the Fast Protect professional monitoring plan.

Best Bang for the Buck

Ring

Base cost: $199.99
Monthly cost: $3.99, or $10 for self-monitoring; $20 for professional
Trial period: 30 days
Warranty: 1 year
Monitoring: Professional and self-monitoring

Pros

Relatively affordable monthly cost
Flexible monitoring options
Local crime and security updates provided via the Neighbors app

Cons

Limited number of equipment pieces available

Why It Made the Cut: Ring is known for its doorbell cameras, and its equipment and monitoring prices make it an affordable yet reliable pick. How does Ring work? Ring provides options for just about everyone. Self-monitoring comes at two price points: $3.99, or $10 per month, and the full professional monitoring service is $20 per month. These pricing tiers mean there’s a security option for every budget.

The free option allows customers to view real-time video for their Ring doorbells and security cameras, as well as answer doorbell notifications. The $3.99 Basic plan adds video recording of one doorbell or camera. The $10 Plus plan provides video recording for all devices. The $20 Pro plan offers video recording and professional monitoring for Ring Alarm. Users who subscribe to the Pro plan may also qualify for a discount on their renters insurance.

Ring is probably best known for its doorbell cameras. The company has a selection of security cameras; however, its equipment suite is somewhat limited compared with other brands on the market. Renters can choose from product bundles or build their own system.

Ring products are often on sale on the company’s own site or Amazon, so it’s easy for shoppers to save even more money. Users can also access the Neighbors app, which delivers crime and safety alerts in the area directly to a user’s smartphone. Ring has a 30-day trial period and a 1-year warranty.

Best Pro Monitoring

Cove

Base cost: $250
Monthly cost: $18 or $27.90
Trial period: 60 days
Warranty: 1 year to lifetime
Monitoring: Professional monitoring

Pros

Generous 60-day trial period and lifetime warranty
RapidSOS system sends data directly to 911 dispatch center
Interactive monitoring center with 2-way audio included in base package

Cons

No self-monitoring option
Limited smart-home integration

Why It Made the Cut: Cove’s innovative RapidSOS system ensures help gets to a home fast. Plus, with a lifetime warranty and a 60-day trial period, it’s clear Cove has confidence in its home security products. Cove’s base package costs $250, and it comes with an interactive monitoring center. The sleek hub lets users arm the system and monitor any alerts from one convenient location. The monitor also has two-way audio built in.

Cove’s standout security feature is RapidSOS, which directly sends data to the 911 dispatch center in an emergency. This streamlines the process and ensures emergency services reach the customer’s home as quickly as possible. Users can choose between two professional monitoring options. The Basic monitoring plan costs around $18 per month, and it includes 24/7 live monitoring, battery backup, and several other perks like an hourly automated system check. Plus protection costs around $27.90 per month, and it adds on camera integration, smartphone control, and voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

However, Cove doesn’t integrate with other smart-home devices as well as other brands, and there’s no option for self-monitoring. Cove offers customers a generous 60-day trial period and a lifetime warranty on its products. Customers can feel confident that they’re receiving quality products and services.

Also Consider

Frontpoint

Base cost: $541.91
Monthly cost: $34.99
Trial period: 30 days
Warranty: 3 years
Monitoring: Professional monitoring

Pros

Compatible with security devices from other companies
Wide selection of preselected packages or build-your-own options
Hourly automatic system checks

Cons

Relatively high monthly cost
No self-monitoring option

Why It Made the Cut: Frontpoint offers industry-leading professional monitoring as well as DIY installation, making it a great choice for an apartment dweller looking for easy installation and reliable home security. Frontpoint is a solid choice for the renter looking for professional monitoring; the company doesn’t offer any self-monitoring options. Customers can build their own equipment packages or opt for one of three preselected ones.

Frontpoint not only provides home security from intruders or burglars, but it also works to protect a renter’s identity and sensitive information from online threats. One downside of Frontpoint is that it’s not the most budget-friendly option, costing a minimum of $34.99 per month for monitoring. Frontpoint’s equipment is compatible with components from other brands. If a renter already has a doorbell camera from another brand, they don’t need to throw it out and replace it. The system also automat

The Best Apartment Security Systems of 2024