With burglaries becoming more common in our cities, people want to protect their homes from theft and other criminal activities. There was a time when only an alarm system heightened a home’s security. But today, these home security systems have become increasingly popular with the latest technology added alongside advanced features. You may want to compare home security systems before selecting the one that will help keep your home protected. According to statistics, the global market for home security systems will be $56.9 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $84.4 billion in 2027.
How do you choose the best home security system? It’s a tough decision. There are many options, and each system has different features that can be appealing or confusing. Now, let’s go through what to consider when you compare home security systems.
What to Look for When You Compare Home Security Systems
It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all system. What is suitable in one home might not be in another. The best approach is to assess your security needs and evaluate home security systems in light of those needs.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
The critical thing to consider before selecting a system is whether you want a professional security system or if you’d instead do it yourself. If your budget is a bit tight and you have some time for some work, the DIY installation might be suitable for you.
Professional Installation
Professional Installation is the safest and most reliable way to ensure your home is protected. If you choose this method, you’ll have a technician come to your home to work with you on installing the system. The professionals help you develop a security system that fits your home’s needs.
Pros of Professional Installation
The pros of professionally installing the security system outweigh the cons.
No Installation Hassles
This is one of the top advantages of using professionally installed home security systems. Professional installation guarantees you a flawless job, since the technicians have the expertise. They’ll ensure that the connections are well made to prevent false alarms. Furthermore, by using a professional company, you’ll have their full support in case the systems fail.
A 24/7 Support and Monitoring
Who doesn’t love having a peaceful sleep at night? This is what a professionally installed system promises you. Besides this, you’ll enjoy having peace of mind knowing your home is being monitored, whether or not you’re home, no matter the time of day.
Reliable and Effective
Choosing a company with a good reputation will give you peace of mind, knowing that your family is in good hands. On top of this, a business with a solid reputation provides effective and reliable services. This is because its staff includes experts with experience managing installations of the exact nature.
Professional companies will also provide equipment maintenance and warranty.
Quick Response Time
Since the system is constantly under surveillance, it helps identify threats to your home security. In addition, the security company can alert the police on time if there is a security threat.
Cons of Professional Installation
Here are some downsides to choosing a professional installation.
It’s Expensive
Professional installation is more expensive than DIY systems. This is primarily because of the installation and inspection fees.
Monthly Fees
When the company offers a 24/7 monitoring option, you may incur a monthly cost for the surveillance. Although this cost depends on your chosen company, you’ll have to pay for the service, unlike in DIY installations.
DIY Installation
Unlike a professional security system, a do-it-yourself home security system is a system you install and maintain yourself. As a result, DIY is typically more affordable than professional systems and also a convenient alternative.
Once you install the system, you can monitor it via a smartphone app or web portal. You’ll be able to see real-time activity, arm and disarm the system, and even receive alerts if there’s any suspicious activity.
Pros of DIY Installation
Most people prefer this system to avoid the installation costs.
Saves Money
One of the main benefits of a DIY installation is saving money on installation costs. If you’re tech savvy and have some basic knowledge of home wiring, you can probably install the system yourself without too much trouble. However, ensure you understand the instructions before starting, as even a tiny mistake can cause big problems.
Also, with this system, you can choose self-monitoring, saving money on the monthly fee. If self-monitoring seems like a lot of work, you can opt for a professional company to do it for you.
Know Your System Better
You’ll better understand how the system works, which can help you troubleshoot any possible problems.
Easy to Customize
DIY home security systems are versatile and easy to customize. You can add or remove any device without going in for support. This makes it easy to develop a perfect security system that fits your lifestyle.
Cons of DIY Installation
While there are amazing benefits to choosing a DIY home security system, there are also some potential drawbacks to be aware of:
No 24/7 Surveillance
DIY home security systems typically don’t offer the same level of protection as professional systems. So, you might miss what’s happening in your home if you choose self-monitoring. On the other hand, professional security systems are monitored 24/7 by trained security personnel, which means they can respond quickly to emergencies.
Repairs and Maintenance Are Your Responsibility
Once you buy a DIY system, it means you’re on your own. It’s your responsibility to do system repairs or maintenance. Also, ensure that your system is up to date to ensure that it’s effective.
Not as Reliable
A DIY security system may not be as reliable as a professionally installed system. Professionals have the training and expertise to install and maintain your security system properly. This way, you’re sure it will work as intended. With DIY, you may run into some issues that you cannot fix on your own, or you can make wrong connections.
Security System Comparison #2: Cost
A quality home security system does not have to be expensive, but it’s essential to consider all the associated costs. It is essential to consider the initial cost and other related costs. Most other costs involved are installation, monitoring, and any additional features you may want. You may also want to know if there are any hidden costs.
These costs will vary depending on the security system and your chosen provider. However, it’s essential to remember that getting services at a lower cost does not mean poor quality and vice versa. Therefore, it’s vital to compare the prices and choose the one you feel is reasonable.
Some home security systems require a monthly fee for monitoring, while others do not. You can expect to use an average of $5 to $65 on a monthly fee, $0-$200 installation and activation fee, and $60-$899 for equipment.
Wired vs. Wireless
It’s essential to choose between a wired or wireless system as they offer different levels of security.
Wired Systems
A wired home security system uses physical wiring to connect the various components of the system to your home’s electrical system. These systems are often seen as more reliable and secure. Furthermore, they are less likely to be interfered with by outside signals and also have a wider range than wireless systems.
However, wired security systems are more challenging to install than wireless systems and may require a professional. In addition, they can be more expensive than wireless systems and more difficult to troubleshoot if there are problems.
Wireless Systems
A wireless home security system uses wireless technology to send signals between the various components of the system. They often use radio waves or cell signals to communicate.
Unlike wired systems, wireless ones do not require the installation of cables and wires throughout your home. This helps save both time and money. In addition, wireless systems are typically much easier to install than wired systems and can be done with no professionals. They are also versatile, and adding a device to the system is easier.
Monitoring
When comparing home security systems, consider whether you want DIY or professional monitoring. When you choose DIY surveillance, all the security management in your home will be your responsibility, which can be overwhelming. Otherwise, when you choose professional monitoring, this is one area where you don’t want to cut corners.
The quality of the monitoring service can make or break your home security system. A good monitoring service will be able to quickly and efficiently respond to any triggered alarms. A bad monitoring service will not only be slow to respond, but they may also miss notifications altogether. Some companies offer free monitoring but charge a monthly video recording and storage fee.
Phone App Capabilities
An excellent home security system should have a robust phone application that can monitor and control your system anywhere. In addition, the app should allow you to set up alerts such as motion or temperature sensors and view live video footage. On top of this, it should allow you to listen in on any connected microphones, create custom automation, schedules, and so much more.
It’s also essential that the app is easy to use and navigate to get through all your desired functions. A complicated app can create a safety and security risk.
What About Customization?
The best home security system is one that you can customize to suit your lifestyle and home’s security needs. Also, it should allow integration with other systems, such as smart home systems. The system phone application should also allow working with another device you might add later. With a customizable system, you’ll feel safe and secure since you know the system has been designed according to your needs.
Customer Support and Warranty
Customer support is very crucial when it comes to a home security system. So, you’ll want to choose a readily available provider, especially on the phone. If you have an urgent matter it’ll be easy to reach them. They should also have solutions or be ready to visit your home if necessary. Finally, ensure the system has a warranty in case it malfunctions or any other issue arises.
Secure Your Home With ONIT Home
It’s always important to compare home security systems before making your final decision. Consider the cost, monitoring, phone app function, and whether you need a DIY or professional installation. Choose ONIT Home to secure your home and protect your loved ones. We are a leading provider of home security and home automation systems. With our innovative solutions, we have helped many families to make their homes safe and secure. As a result, we assure our customers of a hassle-free experience whenever they approach us with their needs.
We offer a complete portfolio of products, including security cameras, doorbells, outdoor cameras, panic buttons, etc. Call us today at 1-833-433-0331 to speak to our experts. You can also visit us online to compare home security systems and get more information on home security. Whatever system you need, we’re ONIT!