This means you’ll also be able to adjust settings when you’re away and get sensor trigger alerts straight to your pocket. But, for a smart home security system, you control it through an app on your phone. With a traditional burglar alarm, you arm or disarm it via a control panel that’s usually in your entrance hall. This way, you’ll know if it’s a false alert or a real emergency. Not only do these act as motion sensors, but they allow you to see what’s happening in your home if the alarm goes off.
Some smart alarms include, or work well with, wifi security cameras from the same manufacturer. Put these in a hallway or other entry points to your home and, when it's armed and the sensor sees something move, the siren will sound. PIR sensors detect motion using infrared. If the connection breaks – in the event of an intruder opening the door – the siren goes off. They’re made up of two parts that form a connection when you close the door or window.
#Intruder alarm windows
Open/close sensors are for windows or doors. The two most popular types of sensors are open/close and PIR (passive infrared): Like a typical alarm, it will blast out a loud noise that will trigger when something activates the sensors.
#Intruder alarm install
Best security camera system: Arlo Ultra 4K, 3 Camera KitĪ smart alarm is a wireless system that uses your home’s wifi network to connect the different components, which is why they are affordable and you may be able to install one yourself.Best smart alarm for a loud siren: Somfy Home Alarm Video.Best smart alarm for unreliable wifi connections: Ring Alarm 5 Piece Kit.Best smart alarm system for smart home gadgets: Abode Smart Security Kit.Best smart alarm system for external monitoring: SimpliSafe Essentials Package.Best smart alarm system: Yale Sync Smart Home Alarm IA-320.This list contains top-performing models vetted by our testing team, along with the best home security systems chosen by GH's editors:
They also considered how simple the system is to arm and disarm and whether it’s possible to customise which sensors activate at different times, to see if it's suitable for use when you’re at home as well as away from the property. Our experts looked at how clear and loud the siren is and how quickly it sends notifications. They assessed them for the simplicity and ease of installation and evaluated the accuracy of any motion and open/close sensors. Our expert testers assessed the performance, ease of use and design of some of the best home security systems available now. And, because they connect to wifi, you won’t have to worry about an electrician dangling wires all over the place. With these, you’ll get sirens, sensors, keypads and cameras to level up your home security system. Home security cameras are great for keeping an eye on your property and for evidence if there’s a break-in but if you want more protection, we’d recommend looking at the best smart alarms that are more than an “intelligent” version of a burglar alarm. But today’s DIY smart alarm solutions make it simpler, more affordable and less hassle – that's ideal when you just want to know your home is secure whether you’re away on a weekend break or at the office for the day.
#Intruder alarm professional
Installing the best home security systems used to mean pricey professional fitting, lengthy contracts and regular maintenance costs.