in the UK, a burglary occurs every 90 seconds. This figure is worrying, but doing nothing to monitor your home is even more so! Therefore, many brands offer security systems using alarms, cameras, and remote monitoring tools. Which ones are the best? To find out, check out our comparison guide of the best home security systems.
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Our selection
"Designed for medium-sized apartments, houses and mobile homes, the Tiiwee X3 home alarm is effective and easy to use. When it comes to value for…"
"The Tiiwee A1 is a home alarm system marketed as a starter kit. And that's mainly why we chose it as the best entry-level home…"
"This is one of the most complete and effective Somfy home alarm kits, and one of the most expensive too. Ready to use, it has…"
"The Kergui G18 is a high-end GSM home alarm. This kit guarantees stable and reliable performance to effectively monitor your home, your family and your…"
Designed for medium-sized apartments, houses and mobile homes, the Tiiwee X3 home alarm is effective and easy to use. When it comes to value for money, you won't find anything better.
34,32 £ on AmazonIn most cases, one powerful siren is enough to deter potential burglars. That's what the Tiiwee X3 home alarm offers with its 120 dB siren. The control panel is powered by 3 AA batteries (included) which have a life span of 10 to 12 months. This system has a control panel and 2 sensors, one for the window and one for the main door.
The Tiiwee X3 home alarm benefits from a very high scalability. So you can add other door and window sensors, but also PIR motion detectors at a later stage. These are all wireless devices. Expansion will be all the easier since the included manual is complete and well detailed.
The Tiiwee A1 is a home alarm system marketed as a starter kit. And that's mainly why we chose it as the best entry-level home alarm.
28,72 £ on AmazonFirst, it's worth noting that while the Tiiwee A1 uses wireless signals, it doesn't require a Wi-Fi connection (or a cellular connection). This feature makes it a popular choice for securing "off-grid" locations and homes, including mobile homes and boats.
The other great thing about this alarm is its scalability. Each Tiiwee A1 can accommodate up to 40 sensors. The basic kit comes with only two sensors (door and window). Each sensor has a transmission range of at least 50 m and the alert is made via a 120 dB siren. The installation is really simple and if you decide to add accessories later, it will not be a problem.
This is one of the most complete and effective Somfy home alarm kits, and one of the most expensive too. Ready to use, it has everything you need to secure your home to the maximum.
See priceThe Somfy Home Alarm Plus kit is designed for large and very large homes. It includes 1 indoor siren of 110 dB, 3 IntelliTAG detectors, 3 remote control badges, 1 indoor motion detector, 1 outdoor siren of 112 dB and 1 hub that connects all equipment wirelessly.
This home alarm distinguishes a human being from an animal. In addition, there are a number of parameters that can be changed to refine the detection. Another important thing is that the Somfy Home Alarm Plus works with Amazon Alexa, which makes it easy to use. Finally, note that the hub can accommodate 50 sensors.
The Kergui G18 is a high-end GSM home alarm. This kit guarantees stable and reliable performance to effectively monitor your home, your family and your valuables.
See priceIn the package you will find 1 control panel, 1 wireless PIR motion sensor, 1 wireless door sensor, 2 wireless remotes, 1 IP camera running on Wi-Fi 2.4G, 1 power adapter for the control panel and a manual in English. The control panel has a 1.7 inch TFT color display and touch screen keyboard with a powerful processor ensuring smooth operation of the unit.
An automatic voice prompt or SMS message notifies the location and events in case of an alarm. In addition, you have different methods to arm or disarm the alarm system: with the remote control, directly on the main panel, dialing to the system or sending SMS to the system. Note that Kergui G18 has its own dedicated app to control everything, remotely. It is important to note that the control panel can manage up to 150 sensors and 150 remote controls.
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The best entry-level home alarm
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| TOP OF THE LINE | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Tiiwee X3
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Tiiwee A1
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Somfy Home Alarm Plus
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Kergui G18
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Designed for medium-sized apartments, houses and mobile homes, the Tiiwee X3 home alarm is effective and easy to use. When it comes to value for money, you won't find anything better.
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The Tiiwee A1 is a home alarm system marketed as a starter kit. And that's mainly why we chose it as the best entry-level home alarm.
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This is one of the most complete and effective Somfy home alarm kits, and one of the most expensive too. Ready to use, it has everything you need to secure your home to the maximum.
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The Kergui G18 is a high-end GSM home alarm. This kit guarantees stable and reliable performance to effectively monitor your home, your family and your valuables.
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Excellent value for money
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Very popular for off-grid homes (caravan, boat...)
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Easy to set up
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GSM compatibility only (no need for Wi-Fi)
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Powerful 120 dB sound system
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No Wi-Fi or GSM configuration required
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Compatible with Amazon's Alexa voice command
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Dedicated smartphone application
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Expandability and scalability
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Can add up to 40 sensors
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Ability to add up to 50 sensors
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Can add up to 150 sensors
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Some home security systems are designed to be small, yet comprehensive and powerful. Most homeowners appreciate a stylish home alarm to blend in with the design of the house. These are usually wireless systems, so there are no bulky cables. Some systems offer touchscreen tablet-style control panels or smaller base stations to place in the kitchen or bedroom to be simple, elegant and less conspicuous.
Your home alarm is designed to help you protect your home. So you need to be able to use it easily without worry. In case of an emergency, you need to know instantly where the panic button is or how to arm your security system. Your home alarm should make it easy to understand what each sound or alert means. The system should also automatically alert you in the event of a power outage, low batteries, or a technical problem with the equipment.
Look for a home security system with smart features. Some home alarms connect to voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. Connecting with these artificial intelligences allows you to create automated routines that can save you time and money. You can create schedules to turn lights on and off to fool potential burglars, or even automatically turn off lights when you leave for work at 8 a.m. to save on your energy bill
After
you install your new security system or move into a new home, you may need more equipment to protect your home. Your home alarm should be able to offer additional sensors, security cameras, and other security equipment that can simply be added to the existing equipment without much hassle. Before you buy a home alarm, learn how you may be able to add more equipment to your existing system.
The best home alarm mobile apps allow you to easily control your home security system from your smartphone while you're at work or watching TV in the living room. Mobile apps from home alarm providers allow you to be instantly notified when your security system's sensors and signals are triggered. If your security camera detects motion, you'll automatically receive a notification and be able to see live footage using the app without ever looking outside.
All home alarms come with basic equipment, including a control panel or station to manage all the equipment and a "Panic" button, in case of danger not detected by the sensors.
Each home alarm manufacturer offers different equipment and packages to meet your specific needs. Here are some devices you will typically find with most home alarms:
Door and window sensors
Most home security systems include door and window sensors to instantly alert you when someone enters your home. Door and window sensors are made up of two parts; on one end is a reed switch and on the other is a magnet to create a closed circuit. If the two ends are more than two inches apart if a window or door is opened, an alarm sounds to alert you.
Security Camera
These are additional eyes for your home alarm system. They are placed indoors and outdoors and are designed with motion and sound sensors to record activity detected by motion. Today's security cameras automatically send a mobile alert so you can view live footage from your camera using your smartphone. Some cameras have two-way audio so you can talk to your house guests when you're away or scare off burglars with the unexpected sound of your voice.
Motion detectors
They are designed to detect movement in your home. Combined with your control panel, these two devices help provide intrusion detection in your home. If you plan to install your own security system, you will need to know the area that a motion sensor can cover. You'll also need to know how the sensor should be placed, whether it's in the corner of a room or on a flat surface in a room.
Control panel
The control panel is the brain of your security system. It relays the information sent by the motion sensors, door and window sensors, cameras, etc. With most of today's control panels, you will find that you can easily arm and disarm your security system, talk to a surveillance specialist via two-way communication, control all the smart devices, and more.
Home alarm systems are grouped into two main categories: fixed line home alarms and wireless home alarms.
Home alarms with a landline rely on a wired telephone connection and a radio frequency to send alerts when sensors are triggered. If phone lines are down or in the event of a power outage, these home alarms have a battery backup to continue monitoring your home.
Landline security systems often require professional installation to connect to your phone line. But in the digital age, they are becoming less popular due to wireless systems that offer easier installation, regular security updates and more additional features to give you more control over the equipment.
Wireless home alarm systems use cellular signals to alert you of triggered sensors. Security equipment is easy to install without professional technicians or drilling. Most equipment is pre-programmed and ready to use when it arrives at your home.
Wireless home security systems always provide professional home security monitoring and instant alerts. If you choose a wireless home alarm system, check the cellular signal in your area and ask the provider which options in your area have inconsistent cellular signals that may impact the proper operation of your equipment.
Professional installation of a home alarm may involve a high installation fee, but you won't have to do any work. Typically, home security companies will send a trained professional to your home for a consultation. You'll be able to discuss your priorities, budget and security expectations with a real person.
These professionals also offer product bundles and years of industry experience to put your mind at ease. This means you'll save time and be free from the headaches of handling wiring, etc.
The best self-installed home alarm systems arrive right at your door pre-programmed and ready to use. These systems may not have as many cameras or motion detectors as their professionally installed counterparts, but they are perfect for smaller homes that need the basics.
Installing these systems is a breeze, as most of the equipment attaches to walls, doors and windows. The other advantage of these self-installed systems is that you can easily uninstall it if you move and reinstall it in your new home.
Professionally installed home alarm systems require a fairly high installation fee, but you don't have to lift a finger, and there are plenty of amenities. Self-installed home alarm systems are generally more affordable, but you have to do the installation yourself.
Generally, this is not very complicated. For a small or medium-sized house, a self-installed system will do very well. On the other hand, for a country house of 300 m², nothing beats professional offers.
Securing your home
Of course, the main reason to buy a home alarm is to protect your property and your family from potential burglars. The best way to deter a burglar is to use a home security system.
Protecting your home from fire
Only you can prevent your home from catching fire. Smoke and heat detectors are a great way to protect your home from fire. Monitored smoke and heat sensors will trigger a response from the fire department and can save your home from excessive damage.
Protecting your home from "odorless" gases
While we can all smell when the dog needs to go outside, we can't always smell when the gas line is leaking. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can harm you and your family. Home alarms with monitored carbon monoxide detectors from a trusted home security company can reduce your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Peace of Mind
A home alarm can give you and your family a sense of security whether you are home or not. While you are at home, you can feel safe in the knowledge that your home is protected and while you are away, you can rest assured that your alarm system will notify you and the police of any problems at home.
Home Automation
Along with interactive services, home alarm companies now offer very simple home automation solutions. With equipment that is very easy to install and use, you can turn your home into an automated haven with your security. Using lighting controls, thermostats or door locks, you can easily program your lights to turn on and off, program your thermostat to turn on when you get home and disarm your alarm system or even have your doors unlocked, your security system disarmed, your home lights turned on and much more.
Hide the wiring well.
For the most effective alarm system, choose a wireless system or hide all wiring. A professional burglar will look for places where he can disconnect the security system, choosing a wireless system will be an added protection.
Give the impression that the house is not empty.
Your
home should appear occupied at all times. Use timers to turn lights and radios on and off when you are not home.
Be careful when choosing your housekeepers, babysitters or nannies.
Before you entrust
the key to your home to a professional cleaner or babysitter, make sure the person is honest and reputable and works properly. Check all references carefully. Installing a sophisticated alarm won't do you any good if the bad guys can get in and out of the house quietly.
Lock your house.
Don't
forget to lock your house, even if you're only going out for a short time. You'll make it too easy for burglars to do wrong by not locking your house properly. And you'll render your alarm useless.
Use a safe to store your valuable papers and jewelry.
If
you have a habit of keeping valuable possessions and large sums of money in your home, consider investing in a safe in addition to your alarm. You can never be too careful. Be sure to mount it to the floor or wall to prevent an intruder from taking it away.
The best home alarm depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best at the moment.
Like you, many homeowners are concerned about how a home alarm is powered. Let's say you're on vacation and you hear that there was a storm in your neighborhood that knocked out the power. Is your home security system still activated? Is your home protected? Do you have to go home?
Don't worry, whatever type of system you have will continue to work even if there is no power to your home. A home alarm usually has a large battery that takes over the system when the main power goes out.
Well, it's not essential, but it's always better to have a device that illuminates the surrounding area when the camera detects movement.
Here too, it is not essential. A simple smoke detector will suffice.
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