Here are the top home security systems that are Alexa-compatible.
1. ADT Authorized Premier Provider
- Seamlessly connects to Alexa
- 24/7 monitoring
- 6-month money-back guarantee
ADT Protect Your Home is designed to work with Alexa; Alexa simply becomes an extension of the ADT app, and you can ask it to perform home security tasks in addition to Alexa’s regular tasks. For example, you can say, “Alexa, arm ADT in Away Mode” or “Alexa, unlock the kitchen door lock.” You can also carry out the regular Alexa tasks— “Alexa, set the kitchen temperature to 70 degrees” or “Alexa, dim the living room lights.” As you can see, it works the same way that Alexa works on its own; only with ADT, you’ve given Alexa security capabilities.
The only downside to ADT is the price. The app isn’t free, so systems start at $52.99/month, plus an additional $850 fee for security equipment. Yes, there’s a lot of equipment—full-service digital touchpad, wireless keychain remote control, wireless sensors, motion sensors, battery backup, and indoor siren sounder—but it’s still a high fee. Because ADT comes with a lot of hardware and a high cost, it’s best for people who are really serious about home security.
2. Simplisafe
- Connects to Alexa-enabled devices
- No contracts, fine print, or hidden fees
- 24/7 monitoring
Since the system is completely wireless, you control it from a smartphone app—and it can also be easily linked to Alexa. Just connect Simplisafe cameras to your Alexa-enabled device (like Echo Show), and Alexa will work as an extension of your Simplisafe system.
It takes only a few minutes to connect your system with Alexa. First, you set up your Simplisafe system (setup is very easy since it’s all wireless). Then, you enable the Simplisafe Alexa skill on your Alexa device. And voila. You then say, “Alexa, tell SimpliSafe to arm the door,” or whatever other command you’d like.
Simplisafe security services include 24/7 monitoring, checking unauthorized access, checking for frozen pipes or flooding, and smoke and carbon monoxide detection.
Simplisafe’s most popular plan is The Essentials, which costs $259.95 plus about $25/month for the package that includes the mobile app. There are other plans you can choose from as well, or you can request a custom plan. While there is both an upfront cost and a monthly cost, people like Simplisafe because there are no contracts—you can cancel your service at any time.
3. Vivint
- Easily connects to Alexa
- Comes with lifetime warranty and 24/7 monitoring
- No installation or activation fees
Vivint can be easily integrated with Alexa directly through the Alexa app. There are 2 skill options—basic and complete—and Vivint recommends enabling both. When you do so, you’ll be able to control garage doors, locks, arm your system, and adjust thermostat and lights. All you need to do is say, “Alexa, ask Vivint to lock my front door,” and it’s done.
Vivint pricing isn’t so clear on the website (which, unfortunately, is quite common in this industry). However, through contacting customer support we found out that the range is somewhere between $50 and $70 per month, along with an activation fee ranging between $99 to $199. Then there are the costs of hardware, which can reach up to $700, depending on what you want. Bear in mind that your final cost will be personalized, so it can be worthwhile to speak with a customer support rep and get a quote.
4. Brinks Home Security
- Can be easily linked to Alexa-enabled devices
- No contracts
- Industry-leading 30-second response time
Brinks uses dual-path technology that utilizes both cellular and WiFi so that your system is never down. The home security panel that comes with your system is linked directly to your security professionals; if an alarm is triggered, you can talk directly to the monitoring center via the panel.
Brinks connects easily to Alexa—once you download Alexa, just look for the Brinks Home Security Skill and enable it. Make sure to sync the Brinks skill with your Alexa, and you’re ready to go. Capabilities include changing the thermostat, dimming the lights, pointing a camera in a preset direction, closing the garage door,and more.
While you might think that a high-quality system like Brinks costs an arm and a leg, it’s actually cheaper than many of its competitors. You can get a complete system for less than $400, (though video monitoring is not included in this and costs about $100 more). In terms of monthly rates, plans range between $29 and $39 per month, also on the lower end of the spectrum. You get a 2-year warranty on all hardware, and there’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not totally satisfied.
Bottom Line
The idea behind using Alexa with your home security system is to make your life easier, which means that it’s crucial to choose a home security system that has Alexa-compatibility built into its design. If you’re not sure which of the top 5 systems will work best for your home, look for one that has a trial period. That way, you can try it out and see how smoothly it runs. The worst case scenario is that you return it and get your money back. The best case scenario is that you love the ease with which it works with Alexa, and your home is well-protected.
