What Is the Best Security Wall Design

Best Home Security Systems for Apartments in 2021

Landlords keep their homes safe, but so do the tenants. They are the ones who live in the apartment, after all. When it comes to this type of housing, there are certain special features to take into account. Keep on reading this guide to find out more about the best security systems for apartments.

Vivint_logo_Sidebar

#1 Vivint

Total Score 9.7/10

Complete hub
24/7 monitoring
Complete catalog

#2 ADT

Total Score 9.6/10

Custom alerts
Z-technology
Live footage

#2 SimpliSafe

Total Score 9.5/10

HD view
New and safer keypad
Power outage protection

What We Did to Find the Best

To write down this guide, we gauged each provider that had a good reputation on the web. These systems made for apartments can be with or without a contract. After this, we tried each of them to see how they worked. Let's take a look at some of the metrics we used below. We also took into account a 10 balls system and an average score to rate the best ones.

Features

0-10

monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.
Support

0-10

telephone, email, chat, and other channels
Price

0-10

monthly fee, money-back, trial period
Ease of Use

0-10

installation, maintenance, service support
Trust Score

0-10

BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

Top 10 Best Home Security Systems for Apartments: Never Miss a Thing from Your Property

Even if apartments have a shield from the world, they might still have issues. Security is never guaranteed. This means owners should always take measures to ensure they are safe. Let's take a look at the top 10 security systems for apartments in 2021.

#1 Vivint
#2 ADT
#3 SimpliSafe
#4 Brinks
#5 Abode
#6 Frontpoint

Vivint has a complete catalog with all the latest technology. It includes doorbell cameras, outdoor and indoor cams, smart locks, thermostats, and even garage door control. This is coupled with 24/7 video recording and monitoring. So, with all of this, the house is sure to be safe from most dangers. What is more, some of its packages also include pro setup, which can be of great help for those who are not very handy with technology.

Compatible with Amazon's Alexa
Supports Google Home
Powerful app with a wide range
Complete hub
24/7 monitoring
Pro installation available
Complete catalog

No DIY installation
Needs a technician
A bit pricey

Keeping an eye on the house with Vivint is easy. It offers three ways to see the videos and set up and change the settings of the system. The first one is the most popular app: the smartphone one. They take pride in this one in particular, as it has a rating of 4.5 stars. This means that users find it friendly, easy to use, and complete. Then, the second monitoring tool the hub. It is installed in one part of the house, and from there, the users can change all the aspects that they consider necessary at the same time as they get a live feed of all the cams.

Finally, those who want simplicity will also be happy to know that Vivint's equipment is fully compatible with Google Home and Alexa. In this way, they will be able to control everything just with their voices.

From home automation to emergency alarms, ADT has services for anyone in need. Something that makes ADT different from other cams is their health protection. For example, carbon detectors will take care of people using heating or gas stoves. Also, their 6-month guarantee covers not only the equipment but also the monitoring and set-up of the products. Though the warranty is a bit short and limited, it is convenient in other terms.

Custom alerts
Z-technology
Recordings for 24 hours
Live footage
Service for indoors and outdoors
Smoke detector
Flood protection

Very expensive
Limited guarantee
Slow customer support

Another thing that will leave owners at ease is the live stream spec. Clients should know that security devices can connect with tablets or mobile phones if necessary. Then, the person can take a look at everything that is happening in their property using the phone. And those who want to get custom alerts can do so.

Apart from thefts and intruders, ADT can protect apartments and houses from natural disasters. For example, floods and fires will not be issues anymore when hiring this provider. One of the negative points is the installation, though. The product will only work if professionals install them. So, maybe tenants will need to speak to the landlords before buying this equipment.

The SimpliSafe system focuses on the safety of homes. The idea behind the company is for the monitor to be simple. So, any user will be able to set up the alarm camera on their own. Plus, their premise is "no contracts". They charge a monthly fee for the wireless system. But clients are not obliged to pay for it for a fixed period of time. Also, each online review counts to understand the user experience of each client, even if they are not professional. All in all, SimpliSafe works with a great video technology that allows anyone to just keep an eye on video footage for as long as they want.

24/7 professional monitoring
Police dispatch included
New and safer keypad
HD view
Power outage protection
Works with Amazon Alexa
Wireless connection for infrared devices

Equipment is pricey
Premium packs are not included
Add-ons are hard to find

All in all, Simplisafe includes a lot of perks within the package. For example, clients will not only receive a camera but a safe keypad with direct police contact. If thieves attempt to remove the pad from the wall, they will get an immediate ping. Plus, it not only protects the apartment from intruders. It also prevents damage from fires and floods.

The backlit keys are great for those who come back home at night. They won't have to use a flashlight to see what they are doing. And the entry devices are very hard to spot. So, if intruders try to break into one's house, they will never notice the system. All in all, SimpliSafe has personalized alarms. With just one click, people can get the pings that they want for free.

Brinks is an alarm monitoring system that offers protection 24/7 together with smart home features to make life easier. Their team assesses the situation every time something triggers the alarm. If necessary, they will get in touch with emergencies. And if it was a false alarm, they will notify the client so that he can have peace of mind. This system is totally flexible, as it can either be installed by a pro or by the user.

24/7 monitoring
2 years warranty
30 days money-back guarantee
Pro installation available
Long-lasting batteries
Compatible with Alexa
Complete catalog

Customer care available for limited hours
No email option available
They may be slow to answer correspondence

To give their clients some peace of mind, the people at Brinks took two main measures. First, they offer a 2 years warranty. This means that they will fix or replace any product that breaks during that time. Then, they also promise to give back the money if the client is not satisfied with the service for any reason during the first 30 days.

Their catalog includes all the latest products in the market, from smart locks to thermostats, cams, and lights. In this way, not only can one feel safe, but they can also make life at home easier thanks to the automation. Then, these products can be controlled from far away thanks to the many apps that Brinks is compatible with, like Alexa and Google Home.

Abode is a home security system that stands out for its flexibility in terms of plan and pricing. Each of them has different characteristics that suit varied audiences. All of their packages include all-day monitoring together with an app to control what goes on at the house. Some of their items are also related to automating daily chores, like controlling the thermostat or locking the doors. It is also compatible with third-party apps, like FTT, Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit.

All-day Wireless monitoring
Custom alerts for mobile devices
Excellent reviews online
Garage door compatibility
Away arming and disarming
The on-demand short term monitoring
Smart home professional integration

Good customer support is only available to premium plans
Lifetime warranty only for top plans
Limited 4g cellular backup

This system is among the best for those who are willing to pay the premium plan. Though their monitoring team is available 24/7, this is not so for their customer care. The ones who want to get answers to their questions and problems fast should pay for the priciest plan. The same happens with many of their top features, like 4g monitoring and the lifetime warranty.

Yet, the good thing is that all of them include some type of warranty. And if customers want to upgrade their package, they can do so instantly. The same happens if they want to change their current plan for a cheaper one. All of the options also give the possibility to arm and disarm the alarm from far away. This comes really in handy for those who want to get into their house quick.

Frontpoint's main feature is that it contains no wires. This is very convenient for tenants. And for every person who is not very sure of how to set up their system. So, any buyer who is not tech-savvy will be able to use the system anyway. The door sensor, for example, has a magnet. In this way, the client just needs to unpack and place the device on the door. That's it to have it running in a very short time.

Completely Wireless
Waterproof for best protection
No tools required to install
No complicated manuals
Top support team
New night view for video incorporated
The professional range for and open width

Pricey service
No info about their warranty
The battery runs out quickly

Frontpoint is a camera created to function well. To ensure its quality, many specialists have tested its quality. In addition, checkups by the tech team occur all the time. At least once a day, employees will make sure the device is working as it should. Also, most of the clients are happy with the support they got. They claim that the customer care team always answer in time. And they give advice on the best products to buy.

Those who don't have the time to monitor what is going on in their property on their own should not worry. They can make use of the monitoring that the service offers. It can last for a day, night, or even for 24 hours straight. It will all come down to the budget the client has and how much they want to spend.

#7. Ring: Get True Professional Support

Features & Equipment 8.0/10
Customer Support 9.0/10
Price 9.0/10
Ease of Use 9.010
Trust Score 9.0/10

Best for Lifetime protection

The setup process is even simpler than for other products. Customers just have to plug the device in, and it will start running! The ones who want to can also buy the Stick up cam, a versatile camera that can fit anywhere. And the best part is that it won't be seen by intruders. The system also includes outdoor devices with lights. People who come home from work at night will see their way.

Lights for outdoor cams
Live-view
Motion detection with heat
Two-way talk feature
Very affordable fees
Connection with phone or tablet
Easy integration with Alexa

Hardwires are necessary
Not weatherproof
Only premium recordings

Ring's two-way talk allows owners to speak to other people present in the apartment. With pushing a simple button, this perk is enabled. The lifetime theft warranty is great for anyone at risk. Such a thing means that, if the cam gets stolen, the company will give back a new device for free.

What is more, 24/7 monitoring is very cheap. For only $3 per month, clients can access footage and keep it there for more than 60 days. Finally, the ones who want can connect it to Alexa. This way, they can control the system from anywhere they are and keep their home secure.

8. Blink: Forget About False Positives

Features & Equipment 8.0/10
Customer Support 8.0/10
Price 10/10
Ease of Use 9.0/10
Trust Score 9.0/10

Best for Environmental Protection

The Blink camera can work inside or outside if necessary. It includes many perks for clients that range from simple cameras to audio and cloud storage. It's great for anxious people who want to monitor everything that happens at all times. On top of this, the set-up process is very easy, and clients do not need any special tools. And customers will get to choose the alerts they want to get. This way, no false positives will occur.

Cloud Storage
2- way audio
2-year warranty
Cheap add-on for customers
Day and night cover
1080 HD

Limited Wireless system
No add-ons
Customer support is slow

The 2-way audio perk is also very useful for the people who need to talk to other family members. For example, it might be the case that children come back home from school, and parents need to say something to them before they enter the house. That is possible by using the Blink system.

Also, the lack of contracts is a great perk for the ones who don't need it. Or if they cannot afford it. And if any client wants to monitor or protect their balcony, they can place the Blink camera on the outside. This device has protection against bad weather, like rain or snow.

9. Scout: Monitor with a Pro

Features & Equipment 8.0/10
Customer Support 9.0/10
Price 9.0/10
Ease of Use 9.0/10
Trust Score 8.5/10

This system requires no commitment, as there are no contracts, and the equipment installed superficially. This is to say that it is not hardwired into the house. What is more, it gives clients complete freedom regarding where to use the system. This is in the sense that it can be controlled and self-monitored from anywhere in the world. Also, not only does it have its own app, but it is also compatible with third parties, like Alexa, IFTTT, Google Assistant.

Automation available
Compatible with other apps
Has an app of its own
Can be used anywhere
Easy setup
No contract
Arming and disarming is simple

Slow customer support
Rather pricey plans
No 24/7 monitoring for the basic plan

Scout offers a wide catalog of devices. The most important of all is the hub. It is the brains of the equipment, as from there users control the whole system. It has to be plugged into the Internet to work well. But once this is done, it will connect seamlessly with the app and the system.

Speaking of which, the detectors can be placed in many entries, making it easy to keep an eye on the areas that products usually have problems reaching. They work together with the door panel. This tool allows users to activate and deactivate the alarm every time they go into the house and leave it. Then, the access items are the ones that are going to help users watch who gets close to home. Any window or door can be monitored with this piece of equipment.

10. Wink: Do It Yourself Philosophy

Features & Equipment 8.0/10
Customer Support 8.0/10
Price 10/10
Ease of Use 9.0/10
Trust Score 8.5/10

This security system is quite innovative in the area of home automation. Most of the brands tend to create devices and apps that work only with other products that belong to the same ecosystem. But this is not the case. They want to integrate the best items from each company. So, one can use the LED lights by Philips and a thermostat by Nest, all from the same app. Of course, automation is not all that there is. Wink also offers one of the top surveillance equipment in the market.

Works with many brands
DIY installation
Includes a freehub for better control
In-built sirens
Well-designed app
Saving tool for batteries
No hidden fees

No pro setup available
No cams
Could offer more equipment

As Wink integrates a lot of other brands' equipment, its own is a bit lacking. They have entry sensors and a top-notch hub with all the latest features. Connectivity and safety will not be a problem. Yet, they have no cameras to offer. This may be so because it is possible to use the ones made by other providers. Yet, it would be nice to have a native option that was designed specifically for this system, especially since that is such an important part of the whole.

One of the features that make this provider stand out is its saving tool. It works by keeping an eye on how much one spends in heating and electricity through the devices that are connected to the system. In this way, one can save more on bills.

Best Home Security Systems for Apartments (Pricing & Features)

So, all the cameras mentioned above have their pros and cons. Benefits outweigh the cons, but below, readers can find a table of comparison that will help them make an important decision for their safety.

Provider	Total Score	Monthly Price	BBB Rating	DIY instal	Trial Period	Warranty	Upfront cost	Type of sensors	Keypad	24/7 monitoring	Add-ons	Installation	Batteries	Base Station	Cloud Storage	HD Filming	Works with Alexa	Best for
1. Vivint	9.7/10	Custom	B+	No	No	No	Custom	Entry and Motion	Yes	Yes	Yes	Pro	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Those who like it simple
2. ADT	9.6/10	Custom	C+	Yes	No	6 months	$90	Motion and infrared	Yes	Yes	Yes	Pro and DIY	Included	No	No	Yes	No	Traditional people
3. SimpliSafe	9.5/10	$14.99	A+	Yes	No	3 years	$266	Entry and Motion	Yes	Yes	Yes	DIY	Included	Included	No	Yes	No	Self-Sufficient families
4. Brinks	9.2/10	Custom	A	Yes	30 days	2 years	Custom	Entry and Motion	No	Yes	Yes	DIY and Pro	Included	No	No	Yes	Yes	Power users
5. Abode	9.2/10	$3.33	B+	Yes	No	Lifetime	$179	Entry and Motion	No	Yes	Yes	DIY	Included	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Those with a large budget
6. Frontpoint	9.2/10	Custom	B	Yes	No	1 year	$99	Motion and infrared	Yes	Yes	Yes	DIY	Included	No	No	Yes	Yes	Families who want to film with detail.
7. Ring	8.9/10	$3	A	Yes	No	Lifetime for theft	$199	Motion	No	Yes	Yes	DIY	Not included	No	Yes	No	Yes	Those who need 24-hour protection
8. Blink	8.8/10	No	B+	Yes	No	2 years	$75	Motion	No	No	No	DIY	Not included	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Lifetime protection
9. Scout	8.7/10	$9.99	B-	Yes	No	No	Custom	Entry and motion	Yes	Yes	Yes	DIY	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Travelers
10. Wink	8.7/10	No	B+	Yes	No	No	Custom	Door/Window Sensor, Motion Sensor	No	No	Yes	DIY	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	Self-starters

Responsibility of Renters and Owners

At times, it's hard to find security systems for apartments. Most of them are in the market for houses with yards and garages. Let's examine below the results for both renters and owners.

For Renters

The first thing these clients have to find out is the building's policy. Do they allow for equipment inside the premises? Do they need to contact other renters for permission? Once they are sure about this, the next step is deciding on the product. The wise choice is to look for a cam that does not need tools or hard set-up.

For Owners

While this is about home security systems for renters, owners also have their job to do. For example, they have to make sure they are not liable for any issue or error their tenant makes. The only way to do this is to speak to a lawyer or a friend who knows a lot about these topics

Best Features of Apartment Home Security Systems to Help You Choose

As stated above, there are many specs that are important to consider. An apartment security system needs to be set up and installed to function well. Let's see a list of each feature to get how they work in detail.

DIY: Install Them Without Help

Having to call a tech is an issue most of the time. Owners will need to stay at their place and wait for them to come. On top of that, devices that do not require tools or specialists are great for apartments. No drills or annoying sounds will pop up.

Entryway Sensors: to Keep Doors Safe

Any person who lives in a first floor knows it's a bit dangerous. So, the entryway sensors are great for security. People can simply put them indoors or windows without much effort. If any thug appears in one's place, then the alarm will be set. And the high pitch of the sound will scare them off.

Remote Control: for More Comfort

One can control the whole security without standing up. Anyone can take advantage of these hand-free perks using a remote control. For example, people can turn on or off the alarms, so they ring when an intruder appears using the control's buttons.

Wireless Connections: Safety from Afar

Today, everyone has a smartphone with them at all times. Such a thing allows to be connected and control other devices from a distance. Plus, there are many landlords who do not want wires in their property. So, tenants will find devices with WiFi connection an asset.

Mobile Alerts: Be Connected at All Times

Another perk that functions with WiFi. Mobile alerts let owners monitor their property anytime and anywhere they are. They will get pings and alerts when, for example, an unexpected person enters their apartment. Or if fire consumes the place. It all comes down to the settings they decide on.

24/7 Monitoring: Don't Miss a Thing

It's true that buyers may decide to monitor what is going on by themselves. Meaning they do not use any help by pros. Yet, most common people have to work or have other duties. To prevent strange things from happening, they can hire companies to do it for them.

Motion Detectors: Behind Every Movement

Those who own a large house with children and pets will benefit from motion detectors. Especially the ones that make a difference between pets and persons. Why? Because, if not, they will get false positives all the time. So, this type of sensor will detect whenever a human being is moving and inform the owner.

Expandable: Add More Devices

Most of the devices mentioned in this review allow for add-ons. What does this mean? That, if the perks included in the systems they bought are not enough, buyers can always add more. This ranges from cameras to sensors, remote controls, and more cloud storage.

Panic Buttons & Pendants for the Most Needy

Apart from traditional devices, these systems also include some extras. Those include panic buttons to talk to the police in a direct way. As soon as the person pushes the button, the police are alerted and take action. On the other hand, pendants have to do with health emergencies.

Decide on the Best Home Security Systems for Apartments: Not so Easy as it Seems

As seen before, choosing good security systems for apartments is not as easy as it seems. There are many factors to consider. These range from price and specs to contract, batteries, and reviews online. Let's take a look at some of the most important features that can help any client choose right.

1. Equipment

The major part of any system. One should ask him or herself questions about how many cams they need, for example. Is it necessary to have doorbell sensors? Keypads? Base stations? Good sound and mics? WiFi connection and recording? With that info in mind, it's then possible to decide on the best product for one's needs.

2. Contracts' Details

Another key aspect. Some providers, for instance, only ask for a fee paid monthly. Such a thing means that clients only pay for the services they use. Others ask for long-term contracts that range from months to years. Be careful when buying.

3. Reviews

Online reviews are precious to any future buyer. Reading those texts is crucial to understand how the product or service works truly. Distrust those companies that only show positive reviews. That's not real, as any business, no matter how good, is prone to having some issues. Clients should use those comments in their favor.

4. Customer Service

A crucial element to consider when one has an issue with the product or service. But customer care teams are not only related to problems. Instead, these employees also take care of any doubts or questions that may pop up before the purchase. Efficient teams, then, always make a difference. Users will give them a good review.

5. Affordable Pricing

Last but not least, money is always important when it comes to buying items. A camera can be great, but if the pricing is too high, one's pocket won't be able to afford it. As seen above, there are plenty of options in the market. Buyers do not need to lose all their savings to buy a security system, then.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Put a Security System in an Apartment?

Yes, any person can do it as long as they are inside the place. It is not legal to put cameras in common spaces. If that's the case, people have to ask for permission, not only of the owner. But also of all the rest of the persons living within the building. Still, those who want to protect their homes from the inside and review it can do so by putting cameras or sensors wherever they prefer.
Can a Tenant Install a Security Camera Inside?

Yes, as long as the cams do not break the walls or ruin the building. If that is the case, then tenants have to ask landlords for their permission to install a product. Yet, today there are a lot of products that do not need tools or difficult processes to start working. Some are the examples above. The only thing people have to do when they leave is to take the cam with themselves.
Does ADT Work for Apartments?

Yes, the company is very big and has plenty of options, according to the reviews. From great doorbells to top-notch motion sensors and easy to set up cameras, ADT has it all. On the grey side, the cost is quite high. Clients will have to pay not only for the equipment but also for a monthly fee. Still, the service is top-notch, and buyers are paying for good quality.
Is it Illegal to Put Cameras in Apartments?

Not really. But it is true that renters have to reach an agreement with the owners of the apartments before taking measures. So, the best security systems for apartment renters are the ones with an easy set-up process. These people will not have to use tools or modify the building in any way.
How Can I Secure My Apartment?

There are many ways to do this: the reviews say. From installing bars to hiring private security, the options are endless. Yet, the most convenient and the least expensive one is buying security systems for apartments. Putting bars in windows, for example, requires permission, tools, and a lot of time. Instead, using a camera with magnets and batteries require very little investment, effort, and money.

Choose the Best Option for Your Apartment

The most appropriate home security systems for renters are here on this list. From very big brands to smaller but great all the same, clients have it all. They can choose, depending on many factors. Some of them are related to the price, but other things are also crucial. For example, the type of setup, the devices included, and more. No matter which one they prefer, it is clear that every system is worth the time, effort, and money.

Jerry Carter is an experienced writer and has a passion for content development for varied projects. Jerry had been studying law at university when he realized that only writing could satisfy his adventurist spirit and his desire for knowledge. As a person with many unusual hobbies, he is also interested in security and modern technology.

What Is the Best Security Wall Design

Source: https://securinghome.com/best-security-systems-for-apartments/