How We Test
We install every security system we review in our test home. We run simulated intrusion scenarios, test detection zones, measure response times, and evaluate monitoring center performance — all independently.
Scoring Criteria
Every product receives a score from 0 to 10 based on weighted criteria. Here is exactly how we calculate it.
Detection & Response
We simulate break-in scenarios at doors, windows, and entry points. We measure sensor response time, alarm trigger speed, and monitoring center dispatch accuracy.
Video & Audio Quality
We test camera resolution, night vision, field of view, and two-way audio in controlled lighting conditions. Motion detection accuracy and false alarm rates are measured over 30 days.
Smart Integration
We test Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit integration. Automation reliability, app quality, and local vs cloud processing are evaluated.
Value & Contracts
We compare equipment costs, monthly monitoring fees, contract terms, and cancellation penalties. DIY vs professional installation costs are documented.
Tools & Equipment
The tools we use to produce consistent, reproducible results.
- Purpose-built test home with 12 entry points
- Simulated intrusion scenario kit
- Lux meter for night vision testing
- Decibel meter for siren testing
- Network analyzer for latency and cloud dependency testing
Independence Pledge
- No sponsored rankings. Our scores are never influenced by advertising or affiliate relationships.
- We buy everything ourselves. Products are purchased at retail price with our own funds. No vendor-supplied review units.
- Affiliate transparency. We earn commissions from some links. This funds our testing but never affects our scores. Full disclosure.
- Corrections policy. If we get something wrong, we update the article with a visible correction notice and date.
Update Cadence
Reviews are updated with firmware changes. Full system re-tests occur every 6 months. Monitoring pricing is verified quarterly.
Every article shows its publish date and last update date. If a review is more than 6 months old without an update, we flag it as potentially outdated.
Our Testing Team
The people behind the scores.