Friday, February 28, 2020

The Best Keyless Electronic Door Locks

Schlage Touchscreen DeadboltSchlage Z-Wave Deadbolt
  • Built-in alarm
  • High security rating
  • Built-in alarm
  • High security rating
August Smart Lock 3rd GenAugust Smart Lock (3rd gen)
  • Sleek design
  • Auto-lock feature
  • Sleek design
  • Auto-lock feature
Yale Assure LockYale Deadbolt with Z-Wave
  • Up to 250 codes
  • Easy installation
  • Up to 250 codes
  • Easy installation

Using your fingerprint to unlock the front door may seem like sci-fi, but the future is here! We pushed through all the high-tech razzle-dazzle to find the best smart and electronic keyless door locks for your home.

We compared prices, security ratings, customer reviews, and ease of use to pick the most secure electronic locks for your front or back door.

Compare the Best Electronic Locks

List Price *
Security Rating
Physical Key Option
Keypad
Open with App
Compatible with Alexa
Best for Security
Best Smart Features
Best Touchscreen Design
Best Bluetooth Features
Best Starter Smart Lock
Best Keyless Entry
Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt August Smart Lock (3rd gen) Yale Assure Lock Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Smart Lock (2nd gen) SoHoMiLL Electronic Door Knob SimpliSafe Smart Lock
Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt August Smart Lock 3rd Gen Yale Assure Lock Kwikset Bluetooth Smart Lock SoHoMill Electronic Door Lock White simplisafe smart lock
$199.99 $149.99 $199.00 $229.00 $50.00 $99.00
ANSI Grade 1 None ANSI Grade 2 ANSI Grade 2 None None
Yes
No
X
Yes
Yes
No
X
No
X
Yes
No
X
Yes
No
X
Yes
Yes

No
X
Yes
Yes
No
X
No
X
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
X
Yes
View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon Visit SimpliSafe

Amazon.com prices as of  2/28/20 12:00 p.m. MST. See full disclaimer.

Our Approach

To find the best electronic locks, we reviewed twenty locks for overall security, functionality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. We considered national standards for lock security as well as expert ratings and customer reviews. More than twenty hours of independent research went into comparing and contrasting the benefits and downsides of each lock to determine our top five.

  • 22 hours researched
  • 20 products considered
  • 2,500+ customer reviews consulted
  • 368 ounces of coffee consumed

 

Best Keyless Electronic Locks Reviews

Best for Security
Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt

Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt

For top-notch protection, you can’t beat the Schlage Connect. This smart lock is one of the most expensive on our list (averaging around $170), but it delivers on both convenience and security. This keyless lock comes with the highest security rating of any door lock we considered.

The Schlage Connect boasts ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certification, which is the highest rating available. But even though you can connect this lock to a home automation hub with Z-Wave, there’s no app you can use independent of a smart home hub. That means that if you want to control your lock remotely through your phone, you’ll also need to invest in a smart home hub.

Pros

  • Built-in alarm
  • Backup key
  • Strong construction
  • Voice control with Alexa
  • Easy installation
  • Deadbolt

Cons

  • Limited number of access codes
  • Slow customer service
  • Glitchy hub connections
  • High price tag
Best Smart Features
August Smart Lock 3rd Gen

August Smart Lock (3rd gen)

August is the undisputed leader when it comes to smart locks, and this third-generation offering doesn’t disappoint. Enjoy remote control, low battery alerts, and a secure Bluetooth connection that doesn’t eat up your Wi-Fi data.

And when it comes to looks, this lock stands out. Because it installs on the inside of your door, you’ll appreciate the unobtrusive modern design that complements most home décor.

The August Smart Lock works with existing deadbolts, which is convenient. However, it isn’t compatible with all deadbolt models, so make sure yours is compatible before making the investment.

Pros

  • Sleek design
  • Auto-lock/unlock feature
  • Home automation compatibility
  • Easy installation
  • Simple mobile app

Cons

  • No security ratings
  • Expensive price point
  • Buggy location awareness feature
  • Additional hub purchase required for multiple locks
Best Touchscreen Design
Yale Assure Lock

Yale Assure Lock

The Yale Assure Lock uses Z-Wave technology to work with more than fifty home automation brands and features an easy-to-use touchscreen that is backlit. You can program and save up to 250 entry codes—more codes than any other lock on our list.

This keypad door lock also comes with a privacy setting that lets you disable some or all codes for a specified amount of time. This feature could come in handy for a few reasons, but our favorite scenario is locking out teens who try to sneak in (or out) after curfew.

Although the backlit touchscreen is attractive, users express concern about wear and leftover fingerprints that could tip off a thief.

Pros

  • Up to 250 unique codes
  • Easy installation
  • Voice control with Alexa
  • Deadbolt
  • Two backup keys

Cons

  • No mobile app
  • No Nest compatibility
  • Tricky smart hub setup
Best Bluetooth Features
Kwikset Bluetooth Smart Lock

Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Smart Lock (2nd gen)

Kwikset is one of the most well-known names in home locks, and this Bluetooth smart lock combines the look of their conventional keyed locks with high-tech functionality.

Kevo uses Bluetooth to sense when you’re approaching the door, which engages the touch-to-open feature that lets you lock and unlock your door with just one touch. You don’t need to fumble for your phone or key fob—those can stay tucked in your pocket or purse.

But despite the trusted Kwikset name, the Kevo lock isn’t a customer favorite. This lock has a 2.8-star rating on Amazon, with more than 800 reviews. Reliability, slow response time, and glitches with the app are among the top concerns.

Pros

  • Touch-to-open feature
  • Location detection
  • Voice control with Alexa
  • Free eKeys
  • Key fob and traditional key options

Cons

  • Lower customer satisfaction
  • Glitchy app
  • Kevo Plus hub required for remote access
Best Starter Smart Lock
SoHoMill Electronic Door Lock

SoHoMiLL Electronic Door Knob

The SoHoMiLL Electronic Door Knob is the perfect starter electronic door lock. This electronic keypad lock is affordable (under $50) and works with both left- and right-hinged doors.

Even though it doesn’t offer Bluetooth connectivity or smart home functions, it’s a customer favorite. Because it doesn’t require a smartphone or Wi-Fi connection, it makes keyless entry an option for everyone.

But we wish it could hold more codes—you can only store up to eight, compared to hundreds on other electronic lock models. And this isn’t a deadbolt, so it adds more convenience than extra security.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • No smartphone required
  • Auto-lock feature
  • High customer ratings

Cons

  • Lower tech
  • No smart home compatibility
  • No remote control/access
Best Keyless Entry
White simplisafe smart lock

SimpliSafe Smart Lock

This newcomer to the smart lock scene gives you a keyless lock option from the SimpliSafe ecosystem. Previously, you had to pair your SimpliSafe home security system with an August or Yale lock.

In addition to keyless entry, the SimpliSafe Smart Lock alerts you whenever someone locks or unlocks the door. You can also set a schedule so the door automatically locks after you head out for work or school each day.

Because the SimpliSafe Smart Lock works with your current deadbolt (like the August Smart Lock), it doesn’t have a security rating. Make sure to verify that your existing deadbolt is compatible before making a purchase.

Another thing to watch out for is features that require a subscription to SimpliSafe’s Interactive monitoring plan.

Pros

  • SimpliSafe security system compatibility
  • Affordable price tag
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Easy installation
  • Mobile app, key fob, and keypad control

Cons

  • No security rating
  • Monitoring plan required for some features

What to Know Before Buying a Keyless Smart Lock

Door locks and deadbolts offer varying levels of security and convenience. And they’re the first line of defense for your home and family, so they need to be reliable. Here’s how to see past the smart home smoke and mirrors and find the best smart lock for your needs.

Door Lock Security Ratings

There are industry standards in place ensure your locks work now and for years to come. The ANSI/BHMA (American National Standards Institute/Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) grading system is the most common rating used to provide consumers with quality assurance when it comes to the keyless door locks you use to protect your home.

These organizations put consumer locks like these through a series of tests to determine operational function, pull strength, key torque cycles, and impact resistance. Look for locks with an ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or Grade 2 for the best security.

Electronic Keyless Door Lock Connectivity Types

When it comes to how your smart lock works, there are a lot of mysterious words thrown around (Z-Wave, RFID, etc.). To help you know exactly what you’re getting, here’s a quick reference that demystifies these technical terms.

  • Radio Frequency Identification (RFID): Use a key fob or card for entry. Radio waves from the key card communicate with the lock to allow entry. 
  • Bluetooth: Similar to RFID locks, these devices use your smartphone’s Bluetooth ID to unlock the door as you approach.
  • Z-Wave: Opens doors with a mesh network made of different devices that talk to each other. The more smart tech you have, the stronger this network becomes.

Convenience vs. Security

Smart locks can make our lives simpler, but are they really a security upgrade?

  • Convenience: Remote access and monitoring, no more spare keys, and hands-free entry are all big perks that smart locks offer. When you’re coming in with an armload of groceries or letting in the dog walker from somewhere else, you can’t beat a smart lock. In essense, smart locks are about convenience.
  • Security: While smart locks aren’t stronger than traditional locks, they do control who has access to your home and when. Locks that let you program codes for users, and disable them as needed, give you much more security than traditional keys.

How to Fake a Smart Lock

If your budget can’t stomach a full new smart lock system right now, consider supplementing your regular lock with smart lock accessories. These products grant you strong security and modern convenience without fully replacing your current lock.

Product
What We Love
Downsides
Where to Find It
Sesame Smart Lock Haven Connect Smart Lock
Sesame Smart Lock Haven Connect Smart Lock
Turns a regular lock into a smart lock
Installs easily
Features military-grade encryption
Supplements deadbolt security
Offers hands-free entry
Notifies you of tampering or attempted break-in
Doesn’t function as a lock on its own
Comes with a high price tag

Requires additional purchases for full functionality
View on Candyhouse.com View on Havenlock.com

How an Electric Door Lock Can Lead to a Smart Home

WARNING: Smart locks can lead to experimentation with other smart home technology. These automated door locks are often the gateway to more smart products.

An electronic door lock can be the first step toward a fully automated smart home. People who are skeptical or intimidated by home automation often find a smart lock easier to understand, which makes them more likely to give it a try.

Once they experience the benefits of a keyless lock, they just can’t wait to make something else smart. It could be something as simple as a crock pot or something more advanced like smart lighting or a smart thermostat. Before you know it, they’re seeking out smart home hubs like Amazon Alexa or Google Home so they can control all their smart devices with the sound of their voice.

If you find yourself sliding down the slippery slope of smart home automation, do it the right way.

Find the right smart home products for your lifestyle.

FAQs

Can my smart lock be hacked?

Yes, but biggest difference is that a smart door lock could be hacked remotely, which means a burglar no longer has to be on-site to bypass your lock. However, most hackers aren’t interested in breaking into homes when they can target bigger fish for similar effort.

Considering the downfalls of traditional locks (losing keys, having the lock picked), the risks aren’t any greater—and they may actually be less likely to occur.

Does a smart lock tip off burglars?

Smart locks don’t use a standard key tumbler, so they look different than other door locks. Some believe the sleek, modern look of smart locks can signal to a burglar that you like to spend money on fancy gadgets.

But this is speculation and there’s no evidence to support that fear. If this concerns you, seek out a smart lock that looks more like a traditional deadbolt.

*Amazon.com list price as of 01/06/20 09:53 am MST. Product prices and availability are accurate as of this date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any prices and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.

The post The Best Keyless Electronic Door Locks appeared first on SafeWise.

The Best Home Security Systems in Canada

Best Overall
Frontpoint
  • No long-term contract
  • Easy DIY installation
  • No long-term contract
  • Easy DIY installation
Smart Home Pick
Vivint
  • Professional installation
  • Smart home tech
  • Professional installation
  • Smart home tech
Budget Pick
Ring Alarm
  • Low monthly monitoring fees
  • Simple setup
  • Low monthly monitoring fees
  • Simple setup
Calendar Icon
Last Updated: 3 months ago
Ring has grabbed headlines recently due to potential security vulnerabilities that leave the door open to hackers. While Ring is actively investigating the problem, the company urges Ring users to update usernames and passwords. Read Ring's statement about the security breaches our Ring Alarm review.

Bottom Line: Frontpoint Delivers Full-Service DIY Home Security

Customizable plans, DIY installation, and devices you can take with you if you move helped Frontpoint rise to the top of our list for home security systems in Canada. Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, Frontpoint has an alarm system that will meet your security needs.

We also like that Frontpoint carries its outstanding reputation for putting the customer first into its dealings across all of North America. But Frontpoint doesn’t cover all of Canada—if you live in Quebec you’ll need to look for a different security company or choose self-monitoring with Ring.

Compare the 3 Best Home Alarm Systems in Canada

Lowest Monthly Monitoring Price
Starter Equipment Price
Contract Required
Installation
Availability
Learn More
Best Overall
Smart Home Pick
Budget Pick
$44.99 USD/mo. $29.99 CAD/mo. $10 USD/mo.
$0* USD $599 CAD $199 USD
X
No

Yes
X
No
DIY Pro DIY
Not in Quebec Not in Quebec Not in Quebec
View Plans View Plans Visit Ring

Data effective 11/19/2019. Offers and availability subject to change.
*$0 due up front with consumer financing.

Reviews: Best Home Security Systems in Canada

#1 Frontpoint: Best Overall

Frontpoint home security system unboxed

Frontpoint Equipment

When you think about DIY home security, small, no-frills systems are often what come to mind. But Frontpoint offers everything you can get from a traditional home security company without the hassle of scheduling (and paying for) professional installation.

But, like most traditional home security companies, Frontpoint comes with higher monthly monitoring fees.

Pros

  • Easy DIY installation
  • Great customer service
  • Cellular connection
  • No contract required
  • Home automation capabilities
  • Equipment you can take if you move

Cons

  • No availability in Quebec
  • High monitoring fees

Frontpoint Pricing

All prices are displayed in USD

Monitoring Plan
Monthly Monitoring Fee
Contract Length
Mobile App
CO and Smoke Monitoring
Video Streaming
Learn More
Interactive Plan Ultimate Plan
$44.99 $49.99
N/A N/A

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes
X
No

Yes
View Plans View Plans

Data effective 11/19/2019. Offers and availability subject to change.

Frontpoint’s monthly monitoring starts around $45 a month, which is the highest starting price for any security system we’ve looked at. But you can get your equipment for nothing down if you qualify for the company’s consumer financing.

The equipment pricing and payment options take a bit of the sting out of the high monthly monitoring fee. Plus, every monitoring plan includes access to the mobile app, home automation controls, crash and smash protection, and geo location services.

Tech and Equipment

With Frontpoint, you don’t have to cut any corners on your home’s security. You can put together your ideal security system from Frontpoint’s full selection of home security equipment.

Frontpoint indoor camera, hub, keypad, and mobile app

System Control

  • Touchscreen control panel
  • Frontpoint smart home hub
  • Keypad

Security Cameras

  • Indoor and outdoor cameras
  • Doorbell camera

Smart Home Equipment

  • Smart door locks
  • Smart thermostat
  • Garage door sensor

Sensors

  • Door and window sensors
  • Motion sensors
  • Glass break detectors
  • Garage door sensor
  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Flood sensor
  • Smoke and heat sensor

To help offset its higher fees, Frontpoint allows you to take the system with you if you move, which many companies don’t allow you to do.

All of Frontpoint’s equipment—ranging from smart thermostats to wireless outdoor security cameras with night vision—is up-to-date with recent trends and consumer demands. And Frontpoint is one of the only companies that includes carbon monoxide and smoke detector monitoring in every plan.

Most of Frontpoint’s devices are smart-home friendly and compatible with hubs like Google Home or Amazon Alexa. If you don’t already own smart home devices or a hub, Frontpoint has its own that you can add to your custom home security package.

Customer Service 

Frontpoint’s customers typically stay with the company for around seven years—that’s more than double the average home security contract length.

The Frontpoint team consistently displays genuine interest in what your needs are. Trained associates make sure you get the right system by asking plenty of questions about your habits, your apartment or house, and your lifestyle.

And when an emergency arises, monitoring center specialists are calm and prepared to help you navigate whatever situation you’re facing.

Find out all the details about Frontpoint in our full Frontpoint security review.

Favorite Plan
Frontpoint mobile, app, camera, hub, and doorbell

Frontpoint Interactive Plan

Our Pick for Frontpoint: The Interactive Plan

The Interactive Plan offers a happy medium between remote control, home automation, and alarm monitoring. Plus, it includes full access to your system with the mobile app.

  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • Mobile app access and control
  • Crash & Smash protection
  • $44.99 USD/mo.

The Bottom Line 

Despite some expensive monitoring plans, Frontpoint’s wireless devices and DIY installation make it easy for you to move the system around—to another location in the house or to a new home altogether.

Unlike typical out-of-the-box DIY systems, Frontpoint offers full-coverage home security services and equipment. Unfortunately, you can’t get Frontpoint if you live in Quebec, but this top home security provider has you covered everywhere else in Canada.

#2 Vivint: Smart Home Pick

vivint indoor camera, keyfob, control panel, keypad

Vivint Equipment

You won’t find a smarter home security alarm system than what Vivint has to offer. If you’re looking for home security that comes with the perks and convenience of home automation, Vivint can customize a system that will transform your house into a smart home.

But you can’t take advantage of Vivint’s high-end tech in Quebec, and if you don’t want to buy your equipment outright, you could be looking at a long-term contract.

 

Pros

  • Fully customizable packages
  • Advanced smart home tech
  • No-contract options
  • Mobile app included in every plan
  • Professional installation
  • 100% cellular connection

Cons

  • Long-term contracts
  • Steep termination fees
  • Higher overall costs
  • No availability in Quebec

Vivint Pricing

All prices are displayed in USD

Monitoring Plan
Monthly Monitoring Fee
Contract Length
Mobile App
Smart Home Features
Learn More
Smart Security Monitoring Smart Home Monitoring Smart Home Video Monitoring
$29.99 $39.99 $44.99
0–60 mos.* 0–60 mos.* 0–60 mos.*

Yes

Yes

Yes
Sky app Sky app
Smart door lock
Smart thermostat
Sky app
Smart door lock
Smart thermostat
Doorbell camera
Live video streaming
View Plans View Plans View Plans

Data effective 11/19/2019. Offers and availability subject to change.
*No contract with up-front equipment purchase.

Vivint’s monthly monitoring starts out lower than Frontpoint and ADT, which makes its smart security systems accessible to a variety of budgets.

And, unlike most other security companies, Vivint includes the mobile Sky app at every monitoring level—so you don’t have to upgrade to enjoy the convenience of remote access.

Vivint’s equipment is on the higher end, but if you’re able to make the investment, it’s worth it. You get cutting-edge smart home technology and proprietary equipment that’s developed and manufactured in-house.

The entry-level equipment price for Vivint is around $600 USD, but you have options to either pay it all up front (which means no contract) or use Vivint Flex Pay to finance the equipment cost.

If you choose Flex Pay, you’re looking at a contract between 42 and 60 months.

Tech and Equipment

Because there’s so much to choose from, Vivint provides a free security assessment to help you put together the right home security alarm system. Vivint technicians look for all of your home’s security vulnerabilities as well as your needs and preferences for home automation.

Selection of Vivint equipment

Here’s a rundown of some of Vivint’s smart home security equipment:

  • Vivint Sky Control Panel
  • Smart home panel
  • Vivint Element smart thermostat
  • Vivint smart locks
  • Vivint doorbell camera
  • Vivint Ping indoor camera

All of Vivint’s equipment works together through the Sky app to give you full control from one central command center. And Vivint equipment also works with third-party smart home devices like Amazon Echo and Google Assistant.

Customer Service 

Vivint is a high-end home security company, and you get high-end customer service.

In addition to the free home security assessment, Vivint professionally installs all of your equipment and teaches you how to use it.

Vivint has won several awards for outstanding customer service and high customer satisfaction. In 2018, J.D. Power named Vivint the third-best home security company for customer satisfaction.¹

Learn more about Vivint in our full Vivint review.

Favorite Plan
Vivint Equipment

Vivint Smart Home Video Plan

Our Pick for Vivint: Smart Home Video

We think that security cameras and live video streaming add a level of protection that’s unmatched by other home security equipment.

That’s why our favorite plan from Vivint includes video monitoring and remote access to security camera footage.

  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • Sky mobile app
  • Monitoring for $49.99 USD/mo.
  • $99 installation charge

The Bottom Line 

Vivint is a luxury home security brand, so it’s going to cost you more overall. But you get more smart home features and personal support from Vivint. If you’re after home security that you don’t have to figure out on your own, the cost is worth it.

#3 Ring Alarm: Budget Pick

ring-security-equipment

Ring Alarm Equipment

If you want simple, straightforward home security that won’t bust your budget, then Ring Alarm is worth your consideration. You can pick up a five-piece Ring Alarm Security Kit and add a full year of professional monitoring for about $300 USD.

The downside is that you must buy your Ring security equipment outright. There aren’t any options to finance—but once you pay that chunk of cash, you can get monthly monitoring for as low as $10 per month.

Pros

  • Cheap monthly monitoring
  • DIY installation
  • Ring Neighbors App
  • Many security cameras and lights available
  • No contracts

Cons

  • Monitoring not available in Quebec
  • No security cameras included with starter kits
  • Up-front equipment cost

Ring Alarm Pricing

All prices are displayed in USD

Monthly Fee
Annual Fee
24/7 Professional Monitoring
Mobile App
Video Recording
Learn More
Included with Equipment Purchase Protect Basic Protect Plus
N/A $3 $10
N/A $30 $100
X
No
X
No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes
X
No

Yes

Yes
Visit Ring Visit Ring Visit Ring

Data effective 11/19/2019. Offers and availability subject to change.

Ring’s pricing is hard to beat. Equipment kits range from $199 to $329 per month, and professional monitoring is just $10 per month. Plus, you get two months free if you pay for a year of monitoring in advance.

Best of all, Ring never locks you into a contract. All of its extended services are sold on a month-to-month basis.

And if you buy an annual Ring Protect plan and decide to cancel, you’ll get a prorated refund based on how much time is left in your annual plan.

Tech and Equipment

Ring’s home security equipment is simple and stripped-down compared to more robust offerings from companies like Frontpoint and Vivint. But if all you want is the reassurance of a basic home security system, this is a great place to start.

Ring Home Security Equipment

Ring sells its equipment in different packages, based on the approximate square footage you need to cover.

  • 5-Piece Security Kit: Covers up to 1,000 square feet and includes a base station, contact sensor, keypad, motion detector, and a range extender for your home Wi-Fi network.
  • 10-Piece Security Kit: Covers up to 2,000 square feet and adds four more contact sensors and an extra motion detector on top of the equipment included in the five-piece kit.
  • 14-Piece Kit: Covers more than 2,000 square feet, and builds on the 10-piece kit for a total of eight contact sensors, two keypads, and two motion detectors.

Ring Alarm equipment also works with Ring’s vast selection of video doorbells, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and outdoor security lighting.

It’s important to note that if you want to monitor more than one camera or device through the Ring app, you need to buy the Ring Protect Plus plan. The Protect Basic plan only covers one device.

One of our favorite Ring features is the Neighbors app. This is an app you can use with or without Ring equipment to tap into suspicious happenings or criminal activity in your neighborhood.

Reports are submitted by individual users (your neighbors) and law enforcement. I’ve seen alerts for everything from lost pets to car break-ins.

Ring’s Statement About Security Vulnerabilities

“Customer trust is important to us and we take the security of our devices seriously. While we are still investigating this issue and are taking appropriate steps to protect our devices based on our investigation, we are able to confirm this incident is in no way related to a breach or compromise of Ring’s security.

“Due to the fact that customers often use the same username and password for their various accounts and subscriptions, bad actors often re-use credentials stolen or leaked from one service on other services. As a precaution, we highly and openly encourage all Ring users to enable two-factor authentication on their Ring account, add Shared Users (instead of sharing login credentials), use strong passwords, and regularly change their passwords.”

Customer Service 

Ring is a DIY home security system through-and-through, but the company provides a lot of helpful information and tutorials on its website and mobile app. The company also offers 24/7 online and phone support.

Read more about everything Ring has to offer in our full Ring Alarm review.

Favorite Plan
ring alarm

Ring 10-Piece Security Kit

Our Pick for Ring: 10-Piece Security Kit

Ring’s 10-piece kit can cover all the bases if you have multiple doors and windows to protect on your main floor.

The five entry sensors let you protect five entrances, and an extra motion detector gives you the option to track motion on two floors or two ends of the house.

  • DIY installation
  • Optional professional monitoring for $10/mo.
  • $259 USD equipment price

The Bottom Line 

Ring delivers basic DIY home security at an affordable price. If you’re new to home security, have a smaller house or apartment, or want to stay on budget, Ring Alarm’s offerings can fit the bill.

Other Home Security Options in Canada

We looked at a number of home security companies when evaluating the best options available in Canada.

Not every company made our list this time. AlarmForce dropped from our listings, and Think Protection fell from the top three to be included in our “also considered” alarm companies.

Here’s a summary of three other Canadian home alarm companies we think are worth a look.

ADT Alarm Guard

ADT Alarm Guard Home Security

ADT Alarm Guard

ADT is one of the most recognizable names in the home security industry. The company has been protecting homes for more than 140 years, which makes its professional monitoring services the most experienced you can find. 

Best of all, you can use ADT’s home security monitoring services anywhere in Canada—even Quebec.

But ADT tends to cling to more traditional ways of doing business. In the security business that means high fees and long-term contracts. ADT also has a habit of charging you for every extra feature or service, including things like access to its mobile app, home automation capabilities, and two-way voice.

ADT Alarm Guard Home Security Basics

  • Packages available starting at $33.99, $44.99, or $53.99 per month
  • $99 activation fee for all packages
  • 36-month mandatory contract
  • All packages include a digital keypad, three entry contacts, a key fob remote, pet-friendly motion detection, a siren, and a backup battery

Pros

  • Nationwide coverage
  • Experienced professional monitoring
  • Flood, fire, and CO alarm monitoring available
  • Smart home capabilities

Cons

  • Expensive packages
  • Many services are add-ons
  • Long-term contracts

Think Protection

logo of think protection home security

Think Protection

Think Protection is a budget-friendly alarm company that delivers protection to every corner of the country. Like Frontpoint, this company offers DIY home security along with the reassurance of professional monitoring.

Think Protection has several customer-first policies including a three-year equipment warranty and 30-day, risk-free trial. And contracts are optional, which means you won’t be tied to a long-term contract if you want to purchase equipment upfront.

Think Protection Home Security Basics

  • Monitoring starting at $18.99/mo.
  • 100% wireless equipment
  • Pet-friendly motion detectors
  • 3-year warranty
  • Standard package includes base unit, one door contact, one motion sensor, and a pin pad for $149.99CAD
  • Private guard response available for $4.99/mo.

Visit Think Protection for more information.

Pros

  • Nationwide coverage
  • Mobile app included free
  • 30-day, risk-free trial
  • No contracts

Cons

  • Lower-quality equipment
  • Upgrade required for home automation

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is one of the most popular out-of-the-box DIY home security companies to hit the scene.

Unfortunately, SimpliSafe doesn’t offer any monitoring services in Canada. Even though you can buy SimpliSafe equipment, you can’t use most of its features without the optional monitoring.

If all you want is some motion detection and a siren that will go off to warn away intruders, then SimpliSafe’s equipment can provide that on its own. But you can’t use the mobile app or get a direct link to help without a monitoring plan.

We hope that SimpliSafe expands its services to Canada in the near future. The company launched in the UK this year, so it would make sense for Canada to be next on the list.

Learn more about SimpliSafe in our full review.

Pros

  • Affordable equipment
  • Wireless DIY installation

Cons

  • No monitoring available in Canada

Things to Consider in a Home Security System

Before you commit to a home security system, you need to make sure the system you choose meets your unique needs. Things like your geographic location, add-on features, and the type of installation or connection you need can all influence which alarm system will work best for you.

Geographic Location

Because of Canada’s mammoth size and varied terrain, providers often have a difficult time servicing all territories and provinces. Be sure to check if your area is covered before contacting a company.

That said, Think Protection offers Canada-wide coverage—so even if you live in a rural location, it should have a plan for you.

Type of Connection

In addition to your location, whether or not you have a Wi-Fi (broadband), cellular, or landline connection can also dictate the type of system you end up choosing.

Some companies have strictly wireless home security systems, while others are primarily hardwired with a backup cellular option. So before you sign a contract, double-check to make sure the system’s connectivity is compatible with your home.

Life Protection

Whether you live in a remote territory or urban area, you could benefit from life protection services. Often times, this type of plan monitors for fire, flood, or carbon monoxide—but, to be sure, check with a provider for specifics.

Type of Installation 

Alarm monitoring companies offer two types of installation: DIY or professional. When weighing your options, take into consideration how much customization you want—and how comfortable you feel installing equipment on your own.

Professional installation guarantees that your alarm system will be set up correctly. Pro installers know how to spot and defend security vulnerabilities, but that expertise usually comes with a price. Check into installation fees so you don’t get surprised after a control panel has already been wired into your home’s electrical system.

Systems that come with DIY installation leave the setup of your alarm system in your hands. You’ll get wireless equipment that comes with adhesive backing already applied. All you need to do is peel and stick. But it’s important to think carefully about where to place things like motion or glass break sensors. And stock up on some extra wall mounting strips—we’ve had sensors fall off in the middle of the night and trigger a siren.

FAQs about Security Systems in Canada

Will my location impact which company I sign up with?

Yes. Because Canada is so large, it’s difficult for companies to cater to all provinces and territories. Some companies have less regional availability than others.

Frontpoint and Vivint aren’t available in Quebec, while Think Protection caters to the entire country. Make sure the alarm company you want to work with operates in your area before ordering anything or signing a contract.

What is life protection?

Life protection is an all-encompassing term for fire, flood, and carbon monoxide monitoring. Sometimes you get a special smoke or CO detector that integrates with your home alarm system.

Other times, the security company provides a listening device that will alert the system if it hears your regular smoke alarm go off. Be sure to read a provider’s fine print regarding coverage specifics.

What are some additional ways I can protect my home?

A fire extinguisher can be a good place to start. If you accidentally start a fire in the kitchen, you’ll be able to respond quickly.

If you live in a rural area with frequent power outages, consider a portable generator to keep your home and security system powered.

And, with or without a full security system, security cameras are a great way to keep an eye on your home, guard packages that get delivered when you’re out or check in on your pets or the kids after school.

What are the advantages of remote control?

Remote control through a mobile app offers a variety of perks. Say you’re visiting family—you can make it appear as though you’re at home, even when you’re not. You can do everything from turning lights on and off and playing music to adjusting the thermostat temperature to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Should I be worried about false alarms?

False alarms can be a common problem when you have a home security system. The biggest reason false alarms happen is user error—it can be problems with arming or disarming the system or placing sensors in areas that can trigger a false alarm.

Make sure everyone in your home is fully trained in how to properly arm and disarm your security system. If you have a housesitter when you’re away, give them a full orientation to the system before heading out of town.

There can be consequences for false alarms. Depending on local ordinances, you might get a fine or have emergency response services to your address revoked or limited in the event of a security alarm.

Homes with recurring false alarms are at the most risk of fines and other punitive measures.

Here’s a list of things you can do to help prevent false alarms.

  • Place motion sensors away from air vents, windows, and fireplaces.
  • If your system uses batteries, check them regularly. If you have a backup battery, make sure to keep it charged.
  • Check window and door sensors regularly to make sure that magnets are still aligned and the adhesive is firmly in place.
  • Conduct tests of your alarm system a couple of times per year—make sure you let your security company know that you’re conducting a test.

How We Picked the Best Security Systems in Canada

Our top Canadian alarm systems were ranked in six categories—price and contract, tech and equipment, home automation, customer service, installation, and life protection. We evaluated each company based on expert and industry ratings, customer feedback, expert reviews, and our hands-on experience with the systems when possible. To learn more about how we rank and review, read our full methodology.

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