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Eufy is a sub-brand of global giant Anker, making everything from robot vacuum cleaners to home security systems. The eufyCam cameras can record at up to 2K quality with reviewers and customers noting the clean nature of recordings and rapid alerts sent to smartphones as a definite plus.
It's a fully wireless system that was noted as being easy to set up, with inbuilt support for Amazon Alexa and optional HomeKit support as well. One caveat if you are using HomeKit is that it drops video quality down to 1080p.
The Eufy system was also praised by customers for easy local recording features, which means that it's a subscription-free zone, as well as for expandability out to additional cameras if your needs change. You may need to carefully tweak its motion detection zones, however, with some users noting that they struggled to hit the sweet spot between too many false positives or not enough actual motion detection.
Google's owned Nest for some time now, incorporating the brand into everything from its standard cameras and doorbells through to its own smart displays. It makes for a system that's easy to configure and very smart, with a selection of indoor and outdoor capable cameras, floodlight cameras and doorbells that work very well together. Reviewers noted the nice style of the Google Nest Cameras, which is important for any indoor placement, as well as the inclusion of smart features such as pet detection at no extra cost.
If you just want to set and forget, the Nest system will by default store events from the last three hours at no cost to you, but longer archival coverage will mean paying for a Nest Aware subscription. As it's a Google product, it's also not best suited if you've already invested in Alexa or HomeKit based gear.
For most homes you want security to be present, but not omnipresent, and preferably at an affordable price point. That's precisely the allure of Eufy's 5-in-1 Alarm kit, which combines Eufy's HomeBase hub along with a single motion sensor and two entry point sensors to cover a smaller dwelling.
Consumers and reviewers noted that the Eufy 5-in-1 Alarm Kit was very easy to install, noting that you'll need a 2.4Ghz capable Wi-Fi system specifically for it. That's most consumer-grade Wi-Fi systems these days, to be fair. Eufy makes a range of security cameras as well that will work with this system, but they're an additional cost, as would be any further sensors if you needed a wider coverage area.
The one area that many reviewers noted as a potential negative is that the alarm siren on the Eufy Security 5-in-1 Alarm kit is on the softer side. That could be a plus if you don't want to be deafened by your own alarm, but it does also mean that it'll naturally be a little less "alarming" for any potential burglars.
Alarms really only have two purposes – to alert you to danger and hopefully to scare would be burglars and other miscreants away. If you're looking for a budget option to get alarms in your home, GE's GE Personal Security Window/Door Alarm is generally well regarded amongst reviewers, with many noting how simple it is to set up and get running. It's not tied to a smart system, instead relying on a central keypad for arming and disarming when you come and go from your property.
It's certainly loud, and that's totally what you do want from an alarm, but some users did note that the doorbell chime part is also quite loud if you're near it when it goes off, as is the keypad for disarming. That could be an issue if you're coming home late and don't want to disturb neighbours or folks already in your home.
Securing a larger property can be a challenging affair, and it can also get quite costly with the need for additional sensors and coverage areas. Tolviviov's simple and quite affordable system won the applause of its customers not only because it's quite inexpensive, but also thanks to the inclusion of a lot of installable parts, making it good if you have wider areas to cover. It's also compatible with both Amazon's Alexa and Google's Assistant for voice commands.
It's a DIY install process, which means that it'll be cheaper to install of course, but the flipside of that is that some users did note that you do have to carefully install the sensors, with some commenting that the holding tape could be stronger. If it's not properly secured, you could end up with false positive alarm reporting coming from sensors coming away from walls or window brackets.
The beauty of Google's Nest Cam lies in its combination of an attractive price point tied into a very smart security system with many features available without additional cost. Without having to pay more than the cost of the camera itself, you get smart person and pet detection built in, and up to three hours of rolling footage coverage uploaded to the cloud. It's even smart enough to let you know when it's gone offline, so you can stay alert if there's a power or network outage – or if someone's cut your power lines before invading your home.
Reviewers praised the Nest Cam Indoor for its easy installation and simple operation, but it's best suited if you're already in a Google Home environment. The downside here is that this really is a Google Ecosystem product first and foremost, which means that it won't work anywhere near as well if you mostly use Alexa or Siri instead – though you can always have multiple apps on your phone, they do work a little better if they're all using the same assistant.
Like most cloud-based security solutions there's also a few key features that lurk behind a subscription. It's great that it picks out pets and people as standard, but if you want facial recognition as well – so it can, for example, tell you when the kids get home – you'll need to pay extra. Likewise, while it's nice that it will record short clips of activity, that only persists for the last three hours of coverage unless you pay a monthly fee.
A video doorbell can be your first line of defence when it comes to home security, because for the most part we tend to approach houses and buildings towards the front door. That's where a good smart video doorbell can pick up and record motion way before anyone even thinks of actually pressing the door bell part of the whole equation.
We like Ring's Video Doorbell Pro 2 because it's a wired smart doorbell solution, which means you don't have to worry about batteries running low if you're in a high traffic area. That does invite some extra cost to get it wired into place, though this should be relatively trivial if you've already got the wiring for an ordinary doorbell in place. Alternatively it can be wired into a plug if there's gap space around your door to accommodate the cable without impacting your overall security.
Aside from never running out of power, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 impressed us with its sharp motion detection capabilities. It's very easy to set up motion zones with a lot of fine detail, so you grab the areas you want to cover and aren't bothered by alerts for areas that aren't. your concern. Plenty of other models can tend to either pick up the slightest motion or not alert you until it's too late. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 gets it just about right, firing off alerts to your phone before the bell is pressed, making it easy to answer the door whether you're at home or on the other side of the planet.
On the downside, Ring's corporate parent is Amazon, so it's best suited to households using Alexa as their assistant. The need for it to be wired in one way or the other also means it's a less compelling prospect if you rent.
A smart lock should keep your home secure while providing easy access for you or anyone else you permit access to. That's precisely what August's highly regarded Wi-Fi based Smart Lock does, with reviewers singling it out for its easy installation process and relatively small and unobtrusive size.
It's also a supremely compatible device that will work just as well with Google Asssistant as Amazon Alexa, or Siri via Apple's HomeKit. If you're more into routines you program yourself, it'll also work nicely with IFTTT.
The big improvement that August made with the latest generation of its smart lock beyond a smaller size was the inclusion of full Wi-Fi support, which means you don't need to buy or install a separate bridge; it'll just drop into your existing Wi-Fi once configured with August's app. There is a slight downside noted by some reviewers here, however as the two CR123 batteries don't last quite as long as on other competing units, including older August locks according to reviewers. They should still be good for several months of use, however.
Knowing when a vehicle is entering your driveway is an important factor, whether you've got a long rambling drive and you just want to know when someone's coming home, or if you're making sure you're alert for deliveries or cars that just plain shouldn't be there.
Reviewers and customers like eMACROS' Solar Driveway alarm thanks to its low price point and use of a solar panel for recharging as standard. While many alarm systems include solar options, having it as part of the device should ensure a long service life. It was also noted as being nicely robust, with weather proofing that should ensure it lasts even through the worst kinds of weather.
On the downside, some reviewers noted that you only get a single sensor with specific range, so placement is quite important to ensure that it grabs the right section of your driveway without blind spots. Compared to some other driveway alarms, it was also noted as being somewhat limited in its alert chime selection.
Amazon prices last updated on 3 December, 2023 at 04:01 ameBay prices last updated on 3 December, 2023 at 07:10 am
Methodology
40+ Brands considered
60+ Products compared
9 Best products chosen
We comprehensively read through professional reviews of each of these products alongside consumer reviews. This gave us both an expert and everyday viewpoint on where they stood out in this category. We then weighed that against the experience we've also had within the Finder team evaluating smart home security devices to make our final selections in each category.
We value our editorial independence, basing our comparison results, content and reviews on objective analysis without bias. However, Finder may receive compensation when you click some links on our site. Learn more about how we make money from our partners and why you can trust our guides.
Why you can trust our picks
We've evaluated all these picks based on the feedback from professional reviews and consumers who have bought and lived with each of these products, ensuring that each of our final picks are readily available to Australian consumers, preferably through multiple sales channels, because that way you get more competition in pricing as well.
We've considered not only core line specifications for each device, but also the real-world experience of people using them, as well as overall price considerations for each category type when making our final selections.
We considered home alarm systems from the following brands:
1byone
Abode
ADT
Amcrest
Arlo
August
Bistee
Brinks
Chubb
Cove
Dakota
eMACROS
Eufy
Frontpoint
GSM House
Guardline
HiiStar
Hosmart
HTZSafe
Kogan
Kwikset
Level
Lockly
Mighty
Nest
Ring
SABRE
Samsung
Schlage
Simplisafe
SKK
Skylink
Swann
TOGUARD
Ultraloq
Vivint
Wuloo
Wyze
Yale
YoLink
Best Rated Home Alarm Systems Brand: Abode
Abode home alarm systems scored highly for performance, features, ease of installation and value for money.
If you want to secure your home and belongings against burglars, a home security system could be a wise investment.
Today's home security systems come with a huge array of features, so how do you choose a system that's right for you?
The most important features to consider when choosing a home alarm system are whether you want a DIY or professionally monitored system, the equipment you want to include, and the level of smart home integration you want to achieve.
What are my main options?
If you're in the market for a home alarm system, there are two main options to choose from:
DIY home security systems. These wireless systems are becoming increasingly widespread and offer a number of advantages over traditional wired set-ups. They're quick and easy to install, they're cheaper than professionally installed systems, and they can be customised with a wide range of features and smart home automation. You also have the option of setting up a system you can self-monitor or signing up to a professional monitoring service.
Professional home security systems. These wired systems require professional installation by an alarm company. They're then monitored by the alarm company, but you'll need to consider the upfront purchase price as well as ongoing monitoring costs if you choose one of these systems. With the rise of wireless smart home security systems, wired set-ups are becoming less popular.
The items and technology included in a home alarm system also vary greatly depending on your home and your security needs. System features commonly include:
Base station or central hub that connects to and communicates with all system components
Contact sensors to detect when doors and windows are opened
Motion sensors to detect movement inside or outside your home
Indoor and outdoor security cameras
Doorbell camera that allows you to see who is at your door and communicate with them via two-way audio
The features that come standard with a home security system vary between brands. You may also have the option to customise your system with additional features, such as extra cameras or technology like smart locks, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
How to compare home alarm systems
Make sure you compare home alarm systems before deciding which one is right for your security needs. Consider the following features when comparing your options:
Price
The cost of a home security system depends on the equipment included, so it's impossible to define a one-size-fits-all price range.
Be sure to check exactly what the price covers. Basic systems may start out cheap, but by the time you add all the cameras and sensors you need for your home, the price can quickly skyrocket.
App
Smart home security systems can be managed via a compatible smartphone app. You can usually use the app to receive alerts, monitor security camera footage and arm or disarm the system. Check what tasks you can perform via the app and take a look at some reviews to find out whether it's user-friendly.
Home automation features
Check whether the system you choose offers smart home integration features that help it automate a wide range of tasks around the home. For example, does the system offer integration with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, allowing you to use voice control? Does it allow you to control your door locks and lights using an app?
Protection
On the most basic level, a home security system offers protection against break-ins and theft. But it's also possible to add extra features to your system to detect fires, smoke, carbon monoxide leaks, floods, and to monitor the temperature in your home.
Expandability
If you need a higher level of security for your home, what extra cameras, sensors or other features can be added to the system? Can the system integrate with security devices from other brands? Be sure to check the cost of any add-on equipment too.
System monitoring
Will the system be self-monitored or monitored by a professional service? If it's professionally monitored, check how much monitoring costs per month and whether you'll be required to sign up to a long-term contract.
Backup battery and connectivity
Check whether the system has a backup battery so it'll keep working if there's a power failure. Can it switch to cellular connectivity if your Wi-Fi is down?
Ease of installation
Check what's involved in the installation process. Is the system ready to use straight out of the box? What do you need to do to add extra equipment to the system?
Wi-Fi range
If you live in a large house, make sure the system has sufficient Wi-Fi range to communicate with all connected devices.
How common is burglary in Australia?
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2019 there were 173,344 victims of unlawful entry with intent around Australia, with 72% (or 124,026) of those offences occurring at residential locations. States that recorded a high number of incidences included:
NSW: 34,564 victims (74% of these occurred at residential locations)
Queensland: 41,912 victims (73% of these occurred at residential locations)
SA: 14,619 victims (80% of these occurred at residential locations)
4 things to consider
There are a few other factors you should take into account before you buy a home alarm system:
Two-way talk. When choosing cameras for your home security system, one feature you may want to consider is two-way talk. This means you can confront intruders remotely and check the audio where the camera is located. Some cameras can also be used as spotlights, which can be an effective deterrent against any would-be intruders.
Do you really need a full security system? If you live in a small apartment, a full home security set-up may be overkill. A standalone security camera, or a cheap plug-and-play unit that works straight out of the box and can be self-monitored, may be all you need. Consider your key security requirements carefully before spending any money.
Home and contents insurance. One of the common questions insurers ask when you take out home and contents cover is whether or not you have a home security system installed. If there's a system in place, your insurer might offer you cheaper premiums – so make sure you inform them of this when you apply for a policy.
Cross-brand compatibility. Finally, be aware that some security devices will only work with systems made by the same brand. Others are compatible with multiple brands, which may mean you have more choice when hooking up extra gadgets to your system.
Best-rated home alarm system brand award breakdown
Brand
Ease of Installation
Features
Performance
Value for Money
Overall rating
Recommended
Total Score
Abode
4.16
4.23
4.37
4.3
4.33
95%
7.96
Vivint
4.57
4.36
4.43
4.21
4.29
79%
7.87
ADACS
4.15
4.31
4.42
4.38
4.08
92%
7.72
Nest Secure
4.18
4.2
4.12
4.16
4.2
88%
7.71
Link Interactive
4
4.31
4.24
4.1
4.07
93%
7.62
Frontpoint
4.22
3.94
4.28
4.06
4.06
72%
7.41
SimpliSafe
4.04
3.92
4.04
3.96
4.12
76%
7.41
ADT
4.07
4.05
4.27
4.02
4.07
70%
7.39
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2020, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info.
A multi-award winning journalist, Alex has written about consumer technology for over 20 years. He has written and edited for virtually every Australian tech publication including Gizmodo, CNET, PC Magazine, Kotaku and more. He has also been the Editor of Gizmodo Australia, PC Mag Australia, CNET.com.au and the Tech and Telco section at Finder. Alex has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New England and a serious passion for retro gaming.
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