I recently purchased a SimpliSafe system for my first home, but I was completely disappointed with it within the first few days. Now, I’m back to searching for a better security solution. Here’s what I’m looking for in a system:
Sensors: I need window and door sensors, along with motion detection for both outside and inside.
Cameras: The cameras should either record continuously or turn on quickly when an event occurs and capture it immediately. One of my issues with SimpliSafe was that the cameras took too long to activate and missed the events.
Outdoor Camera: I’d prefer the outdoor camera to have a spotlight, if possible, for added security.
Night Vision: Night vision is a must-have feature for monitoring during low-light conditions.
Event Recording: I want the ability to review past events.
Emergency Dispatch: It would be great if the system could offer emergency dispatch services.
Alarm System: The system should include a robust alarm feature.
Connectivity: I prefer an easy WiFi setup, but I’m okay with wired connections if that’s more reliable.
I’m looking for a system that doesn’t involve big companies like ADT, SimpliSafe, or Brinks. If anyone has a similar setup that they’re happy with, I’d really appreciate your recommendations!
I suggest you look for a local installer. Get a professional to cover all of your needs. Don’t go for the Costco all in one packs. You know your specific needs and wants and a professional can check all of the boxes. Most professional systems do not require a paid subscription and they will last longer.
I’m not sure I understand the question. In terms of reliability and range the wireless function of the DSC system is top notch. Only on the biggest of homes would you have issues. The new panel can be programmed by an app as well.
If you need a hardwire system that records 24hours and have cloud access with 16 cameras. and terabytes of storage preferably 4K LOREX is what you need in conjunction with motion detectors from kangaroo and chimes and alarms
Yes, I think this is the route I’m going with. nvr is what it’s called I guess. and will be purchasing separate detectors like you mentioned with kangaroo.
A camera system. For the alarm system, the best advice I received was to use a local installer that uses alarm.com to monitor. They will generally have the best rates and better contracts. The alarm company will help you with your needs and wants. You don’t need or want to have the alarm company monitoring all your outside cameras. Every camera will cost you a monitoring fee. The monitoring company only calls 911 for you. They will not be having a conversation with the guy walking across your property. For the camera system, how much you spend might depend on how sketchy your neighbors are. Wireless cameras can be easily defeated with a $100 remote. They are illegal to own, btw. Wired cam systems with a DVR that you can control with an app are the better ones. these can have a few basic functions to pretty esoteric. That depends on your budget. For camera systems, look for ease of monitoring when you are away and no license requirements. You can start with nellyssecurity.com.com. once you start looking there, you will find other companies to look at. Nelly’s Security did a good job helping me out with my budget, needs, and wants.
The cameras took too long to turn on and would randomly disconnect from the wifi, I had a google nest cam their and had no problems with it. Also, an alarm went off while not home, and it didn’t record the event, and on the app, none of the videos were viewable. It just wasn’t, in my opinion, unreliable.
It has a base with door sensors, window sensors, motion sensors. You can add on Nest Aware + and the indoor cams and outdoor cam (make sure to buy weather proof cable) will record 24/7 for ten days and have motion events for 60 days.
You have a flood light option and the can have good night vision. They have 60% deal if you buy the doorbell/door lock for their trusted neighbors feature too. I think you have to call for that though.
I really wanted ADT, but they put a bad taste in my mouth when I called them for a quote. I called for just a quote, and the salesman would not let me hang up the phone until I booked an appointment and put a credit card on file. It was crazy. I don’t really like the contract either.
That’s no fun! You can order a DIY and pay in full with no contract. You have been able to do that from the web site. But yeah I understand when a company rubs you the wrong way it’s never good. I always say if things don’t start out good might be best to stay away!
Either way - something some ppl on Reddit posted that if you don’t have the plan through ADT then the camera can not work in the ADT+ app. The alarm ADT+ app will work without a subscription but no smart devices and no cameras. The cams work in Google Home of course - but if you want a “one app experience” you do have to keep the monitoring with the “Complete” plan.
Either way - the NVR route is not bad. I think Life Hackster has some reviews on the Reolink up
Read through this thread. ADT is one of most hated security companies in the industry… scummy sales tactics, overpriced, and extremely difficult to cancel among other things.
And as a happy ADT customer - am I not allowed to suggest what I believe and enjoy? My system keeps my family safe. I understand some people have a negative experience with ADT. Just like there are people who are unhappy with Apple. Or T-Mobile. Or… whatever you put in.
It’s true I don’t have the new system (yet) but will will. Anyway the OG may not want ADT and that’s totally cool. But everything they asked for is possible with the equipment they currently sell. The other guy who replied and suggested an NVR isn’t a bad idea either. Those are the gold standard for cameras. I just don’t have any of those… so I can’t talk about that experience.