Review About Home Security List We've made it our mission to help you research and choose the home security and automation solutions that match your lifestyle and budget.

Overall, Amazon have been pushing hard on its Alexa-powered devices in order to make them as accessible as possible. Portable it aims to be able to move easily between the inside and outside of your home. View Plan. Each package comes with a variety of devices; these are their current package offers:. Google Nest Hub 3. Whether you decide to go with a DIY system or opt for a professionally installed system, you'll have to pay a monthly or annual fee if you require monitoring, and in some cases, you'll be hit with a monthly fee to pay off the cost of hardware components. There are plenty of smart lock models to choose from, including keyless no-touch locks, touch-screen locks, combination keyed and touchpad locks, and locks that you can open using a biometric fingerprint reader. Even better, connecting them is as easy as saying "Alexa, find my devices.

This is one of the highest cancellation penalties when it comes to home security companies. It's also relatively simple and painless for other smart devices to connect with the hub, at least at first. Face recognition. In addition, keep an eye on your camera logs to see when they have been accessed. PROS Fast and knowledgeable service reps. CONS No professional monitoring available. Some security system vendors use frequency hopping tech to prevent signal jamming, while others use embedded encryption, but neither feature is standard, so check with the manufacturer if you require an extra layer of security. What makes the SmartThings different from traditional self-monitored home security systems is the way it works with other providers. Easy to install, it takes around three minutes, this indoor camera can be placed inconspicuously in a variety of locations. Once you are confident that you know what equipment has been provided, and that it is the latest version, you can move forward with your buying decision.

Tiny components. Adding a battery back-up will make sure that your system continues to work even when the power is out. However, when you use a third party provider that handles monitoring services for hundreds of companies, you may experience a less personal interaction. If you're looking for a home security provider with home automation features and tie-ins, Scout is your best bet. While there are no fees for installation, but you do have to pay for the equipment. You can follow her on twitter theonlyjen. Wink Hub 2. This is a centralized device that controls all of your smart home products, using your home network, broadband, Bluetooth, ZigBee, z-wave, and other protocols,. These DIY home security systems will send you a notification if a sensor, detector or camera detects something is wrong. You can control and adjust your security system using the Frontpoint mobile app.

If you want to save some money, look for a camera with an SD card slot that allows you to record video when motion or sound is detected, but remember to save your recordings every so often before they are overwritten. If equipment aesthetics and app simplicity matters to you, it may still be worth considering Scout. Click here to find your city and compare crime stats to the rest of the country. If you are looking for the best self-monitored security system for your home, here is a list of our top five systems. Not sure whether it's worth it to get home security in your area? Generally the Apple app aligns with the Android app rating. Additionally, devices that connect via Wi-Fi, such as security cameras and smart door locks, can be hacked to gain access to your home network. Buy Now amazon. Scout's platform keeps you at the center of your security. For example, you can create rules to have the lights turn on when motion is detected, have your doors unlock when a smoke alarm goes off, and have a camera begin recording when a sensor is triggered.

However, if security is your primary driver, there are some good things about the Carnary line of security cameras. You do have to install the equipment yourself, but the set up is relatively easy. Here's what you need to know when deciding how to secure and monitor your home while you're away. This allows you to manage lights and appliances while you are away. Before you decide on a company, you should make sure their technology is up to date. Google Nest Hub 3. Scout may be the only major home security company that can described as modern. PROS Easy to install. Apple HomeKit. If you're looking for a home security provider with home automation features and tie-ins, Scout is your best bet.

These are some of the equipment options you can get from Frontpoint when you choose the basic package. The app integration works well, but Nest has never been the cheapest camera, nor is cloud storage cheap. CONS: Locked into a month contract If you cancel service, you have to pay the remainder of the contract Limited smart device options You may also want to check out our full, in-depth review of Protect America. Some Pulse peripherals require third-party mobile apps. FrontPoint Safe Home. While the company doesn't have its own home security camera, it now works with Nest. Portable it aims to be able to move easily between the inside and outside of your home. Just plug your lamps or appliances into the Smart Switch, and you will be able to control them from anywhere using a smartphone app. Secret alerts allow you to know who opens your cabinets, safes and private files that you want to keep protected. Pricing Transparency : This is simply a measure of how easy it is to find pricing.

Rather than fragmenting your home devices across 5 different apps, you can use them all together on Scout. For example, the prices in the table for Frontpoint assume a month contract, but there are month options available. It's not cheap, even if you choose to sign a month agreement. If you find the app restrictive, you can always set-up voice commands by connecting with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to work with it, but it's not set up to provide the same multimedia experience that other voice-powered home automation systems can deliver, unless you plan to connect with existing smart audio-visual devices. Here are some of the devices you want to ask about before paying for home security system equipment. When it comes to DIY home security, Piper has everything you would want in a home security camera. ADT Pulse. Wink Hub 2. Rather, it's the up-front cost of equipment divided by 36 months and added to the monthly monitoring fee. Also, include is a 90 dB siren, a Wi-Fi radio and a color changing ring to allow you know when the device is armed.

Security and home automation devices are available online to purchase; you can add items to your cart and complete the purchase once you have everything you want to add to your home security system. ADT Pulse. You need to have a reliable, high-quality monitoring service. Our main complaint is that video services require a hefty package upgrade. It's also made it simple and relatively affordable to monitor your home from pretty much anywhere. We encourage the providers above and others who follow these practices to reform policies and sales tactics to put the customer ahead of hard sales and profit. Lock and Unlocks Doors when away. One thing that was glaringly absent in their equipment offerings were security cameras.

The company uses the alarm. Hackers can sit outside your home and use a laptop and software to intercept wireless signals coming from your system that allow them to suppress alarms and disable sensors. Time will tell whether ADT will continue to land sales based on its brand awareness, or slowly lose market share to customers who research their options. However, as it's all run through a device you're likely to be carrying, such as your smartphone or even wearable smartwatch, you don't need to worry about looking across a room for information. There is a lot to like about Frontpoint when it comes to professionally monitored home security systems. Connecting new smart devices isn't so automated as with other home automation systems, as they have to be manually added by scanning printed codes and this can only be carried out on an iPhone or iPad, not from a Mac. Which means you never have to worry about missing a notification. However, Frontpoint offers large discounts for customers who qualify. One thing that makes Scout a little unique is you can choose the equipment you want.

Self-monitoring allows you to have full control, while your home security devices will send you notifications you are the one who is responsible for calling authorities should a notification alert you to something serious. About Home Security List. Controlling your own system means that you will get notifications from your system when a motion detector picks up movement or a door or window with a sensor is opened. Once you are confident that you know what equipment has been provided, and that it is the latest version, you can move forward with your buying decision. Overall, Amazon have been pushing hard on its Alexa-powered devices in order to make them as accessible as possible. It can also manage things like lighting and temperature control. Thankfully technology has kept up with the security needs of However, as it's all run through a device you're likely to be carrying, such as your smartphone or even wearable smartwatch, you don't need to worry about looking across a room for information. Seth August 28, Primarily due to its rush to market.

If you're not ready for a dedicated security system, there are plenty of individual devices available that let you monitor your home from anywhere using your phone or tablet, including indoor and outdoor security cameras, video doorbells, motion sensors, and smart locks. Our main complaint is that video services require a hefty package upgrade. Unlike a contract, these plans can be canceled at any time with no cancellation fee. SimpliSafe offers two professional monitoring options, Standard and Interactive. If you are looking for a cost effective self-monitored home security system that is both smart and easy to install, iSmart is a good option. Some systems offer both cloud storage and local storage, and some provide a dedicated storage drive that gives you DVR capabilities with time-lapse recording, which makes it easy to find a video event that took place at a specific point in time. Samsung SmartThings. The only thing that changes between the packages is the number of door and window sensors, so you should determine how many sensors you need and then choose the correlating package. Which means you can add a monitored solution to your DIY home security system.

Easy to install. The first thing Scout provides is a hub with a ft range; they also include an Ethernet cable and power cord to connect the hub. It's important to note that in some areas you may have to file for a permit to have a security system installed in your home. SmartThings is a home automation system from Samsung. Tiny components. You need to have a reliable, high-quality monitoring service. Nest Secure. Close Modal. Some providers may provide monitoring services for hundreds of companies, which can be a concern. PROS Inexpensive.

While there may be a higher equipment cost, in the beginning, the monthly fees tend to be lower than contracted options or even better non-existent. Not sure whether it's worth it to get home security in your area? Other devices allow hackers to generate radio noise that can jam communications between the sensors and the hub. Another nice thing about Scout is that you can make the rules. Samsung SmartThings 5. This smart little guy There is a lot to like about Frontpoint when it comes to professionally monitored home security systems. As with their indoor counterparts, outdoor cameras connect to your Wi-Fi network and allow you to view live video from your phone.

Scout may be the only major home security company that can described as modern. The app integration works well, but Nest has never been the cheapest camera, nor is cloud storage cheap. You can add video surveillance and auto door locking options for an additional fee, but that is about it. Tweets by BestHomeAutoSys. Protect America makes it easy for you to get started. However, DIY vendors are increasingly offering professional monitoring services. For many reasons the Neato robotic vacuums are taking the lead, especially when it comes to the D series. You can follow her on twitter theonlyjen. If you notice camera activity at odd hours or at times when you know that nobody is at home, it may be an indication that your system has been compromised. Thankfully, though, gone are the days when products from one manufacturer would not work with products from another.

You can follow her on twitter theonlyjen. Either camera, the Canary or the Canary Flex would be a great start to building your home security system. As technology continues to becoming a defining factor in nearly every facet of life, the demand for fast and insightful improvements seems Additionally, Amazon now provides a range of product variations. Which means you never have to worry about missing a notification. Solid mobile and web apps. As your needs grow you can order additional sensors and other components at your convenience and pair them to the system in a matter of minutes. The boundary will enable smart home devices to know when people leave and enter your home.

All of the equipment provided is wireless so you can place items without worrying about cables. Before you sign up for a program, you should do some research. Locally stored video is a good choice for do-it-yourselfers on a budget, but you have to be careful not to overwrite video you may need later. FrontPoint Safe Home. Latest Reviews. Close Modal. SimpliSafe offers two professional monitoring options, Standard and Interactive. You can control lighting, heating, security, and the typical range of smart home through voice commands or the user-interface by swiping or tapping screen options as required. Samsung SmartThings Samsung tries to get smart.

Link Interactive allows their customer to create their own security system by providing a wide variety of devices to choose from. They are clear and up front about pricing, which is easy since there are no hidden fees anyway. Link Interactive has a vast library of smart home security and automation devices that you can purchase. That said, there are an impressive number of sensors to help take care of your home. We regularly update the site in an effort to keep this information up-to-date and accurate at all times. And while they may be regional they bring 60 years of security experience to the table. Not so say everyone on the list is without merit, they are all beyond capable. Whether you decide to go with a DIY system or opt for a professionally installed system, you'll have to pay a monthly or annual fee if you require monitoring, and in some cases, you'll be hit with a monthly fee to pay off the cost of hardware components. Unlike a contract, these plans can be canceled at any time with no cancellation fee.

Unfortunately they continue to hide and obscure pricing. Best Home Automation Systems delivers to you in depth smart home techonology reviews, news and guides. Tweets by BestHomeAutoSys. It's also relatively simple and painless for other smart devices to connect with the hub, at least at first. Do keep in mind that Scout and SmartThings cannot use the same sensors, meaning if you want one sensor to turn the lights on when the door opens and another to ring if the door is triggered while armed, you'll need two sensors. From there you can select which other smart devices devices you want to connect with, and control their settings accordingly. Generally the Apple app aligns with the Android app rating. Some pieces of equipment e.

Built-in Alexa voice service. She feels weird writing about herself in the third person, but does so when asked. Scout's platform keeps you at the center of your security. Scout provides a solid way to get started on building a basic home security system. Time will tell whether ADT will continue to land sales based on its brand awareness, or slowly lose market share to customers who research their options. The boundary will enable smart home devices to know when people leave and enter your home. You do have to install the equipment yourself, but the set up is relatively easy. Which means you can add a monitored solution to your DIY home security system.

Do-it-yourself security setups are ideal for budget shoppers because they can save you a bundle on installation charges and subscription fees. It can display local weather information, events and notices, daily schedules, as well as play music and video from YouTube and other services. We take the initial purchase price, 3 years of monitoring, and average it over 36 months. In this way, your home can become not just connected but automatically controlled. For that, you'll need a doorbell that uses pre-buffering to record the action taking place before motion is detected or the doorbell is pressed. Here are a few things you should know before you decide on a home security system provider:. For example, the prices in the table for Frontpoint assume a month contract, but there are month options available. Connecting new smart devices isn't so automated as with other home automation systems, as they have to be manually added by scanning printed codes and this can only be carried out on an iPhone or iPad, not from a Mac. Link Interactive offers three options when it comes to their monitoring service; prices vary depending on the package you choose, below is a breakdown of what each package offers.

Tiny components. The first thing Scout provides is a hub with a ft range; they also include an Ethernet cable and power cord to connect the hub. Face recognition. With so many do-it-yourself options on the market, from Canary to SmartThings, Piper is the closest thing to complete as you can get. Note that your cost may increase if you choose a month plan. All in all, the SmartThings hub can work well for people who are simply looking to set up a smart home automation system, but it's really set up to work with a lot of different pieces of hardware, rather than focused on delivering an immediate experience that some rivals can. It's just not built for it. Before you decide on a company, you should make sure their technology is up to date.

If you are comfortable with a contract because you are never going to leave your current house, then the traditional model is a good one to choose. The Flex only streams live feed in p, which is still decent but with competitors live streaming at p it seems a little behind some of the other home security cameras. However, as it's all run through a device you're likely to be carrying, such as your smartphone or even wearable smartwatch, you don't need to worry about looking across a room for information. These DIY home security systems will send you a notification if a sensor, detector or camera detects something is wrong. Not sure whether it's worth it to get home security in your area? Look for a model that offers a high resolution p , a wide angle lens to degrees , a night vision range up to 25 feet, and affordable cloud storage for recorded video. Buy Now amazon. Additionally, devices that connect via Wi-Fi, such as security cameras and smart door locks, can be hacked to gain access to your home network.

From there you can select which other smart devices devices you want to connect with, and control their settings accordingly. PROS Easy to install. It will sort your devices by room, which makes them easy to find and manage. By John R. To help you in your research these what we consider to be the top five best home security systems that are professionally monitored. While we often see home security systems primarily being a collection of cameras, sensors, and detectors, SamsungThings allows you to enhance those devices with that include lighting controls and window controls. Could use stronger adhesive. Secret alerts allow you to know who opens your cabinets, safes and private files that you want to keep protected. While the original app seemed a bit clumsy, the new app has a sleeker design and is much easier to use. Samsung SmartThings.

They also offer medical pendants and key chains that allow you to operate devices remotely. You can usually tweak the camera's motion sensitivity to prevent false alarms due to pet activity or passing cars if the camera is near a window, and you can create a schedule that turns the sensors on and off during certain hours of the day. Link Interactive allows their customer to create their own security system by providing a wide variety of devices to choose from. However, neither protocol provides the bandwidth that you get with Wi-Fi, which is why it is usually used in security cameras to provide smooth video streaming, and in other devices that require a fat pipe. They also offer two options when it comes to their equipment; you can pay for everything upfront, this will get you the lowest rate on monitoring. One of the things that made us add SmartThings to the list is the flexibility of the system. Still, it's consistent with SimpliSafe's approach to affordability and straightforward pricing. You can also use the app to set schedules for plugged in appliances or other devices.

PROS Fast and knowledgeable service reps. One of the first things you should determine is if you are going to install your own home security system, or if you will have a home security provider install it for you. Samsung SmartThings 5. Excellent 4. Scout provides a solid way to get started on building a basic home security system. You can choose from a wide range of smart home devices from wireless motion, glass, smoke and flood detectors. Also, include is a 90 dB siren, a Wi-Fi radio and a color changing ring to allow you know when the device is armed. Altogether, the Google Nest Hub is a great little piece of kit that works fine with other smart devices, and the addition the visual element can be user-friendly at times. These enable you to remotely manage to turn on and off lights or opening or closing window blinds to give the appearance that you are home when you are away.

It can also manage things like lighting and temperature control. Smart locks use standard pre-drilled holes and are fairly easy to install. PROS Affordable hardware with reasonable monthly monitoring fees No contract required Quick, easy installation Cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, the latter of which is optional. Users should be aware, however, that SimpliSafe is missing some of the features that other providers offer at extra costs. Before you select a home security system, there are a few decisions you will need to make. Given the growing popularity of smart security cameras, it seems to be a missed opportunity that SimpliSafe should consider when adding new devices. The monitoring service is handled by an outsourcing provider named Criticom. While convenient to have a camera and home security in one app, the average price is likely to lead to even further app fragmentation. It is also one of the easiest DIY options to set up.

SimpliSafe Home Security System. If you fail to respond, the agent will call to dispatch an emergency responder to your home. It is not enough to have a monitoring service. This smart little guy These devices are weatherproof and typically require a nearby GFCI ground fault circuit interrupter outlet to supply power, although there are a handful of battery-powered models out there. The Belkin WeMo light switch is exactly what you would expect from a well-rounded home automation light switch. Face recognition. Here are some of the devices you want to ask about before paying for home security system equipment.

We strive to provide you with comprehensive, in-depth, unbiased reviews ranging from home alarm systems to medical alert systems and even the latest, coolest home automation. However, when you use a third party provider that handles monitoring services for hundreds of companies, you may experience a less personal interaction. That means you need to have a way to receive and respond to these notifications immediately in the event you need to call authorities. The monitoring service is handled by an outsourcing provider named Criticom. Requires three-year contract with hefty termination penalty. You need to have a reliable, high-quality monitoring service. Back to School You can build your own package for both security and home automation on the Link Interactive site. It's important to note that in some areas you may have to file for a permit to have a security system installed in your home. It's also relatively simple and painless for other smart devices to connect with the hub, at least at first.

Minimum Contract : The minimum amount of time you can find a contract given the equipment and services listed above. Adding a battery back-up will make sure that your system continues to work even when the power is out. Portable it aims to be able to move easily between the inside and outside of your home. They also offer medical pendants and key chains that allow you to operate devices remotely. If you are looking for the best self-monitored security system for your home, here is a list of our top five systems. Jennifer Kelley is an author and technology blogger. If you're not ready for a dedicated security system, there are plenty of individual devices available that let you monitor your home from anywhere using your phone or tablet, including indoor and outdoor security cameras, video doorbells, motion sensors, and smart locks. Thankfully, though, gone are the days when products from one manufacturer would not work with products from another. When it comes to DIY home security, Piper has everything you would want in a home security camera. Price Month Avg.

Ring Alarm Security Kit. Jenny K. Another nice thing about Scout is that you can make the rules. There are plenty of smart lock models to choose from, including keyless no-touch locks, touch-screen locks, combination keyed and touchpad locks, and locks that you can open using a biometric fingerprint reader. Face recognition is limited. It is not enough to have a monitoring service. Review About Home Security List We've made it our mission to help you research and choose the home security and automation solutions that match your lifestyle and budget. The new camera is lacking in features and some of the equipment could stand to be redesigned and slimmed down, but for the money there's no one better.

Seth August 27, When customers trust you with their safety you have an obligation to be honest. For that matter there aren't many cameras on the market better than Nest. It's also relatively simple and painless for other smart devices to connect with the hub, at least at first. Adding a battery back-up will make sure that your system continues to work even when the power is out. They also operate in a mesh topology and can help extend the range of networked devices. However, the Google Nest Hub isn't a full media device so you can't access digital subscriptions the way you can with Chromecast. However, while Samsung are known to be good with hardware, they've yet to established their credentials with software, and this shows with the SmartThings app in that it isn't so user-friendly as some other app-based home automation systems.

Simplisafe edged out previous tie-holder Scout and everyone else for the best value provider this year. Easy to install, it takes around three minutes, this indoor camera can be placed inconspicuously in a variety of locations. There's no option for professional monitoring, however. Seth September 22, However, the Google Nest Hub isn't a full media device so you can't access digital subscriptions the way you can with Chromecast. One thing to remember is that you do need to pay for all equipment up front. All in all, the SmartThings hub can work well for people who are simply looking to set up a smart home automation system, but it's really set up to work with a lot of different pieces of hardware, rather than focused on delivering an immediate experience that some rivals can. Visit our best home security systems comparison. Do-it-yourself security setups are ideal for budget shoppers because they can save you a bundle on installation charges and subscription fees.

Google Nest Hub Google your smart home. However, as it's all run through a device you're likely to be carrying, such as your smartphone or even wearable smartwatch, you don't need to worry about looking across a room for information. Also, they provide a broad range of sensors, detection devices, security cameras and home automation devices for purchase on their site. Scout may be the only major home security company that can described as modern. With self-monitoring systems, you are the one in control, which means you will need to have a smartphone with you whenever you are away from home. We have selected our top ten best home security systems, both monitored and DIY, to help you find the perfect one for you. For example, the prices in the table for Frontpoint assume a month contract, but there are month options available. Adding a battery back-up will make sure that your system continues to work even when the power is out.

Self-monitoring and professional monitoring are both appealing options when it comes to putting together your home security system. Either camera, the Canary or the Canary Flex would be a great start to building your home security system. While SmartThings is designed to be both a home automation and security system, it can manage both tasks with ease. They'll record video when the doorbell is pressed or when motion is detected, and usually offer two-way audio communication that allows you to speak with the visitor from anywhere via your phone. If equipment aesthetics and app simplicity matters to you, it may still be worth considering Scout. Seth September 22, It is a service that will prevent an intruder from destroying your equipment before a signal can be sent to the monitoring center. Generally the Apple app aligns with the Android app rating.

All in all, the SmartThings hub can work well for people who are simply looking to set up a smart home automation system, but it's really set up to work with a lot of different pieces of hardware, rather than focused on delivering an immediate experience that some rivals can. They are clear and up front about pricing, which is easy since there are no hidden fees anyway. One thing that was glaringly absent in their equipment offerings were security cameras. Sometimes it's helpful to be able to see what happened just before or after a visitor approaches your door. You can add video surveillance and auto door locking options for an additional fee, but that is about it. The 10 Best Home Security Systems of While convenient to have a camera and home security in one app, the average price is likely to lead to even further app fragmentation. From The Blog. You can follow her on twitter theonlyjen.

If there is an additional cost for adding or using the service, you may want to continue your research. View Plan. For starters, replace the system's default password with a unique one that contains a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. There is a lot to like about Frontpoint when it comes to professionally monitored home security systems. Before you sign up for a program, you should do some research. They are fairly easy to install, but if you're not familiar or comfortable with electrical wiring, you may want to have a professional electrician do the job. Link Interactive offers three options when it comes to their monitoring service; prices vary depending on the package you choose, below is a breakdown of what each package offers. Samsung SmartThings 5. The only thing that changes between the packages is the number of door and window sensors, so you should determine how many sensors you need and then choose the correlating package. Wyze Sense Starter Kit.

They have several packages to choose from:. CONS No professional monitoring available. Note that this comparison is for monitored home security systems only. Once it recognizes that someone has disarmed your security system without proper authority, it will send a signal to alert the monitoring center that officials should be sent to your home to investigate. Canary today works as originally promised, but while it was getting there so were other home security camera options. If you notice camera activity at odd hours or at times when you know that nobody is at home, it may be an indication that your system has been compromised. The offers that appear on this site are from companies from which DecisionData. About Home Security List. They also offer medical pendants and key chains that allow you to operate devices remotely. This allows you to manage lights and appliances while you are away.

Solid mobile and web apps. We strive to provide you with comprehensive, in-depth, unbiased reviews ranging from home alarm systems to medical alert systems and even the latest, coolest home automation. These devices connect to your Wi-Fi network and will send an alert when someone approaches your doorway. We regularly update the site in an effort to keep this information up-to-date and accurate at all times. About Home Security List. Generally the Apple app aligns with the Android app rating. Canary is pure home security, so if you are looking for a blend of home automation and security stop here. However, if security is your primary driver, there are some good things about the Carnary line of security cameras. These are some of the equipment options you can get from Frontpoint when you choose the basic package.

They also operate in a mesh topology and can help extend the range of networked devices. Face recognition is limited. Smart locks use standard pre-drilled holes and are fairly easy to install. You need to have a reliable, high-quality monitoring service. Face recognition. While you can choose what equipment you want to purchase, all systems come with basic sensors and a control panel. We strive to provide you with comprehensive, in-depth, unbiased reviews ranging from home alarm systems to medical alert systems and even the latest, coolest home automation. Reps will usually not even release pricing info without a name, number, and address. Some providers may provide monitoring services for hundreds of companies, which can be a concern. It's also relatively simple and painless for other smart devices to connect with the hub, at least at first.

The hub itself can be set up wirelessly or connected to your router with an ethernet cable. Scout may be the only major home security company that can described as modern. Nest integration is pretty good once setup, but it's far from seamless. Beyond the basic security functions, you can also use your Frontpoint service to build a fully connected smart home. CONS Underwhelming camera. They also offer medical pendants and key chains that allow you to operate devices remotely. Alternately, if you don't have a home automation hub, look for a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth lock that comes with its own mobile app. Excellent 4. All in all, the SmartThings hub can work well for people who are simply looking to set up a smart home automation system, but it's really set up to work with a lot of different pieces of hardware, rather than focused on delivering an immediate experience that some rivals can.