Want a security system for your Airbnb Property? Check out our list of the best home security system for Airbnb. After consulting 14 experts and testing 17 security systems in our lab, we made a list. If you don’t want to spend much time looking at the list, then we recommend you to go with the Ring Alarm Kit. The whole system brings security to your fingertips. You can monitor your Airbnb property even when you are not at the property.
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Best Home Security System For Airbnb
1. Ring Alarm Kit – Best Kit For Rental
Home security is made of several sensors, and the Ring Alarm Kit covers almost all security aspects. It not just covers every aspect but gives you control over the whole system via your smartphone. Connectivity to the security system remotely is crucial for any Airbnb owner. This unit scores some great numbers for connectivity.
As an Airbnb owner, you will be more concerned with how the system alerts you on intrusion. If the system is set up correctly, you will be notified on your phone as soon as any sensors are triggered. And also, all the sensors have long battery life. All the sensors have around three years of battery life, the keypad has ten months of battery life, and the base station is rechargeable with 24 hours of back up. So you won’t have any issue maintaining the system.
- Very easy to install without professional help.
- Every device connected to the base station can be controlled by phone remotely.
- No contracts or any cancellation fees.
- 24×7 professional monitoring is available at minimal charges.
- Works well with Alexa.
- No cameras are included in the package.
Bottom Line
When we compared the price and the number of different sensors included in the package, it was not as expensive as the other home security systems.
2. SimpliSafe SS3 Wireless System – Best For Wireless Connectivity
SimpliSafe is one of the biggest brands of home security systems. The SimpliSafe SS3 Wireless System is considered to be the best for vacation homes by the big review sites like CNET and PC Magazine. For an Airbnb owner, you need a system that doesn’t take much time for installation as well as it must have cellular connection capability so that you are notified even if you are not connected to the same Wi-Fi. We also liked the complete overall package.
The thing that could have been improved is the siren. It requires several sirens depending on the size of the property. Even the base station is not that loud. As an Airbnb owner, the good thing is that you won’t interact with the base station directly.
- All the sensors are of high quality.
- The base station is compatible with all the smart devices.
- Easy to add new devices.
- The App is intuitive and provides all the necessary information.
- No fire or heat sensors.
- The siren is not loud.
Bottom Line
The SimpliSafe system is easy to install and doesn’t require professional monitoring if used for Airbnb property. But a few heat sensors in the kit would have made it a complete package.
3. Fortress Security Store S03 – Best Smart Hub
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Most big brands provide quality products, but they fetch high prices. And if you require something that is within a budget, you can go for Fortress Security Store S03. It has almost everything required for a home security system. The package includes an S03 main panel, two motion sensors, five contact sensors, RFID key tag, a panic button, two remote fobs, and a plugin siren.
Another thing missing is an excellent loud siren. The siren included in the package is okay, but if you want to scare the intruder and keep your guests safe, you want a loud siren. I prefer getting a high-quality siren that is loud—moving on to the App, it’s very good. We tested the connectivity and response time of the system when the phone was away from the location. Yes, depending on the internet speed on your phone and Airbnb property, there will be a delay. So get the fastest internet for the system as well as your phone.
- Inexpensive compared to most the security systems.
- The package includes a lot more than any other system.
- The security system is expandable.
- It is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Sensors have a low range compared to sensors from other brands.
- Some sensors do require wiring.
Bottom Line
You have to understand it is a budget option. Hence you will be compromising on a lot of factors. But the good thing about home security systems is they can adopt sensors of different brands and make them more effective.
4. Abode Essentials Starter Kit – Most Expandable Security System
Expandability, monitoring, and device functionality are the most important factors for any home security system. These factors depend on the capacity of the Base station. Abode Essentials has the best base station out of all the home security systems. Though the kit does not include many accessories, if the base station is used together with the high-quality third-party sensors, it will make a highly secure security system for Airbnb.
When your phone and the Abode system are connected to the same network, notification over the phone is rapid. We tested the system when the phone was away. The response time of the system is almost the same. Though it does not require any contract or monthly subscription fee, you can always hire professional monitoring if you want to secure your guest’s stay at your Airbnb Property. It costs only $7 per month, which is much cheaper than other similar home security systems.
- It is highly expandable.
- It works with all the smart devices like Google Assistant, Alexa, etc.
- The response time for notification is high.
- Low-cost monitoring services.
- The package doesn’t include many sensors.
- Not compatible with all security cameras.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for home security that can be expanded with third-party sensors, sirens, and cameras, Abode Essential is the best option.
5. Arlo Pro Wireless Home Security System with Siren – Best Camera System
Most of the home security system kits we tested don’t have cameras included in the package. You have to buy them separately. Buying separately has issues of compatibility. For your Airbnb security, if you are keener towards the cameras, Arlo Pro is the top home security system for vacation homes with cameras. However, you won’t have the luxury of adding other sensors and devices to the Arlo like the other security systems on this list.
The cameras of Arlo have highly developed motion sensors. The Arlo camera can differentiate the movement of a branch and animal. Hence, it sends you notifications only if the real movement is detected. We tested the effectiveness of the motion sensor by testing several movements. Every time it was spot on. In addition to the motion sensor, you can see real-time footage. Thus, you can take quick action in case of unforeseen incidences.
- High-quality camera resolution.
- The cameras work in all light conditions.
- Cameras are water-resistant.
- It has very good motion sensors.
- The package does not include any other sensors or detectors.
- Cameras don’t work in minus zero degree weather.
Bottom Line
If you had to get the home security system for Airbnb with cameras, it should be Arlo Pro Wireless Home Security Camera System with Siren.
6. Samsung SmartThings F-MN US-2 Home Monitoring Kit – Best For Home Monitoring
If your Airbnb uses a home automation system that includes smart lights, and other smart devices. You want a system that connects to the existing system with ease. Samsung SmartThings F-MN US-2 Home Monitoring Kit is one of the best DIY security systems. The package includes a base station, multipurpose sensors, and a motion sensor.
The best part is the excellent customization ability for this product is the SmartThing App. You can set specific conditions for sensors to report. You can create a different setting for lights. And as an Airbnb owner, you can meet your guest’s requirements like air-conditioning, lighting, lock settings, etc. without having to go down the property.
- The SmartThings app gives ample customization options.
- It works with most the smart home devices.
- It is compatible with most the third party sensors.
- Inexpensive compared to most the home security systems.
- Easy to add to any home automation system.
- It doesn’t have high-quality sensors.
- The App causes several useless notifications.
Bottom Line
Since it allows addition of several automation systems, you will have to set up all the settings perfectly. Otherwise, you will end up with alerts every second.
7. PANNOVO Wireless Home Security – Best Under $100
Pannovo is not the most popular company among the home security system manufacturers. But what impressed us was that it offered a high-quality product at a low price. Among all the home security systems on this list, it is the cheapest one. The package includes six contact sensors, an alarm, and a motion sensor. Like any home security system, it also works on Alexa or Google Assistant. Hence, you can add to the existing home automation system. The central controller hub is excellent, but it has its limitation. You can add only eight sensors and four remotes.
We liked the motion sensor working, it detects the movement within 26 feet, which is a good range for a motion sensor. The only thing is the main controller is used an alkaline battery which lasts only for 5-6 hours, and to keep it on 24X7, it requires a DC power source.
- Inexpensive compared to most the home security systems.
- It works with most smart home devices.
- The siren included in the package is loud.
- The App is easy to use.
- It doesn’t support more than eight sensors.
Bottom Line
Among all the security system, it is the cheapest one that works. However, we advise buying the unit only if you have a limited budget.
What to Consider?
The security system is a collection of different types of devices that communicate with each other via a wireless network or wired network. However, each manufacturer is different and tries to offer something different from their unit. Hence, it is always difficult to choose the right security system. With our buyer’s guide, you will learn about the crucial factors that make up an ideal home security system. Also, using this information, you will be able to narrow down the most suitable system for your Airbnb property.
1. Installation
There are two ways that you can install a home security system. Either you can hire a professional or do it yourself. If your budget allows you to hire professional help, please do hire. As an owner, you want to have the best for Airbnb property. Hence, it is wise to stick to some of the big brands like Ring Alarm etc. provide professional help with the purchase.
And if you are not sure about hiring a professional, you can always do it yourself. Most of the systems on our list are easy to install. If you have any doubt, you can always refer to the manual or watch the installation video. And there are plenty of DIY videos on YouTube if you want more. Among all the products we have tested SimpliSafe SS3 Wireless System is the easiest system to install.
2. Connectivity
If you buy a security system for your Airbnb property, connectivity becomes crucial. Especially, remote connectivity is essential. Whatever system you install at your Airbnb home must be able to notify you when you are away from the property. Not just notify, but you must be able to arm and disarm the system remotely. All the systems we have mentioned in our list are accessible remotely via phone. Hence, while buying, make sure the system is accessible even if you are not connected to the home network.
3. Monitoring Services
Without monitoring service, all the necessary actions after the alarm have triggered need to be done by you. But if you hire the professional monitoring service of the system you have installed at your Airbnb property, they will keep an eye on the property. And upon detecting intrusion, they will ask you if police need to be informed or not. Professional monitoring services are useful for those owners who own more than one property. This way, they will not have to manage too many systems at once. Not all security systems have professional monitoring systems. Only security systems like Ring Alarm Kit , SimpliSafe SS3 Wireless System and Abode Essentials Starter Kit come with option of professional monitoring with monthly charges.
4. Sensors
A key part of any security system is the sensors. All the security systems come with motion sensors and contact sensors. The motion sensors are suitable for detecting movements, and contact sensors help track which windows or doors have been opened. All the information a hub or base station offers is based on the sensors, so make sure that all the sensors are of the highest quality, and the response time to alert the base station should be minimum.
As far as the contact sensors are concerned, they are mostly fine whichever brand you use, but the motion sensor is not always as effective. So make sure whatever brand you use, the motion sensor must have a high range and sensitivity. Some cameras have inbuilt motion sensors like Arlo Pro Wireless Home Security System; you can use them for any security system.
5. Other Accessories
Beyond sensors, the security system can include a siren, temperature controllers, flood detector, fire detector, etc. If you want to protect your Airbnb home, you can include these devices in the security system. Most the security system package does not include these accessories, but all the big brands offer these accessories separately. For more information, inquire about the official website of the security system.
How We Conducted Tests ?
The first step of our research for testing any products is to identify the best seller or popular products. We hired 13 experts who have years of experience in security systems. They helped us to shortlist 27 security systems for Airbnb. We acquired all 27 systems and brought them to our lab for tests. Before testing, we had to determine the parameters for tests. The parameters for testing security systems for Airbnb included connectivity, expandability, ease of use, monitoring services, and compatibility.
We tested each system based on these parameters. We made sure that we created an artificial environment that resembled real-life during tests. We designed situations of intrusion to check the effectiveness of the security system. We also tested how the system reacts when there is a power outage or no internet connection. In addition to creating a specific situation, we ensured that all the instruments or tools we use to measure things like time, sound, etc., are well-calibrated and accurate.
Security System For Airbnb Tests
FAQs
1. Which is the best wireless home security system for Airbnb?
You can pick any system from our list. All have great security features. However, we would recommend you go with either Ring or SimpliSafe as they are the two biggest brands on market with great customer service.
2. Can I put cameras in my Airbnb?
Yes, you can, but you must disclose all the surveillance devices installed in the Airbnb. It is Airbnb policy.
3. Are wireless home security systems reliable?
Yes, wireless systems are highly reliable opposed to a wired system. Unless the power source is compromised the system will always work. Also, wireless systems are easy to maintain as there are no wires.
4. How do home security systems work?
Motion sensor plays key role in home security. You can install motion sensors on doors and windows. Whenever there is force entry, motion sensor will detect it.
5. Do all the home security systems include cameras?
Not necessarily. Some security systems include motion sensors and hubs. But good thing about the home security system is you can add as many security devices you want.
6. Which is better, SimpliSafe or Ring?
Both are big brands of home security systems. Simplisafe may be a little expensive compared to Ring, but it has some great features. The ring could be easily categorized as a budget-friendly home security system.
7. Does SimpliSafe have a doorbell camera?
Yes, SimpliSafe has recently launched a standalone doorbell camera, much like Rings.
8. Which home security system has no subscription?
Arlo and Fortress security are two security system that does not have any additional fee. But for more information, check out the official site of the manufacturer.
Final Thought
Looking at the tests and performance of each system, we can tell you that the best way to secure the house is to use the best possible security systems. We observed that big brands like SimpliSafe and Ring Alarm have the best devices and customer support. And if you want to hire monitoring services, it is better to stick with big brands. But it would be wise to keep your Airbnb property in mind before you consider buying a security kit.
Ring Alarm Kit- Editor's Choice
Summary
Home security is made of several sensors, and the Ring Alarm Kit covers almost all security aspects. It not just covers every aspect but gives you control over the whole system via your smartphone.
The SimpliSafe system has settings to make the siren louder. . It turned up to the max it is very loud. It can be found in the base station settings.