In today’s world, home security is more important than ever. Whether you’re looking to protect a suburban house, a city apartment, or a rural property, equipping your home with effective, reliable security devices is a solid investment in peace of mind. Fortunately, you don’t need to spend a fortune or go through complex installations—many powerful tools are available right now, and they’re easy to set up yourself. Here’s a rundown of some essential home security items you can invest in, to safeguard your home and loved ones.
1. Smart Video Doorbells
The video doorbell has become a staple for modern homes, combining convenience and security. With these devices, you can see, hear, and speak to anyone who approaches your door—whether you’re at home, at work, or on vacation. A top choice is the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro (Video Doorbell Pro 2). Known for its crisp HD video quality, night vision, and motion alerts, this device allows you to answer the door from your phone and review footage to ensure no activity goes unnoticed.
See more of who stops by and check in on package deliveries down low with its improved Head-to-Toe HD+ Video. You’ll also never miss a thing, even in the dark or bad weather, with crystal-clear color night vision.
Why It’s Essential: A video doorbell gives you a quick way to check who’s at the door without making yourself vulnerable by opening it. It also deters potential intruders who realize they’re being recorded.
2. Smart Security Cameras for Indoor and Outdoor Monitoring
Home security cameras provide comprehensive surveillance, allowing you to keep an eye on every angle of your property. The Blink Outdoor 4 Camera System is a great option. It’s wireless, weatherproof, and works with Alexa. You can set it up in minutes and monitor your home in Full HD, day or night.
For indoor monitoring, the Blink 4 system offers excellent night vision, motion detection, and real-time alerts. It’s perfect for checking on pets, monitoring kids, or just keeping an eye on things when you’re out.
Why It’s Essential: Security cameras inside and outside your home serve as your first line of defense. Not only do they help prevent break-ins, but they also allow you to record and store evidence if needed.
3. Smart Locks
Traditional locks can be picked, and keys can be lost or stolen. Smart locks, however, give you control over your home’s entry points with just a smartphone. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a popular choice. It retrofits over your existing deadbolt and allows you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere. You can also set it to automatically lock when you leave and unlock when you approach.
Why It’s Essential: Smart locks are not just about security—they add an element of convenience and control that traditional locks can’t offer. You can share access with trusted people, monitor who comes and goes, and avoid fumbling with keys.
4. Window and Door Sensors
Installing sensors on doors and windows allows you to detect unauthorized entry instantly. The SimpliSafe Entry Sensor is a reliable choice and works well within a full SimpliSafe system or as a standalone product. These sensors send alerts to your phone or base station whenever a door or window is opened unexpectedly.
Simple set up – Peel and stick installation or can permanently mount with included hardware.
Why It’s Essential: Window and door sensors are often the first indicators of a break-in attempt. Quick alerts mean you can act faster, whether it’s calling the authorities or triggering other security measures.
5. Motion Detector Lights
Motion detector lights are highly effective in deterring potential intruders. The OREiN 3CCT Motion Sensor Outdoor Lights offer an energy-efficient solution. It also provides bright illumination when motion is detected, making it perfect for dark areas like backyards, side entrances, or driveways.
Why It’s Essential: Well-lit areas are less attractive to burglars, and motion detector lights not only scare away intruders but also alert you to unexpected movement around your property.
6. Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety goes beyond keeping intruders out. Protecting against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning is critical. The Google Nest Protect is a smart smoke and CO detector that sends alerts to your phone if it detects smoke or dangerous gas levels. It even alerts you to low battery levels, so you’re never caught off guard.
Why It’s Essential: Fires and CO leaks are life-threatening hazards that can occur in any home. A smart detector with remote alerts ensures you’re informed even if you’re miles away, potentially saving lives.
7. Home Security Systems (All-in-One)
If you prefer an all-in-one solution, a complete home security system is a great choice. The SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera is simple to install. Just plug in the Base Station and camera, place your sensors, and start protecting your home! Wireless Outdoor Camera has an ultra-wide wide, 140 degree field of view, 1080p HD resolution and color night vision with spotlight so you can see clearly day and night. And with 2-way audio, you can talk directly to who’s outside. Weather-resistant, IP65-rated.
Why It’s Essential: Protection for entry points – Entry Sensors protect windows, doors, and cabinets and alert you when someone tries to enter. Customizable and can send Secret Alerts so you are quietly alerted if someone accesses private areas, without sounding an alarm. So you are notified quietly without notifying intruders!
8. Digital Peephole Viewers
For those living in apartments, a digital peephole viewer is a discreet and safe way to monitor activity outside your door. The Digital Peephole Viewer is easy to install and provides a clear digital view of who’s outside without having to open the door. It’s perfect for smaller spaces or front doors where a video doorbell may not be feasible.
Why It’s Essential: Digital peephole viewers are less conspicuous than video doorbells, making them a great option for apartment dwellers or anyone wanting a simpler, subtler security device.
9. Smart Plugs and Outlet Timers
This might sound unconventional, but Kasa Smart Plugs can be an essential part of home security. By controlling your lights and electronics remotely, you can simulate your presence while you’re away, making it appear as though someone is always home.
Why It’s Essential: Creating an illusion of activity is a proven tactic for deterring would-be burglars, especially during extended trips or vacations.
10. Wi-Fi Range Extenders
If your security devices are spread across a large property, ensuring your Wi-Fi signal reaches every corner is crucial. The TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender can improve connectivity, keeping all your security devices online and responsive, no matter where they’re placed around the house.
Why It’s Essential: Weak Wi-Fi can limit the effectiveness of your security system. A strong, consistent connection means all devices remain functional, giving you reliable access and monitoring capabilities at all times.
Final Thoughts
Home security in 2024 is all about leveraging smart, connected technology to make protecting your home as easy and effective as possible. Whether you’re starting with just a couple of devices or ready to set up a full-fledged system, these items provide a strong foundation for any security plan. With a few taps on Amazon, you can make your home a safer place and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected.
Remember, investing in home security isn’t just about protecting your belongings—it’s about safeguarding your loved ones and your sense of security. So explore these options, find what works best for you, and sleep soundly knowing you’ve taken steps to keep your home safe.
