How to Choose The Best Home Security App
Learn about the common features you can expect from a home security app and whether or not getting one is a deal breaker.
Learn about the common features you can expect from a home security app and whether or not getting one is a deal breaker.
The best home security apps act like a natural extension of your security plan. There are many benefits to these apps, including remote monitoring, notifications about packages or someone expected (or not) stopping by, and of course the ability to call for intervention, even if you’re miles away.
Most providers bundle home security apps together with their subscription or include them as a part of a free trial. Here’s how to decide if a security app is worth a download.
“Do I really need another app?”
In this case, the answer is yes. Most people don’t want to be tied to a laptop or type in a password to check on their camera. So the app will be the primary way you manage your home security plan. This comes with tangible benefits:
Keep an eye on pets or loved ones whether you’re in the next room or out of the house.
Be the first to know when a package is delivered, a kid gets back from school, or a dog walker stops by (and of course if a stranger is snooping around).
Call law enforcement or a first responder the second you know something is going awry.
Adjust cameras (including areas you want monitored), video doorbells, smart locks, thermostats, and other connected devices.
Let in a pet sitter when you’re out for the day, or use two-way audio to answer the door, even if you’re not home.
No need to hunt down a phone number or wait on hold. The best home security subscriptions will offer easy access to support right in the app.
Home security apps typically come as a part of a larger security plan subscription. That’s why before you choose a plan, take a close look at your provider’s app features.
Being able to check on your home from anywhere is arguably the main point of a home security app, so make sure you’re happy with how this feature is accessed and available in the app.
Whether it’s to track down a missing package, check out a wildlife sighting, or any other reason, being able to save your camera footage is valuable. Make sure you’re able to go back and look at past videos in the app.
As mentioned earlier, the best home security apps act like a remote for your entire home security system. It should be easy to turn devices on/off, adjust angles or activity areas being monitored, and use two-way audio (if available).
You should be able to customize notifications for your household needs, so you can stay in the know about important events (or incidents) without becoming overwhelmed.
Some home security plans come with 24/7 professional monitoring and allow you to communicate with security personnel in the app. This can be an important feature if you have multiple properties or are away from home often.
Being able to call for help even when you’re miles away from home is an invaluable part of any worthy security app. Make sure you understand if this feature is available and how to access it fast.
For example, Arlo Secure now offers Person and Vehicle Recognition, instant Package and Animal Detection, as well as Custom Detection so you can set and create specific notifications.
Check if a provider is available in your area and has an app that’s compatible with your phone (iOS or Android).
Make sure the app offers the level of monitoring you need, including professional monitoring if you want additional eyeballs on your property.
Home security apps are usually just a part of a security package. Make sure the total costs work for you and include the services you need.
Nothing is scarier that an unresponsive security team if your cameras go down or some other mishap takes place. Make sure your app offers easy access to support.
If you own multiple homes or have different business locations across town, choose an app that makes it easy to keep an eye on and manage several properties.
The Arlo Secure App is included with our security plan subscriptions and provides 24/7 access to your camera live feed on the go. Enjoy an ever growing list of customizations including an advanced flame detection system (currently in testing), set Activity Zones you want to monitor from your home, and request help in the app. |
Not always. Many providers let you control your camera from their home security app even if you didn’t purchase a plan. For example, as long as you have an Arlo camera, you can use the Arlo Secure App to view your live feed, get motion detection alerts, and access support.
Yes, if your video doorbell comes from a compatible provider. Arlo customers can control their video doorbell in the Arlo app.
The app will still work as long as your phone is connected to Wi-Fi at your location or you can use mobile data. However you may lose access to your live camera feed at home. If you’re concerned about internet reliability in your area, a wireless camera like the Arlo Go 2 may be a great option. It can use either Wi-Fi or an LTE connection — perfect for remote locations.
Reputable home security providers use strong data encryption and follow strict security protocols for their app. You can help keep your data safer by setting up 2-step verification and choosing strong (hard to guess) passwords.
