Best Google Home Security Systems of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
To get a better feel for how these systems compare with each other, check out this convenient side-by-side table. It’ll list the key factors to consider and how each brand ranks against its rivals.
| Provider | Total Score | Upfront Cost | Monthly Fee | DIY instal | Trial Period | Warranty | Backup | Contracts | Image Quality | Indoor/outhoor cams | Mobile Control | Motion Sensors | Smart Lights | 2-Way Talk | Video |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nest | 9.6 | $399+ | $19+ | Yes | 30 days | 2 years | Yes | No | 1080p | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Vivint | 9.4 | $599+ | $40+ | No | 3 days | 120 days | Yes | Yes | 1080p | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ADT | 9.4 | $125+ | $29+ | No | 6 months | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | 720p | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scout | 9.2 | $299+ | $10+ | Yes | 60 days | 3 years | Yes | No | 1080p | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Brinks | 9.2 | $199+ | $19+ | Yes | 30 days | 2 years | Yes | No | 1080p | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
What is Google Home?
Most people know that this is an intelligent speaker, but it goes deeper than that. Here’s a closer look at what customers can expect from this gadget, as well as how it integrates into other safety systems.
This nifty gadget has high-tech speakers as well as a built-in microphone to hear vocal commands and respond accordingly. Also, it can send any requests one may have to the cloud for more in-depth answers. Other home security systems that work with Google Home, too, creating a network of integration and communication.
Google Home Tips & Tricks
If never worked with a Google Home security system before, one may be amazed by all of the things that this gadget can do. Below are some key takeaways as well as some fun stuff individuals can try out.
1. Get the Morning Report
First thing when the person wakes up in the morning, trying asking what the weather's going to be like, or if there's any breaking news. The gadget can even remind of any tasks the person was meant to do and asked to be updated on.
2. Set Location-Based Reminders
Speaking of scheduled tasks, many people find great value in asking the item to remind them of chores, appointments, and other important errands. They can even set it, so the gadget recalls crucial to-do's in a particular location, such as the supermarket.
3. Stop Forgetting Passwords
For those who have a bad memory, they can ask it to remember their password or at least where they wrote it down. Again, this can work even when they're out and about, such as in the car or at the store.
4. Get Your Bearings Again
If someone have ever wished that he had an internal GPS, here is the solution. Simply ask the gadget where you are, and it will tell the individual's coordinates or the particular street the person is walking or driving on.
5. Get Some Zen
Things don't have to be the hustle and bustle all the time. If anyone like, he can try asking the gadget to play some soothing sounds or relaxing music. Enjoy some white noise to fall asleep, or a rainforest while drifting off.
6. Get in the Know
When all of the persons' friends know the latest music and singers, one can feel out of the loop. While listening to some tunes, one can ask which artist sings a particular song or what the name of that band is.
7. Keep Tabs on the Team
Sports fanatics will enjoy keeping up with their favorite teams every day or week. The gadget can provide a recap of last night's game, a specific player's stats, or the match schedule for this week. All one has to do is ask.
8. Have Some Fun
This little item can come up with some games as well. When the person is in a lighthearted mood, ask to play trivia or to hear a funny joke. People have had all kinds of silly experiences asking the gadget different things.
9. Channel Surf Hands-Free
Thanks to vocal commands, it's easy to change the channel and see what's on TV without even whipping out the remote or one's phone. Simply ask the gadget to do it for you, and it will list what's currently on. One can also ask for specific genres like movies.
10. Get a Psychic Reading
Okay, so this item isn't exactly a crystal ball, but it can humor people with some predictions about how they are feeling or what's currently on their mind. To activate this setting, just say, "Let me talk to the friendly fortune teller."
Pros & Cons of Google Home-Friendly Security
As one might expect, there are ample reasons to check out this nifty household item. From the automation to the vocal commands and so much more, here are the top advantages. Surely one or two of them will apply directly to the person and his/her family.
Pros:
1. Automated Equipment
The entire ecosystem of integrated items is chock-full of automation features. When it comes to building an intelligent household, automated processes are key. They make up for any human error, add more peace of mind, and make life so much easier.
2. Voice Commands
Going hands-free isn’t just for when someone’s driving. Customers today get the advantage of vocal commands and recognition, so they can manage just about anything. Best of all, clients don’t even need to be around the house to make it happen. Thanks to mobile access and intelligent speakers, they can be hands-free anywhere.
Today, systems can automate televisions, locks, lamps, sensors, cams, and more.
3. More Safety & Control
At the end of the day, people just want more security for their families and belongings. Automation and third-party integration allow that to become an easy reality. Plus, the gadget even lights up, so the individual knows when it’s listening to him and processing commands and instructions.
4. Potential Energy Savings
Things like learning thermostats and motion-activated lighting are not only convenient, but they’re budget-friendly, too. Busy people are prone to leaving the house without turning on the light or using the heat and AC excessively. With hands-free, remote access, consumers can manage their appliances better and keep more money in their wallets.
5. Mobile Access
People go on and on about being able to manage things from their phones because it’s a revolutionary idea that has taken over these systems, for the better. Consider that the person can heat his house and get the coffee brewing before getting out of bed. Or, being able to secure the front door after realizing at work that was left it unlocked.
6. Night Mode
Nothing’s worse than waking up in the middle of the night, sneaking off to the bathroom, and stirring the entire household from its slumber. Night Mode reduces sounds and dims the lights for a quieter, less intrusive system, just in case one does need to move around in the midnight hour.
Cons:
1. Not as Many Skills as Alexa
While both of these items are quite impressive, it seems that Alexa or Echo may have the upper hand in terms of capabilities and skills. For example, it can create customized greetings and menus for more customer personalization. Also, it has “frustration detection,” which can tell when you’re getting upset with it.
2. It Lacks Compatibility
Alexa also takes first place in terms of third-party integrations. The obvious ones are Apple Music and Amazon Fire, but there are others. For instance, Acer and Toshiba laptops, Eufy, and Bose. On the plus side, the Assistant and Mini work with Pandora, Spotify, YouTube, Sonos, Vizio, August Locks, Logitech, and more.
3. It's Always Listening
This company already has a reputation for creating people as commodities rather than customers. What that means is that anytime a person utilizes the software, their info gets stored.
One word of advice is to mute the gadget on the downtime to avoid having it listen in on all aspects of someone's life.
Features to Consider
It’s easy to see that this convenient gadget has a lot to offer. To figure out which Google Home compatible security system is right for the person, consider these top features. Odds are, there will be a couple that stands out as crucial, so that tells what to look for in a provider.
Door Locks
Having a system that works with intelligent locking mechanisms means that the person will never have to worry about leaving the door unlocked again. Thanks to vocal commands and remote access, one can lock up and secure windows from a phone. Plus, there are several lock-selling brands that the gadget is compatible with.
Entryway Sensors
Whether a house is large or small, there are probably multiple ways to get in, be them doors or windows. Entryway sensors ensure that all access points are secured and included in the surveillance system. Anytime a stranger approaches, the person will receive instant alerts so one can take action.
Garage Door
A garage is a place that lots of people leave open or unlocked. It’s easy to forget about it, but burglars are constantly on the lookout for unsecured garage doors.
Having a hookup between it and the system will create zero room for risk and will add more peace of mind.
Heat/AC
Different compatible brands offer learning thermostats, which are great for cutting down on utility bills and energy consumption. Not only that, but they can make it easy to set the perfect temperature for one’s house right when one walks through the door. It’s the best thing after a long day of work.
Lights
Another intelligent integration is with lighting modules. Be it a dimming setting, motion-activated bulbs, or energy-efficient lamps. There are plenty of possibilities. Most of the compatible providers offer some kind of light program, perfect for setting the mood and reducing utility bills.
Mobile Alerts
Movement sensors are essential for any residential surveillance kits. Whether they’re outdoors or inside, they can send instant alerts to the phone, letting know about unexpected movement. From there, one can take action.
Some detectors can even differentiate between cars and people. Many are pet-friendly, too.
Remote Access
Imagine being able to turn on the lights, open the garage, unlock the doors, and arm the system all from a single gadget. That’s remote access, and it’s crucial for any smart home security system. This is a non-negotiable and, for that reason, is very easy to find in a provider.
Voice Recognition
This is perhaps everyone’s favorite feature because it’s not only convenient but kind of fun. Vocal commands can arm or disarm the system, turn down the lights, or playback a video recording. On the other end, clients can verbally prompt the gadget to play a game or tell a joke.
How to Choose the Right One
Now that anyone knows which equipment and special features most appeal to any person, it’s time to talk about how to shop for such a system. There are so many providers out there that it can get overwhelming. Here’s where to start.
1. Functionality
The first step is being certain to choose a Google Home compatible security system. Some providers don’t work with this gadget, so one’s needs to double-check. Not only that, but ensure the functionality of the kit, including things like motion detectors, entryway sensors, video cams, and other accessories.
2. Client Feedback
The power of a previous customer’s words is potent. Just as one would read a movie review before heading to the theater, he will want to see what other clients have to say about a particular provider. Pay attention to things like support, maintenance, installation, and functionality.
3. Costs & Monthly Fees
Sometimes, estimating the price of a system can be tricky. Some providers charge a fee for expert set-up, while others may have an activation charge right off the bat. Be sure to calculate upfront costs as well as monthly rates to get a better idea of how much one will be spending.
4. Compatibility
This applies not just to finding a Google Home compatible security system, but also to ensure that the brand works with any other gadgets one has in the house.
For instance, the hub might not work with August Locks or a Lenovo laptop.
5. Customer Assistance
Finally, customer support and satisfaction is critical. No one wants to purchase from a company that is known for cheating or ignoring its clients. People can get a good feel for the brand by checking out its website, online chat, and talking on the phone with a representative.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which Security System Works With Google Home?
Several different brands have a Google Home compatible security system. That’s great news because households have distinct needs, and property surveillance isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. A great place to start is with this list of top eight providers. That will give a taste of what to expect from these types of kits. Of course, other companies can work with the gadget, but these are the highest-ranked ones.
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Is Alexa Better Than Google?
It depends on who’s answering that question. Just as people have their favorite sports teams, some folks will be loyal to Alexa and vice versa. A better question is which gadget best suits one’s particular needs? A bit of research might be necessary, but it’s better than buying one of those items only to realize it doesn’t work with one’s system. In general, they’re both capable of similar tasks and commands, so it’s mostly a matter of preference.
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Is Google Home Always Listening?
Yes. That is if people keep the “always-on” mode activated. This company has a bad reputation for collecting all kinds of data and information about people. Therefore, it may be in one’s best interest to change the settings so that the gadget doesn’t listen in on every conversation. Fortunately, customers can mute it to protect their privacy and keep their worries away. To mute, just say, “Turn off the microphone.”
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How Do I Listen to Google Home Recordings?
These kinds of gadgets can sometimes record even when people don’t want to because they think they’ve heard their “wake word.” This is another reason to turn off the microphone. Even so, to play any recordings, log into account on a Web browser. Go to “Manage your activity,” then select “review activity” to listen.
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What Does a Google Home Mini Do?
This mini version does many of the same things as its larger counterpart. This includes things like setting timers and reminders, playing music, identifying songs and artists, playing games, citing sports updates, and giving a morning briefing. It’s also capable of the same integrations, be it locking mechanisms, lighting modules, or video cam recordings. And yes, this gadget will work with any Google Home compatible home security system.
A Compatible System is a Solid Solution
Make 2021 the year that your family and property amps up the protection. A Google Home compatible home security system is a great choice for those who already have this gadget and are looking to boost their safety efforts. A kit from these top eight brands will broaden one’s options and provide more ways to integrate intelligent lighting, locks, thermostats, and other appliances. Plus, one will be able to put the hands-free and vocal commands to work for the person.
