Have you ever wondered if that security system you're considering is actually going to protect your family when it matters most? Or if the installer knows what they're doing? I've asked myself these questions too, which is why I took the extreme step of having five different security systems professionally installed in my home. What I discovered might surprise you.
Hampton, Virginia offers that perfect blend of coastal charm and historical significance that makes it such a desirable place to live. With its stunning waterfront views and proximity to major military installations, it's no wonder so many people choose to call Hampton home.
But even in this beautiful coastal city, security concerns remain. In 2025, property crime rates in Hampton continue to be 27% higher than the national average, even while violent crime remains 31% below average. With a crime grade of just 3, homeowners and the 56.9% of residents who rent need to take home security seriously.
After testing multiple systems in our Hampton test house, I'm ready to cut through the marketing hype and help you understand what actually matters when it comes to protecting your home. Let's dive in.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. Think of your security system like your home's immune system – you want something robust that won't fail when you need it most. However, the most expensive option isn't necessarily superior either.
In our testing, we found that mid-tier packages from reputable companies like ADT and Vivint offered the best balance of reliability and value. These systems consistently performed when we needed them to, without unnecessary bells and whistles that drive up costs.
Here's something the security companies don't emphasize enough: the features you'll use most aren't always the ones that directly prevent break-ins.
In our extensive testing, video doorbells and garage control consistently ranked as the most frequently used and appreciated features. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking whether you closed the garage after leaving provides daily peace of mind that traditional security features don't.
Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint offer exceptional implementations of these features. Their doorbell cameras provide crystal-clear video even at night, and their garage controllers integrate seamlessly with the rest of your system.
A security system isn't just about preventing break-ins – it's about creating peace of mind. This includes protection against other dangers like fire and carbon monoxide.
The best systems we tested included comprehensive fire safety features that could literally save your life. When evaluating systems, don't overlook these critical safety elements that protect against dangers far more common than home invasions.
Security technology has advanced dramatically in 2025. Today's systems feature AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles, dramatically reducing false alarms. Voice control has become standard, allowing you to arm or disarm your system with simple commands.
However, some aspects of security remain timeless. Motion sensors, door/window contacts, and professional monitoring continue to form the backbone of effective home security. These fundamentals haven't changed because they work.
What has changed is integration. Today's best systems from ADT and Vivint seamlessly connect with your entire smart home ecosystem, allowing unprecedented control and automation. Imagine your lights automatically turning on when your security camera detects someone approaching after dark – that's the level of integration available today.
ADT operates on a model that combines corporate oversight with local service. Their monitoring centers are company-owned and operated, with redundant locations ensuring your home is always protected even if one center experiences issues.
What many people don't realize is that when you call for service, you're often dealing with an authorized dealer rather than ADT directly. This isn't necessarily bad – it combines national standards with local service.
SafeStreets is one of ADT's largest authorized dealers. They sell, install, and service ADT equipment, but they're a separate company that must meet ADT's strict requirements.
In our testing, SafeStreets provided excellent installation service, with technicians who clearly knew what they were doing. The equipment is identical to what you'd get directly from ADT, and the monitoring service is the same as well.
Vivint takes a different approach. They handle everything in-house, from sales to installation to monitoring. This creates a more consistent experience but sometimes at a higher price point.
What sets Vivint apart is their focus on smart home integration. Their system isn't just about security – it's about creating a comprehensive smart home experience where security is one component of a larger ecosystem.
Here's an industry secret: many security companies use the same monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers many local dealers' systems, while ADT uses their proprietary monitoring network.
This means the actual response to an alarm may be very similar regardless of which company you choose. The differences come in equipment quality, installation expertise, and customer service.
After watching five professional installations in our test home, I can confidently say that professional installation is worth every penny, even for the tech-savvy.
Professional installers know things that aren't obvious to homeowners. They understand the optimal placement for motion sensors to avoid false alarms from pets or HVAC systems. They know how to position door sensors to prevent tampering. They recognize potential blind spots that intruders might exploit.
In our testing, professionals consistently identified security vulnerabilities that I would have missed, despite my technical background.
The most common DIY mistake is improper sensor placement. Mounting a motion sensor too low or a door sensor improperly can create either false alarms or security gaps.
Another frequent error is inadequate coverage. DIYers often focus on entry points but neglect interior protection that can catch intruders who manage to get inside.
When it comes to your family's safety, this isn't the place to cut corners or learn by trial and error.
• SafeStreets (ADT authorized dealer): Offers the reliability of ADT's monitoring with professional installation from technicians who know Hampton homes. Their equipment quality is excellent, and their monitoring is industry-leading. SafeStreets provides the best overall balance of reliability, features, and value.
• Vivint: Provides the most advanced smart home integration available, with sleek equipment and an intuitive app. Their installation technicians are company employees, ensuring consistent quality. Vivint is ideal for homeowners who want cutting-edge technology and seamless integration.
• Simplisafe: While primarily DIY, they offer professional installation options that make them perfect for renters. Their no-contract approach provides flexibility that other companies can't match. Simplisafe is the best option if you're renting or need a more portable solution.
• Digital Security: A local provider offering security systems, home automation, and fire protection services at 2714 W Mercury Blvd. Their local knowledge is valuable, but equipment options may be more limited.
• Brains and Brawns: Specializes in home network installation, security systems, and TV mounting. Good for those wanting comprehensive tech services beyond just security.
• Johns Brothers Security: Located at 310 E St, they focus exclusively on security systems. Their specialization means they know security well, but may lack the broader smart home expertise.
• MD Lock Doc: Combines traditional locksmith services with security systems, making them a good option if you need both physical and electronic security upgrades.
• King Alarm Company: Found at 22 Research Dr, they offer standard security system installation with local service and support.
After living with multiple security systems and watching professional installers work their magic, I've come to a clear conclusion: while local companies may offer competitive pricing, the stability, consistency, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint is worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
These companies have refined their installation processes, their equipment is thoroughly tested, and their monitoring services have redundancies that smaller operations simply can't match.
Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Invest in professional installation from a reputable company. The difference between a properly installed system and an amateur job could be the difference between a prevented break-in and a successful one.
Your Hampton home deserves nothing less than the best protection available. Make the call today.
Hampton has a population of 135,169 and is located in Hampton County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $57,041. Median home value is $187,916, and the median rent is $1,115/month. With a median age of 36.3 years old, 26.7% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 23% having an income over $100,000. 40% of households are married.
According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:
Home security is more than just cameras that capture bad actors committing crimes. Smart home features such as automated lighting are underrated features that can prevent thefts before they happen.
Professional monitoring is a must, and the choice generally comes down to a balance between the latest technology, overall price, and the service you receive for installation and on-going maintenance.
Our pick for the best home security system is ADT, with its exceptional reputation for customer satisfaction and professional installation, followed closely by Vivint which while slightly more expensive, has the most advanced security technology for your home.
SimpliSafe is our home security system recommendation for renters with its great balance of features and value, while offering minimal installation effort and reasonably priced professional monitoring.
