Ever wondered if that DIY security system you installed is actually protecting your family? Or if that "great deal" from a local installer has hidden vulnerabilities that a professional would have spotted immediately? After testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house, I've got some eye-opening insights to share.
Little Rock's riverfront parks and vibrant cultural scene make it a wonderful place to call home. The city's charm is undeniable, with its blend of Southern hospitality and urban amenities. But beneath this appealing exterior lies a concerning reality that residents must address.
As we move into 2025, Little Rock's crime statistics remain troubling. Property crime rates are 148% higher than the national average, while violent crime sits at a staggering 377% above the national average. With a crime grade of 0, security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for both the homeowners and the 54.6% of residents who rent.
Having personally tested five different security systems professionally installed in the same house, I've learned to cut through the marketing hype. Let me share what really matters when securing your Little Rock home.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. However, the most expensive system isn't automatically superior either. What matters is the relationship between value and reliability.
A reliable system that consistently works when you need it—without false alarms—is worth its weight in gold. After testing multiple systems, I've found that professional installation dramatically improves this reliability factor, regardless of which brand you choose.
Here's something the security companies don't always emphasize: the features you'll use daily aren't necessarily the "high security" ones. In our 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, letting in a delivery person remotely, or checking if you closed the garage door after leaving—these convenience features become indispensable parts of your daily routine. Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint excel in these areas, offering seamless integrations that actually improve your quality of life.
A properly installed security system isn't just about deterring break-ins—it's comprehensive protection for your family. This includes fire safety, carbon monoxide detection, and medical alerts. The peace of mind that comes from knowing professionals have configured these systems correctly is invaluable.
Security technology has advanced significantly in 2025. Today's systems feature AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles. Mobile apps have become more intuitive, allowing granular control over every aspect of your home security.
However, some principles remain timeless:
The integration of voice assistants has become seamless, with both ADT and Vivint offering sophisticated implementations that work with all major platforms. But the fundamentals of good security—proper installation, strategic sensor placement, and reliable monitoring—remain unchanged.
ADT operates a network of six monitoring centers across the United States, providing redundancy that ensures your home remains protected even if one center experiences issues. Their service model includes professional installation, equipment warranties, and 24/7 monitoring.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, which means they sell and install ADT equipment and services, but operate as an independent business. Your monitoring is still handled by ADT's centers, and you receive the same equipment and warranties. The main difference is in who handles your initial sale and installation.
Vivint takes a different approach, employing a direct sales model where they manufacture much of their own equipment and handle installation and monitoring in-house. This vertical integration allows for tighter smart home integration and more control over the customer experience.
Many local security companies in Little Rock operate as authorized dealers for larger brands like ADT. Others use third-party monitoring services, with Alarm.com being one of the most common platforms nationwide. This means that while the name on your bill might be local, your actual monitoring could be handled by the same centers as national brands.
Even as a tech journalist who's comfortable with complex installations, I strongly recommend professional installation for security systems. Here's why:
Professionals understand the "tricks of the trade" that DIYers simply don't know. They recognize potential blind spots, know the optimal height and angle for motion sensors, and understand how to prevent tampering with your system.
In my testing, I've seen numerous DIY installation mistakes that compromise security:
When it comes to your family's safety, these aren't mistakes worth making to save a few dollars.
SafeStreets offers professional installation of ADT equipment with the backing of ADT's monitoring centers. Their technicians are thoroughly trained and certified, and they offer comprehensive packages that include the latest Google Nest integration. Their video doorbell and garage control implementations are particularly impressive.
Vivint stands out for their cutting-edge smart home technology. Their system feels more like a cohesive smart home platform than just a security system. Their proprietary equipment is sleek and user-friendly, with some of the best mobile app experiences in the industry. Their professional installation ensures everything works together seamlessly.
For renters, Simplisafe offers the best balance of protection and flexibility. While their professional installation options aren't as robust as ADT or Vivint, their systems are designed to be apartment-friendly and portable when you move.
While local companies may offer competitive pricing and personalized service, there's something to be said for the stability and consistency provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint. Their technicians undergo rigorous training, their equipment meets strict quality standards, and their monitoring centers have redundant backup systems.
The slightly higher cost typically translates to greater peace of mind—something that's difficult to put a price tag on when it comes to your family's safety.
Don't wait until after an incident to think about proper security installation. Professional installation isn't just a convenience—it's an investment in your family's safety and your own peace of mind. In a city with Little Rock's crime statistics, cutting corners on security installation simply isn't worth the risk.
Whether you choose a national provider or a local installer, prioritize professional installation by trained technicians who understand the unique security challenges of Little Rock neighborhoods. Your family deserves nothing less.
Little Rock has a population of 446,814 and is located in Pulaski County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $53,620. Median home value is $174,102, and the median rent is $889/month. With a median age of 36.5 years old, 42.5% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 24.7% having an income over $100,000. 39.7% 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.
