How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in Plano, TX

We've done the hands-on testing and local research to help you decide. 

Is Your Plano Home Really Secure? What We Discovered After Testing 5 Different Security Systems

Ever wonder if that security system you're eyeing is actually worth the investment, or just another flashy gadget that'll collect dust while you pay monthly fees? After having five different security systems professionally installed in the same house, I've got some eye-opening insights to share.

Why Plano Homeowners Need to Think About Security

Plano consistently ranks as one of the most livable cities in Texas with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a thriving economy. But even in this family-friendly suburb, security remains a legitimate concern.

While Plano boasts impressive safety statistics (property crime is 16% lower than average, and violent crime is 60% lower than the national average, giving the city a crime grade of 9), homeowners and the 58.9% of residents who rent still need to consider home security as an essential investment.

As someone who's spent countless hours testing security systems in 2025, I'm here to cut through the marketing hype and give you the straight facts about what really matters when securing your Plano home.

What Really Matters to Plano Homeowners

The Value-to-Reliability Relationship

When it comes to home security, the cheapest option isn't always the best value. Think of it like insurance – you hope you never need it, but when you do, you want it to work flawlessly.

After testing multiple systems, I've found that reliability correlates with quality components and professional installation. A system that fails during a critical moment isn't worth any amount of savings.

Quality of Life Features You'll Actually Use

Here's something the security companies don't always emphasize: the features you'll use daily matter more than the ones you might need in an emergency.

The two most-used features across all our tests? Video doorbells and garage control. These aren't just security features – they're convenience features that transform how you interact with your home. Imagine never missing a package delivery or wondering if you left the garage door open again.

In 2025, both ADT (with their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have perfected these integrations. Their doorbell cameras offer crystal-clear video, package detection, and seamless smartphone control that actually works when you need it.

Peace of Mind Is the Real Product

What you're really buying isn't sensors and cameras – it's peace of mind. The ability to check on your home while on vacation, receive alerts when your kids arrive home from school, or sleep soundly knowing your fire detectors are monitored 24/7.

A comprehensive system should address not just break-ins but fire safety too. Carbon monoxide detection and smoke monitoring can be literal lifesavers, especially in newer, more airtight Plano homes.

What's State of the Art in 2025 (And What's Timeless)

Security technology has made impressive leaps in recent years. Today's systems feature:

  • AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles
  • Voice-controlled home automation that actually understands Texas accents
  • Wireless sensors with 5+ year battery life
  • Smartphone apps that are finally intuitive enough for everyone in the family

But some aspects of security remain timeless:

  • Strategic sensor placement still matters more than sensor quantity
  • Professional monitoring remains superior to self-monitoring
  • Backup power and cellular connections are non-negotiable for serious security
  • The quality of installation still determines system effectiveness

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

This is where things get interesting – and where most homeowners get confused.

ADT and Their Authorized Dealers

ADT operates multiple monitoring centers across the country, providing redundancy if one center goes offline. They don't typically install systems themselves, instead working through authorized dealers like SafeStreets.

SafeStreets is essentially ADT's installation and sales arm. When you get an "ADT system" from SafeStreets, you're getting ADT monitoring and equipment, installed by SafeStreets technicians who must meet ADT's standards.

Vivint's Direct Model

Vivint takes a different approach. They handle everything in-house – from sales to installation to monitoring. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control but sometimes at a premium price point.

Their smart home integration is particularly impressive in 2025, with seamless connections between security, lighting, climate control, and entertainment systems.

The Monitoring Platform Ecosystem

Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers numerous local dealers nationwide, while ADT uses their proprietary monitoring system.

This means the actual alert processing and emergency response coordination might be identical between a national brand and your local provider – the difference often comes down to installation quality and customer service.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Why It Matters

After watching professional installers work and attempting some DIY installations myself, I can confidently say: professional installation is worth every penny, even for tech-savvy homeowners.

The "Tricks of the Trade" Professionals Know

Professional installers know exactly:

  • Where to place motion sensors to avoid false alarms from pets or HVAC systems
  • How to position door sensors to prevent tampering
  • The optimal height and angle for cameras to maximize coverage
  • How to properly secure the control panel to prevent disabling

These aren't things you learn from a YouTube video or instruction manual.

Common DIY Mistakes That Compromise Security

I've seen DIY installations with:

  • Motion sensors pointed at windows (hello, false alarms from sunlight)
  • Door sensors installed with gaps wide enough to defeat them
  • Cameras with blind spots covering critical entry points
  • Control panels placed in easily accessible locations where intruders can quickly disable them

When it comes to protecting your family, this isn't the place to cut corners.

Top Home Security Installers in Plano

SafeStreets (ADT Authorized Dealer)

SafeStreets offers the reliability of ADT's monitoring with professional installation. Their technicians are thorough, taking time to customize sensor placement for your specific home layout. Their integration with Google Nest products provides excellent video quality and smart home features that work seamlessly with your security system.

Vivint

Vivint excels in creating truly integrated smart homes where security is just one component of a comprehensive system. Their touchscreen control panel is the most intuitive we tested, and their outdoor cameras with built-in deterrence features (lights and two-way talk) are impressive. Installation is meticulous, with technicians who clearly understand both security and home automation.

Simplisafe

For renters, Simplisafe offers the best balance of effectiveness and flexibility. While not as feature-rich as the premium options, it provides essential security without long-term contracts, making it ideal for Plano's rental population.

Local Plano Options

  • Smith Thompson Home Security: Offers both security systems and pest control services, providing comprehensive home protection from 6652 Pinecrest Dr.
  • Pro-TechT: Specializes in security systems with home theater installation and automation from 1942 N Interstate 35E.
  • Texas Master Locksmiths and Security Solutions: Combines locksmith services with security systems for complete access control.
  • Protectus Security: Focuses on security systems and home automation from 460 S Belt Line Rd.
  • BeeConnectedNow: Provides internet service, security systems, and electricity from 1721 W Plano Pkwy.
  • AV Security's: Specializes in home automation, security systems, and home theater installation from 26850 US-380 E.

The Bottom Line: National vs. Local Installers

After extensive testing and living with these systems, here's my take: while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the consistency, technology integration, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint typically justify their slightly higher cost.

The national providers have invested millions in developing user-friendly apps, reliable monitoring centers, and seamless integrations that simply work better than most local alternatives. They also tend to stay current with security technology trends, regularly updating their offerings.

When it comes to protecting your family and property, professional installation from a reputable provider isn't just a convenience—it's a necessity. The knowledge, experience, and attention to detail that professional installers bring can make the difference between a system that gives you peace of mind and one that gives you headaches.

Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Invest in professional installation from a company with a proven track record. Your future self will thank you.

Important Considerations

Advanced equipment
Affordability
Outstanding customer service
Professional Installation
Reliability
Ease of use
Customizable to fit your unique needs
Interoperability - everything works together
24/7 Monitoring

Recommended Home Security System Companies in Plano, Texas

ADT

ADT is the gold standard, and they now have Google Nest as a partner. Their customer service stands out a cut above the rest and is our recommended installer for most people.
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Vivint

Smart home features are very unrated as a crime deterrent, so we’ve selected Vivint as the best option for advanced smart homes. Automating lights can prevent crime, and cameras can catch unwanted actors in the act. 
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SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is the best option for renters since you buy the equipment up-front. Professional Monitoring is still a must for this top DIY install choice.
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Latest 2025 Home Security Deals and Promo Codes

SafeStreets ADT - take your pick of these bonus offers:

Vivint offers:


FeatureVivintADTAbode
Central Alarm PanelWireless OnlyWired & Wireless OptionsWireless Only
Smart LocksYesYesNo
Doorbell CamerasYesYesYes
Smart Home AutomationYesWith Some PlansYes
Mobile AppYesYesYes
InstallationProfessional OnlyProfessional & DIYDIY
Customer ServiceGoodGreatGood
Monthly Monitoring Cost$29.99 to $49.99$27.99 to $58.99$12.42
Installation Cost$0+$0+$0
Return Policy30-Day6-Months30-Day

Choosing a Home Security System Installer in Plano

Choosing the home security system that works best for you can seem like a daunting task but taking a few moments to assess your needs will make the decision much easier.

Rent vs. Own

Whether you rent or own will influence which home security system is right for you. Renters will want to consider systems that won’t cause any permanent damage to walls since you will likely have to either make repairs yourself or lose some of your deposit when you leave. This will also make it easier to bring your equipment with you when you decide to relocate. Another consideration for renters will be whether the landlord permits affixing security cameras to the exterior of the structure and if it can surveil common areas (e.g., apartment hallways, carports, etc.). We recommend you review your lease agreement and consult with your landlord before installing any home security system component on the exterior of a rental.

Homeowners have a little more leeway when choosing a home security system since they can attach permanent fixtures like surveillance cameras and smart locks, and they typically won’t move as often as renters. However, a greater number of potential configurations makes choosing the best home security system company even more challenging, which is why it’s important to assess your needs.

Family and Visitors in the Home

Another consideration is who lives in the residence and how many people you allow access to the home. Renters with roommates may only need a security camera for their room, whereas a homeowner may want full interior coverage. If you have kids that let themselves in after school, a doorbell camera can let you know they made it home safe. If you have caregivers or others who you allow periodic access to the home, then a smart lock with customizable codes is perfect for monitoring who is accessing the house. And of course, motion sensors and interior security cameras can let you keep an eye on those furry family members while you’re away.

Professional Installation vs. Do-It-Yourself

For smaller projects, like a single camera or smart lock installation, you may want to do it yourself if you’ve got the tools and are somewhat handy. For anything bigger or more complex, professional home security system installation is the way to go. Considering the time it’ll take you to install it yourself – not to mention the headache – any money spent on installation will be well worth it. And if you choose Vivint, installation is free.

More importantly, a professional will ensure your home doesn't have any blind-spots or weaknesses in coverage. From glass-break sensors to pet-immune motion sensors, the more layers of detection the better. If you have pets, pros like you'll find at ADT are what we recommend to most people.

How Important are Smart Home Features for protecting your Plano home?

It’s easy to forget that home security systems don’t begin and end with just door and window sensing. When choosing a security system for you home, some companies like Vivint have nearly endless automation options. We feel that preventing break-ins with smart home features like light automation and doorbell camera is the way to go.

Easy to Use Mobile App

Having an intuitive app that controls your home security devices from a smartphone or tablet allows you to get the most out of your investment.

How Smart Home Automation Can Prevent Crimes

According to the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics, nearly 75% of burglaries occur when no one is home so it’s important to give the appearance that your residence is occupied even when it isn’t, and smart home automation can help. Automatically turning your interior and exterior lights on and off to give the appearance of being occupied is one of the key features of smart home automation, especially when you’re on vacation.

Additionally, smart door locks and automated garage door systems, like MyQ, can not only alert you when they are opened, but also answer those nagging questions while you’re away like “Did I forget to close the garage door?” or “Did the kids lock the front door when they left?”

Plano, TX Local Security Installers

Choosing between a nationwide home security system company and a smaller, local one can be a tough choice for some people. Here are the pros and cons to each:

Nationwide companies:

  • Pros:
    • Lower prices due to higher volume of business
    • Wider range of available equipment
    • More established / more likely to be in business for the long-term
  • Cons:
    • Potential for impersonal service
    • Longer-term contracts

Local companies:

  • Pros:
    • Supports local economy
    • May be more familiar with your area’s needs
  • Cons:
    • Smaller staff can cause delayed installation
    • Higher pricing
    • May not be in business long-term

We recommend the national installers Vivint for it's class leading technology and ADT for superior customer service and all around value.

Plano, TX Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

Optima
2391 E Sh 121
Dallas Security Systems
10731 Rockwall Rd
Denton Lock & Key
737 Quail Cir
SDS Security
7614 Pebble Dr
AV Security’s
26850 US-380 E
Fort Knox Home Security and Alarm Dallas
8304 Esters Blvd
Smith Thompson Home Security
6652 Pinecrest Dr
Pro-TechT
1942 N Interstate 35E
Protectus Security
460 S Belt Line Rd
BeeConnectedNow
1721 W Plano Pkwy
Security Solutions by Aegis
2150 S Central Expy
911 Locksmith and Security
4144 North Central Expy
Spy Centre Security
2301 N Central Expy
Techresponders
Texas Master Locksmiths and Security Solutions

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of Plano, TX

Cities Nearby Plano, Texas

St. Paul, TX
Fairview, TX
Parker, TX
Lowry Crossing, TX
Little Elm, TX
Heath, TX
Sachse, TX
Plano, TX

Zip Codes in Plano, Texas

75093
75023
75025
75024
75074
75075

Information About Plano

Plano has a population of 288,870 and is located in Collin County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $96,348. Median home value is $342,035, and the median rent is $1,447/month. With a median age of 38.9 years old, 57.7% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 48% having an income over $100,000. 56.9% of households are married.

Plano Demographics

According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:

  • White – 61.7%
  • Two or More Races – 5.6%
  • Black or African American – 8.6%
  • Other Race – 1.7%
  • Asian – 21.8%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 0.4%
  • Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander – 0.1%

Final Considerations

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.

Plano, Texas Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in Plano

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of Plano, TX is ADT, followed by Vivint. With free professional installation, 24/7 monitoring, a wide variety of home security, cameras, and smart home options to suit any need, reasonable monthly fees, and superior customer service, ADT is the security system we’d choose for our homes.

How much does it cost to install security systems?

Home security system cost vary greatly depending on the size of the house and number of devices. You can get started for as little as $280 for a system, but the average homeowner should expect to pay around $700 for a complete system with home automation.

Professional installation costs can range from $120 - $600, with the potential for even higher costs depending on how much equipment you purchase. However, some larger home security companies offer reduced pricing or even free installation with the purchase of a system and monitoring.

Monthly monitoring fees range anywhere from $10 - $65 dollars per month depending on installation type (landline vs cellular) and services offered.

Why is a security system needed?

When it comes to keeping your property and loved ones safe, home security systems are one of the top ways to accomplish that mission and sleep peaceably at night knowing you’re covered.

Can I install a security system by myself?

Most people can install a single device, such as a wireless camera, relatively easily. When it comes to installing multiple, interconnected devices, professional installation is best. Abode is a great DIY option.

What is the best DIY security system?

Abode is the best DIY home security system option. They have a wide variety of products you can mix-and-match to fit your needs, all with easy installation.

Does Vivint offer free installation?

Yes. Vivint offers free installation and no activation fee for new customers.

Does ADT offer free installation?

Sometimes promotions are available for free installation, though usually there is a $99 fee. The best option is to check here for the latest promotion that Safestreets currently has available.

How can I prevent break-ins?

Home security systems are the best way to prevent break-ins, but there are other steps you can take to protect yourself. Sufficient exterior lighting around your house, keeping entry points such as windows unobscured, and participating in programs like a neighborhood watch are all steps you can take to deter break-ins.

Does a security camera system prevent break-ins?

Yes. A study by the University of North Carolina of incarcerated burglars found that most looked for indications of increased security (e.g. alarms, cameras, etc.) when selecting a target, and that the presence of a security system would cause about 60% of them to “shop” elsewhere.

© JRW Publishing Company, 2023
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