Despite undergoing multiple rebrandings, Brinks Home Security continues to be a formidable name in the home protection industry, offering robust equipment, high-speed emergency response, and smart home integration.
Reviewed by: Rob Gabriele
Last Updated: February 14, 2024
At a Glance
- SecureScore™: 8.7 / 10
- Customer Service: 8.3
- Value: 8.7
- Technology & Features: 8.7
- Ease of Use: 9.0
- Equipment: 8.8
Brinks Home Security: An Overview
With roots dating back to the 1800s, Brinks has evolved significantly, particularly since its more recent collaborations with MONI and LiveWatch. This merger revitalized its offerings, bringing modern technology, professional-grade equipment, and impressive response times to households across the U.S.
Brinks has carved out a reputation for quality and consistency, particularly with their professionally monitored systems. Although the brand has made strides to offer customizable equipment and packages, its rigid contract terms and lack of DIY pricing options might deter flexibility-seeking customers.
Pros
- Lock-in rate with no surprise fee hikes
- Trusted Alarm.com equipment
- Strong home automation integrations
- Offers Google, Alexa, and Apple compatibility
- Advanced control panel with touchscreen display
Cons
- Mobile app lacks polish and can be glitchy
- Limited pricing transparency
- Requires 36-month contract commitment
- Some hardware feels outdated compared to competitors
A Brief History of Brinks
Once a powerhouse in the 1990s and early 2000s, Brinks experienced a disappearance from the market after a 2009 rebrand. Fast forward to 2018, Brinks made a dramatic comeback, leveraging tech-forward strategies and better partnerships. The result? A smart security solution built on legacy experience but refreshed with modern-day upgrades.
💡 Fun Fact: The brand is now the result of a strategic merger between Monitronics and LiveWatch, operating under the well-known Brinks name.
First Impressions
Unboxing a Brinks security system feels like setting up a professionally engineered, consumer-friendly solution. They offer three main equipment bundles that simplify selection:
- Smart Security Essential
- Smart Security Complete
- Smart Security Ultimate
However, the requirement to sign a 36-month monitoring agreement makes flexibility an issue. If you’re commitment-averse, this could be a dealbreaker.
Brinks Security Packages & Pricing
| Package | Price | Monthly Fee | Video Doorbell | Outdoor Cam | Indoor Cam |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Security Essential | $199 | $39.99 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Smart Security Complete | $349 | $44.99 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Smart Security Ultimate | $699 | $49.99 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
⚠️ These are estimated prices based on our most recent testing. Your local pricing may vary.
Customers work directly with a sales rep to design a package tailored to their home. Financing is available via GreenSky with 0% APR, and a 30-day money-back guarantee ensures peace of mind.
Installation Process
Brinks embraces a hybrid DIY/professional install model. Equipment arrives with two-day shipping, and setup is relatively fast—typically around 30 minutes. For those less inclined toward DIY, Brinks provides professional installation for an additional fee, included in the Ultimate package.
While it wasn’t the fastest install we’ve experienced (SimpliSafe holds that title), the step-by-step guidance was smooth and beginner-friendly.
Hands-On Experience with Brinks
Once installed, the Brinks system proved intuitive and reliable. Built with GE components, the sensors and control panel demonstrated strong responsiveness and minimal false alarms.
The Brinks IQ 2.0 Control Panel—a sleek, touchscreen interface—serves as the nerve center. Though the mobile app could use UI improvements, it provides remote access, live camera feeds, and two-way communication.
❗ Note: Brinks does not offer free self-monitoring. All systems require a professional monitoring subscription to function fully.
Monitoring Response Time: In testing, agents typically responded to alarms within 30 seconds—well above industry average.
Monitoring & Features
Brinks charges between $39.99–$49.99/month for monitoring—higher than competitors like SimpliSafe ($25/month). However, their plans include premium features:
- LiveVoice Assist: Speak with monitoring agents via control panel
- ASAPer: Instant text alerts for faster emergency communication
- Cloud Storage: Retain security footage for evidence or review
Equipment Add-Ons
Brinks allows users to enhance packages with a robust selection of upgrades:
- Door/Window Sensors – $29
- Motion Detectors – $59 (pet-friendly up to 40 lbs)
- Indoor HD Camera (1080p) – $199
- Smoke Detector – $89
- Flood Sensor – $49
- Glass Break Detector – $79
- Smart Home Automation Hub – Supports over 100 devices
Though functional, the SkyBell doorbell camera (720p) lags behind most 1080p competitors. We suggest supplementing with third-party cameras if video quality is a priority.
Mobile App and Smart Features
The Brinks Home App allows you to:
- Arm/disarm the system remotely
- View live camera feeds
- Use two-way talk
- Integrate with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit
While the app is functional, it lacks the sleek user experience found in apps from ADT or Ring. A recent update introduced the Brinks Smart Hub, which aims to improve interface design and device compatibility.
Brinks Technical Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi + Cellular |
| Control Panel | Touchscreen |
| Monitoring | 24/7 Professional (mandatory) |
| Coverage | 1,500–3,000+ sq. ft. |
| Setup | DIY or Pro Install |
| Mobile App | iOS & Android |
| Warranty | 2-Year |
| Return Policy | 30-Day Guarantee |
| Monthly Cost | $39–$49 |
| Equipment Cost | $199–$699 |
| Financing | Available |
Customer Support
Brinks provides a full spectrum of customer service options:
- LiveVoice Assist & ASAPer for emergency responsiveness
- Call and Text Support with real-time replies
- Online Ticketing System for ongoing issues
- User Forum & Knowledge Base for self-service
Although their team was helpful and courteous in our testing, support reps didn’t always resolve more complex technical inquiries immediately.
🏆 In 2018, Brinks was ranked No. 1 in home security customer satisfaction by J.D. Power. They also hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Final Verdict: Is Brinks Worth It?
Brinks delivers a capable, professional home security solution with strong emergency response times and reliable equipment. For homeowners seeking professional monitoring, customizable setups, and smart home compatibility, it’s a solid option.
However, it’s important to weigh the drawbacks:
- Long-term contract commitment
- Lack of transparent online pricing
- No free self-monitoring option
If you’re planning to stay in your home for several years and want a system with solid support and respectable hardware, Brinks is a great fit. For more flexibility, consider exploring alternatives like SimpliSafe or Ring.
Our Testing Methodology
Our in-depth reviews are the result of rigorous hands-on testing. We evaluate each system for setup experience, reliability, smart features, pricing, monitoring responsiveness, and customer service. We also simulate real-world emergencies, such as break-ins and fire alerts, to see how the systems perform when it matters most.
After 30+ days of daily use, our expert reviewers compile these findings into comprehensive reports to help you make informed decisions.
