BEST HOME SECURITY
SYSTEM
SimpliSafe
The EssentialsSimpliSafe’s home security
system delivers the best
mix of value, monitoring,
and ease of use. This kit has
the basics, but you
can add smart locks, door-
bell cameras, and more to
achieve up to Area 51–level
surveillance. Optional pro-
fessional monitoring ($25/
month) adds more protec-
tion and control from the
SimpliSafe app.^ $259BEST SMART THERMOSTAT
Ecobee Smart Thermo-
stat with Voice ControlWe knew the Ecobee was
a winner when we called
customer service at 10
p.m. on a Friday and got a
simple answer to a wiring
question in minutes. Once
running, the thermostat
was easy to control from
the app. It works with
standalone sensors (one
is included) that monitor
temperature and house-
hold activity to adjust
temps in the spaces you’re
actually using.^ $249BEST SMART LOCKAugust Smart Lock Pro + Connect
If you’re tired of worrying whether you’ve forgotten to lock the
front door, you may benefit from a smart lock system to check
and manage your locks remotely. August’s Smart Lock Pro easily
installs onto most deadbolts so you can keep your existing keys.
Because it also connects to a variety of smart home systems, it’s
practically a one-size-fits-all solution for most homeowners. $280
HOME AWARDS 2020May/June 2020 65