Alarm Grid is an online-only security dealer that sells professional-grade panels (Honeywell, Qolsys, 2GIG) and provides monitoring through Alarm.com. It’s a unique hybrid model — you get dealer-quality hardware with DIY installation and no long-term contracts. But is it worth the complexity when turnkey systems like Abode exist? This 2026 review breaks it all down.
Alarm Grid at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2012 |
| Type | Online security dealer (not a manufacturer) |
| Installation | DIY (remote video/phone support included) |
| Equipment Brands | Qolsys, Honeywell/Resideo, 2GIG |
| Monitoring Platform | Alarm.com |
| Monthly Plans | $15–$35/mo (month-to-month) |
| Contracts | None — cancel anytime |
| Smart Home | Z-Wave (via Alarm.com) |
| Existing System Takeover | ✅ (their biggest selling point) |
| YouTube Channel | 5,000+ tutorial videos |
| Our Rating | 3.5/5 |
How Alarm Grid Actually Works
Understanding Alarm Grid requires understanding the security dealer model. Here’s how the chain works:
| Layer | Traditional Dealer | Alarm Grid | Consumer DIY (Abode/Ring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment manufacturer | Honeywell, Qolsys, 2GIG | Honeywell, Qolsys, 2GIG | Proprietary hardware |
| Software platform | Alarm.com | Alarm.com | Own platform |
| Monitoring center | Outsourced | Outsourced | Own or outsourced |
| Installation | Tech visit ($99–$199) | DIY + video support | DIY (peel-and-stick) |
| Contract | 36–60 months | Month-to-month | Month-to-month |
| Equipment markup | 2–3x retail | Near-retail | N/A (proprietary) |
| Monthly cost | $35–$60/mo | $15–$35/mo | $0–$20/mo |
Key insight: Alarm Grid gives you the same professional equipment and Alarm.com platform that traditional dealers charge $45+/mo for — at roughly half the monthly cost, with no contract. The trade-off is you install it yourself.
Equipment & Panel Options
| Panel | Price Range | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qolsys IQ Panel 4 | $350–$500 | 7″ touchscreen, 319/345/PowerG, built-in camera, Bluetooth disarm | New installs (top pick) |
| Honeywell ProSeries PROA7PLUS | $300–$450 | 7″ touchscreen, SiX encrypted sensors, Z-Wave Plus | Honeywell loyalists |
| 2GIG EDGE | $350–$500 | 7″ panel, 345MHz + encrypted, built-in camera | Existing 2GIG sensors |
| Qolsys IQ Panel 2+ | $250–$350 | Older but proven, multi-frequency | Budget new install |
| Honeywell VISTA-20P | $150–$200 | Wired, hardwired zones + wireless expansion | Existing wired sensor reuse |
Sensor Pricing (Representative)
| Sensor Type | Alarm Grid Price | Traditional Dealer | Abode Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door/window sensor | $20–$45 | $40–$80 | $16 |
| Motion sensor | $30–$60 | $60–$120 | $32 |
| Glass break sensor | $40–$65 | $70–$130 | $35 |
| Smoke/CO detector | $50–$100 | $100–$200 | $50 |
| Key fob | $25–$40 | $40–$70 | $29 |
Alarm Grid prices are roughly 50% less than traditional dealers — but still more than consumer DIY systems like Abode or SimpliSafe.
Monitoring Plans
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Monitoring | $15/mo | Alarm.com app, push notifications, no dispatch |
| Gold | $25/mo | 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, dispatch |
| Platinum | $35/mo | Gold + video monitoring, Alarm.com video analytics, smart home |
Note: All plans are month-to-month — no annual commitment required.
Alarm Grid’s Killer Feature: Existing System Takeover
This is where Alarm Grid genuinely shines. If you move into a home with an existing alarm panel, Alarm Grid can often take over your existing system for a fraction of what a local dealer would charge.
| Scenario | Traditional Dealer | Alarm Grid | Full DIY Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keep existing panel | $35–$50/mo + contract | $15–$25/mo, no contract | N/A |
| Add cellular module | $99–$199 install | $100–$200 DIY + free video support | N/A |
| Replace panel only | $300–$600 + install | $250–$500 panel + DIY | $199+ (Abode/Ring) |
| 3-year monitoring cost | $1,260–$1,800 | $540–$900 | $0–$720 |
If you have a Honeywell VISTA, DSC PowerSeries, or 2GIG panel with existing sensors, Alarm Grid’s takeover service can save you $500–$1,000+ vs. a local dealer — and you keep your hardwired sensors.
Strengths (6 With Context)
| Strength | Details | Caveat |
|---|---|---|
| No contracts | True month-to-month on all plans | Equipment cost is upfront |
| Professional-grade hardware | Same Qolsys/Honeywell panels dealers install | More complex than consumer DIY |
| Alarm.com platform | Industry-leading app (4.5–4.7★), video analytics, automations | Monthly fee required for any features |
| Existing system takeover | Reuse hardwired sensors, save thousands | Requires technical comfort |
| YouTube library | 5,000+ installation/programming videos | Some videos are outdated |
| Lower monthly cost | $15–$35 vs. $35–$60 from dealers | Still more than Abode’s $0–$20 |
Weaknesses (7 Problems)
| Problem | Impact | Alternative Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Steep learning curve | Programming panels is complex — not plug-and-play | Abode: 15-min setup |
| No in-person support | Remote-only — if you’re stuck, no one comes to help | ADT/Vivint: pro install included |
| Higher equipment cost | $400–$800+ for panel + sensors vs. $199 for consumer kits | Abode Smart Security Kit: $199 |
| Alarm.com dependency | If you stop paying, panel still works locally but no app/notifications | Abode: free tier with app access |
| No cameras of their own | Must buy Alarm.com-compatible cameras separately | Abode Cam 2: $35 |
| Confusing for beginners | Multiple panel brands, sensor frequencies, programming modes | SimpliSafe: one ecosystem, zero confusion |
| No HomeKit support | Alarm.com doesn’t support Apple HomeKit | Abode: only HomeKit security system |
3-Year Cost Comparison
| System | Equipment | Monthly | 3-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abode (self-monitor) | $199 | $0 | $199 |
| Abode (Connect+) | $199 | $12 | $631 |
| Alarm Grid (self-monitor) | $450 | $15 | $990 |
| Ring (Plus plan) | $199 | $10 | $559 |
| SimpliSafe (Standard) | $249 | $17.99 | $897 |
| Alarm Grid (Gold) | $450 | $25 | $1,350 |
| Traditional dealer | $0–$200 | $45 | $1,620–$1,820 |
Alarm Grid is cheaper than traditional dealers but more expensive than consumer DIY systems. The value proposition only makes sense in specific scenarios (see below).
Alarm Grid vs Alarm Relay: Cheap Monitoring Showdown
| Feature | Alarm Grid | Alarm Relay |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment sales | ✅ (full panels + sensors) | ❌ (monitoring only) |
| Monitoring platform | Alarm.com (smart) | Basic central station |
| Monthly cost | $15–$35 | $10–$20 |
| App control | ✅ (full Alarm.com) | ❌ (no app) |
| Video monitoring | ✅ (Platinum plan) | ❌ |
| Smart home | ✅ (Z-Wave via Alarm.com) | ❌ |
| Best for | Full system purchase + smart monitoring | Bare-bones monitoring for existing panel |
If you just need cheap monitoring for an existing panel and don’t care about app control or smart features, Alarm Relay is cheaper. If you want Alarm.com’s app and smart home features, Alarm Grid is worth the premium.
Who Should Choose Alarm Grid (Decision Guide)
| Your Situation | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Moving into home with existing panel | ✅ Alarm Grid | Reuse sensors, save $1,000+ vs. dealer |
| Tech-savvy, want Alarm.com | ✅ Alarm Grid | Best price for Alarm.com monitoring |
| Upgrading old Honeywell/DSC panel | ✅ Alarm Grid | Keep wired sensors, add modern panel |
| First-time security buyer | ❌ Choose Abode | Simpler, cheaper, HomeKit support |
| Renter | ❌ Choose Abode/Ring | Alarm Grid panels are overkill for apartments |
| Budget under $500 total | ❌ Choose Abode/Ring | Alarm Grid equipment alone often exceeds $500 |
| Want cameras included | ❌ Choose Ring | Alarm Grid doesn’t sell cameras |
| Commercial/business | ✅ Consider Alarm Grid | Professional panels with commercial-grade features |
Our Verdict: 3.5/5
Alarm Grid fills a genuine niche: it’s the best way to get Alarm.com monitoring without a dealer contract. Their existing system takeover service is legitimately valuable, and their YouTube library is an incredible resource. But for most people buying a new security system in 2026, consumer DIY options like Abode ($199 + $0–$20/mo) offer a simpler, cheaper, and more complete experience.
Choose Alarm Grid if: You have an existing alarm panel, want Alarm.com, and are comfortable with DIY programming.
Choose Abode if: You want the simplest path to smart security with HomeKit, Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter support at the lowest total cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alarm Grid a legitimate company?
Yes. They’ve been operating since 2012, are an authorized Alarm.com dealer, and have an extensive YouTube presence with 5,000+ videos. They’re legitimate — just niche.
Can Alarm Grid take over my existing ADT/Vivint system?
It depends on the panel. If you have a standard Honeywell, DSC, or 2GIG panel (not proprietary ADT or Vivint equipment), Alarm Grid can usually take it over. Vivint’s proprietary panels and some newer ADT equipment cannot be transferred. Contact their support for a panel compatibility check.
How does Alarm Grid compare to SimpliSafe?
Different approaches. SimpliSafe is a turnkey consumer system ($199 + $17.99/mo). Alarm Grid gives you professional-grade panels with Alarm.com but requires more setup. For most people, SimpliSafe or Abode is simpler and cheaper.
Does Alarm Grid require a contract?
No. All monitoring plans are month-to-month. You own the equipment outright.
Can I use Alarm Grid without monitoring?
You can use the panel as a local alarm without monitoring, but you won’t have Alarm.com app access, remote control, or professional dispatch. The minimum $15/mo self-monitoring plan adds the Alarm.com app.
What happens if Alarm Grid goes out of business?
Your panel and sensors are standard industry equipment — any Alarm.com dealer can take over your monitoring. This is actually an advantage over proprietary systems like SimpliSafe or Vivint, where your equipment becomes useless if the company disappears.
Growing up with Law and Order and CSI shows taught Isabelle Landau one thing: if people back then had high-quality home security systems, those series would have been way shorter. In our modern world, technology helps us keep burglars away easily, and this is what Izzy studies and writes about: alarm systems, home security, protection systems, and more.
Sean Dooley says
Alarm grid is BY FAR the best ! Been a customer since 2012 . Always on point . Automation , smoke detectors , CO . Remotes , every window and door covered . 4 motions . . Ill put my system up against any other company and I pay $25 a month !
Richard Israel says
The only thing better than Alarm grid is a BIG dog I know I own one and he costs me about the same as ADT costs the only down side to deal with are his constant downloadings in the back yard and the mailman is…well not on the menu…. yet, So get a dog and Alarm grid and you’ll be all set….as long as the Mailman does, int slow down….
John Bloodworth says
I generally like to give new companies a chance. After all, how can they get experience and build up their services if no one gives them a chance? However, in this case, I decided to pass. They just didn’t offer enough to intrigue me and well, a new business has to offer something no one else is offering. I wish them luck.
kabirat says
Seriously, 2012 is not that new! The alarm grid is one cool alarm service I’ve used in recent years. You just need to know how to fix it and understand their terms and you are good. Their pricing is cheap and they don’t try to hook you by adding a life contract. It’s as easy as that. You use it where and when you want with no fear. Their customer service is also there during the weekdays to take complaints too.
Jared says
One of the rarely featured or mentioned alarm system companies that actually does a great job. They are low key and that’s what I like about them.
Tom Mazzeox says
This review shows some “typical” biases that prey on fears and push people to buy monitoring with long contracts and fees of $30/month or more. The “cons” are not even fair:
—-no professional installation? hire someone to install the system, but not monitor it. Pay upfront and the system is your not good. But if you can and want to do it yourself, you can. “PRO”!
—Entry costs are not really higher, as other companies roll the cost of the system in the first contract period of the service. Do the math and you will pay more over time.
—They are among the cheapest in the industry, you are paying for what you need – Monitoring period. All the other stuff is marketing gimmicks to justify their ridiculously high prices.
—“No contract means” I am not tied down and take on no risk. Who cares if they fold? I can just find another monitoring service! The equipment is mine and paid for.
—The last two negatives are repeats of two above.
So by my count there is one negative – they are new.
Lewis says
This company is newer and since there was not a contract, I wanted to try them out. Within the first few weeks I had issues and every time I speak to someone they assure me the issue will be fixed and it never is. I feel like I was taken advantage of. I am not sure why I thought going with a company with no contract was a good idea…
Dave Speaks says
Enjoyed this review a lot. I write for a tech blog and was doing a bit of research on home security companies. I appreciate everything you have here. All this information in one spot. I have Alarm Grid on my list. I will be linking back to this post for sure. It helped me a ton.
Donald P. says
This is by far the best review of the company. I have been looking for the last few days and I am shocked this is not the number one result on Google. Anyways I wanted to say thanks for the review. I am going to call Alarm Grid soon and see what they have to say. I am new to home security so this helped a lot.
Joey M. says
Huge fan of your reviews. I actually came here awhile back to help a friend pick out a security system and now I am back for myself. You always give up front and real reviews which is something I don’t see often online. Anyways, I was doing some digging on Alarm Grid and it seems that they may be a good fit for my family. I will be back if there are any complaints with them!
Nathan says
Yeah the turn off is that I have to install it myself. Don’t you think bulgars would look for people using this company expecting them to mess it up installing it. Seems logical to me.
David says
I kind of like the monthly contact, it’s nice to not be stuck into a yearly or two year contract. I have no idea on to install a system, but I’m sure it’s not to hard.
Terrance says
I’m glad I read this! I have no idea how to install an alarm system. This really should cost a lot less since we are doing most of the work. I’m sure it’s probably right for someone out there though or they wouldn’t be in business, right?!
Joshua Unseth - AlarmGrid Rep says
Hey Terrance. We sell product more cheaply than almost anyone. You certainly do install these on your own. But the cost of the equipment is the cost of the equipment. The difference between Alarm Grid and other security companies is that we do not lump the price of your monitoring in with a “free” panel. We can also take over existing security systems, and are very happy to do that. Our simple goal is to get you the equipment you need to the monitoring you want – nothing more and nothing less. We don’t do hard sales. Moreover, our service is some of the best you will find anywhere. We don’t roll out trucks, and you will have to do the install and maintenance of the system yourself. But you have the whole Alarm Grid team behind you. The best of it is we have no contracts. So if you want to try out this “baby home alarm company” you can do it for a few months, and then, if you don’t like it, you can quit. We will cancel your account promptly and let you on your way with the same quality equipment any of the big boys would have otherwise installed.
Joshua Unseth says
Thanks for writing this review. All of those things listed under the heading “The things they don’t want you to know about them” are absolutely true. Except, we actually have no problem letting people know about those things. If you sign up with Alarm Grid, you will be installing your system. There are exceptions, people do occasionally hire a local contractor for help. But for the most part, these systems are simple to install.
The entry costs have been higher. However, we have recently started a financing program through Affirm, which means that for big systems, an user can pay just a little bit each month. There is interest, but for most systems, the cost during the 12 month pay-off time along with the cost of monitoring will actually end up costing an user about the same amount as ADT will charge an user for monitoring out right. The difference is that once you pay off your system with us, the system is yours, and that cost will disappear!
Regarding Alarm Grid’s experience, we challenge anyone to test our techs against those of other companies. We may be a young company, but our techs are amazing.