Cost: Generally, wireless components are more expensive than their wired counterparts due to advanced technology.

Installation: Wireless systems are significantly easier and faster to install, often taking about 5 hours for a typical 4-bedroom house. The ease of installation can lead to lower overall setup costs despite the higher price of components..

Cost: Wired devices are cheaper to purchase, but the total cost can increase once you factor in the necessary cabling, clips, and trunking. Installation is more labor-intensive, especially in existing homes where cables must be routed and hidden, typically taking about 2 days for the same size property.

Installation Complexity: Installation is more disruptive and complex, potentially increasing labor cost.

Maintenance: Devices such as PIRs, door contacts, and sirens in a wireless system require battery replacements approximately every two years. The control panel's backup battery may need to be replaced every five years. This results in higher running costs over time.

Maintenance: Wired systems have lower maintenance costs in terms of batteries since only the control panel and external siren require battery replacement every five years.

Wireless systems offer a cleaner look since there are no visible wires. Installation is less disruptive, and the finished setup is generally neater.

Wired systems may involve visible trunking and cables, especially around door frames and skirting boards, which can be seen as unsightly compared to the cleaner wireless setups.

Technology advancements have significantly reduced the rate of false alarms in modern wireless systems. Opting for systems on the 868MHz frequency can further decrease interference, as it’s less cluttered compared to the 433MHz frequency. Environmental factors like insects on PIR sensors can trigger alarms; however, this issue is not unique to wireless systems.

Tend to be very reliable with fewer false alarms primarily caused by mains failures or battery issues in the control panel. Regular maintenance can mitigate most common false alarm triggers.

Modern wireless systems are equipped with anti-jamming detection and anti-masking technology, addressing earlier concerns about signal jamming. These systems meet the BS EN 50131 standards, ensuring a high level of security.

Wired systems are less susceptible to being disabled by cutting a single cable due to the inclusion of tamper circuits. However, physical damage to cables can be a security risk if not immediately addressed.

Battery maintenance is crucial; systems notify users of low battery to prevent performance issues. Generally offers equal performance to wired systems when maintained properly.

Consistently high performance as long as the system remains intact. Less frequent maintenance required, though similar battery life expectancy for control panels and external sirens.

Easier to expand with additional sensors or moving components around without worrying about cable runs. Cleaner installation with minimal impact on home aesthetics.

Expansion often requires significant additional wiring, which can be disruptive and less aesthetically pleasing. Best suited for new constructions or major renovations where wiring can be integrated into the building process.

Highly portable, making it ideal for people who move frequently. Easy to temporarily remove devices for home improvements without affecting system integrity.

Not portable; moving a wired system involves extensive work and is generally not feasible. Less flexibility for temporary removals, with a higher risk of installation errors post-removal.