18 best car alarms

Car alarm - an integral part of the automotive paraphernalia, more relevant than ever in our time. The problem of car theft is very directly dependent on the infirmity of the standard security systems, which, at best, block the start of the engine, and at worst, only give an alarm signal.

The current level of development of alarms has reached the point that under the guise of an ordinary “box” and connectors we sell entire security complexes that can not only monitor the safety of the car and prevent unauthorized access attempts, but also manage individual systems: door locks, window regulators, interior heating controls and even engines (ensuring its start and warming up). Touching on this topic, the editors and experts of the magazine expert.bigbadmole.com/en/en/ selected for you the 18 best car alarms, which were divided into logical thematic categories. The criteria for the selection of goods in the rating were taken:

1. user reviews (their number and content);
2. specifications and features;
3. expert opinion on the course of the tests and independent research.

How to choose a car alarm

Choosing a security system for a car is a matter that requires mandatory prior preparation, since the theory that is valid for ordinary consumables and even detection / video recording devices does not play any role here. In this regard, experts and editors of Expertex recommends that you pay attention to the following points:

Validation system. The governing body that controls the user's access to the vehicle. At the initial stage of the development of alarms, validation took place by returning a radio command from a key fob (by pressing a button), however, modern safety standards require the use of more advanced methods, which are much more difficult to circumvent. So, it is desirable that the central unit responds to the presence of a special label from the driver, or requires a set of a pre-set PIN-code from the basic car buttons. The height of perfection is a combination of several methods at once, in order to avoid various unpleasant situations (key loss, tags, or forgetting the access code).

Radio communication protocol. A parameter that indicates at what frequency the data is received or received / transmitted between the governing body of the radio communication and the central unit. The systems developed nowadays use frequencies of 868 MHz or 2.4 GHz with a dynamic cipher of a communication channel. They completely exclude the possibility of hacking through the use of code grabbers. Unlike the outdated 433 MHz band, under which the algorithm of intellectual hacking has been successfully selected for a long time.

Remote engine start. An option that is present on almost all modern car alarms, regardless of their price segment. Here you should remember two subtleties:

1. first, such systems show low efficiency in diesel engines due to their low heating rate at idle;
2. secondly, if the security system is not equipped with telematics, then the control of the function will be available only in the range of the radio reception.

Telematics system. This "trick" came to the car alarm segment straight from the market of tracking devices, and became, in fact, a breakthrough in the field of remote control. Thanks to geo-positioning via GPS / GLONASS and GSM-network, manufacturers allow owners to use tracking services while having the opportunity to track the status of individual modules. In particular, this is how the perennial problem of limited radio signal coverage was solved, and a full-fledged autorun engine from a long distance became available.

Geolocation. In general, an optional function for budgetary complexes, which has a great influence on the work of advanced systems. As a rule, for the sake of lowering the cost, manufacturers go to the trick, instead of installing GPS modules, low-current geo-location sensors using cellular network protocols.

The vastness of the causes of operation. A very subjective feature of assessing the quality of the security system, which should include as much as possible. Indeed, it is much better if the alarm system reacts not only to the opening of doors, hood or trunk, but also to shocks and even to the slopes of the car (for example, jacking, towing or loading onto a tow truck).

Availability of a digital interface. Not all modern cars are suitable for analog connection of the control signaling unit, since their systems are a rather complex set of interactions and restrictions. In this case, the CAN interface (LIN), which serves as an adapter between the main unit and the digital bus, can ensure the efficiency of operation.

Rating best car alarm

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best cheap car alarms	1	StarLine A63 ECO	5 900 ₽
	2	TOMAHAWK 9.9	5 140 ₽
	3	Scher-Khan Magicar 5	5 109 ₽
	4	Niteo LX-10	980 ₽
	5	Alligator C-200	4 770 ₽
	6	Sheriff ZX-750 PRO	3 990 ₽
Best alarm with auto start	1	STARLINE A93 CAN + LIN	8 950 ₽
	2	Pandora DXL 3945	24 705 ₽
	3	Tomahawk TZ-9010	5 140 ₽
	4	Scher-Khan Logicar A	4 199 ₽
	5	Alligator C-3C	4 770 ₽
	6	Centurion IS-10	5 900 ₽
Best alarms with GSM module	1	Pandora DXL 3910	20 400 ₽
	2	StarLine Twage B94 GSM Slave	23 500 ₽
	3	Pandect X-3150	22 000 ₽
The best telematic car alarm	1	StarLine M96 L	19 975 ₽
	2	Pandect X-1900 BT	19 814 ₽
	3	Ghost-840	18 488 ₽

Best cheap car alarms

StarLine A63 ECO

Car Alarm Rating: 4.9

Another StarLine product that has the absolute majority of positive feedback from the consumer segment. Apart from the fact that in its standard form, the A63 ECO offers quite wide operational capabilities, its functionality can be significantly expanded (although in this case the cost goes beyond the budget).

At the start, in addition to a central control unit with a standard connector, there are shock and tilt sensors, which sensitively, but without fanaticism, react to certain threshold values ​​of shock load and changes in spatial position. The keyfob and the unit support communication at a distance of up to 2000 meters, which is a good result for standard budget car alarms. Out of the box, an automatic engine start function and an immobilizer are provided, but only with unlocking through the key.

But as an addition StarLine A63 ECO are already more advanced chips, like a universal CAN-interface, GSM-module and sensor satellite communications with the antenna. When installing this equipment, the cost will go boldly beyond 15 thousand rubles ... however, the competitive environment of the modern market dictates its own rules for everyone.

TOMAHAWK 9.9

Car Alarm Rating: 4.8

Having become quite an ancient system of car security, Tomahawk 9.9 did not lose its charm, for which he regularly won second place in the ranking of the best. The basis of its success is largely made up of a wide audience, appreciating the modest functionality that this device represents.Equipped with a standard horn siren, the signaling device communicates with the control device at a frequency of 868 MHz and is encrypted using a dynamic code.

In view of the standard set of functions in the car alarm Tomahawk 9.9, it is possible to distinguish only the support of automatic engine start with flexibly adjustable activation parameters. The key fob quietly catches the signal at a distance of up to 1000 meters, which, in principle, is enough to control from the balcony. Yes, there are no additional connectors and interfaces, but they are not required in fact: the alarm system fits perfectly into its price range, providing consumers with a more than reliable and high-quality service.

Scher-Khan Magicar 5

Car Alarm Rating: 4.7

This classic among security systems for vehicles, allowing you to control the central unit at distances up to 1500 meters. Uses dual access feature for intelligent anti-hacking protection. How it works: two PIN codes are installed that are installed on the key and on the key ring. In case of loss of one of these elements or two elements in the aggregate, the system will request a PIN (1 for the key, 2 for the key fob). In addition, there is an addition with a remote engine blocking JackStop, allowing you to forcibly turn off the motor upon hijacking ... and block the robber inside.

Like all advanced alarms from the Scher-Khan line, the Magicar 5 is able and well implemented to supervise the key parameters of the engine, the microclimate in the cabin and the battery charging. Using the built-in selector, the user can always adjust the automatic start of the motor when one control parameter is reached: for example, when it comes to a drop in ambient temperature, a battery charge below 11.5 volts (the engine is turned on to operate the generator) or just to heat the interior before a trip. This is a very competent representative of inexpensive car security systems, worthy of one of the leading places in the ranking of the best.

Niteo LX-10

Car Alarm Rating: 4.6

The fourth line of the rating is assigned to an extremely cheap solution to the problems of car safety without any applications for leadership or unique operational characteristics. Niteo LX-10 is a one-way communication system that has a simple dynamic protection against scanning (code grabbing) that honestly performs all the functions it contains. The range of the standard key fob here is no more than 50 meters - in comparison with the long-range responsiveness of the Alligator C-200, this is just nothing. There is a built-in immobilizer, though without the function of blocking the starter - but for such a low price, and so it will come down.

As for the service functions, then for them Niteo LX-10 car alarm should be praised: there is a side window closer, door lock during the trip, as well as a small “handful” of modes: Panic, Search for Vehicle and Polite Backlight. From security functions, you can select Anti-Hi-Jack, which works properly regardless of the testing conditions, protection when the engine is running and the possibility of its silent setting.

Alligator C-200

Car Alarm Rating: 4.5

Despite the low market value of car alarm Alligator C-200 is positioned as a full premium complex for the implementation of monitoring the safety of cars and remote control functions. One of the main advantages of this alarm is the range of maintaining an on-line communication: according to some data, it is up to 2500 meters, while users claim about 3000 meters, but without a large number of jamming elements.

The radio communication of the central unit and the pager here is implemented at a frequency of 868 MHz, and is protected by dynamic encryption BACS Dialog SST. Manufacturers also praise the introduction of an immobilizer with an additional engine blocking, but there is nothing surprising about it for a long time. In general, this list of the whole range of features Alligator C-200 and is limited: you can add, perhaps, remote engine start timer, calendar or fixing the minimum allowable temperature. The rest of the "architecture" has long been familiar and does not represent much value in our review.

Sheriff ZX-750 PRO

Car Alarm Rating: 4.4

Car alarm Sheriff ZX-750 PRO is a fairly standard model of security system that uses a dynamic communication channel and control principles from an interactive pager, equipped with a LCD-display. It is one of the frequent choices of users in terms of cost, the benefit of a set of functions allows you to talk about the fact of optimal and profitable purchase. Here, as in all modern systems, the ability to automatically start the engine for preheating is implemented, which is especially useful in the winter time.

In addition, the Sheriff ZX-750 PRO alarm system can boast a system of intelligent bypassing fault zones while maintaining the functionality of the remaining units and modules. An important nuance, according to experts, is a large number of optional additions like the HP-type blocking relay or R350 / R450. But here the situation is rather twofold than purely positive. Yes, the empowerment of a single device is always cool, but do not forget that all additional acquisitions require serious spending. And such a policy of interaction with customers can already erase the device from the budget ... so you should think twice whether you need a system with "truncated" capabilities.

Best alarm with auto start

STARLINE A93 CAN + LIN

Car Alarm Rating: 4.9

Inexpensive integrated security system that implements all the necessary functions to ensure complete safety of the vehicle. It supports communication at a distance of up to 2000 meters, encrypting a channel using a dynamic code. It works at temperatures from -50 to +85 degrees Celsius, thanks to which it feels great in the harsh climatic zones of Russia. The central unit receives information from keyfobs (included), a regular key (Slave mode), and can optionally use a smartphone to control if the GSM module is in addition.

Among the service functions of StarLine A93, you can highlight the ability to auto-start the engine (by temperature, calendar or interval assignment), automatic adjustment of glass to its extreme position, as well as search for cars for especially forgetful people at rush hours.The only nuance of the control unit is sufficiently large dimensions, which prevents its installation in some areas. However, for professionals it will not be a big problem. As a final plus, let's highlight the availability of CAN and LIN interfaces, which add flexibility to the budget device.

Pandora DXL 3945

Car Alarm Rating: 4.8

A representative of the Pandora company, a premium security complex with a contactless tag, a regular key (and a keyless immobilizer system), GSM modules and optional GPS / GLONASS connectivity, stopped at one step from the leading rating line. Like other representatives of the model range, DXL 3945 allows you to work with a huge list of individual devices: from a standard D-705 key fob and a smartphone to smart watch Pandora RW-04, purchased for a fee.

Compact by itself, the central unit of the device can be placed at any point without fear of disrupting the stability of receiving signals from the satellite - in addition, the engineers did not lose and equipped the system with all universal CAN interfaces in order to enable the unit to interface with tires on any model and make of car . In addition to the standard set of full-featured functions, the Pandora DXL 3945 can undergo a comprehensive upgrade: to enhance security, you can retrofit the RR-102 blocking relay, the RHM-06 under-hood lock control module and the NAV-035 GPS antenna to implement the same satellite surveillance system.

Tomahawk TZ-9010

Car Alarm Rating: 4.7

The ergonomic integrated security system of the Tomahawk TZ-9010 has even more functions than the Scher-Khan Logicar A. described below. We will not be able to highlight all of them in our rating format, but let's talk about the most important ones. Perhaps one of these is the implemented system for bypassing the faulty zone, in which the connection between the main control unit and the faulty sensor is broken without affecting the operation of other elements. This is very important both when attempting to force a crack, and when spontaneous damage occurs.

A huge role in maintaining the security of the Tomahawk TZ-9010 is assigned to a self-diagnostic system, in which the system, at the signal level, checks the tightness of the door locks, the trunk, and the height of the windows. There is a two-button unlock function: pressing once will only open the driver's door, while the second pressing unlocks the passenger doors. And, of course, let's not forget to note the possibility of autorun engine with control of its temperature parameters and climate inside the cabin. Having added here a reliable dynamic code protection and an abundance of alarm modes, we will get an excellent security system for 100% security of your car.

Scher-Khan Logicar A

Car Alarm Rating: 4.6

A worthy representative of the series of alarms Logicar from Scher-Khan, providing the ability to receive / transmit a signal at 1500 meters.A-version uses a unique encryption system MAGIC CODE ™ PRO 2, developed and modified directly by the manufacturers themselves. They, in turn, give a guarantee on the protection of transmitted data, as well as on the device itself (for 5 years).

A very pleasant fact for car owners is that the Scher-Khan Logicar A car alarm is fully adapted for use in the Russian climate - its operating temperature range is from -85 to +50 degrees Celsius. As in the case with all models in this category of rating, this function has an automatic engine start with the ability to control the temperature. Only here, in an effort to make the most universal system, engineers from Scher-Khan went a little further, equipping the module with protocols to enable the Pit-Stop, Turbo modes and the standard start at intervals of the engine's warm-up start (2, 4, 8 and 24 hours). But at the same time, they did not forget about the security component, for which they naturally occupy such a high place in the final list of the best.

Alligator C-3C

Car Alarm Rating: 4.5

Quite a budget version of the car alarm, providing users with a full layout of the available connection interfaces and even the ability to connect a GSM module. The main chip of Alligator C-3C can be called connectivity support via CAN, CAN-LIN and 2CAN to a digital bus, which makes it absolutely suitable in any model of any car brand.

A dynamic code serves as the encryption channel of the communication channel of the original block with a keyfob. It is impossible to select it under the conditions of using known code grabbers. Speaking of the key fob: it has four control buttons (one of which is an engine control button) and a display for receiving notifications. And besides, it is not the only one included: a similar model is used as a spare duplicate, but without the possibility of receiving a return signal (with three buttons without a display). Thus, behind a rather simple-looking device, there is a very cool model that provides not only the car’s security, but also gives the opportunity to fully manage the pre-start of the engine, and, moreover, with the ability to monitor its temperature in real time.

Centurion IS-10

Car Alarm Rating: 4.4

At the heart of the management of this car alarm is a standard remote control with three control buttons, a communication channel with the main working unit and a display for viewing notifications. The Centurion IS-10 does not provide for the presence of an application and communication with a smartphone, so the key ring remains the only and vital object of manipulation. The communication channel here is encrypted using the 3DU code system - fairly reliable, but still subject to rare hacks.

Of the main advantages of the Centurion IS-10 car alarm, users highlight the realization of the ability to automatically start the engine and a very sensitive (reasonably) shock sensor, which automatically sends a signal to the feedback keychain (because there is a standard keychain without an operating system). Thus, it was possible to prevent more than one case of vandalism with cars, and this is a great advantage of this device. In addition, experts note the similarity of Centurion IS-10 with StarLine A93 - the first is quite a quality replica of the second.

Best alarms with GSM module

Pandora DXL 3910

Car Alarm Rating: 4.9

An expensive and high-quality security device of a premium level, which is controlled through a special application for a smartphone (without options, since there is no regular keychain). The system does not have a Bluetooth interface, so the connection is established only by connecting via a GSM module. However, this affects the efficiency of work a little - GSM is distinguished by high reliability and a long interval of action.

A very important feature of the Pandora DXL 3910 car alarm is the presence of an autonomous power source - the CR 2032 battery, which ensures long and stable operation of the device without recharging. Like all self-respecting premium-level alarms, this device comes with a CAN connector, suitable for connecting the main module to a standard digital bus. This greatly facilitates the work of the master and guarantees the possibility of installation on cars of any brand and model. As a final positive fact in the “biography” of the DXL 3910, we can note the results of independent expert tests, in which the complete deactivation of the module was performed only once in 75 attempts, which speaks for itself.

StarLine Twage B94 GSM Slave

Car Alarm Rating: 4.8

The security system of the premium segment, taking control of not only the safety of the vehicle, but also the individual systems: fuel pump, air conditioning system and light indication. Together with the central unit in the StarLine Twage B94 GSM Slave kit, a special key ring is supplied, which receives notifications about various changes in the condition of the car. In addition, in the alarm system the possibility of connecting with a smartphone, as well as keyless immobilizer bypass for engine start (including by the set timer), is realized.

The theoretical range of communication between the StarLine Twage B94 GSM Slave’s central unit and key fob reaches 2 kilometers, after which the built-in GSM module begins to respond for notifications. At the same time, control over the security of signal transmission is given to a two-stage protection system, which shows good results in preventing the reading of the digital code of wireless communication sources. In the end, the user gets a very stable and well-organized car alarm that monitors the condition of the car in the complex, and not in a single parameter of anti-theft security.

Pandect X-3150

Car Alarm Rating: 4.7

The third line of the rating goes to the product development company Pandect with impressive hardware and amazing ease of management. Protection against burglary in the X-3150 is due to the presence of a dynamic dynamic code (for communication at 868 MHz), changing each time the central unit is requested - this implementation negates almost all unauthorized access attempts. It is possible to integrate the base via GSM or Bluetooth interfaces, as well as keyless access with immobilizer bypass. This, in turn, allows car alarms to automatically start the engine with preheater regulation.

Included with the Pandect X-3150 car alarm, a special control key is supplied that can be replaced with a smartphone with an installed application. But, perhaps, one of the main advantages of the alarm system is that it comes with a multisystem CAN interface to realize the integration of the central unit with the standard digital bus of the car. This allows you to avoid additional expenses and makes the device one of the most staffed in its segment.

The best telematic car alarm

StarLine M96 L

Car Alarm Rating: 4.9

The alarm system is quite controversial in its conservatism, the main disadvantage of which was the lack of a keyless immobilizer bypass. Instead, StarLine M96 L designers have relied on improving device reliability in emergency conditions, as well as versatility. Unlike other representatives of the category, this car alarm has its own lithium-ion battery, which maintains the operability of the central control unit even in case of disconnection of the on-board power network (battery removal).

In addition, a very serious advantage of car alarm StarLine M96 L is the ability to establish a connection with a smartphone via Bluetooth or GSM-connection, which is very convenient for business trips abroad or traveling. Do not forget to mention the possibility of the system automatically notifying the owner of the car about failures in the fuel supply system: the central unit is connected to the vehicle’s on-board computer and retrieves information about the malfunction by a simple request. All this makes the M96th a special device that will definitely become a guarantee of safety for your car.

Pandect X-1900 BT

Car Alarm Rating: 4.8

The second line of the rating goes to the Pandect X-1900 BT not by chance - there are a sufficient number of "chips" in the asset of this device. The new development has demonstrated excellent opportunities in terms of driver authorization to access the car - this can be done via Bluetooth via tags, a smartphone (a special application is required) or a Pandora smart watch. GPS / GLONASS systems are also integrated here, as well as the possibility of keyless immobilizer bypass. There is a function to control the range of the Hands-Free system, which allows you to automatically unlock the car when the owner approaches a certain distance.

Of course, it is foolish to believe that the Pandect X-1900 BT car alarm has no flaws. As users and installation experts note, this alarm system, although it works with satellite communication antennas, does so extremely reluctantly and capriciously. It’s all about the location of the central unit under the panel: in spite of its compactness and the possibility of fixing, in fact, anywhere, a very important step in the installation will be to find the optimal point without any interference. In the end, the car alarm system from Pandect, although it represents the premium segment, has a number of pinpoints that make it difficult to fully appreciate the advantages (of which there are many).

Ghost-840

Car Alarm Rating: 4.7

The leading car alarm among the entire range of "Ghosts", which supports the management of both the key (the standard method) and a special mobile application. It is noteworthy that in all these cases for access to the salon it is necessary to use either radio tags with encrypted code (remote opening method) or a pin code (using the buttons of the on-board system).

The connection with the central unit in the case of the “Ghost-840” is established by laying a 12-volt wire straight to the pLine-221 micro relay, which (due to its compact dimensions) can be placed under the control panel almost anywhere. Such a connection method is much safer than a remote one - if radio wave communication can be intercepted, then the wired data transmission method requires connecting the device to the control unit, which is very long, expensive and unsafe for the potential burglar himself. However, even if it is possible to extract the alarm itself, the built-in accelerometer of the control unit will perform the function of blocking the engine start, which will negate attempts to steal the car on its own course.

---

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.