Do-it-yourself home security companies aren't like the ADTs and Vivints of the world. Instead of locking you into a multiyear contract, most DIY systems give you the flexibility to chose how and when you monitor your home. That usually means you can sign up for a monitoring service on an optional basis and cancel any time -- without early termination fees or other hidden charges.
MY FAVORITE OVERALL SECURITY PRODUCTS
The best professional monitoring, DIY systems, video doorbells and more
Scroll through your options below to learn more about the best DIY home security systems available today.
1.SimpliSafe Home Security
SimpliSafe was one of the first DIY home security systems to hit stores and is a reasonable alternative to ADT and other professional firms. That's due in large part to its wide variety of accessories. Its starter kit costs just $230 and underwent a hardware update recently that looks much better than before.
You still have to pay at least $15 per month to access any remote security features (something that's typically offered for free with other systems), but SimpliSafe's impressive array of accessories and solid performance make it our top pick overall.
2.Abode
Abode has all of the standard sensors and devices for an easy entry-level security system. It integrates with Amazon Alexa, IFTTT and Nest for voice-enabled arming and disarming, as well as other advanced automations. You can add accessories to the system a la carte. Professional monitoring is available for $30 per month and includes cellular backup.
It also supports Zigbee and Z-Wave, which means you can connect the system to a wide variety of third-party devices so you can control everything from within the Abode app.
I wish you didn't have to use Abode's web app to make custom rules and automations, but this scalable self-install system delivers reliable performance at a good value.
3. Nest Secure
The $499 Nest Secure alarm system starter pack comes with one Guard hub, two Tag key fobs and two Detect door/window/motion sensors. You can arm and disarm the system by entering a PIN code on the Guard's integrated key pad, by tapping a paired Tag fob over the top of the Guard hub -- or by changing the mode in the related Nest app for Android and iPhone.
The Detect sensors are my favorite part of Nest's Secure system, as you can temporarily disarm a single Detect while continuing to monitor the rest of your home. That way, you can open a window, grab the paper from your front yard -- and more -- without having to disarm your Nest Secure system.
4.Ring Alarm
Ring's $199 Alarm Security Kit includes a base station, a keypad, a contact sensor, a passive infrared motion sensor and a Z-Wave extender. $199 is a great price compared with systems like the Nest Secure and the Honeywell Smart Home Security System. Bonus: It works with Alexa, so you can use Amazon's voice assistant to arm your system and more.
The Ring Alarm also offers professional monitoring and cloud storage starting at $10 per month.
Other DIY home security options
The above list covers our favorite self-install home security systems, but there are other options out there. Here's a rundown of what else is available today.
Honeywell Smart Home Security System
Honeywell's Smart Home Security System is a DIY kit. The system's main hub is called the Camera Base Station; it's equipped with 1080p high-definition live streaming, a 145-degree viewing angle and free 24-hour cloud storage (this will change to three days during a future update). You can also add to the system with an assortment of optional accessories. Professional monitoring is not available on this system.
Here's the list of bundled kits and standalone devices, with pricing:
- Starter Kit (Camera Base Station, 2 Access Sensors, Key Fob) -- $500
- Camera Base Station -- $400
- Door and Window Access Sensors -- $40
- Key Fob -- $30
- Motion Sensor -- $50
- Indoor MotionViewer -- $99
- Outdoor MotionViewer -- $199
Scout Alarm Home Security System
The Scout Alarm security system includes a $129 hub, a $29 door/window sensor, a $49 motion sensor and a $40 water sensor -- that's $247 total. Pay $10 per month for professional monitoring, cellular and battery backup and a variety of other features. (Read more about Scout's monitoring services.) Scout works with Amazon Alexa for arming and disarming, but it doesn't have very many accessories to choose from.
SmartThings ADT Home Security Starter Kit
The $550 SmartThings ADT Home Security Starter Kit includes a 7-inch SmartThings panel, two door/window sensors and one motion detector. Its optional $200 expansion kit comes with a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector and a water leak sensor. Unlike the other DIY systems on this list, SmartThings' system comes with contract-free professional monitoring from ADT. It starts at $15 per month and goes up to $35 per month for full monitoring of both "life safety" and "home security" products.
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