Feeling uneasy about your home's security but dreading the hefty price tag of professional systems? You're not alone. Many homeowners and renters are seeking affordable ways to protect their property and loved ones. The good news is that DIY home security systems have evolved significantly, offering reliable protection without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 budget-friendly DIY security systems, empowering you to take control of your home's safety without sacrificing your financial well-being.
DIY security systems are becoming increasingly popular, with approximately 30.2 million U.S. households utilizing them [18]. These systems provide a customizable solution tailored to your specific needs, from basic motion sensors to advanced outdoor cameras [2]. They also save you money on installation costs, giving you control over the setup process [4]. According to Consumer Affairs, over 60% of burglars would avoid a home with a visible on-site alarm system [2]. Let’s dive into the top contenders.
Why Choose a DIY Security System?
Before we delve into the specific systems, let's consider why DIY home security is an attractive option for many:
- Cost-Effectiveness: DIY systems eliminate professional installation and often have lower monthly monitoring fees (or even none if you opt for self-monitoring).
- Customization: You can tailor the system to your specific needs, adding or removing components as required [4].
- Flexibility: DIY systems are easy to relocate if you move [14].
- Control: You have complete control over the system and its settings.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly DIY Security Systems
1. SimpliSafe: Best Overall DIY System
SimpliSafe is a popular choice for DIY home security due to its ease of installation, affordable equipment, and flexible monitoring options [5, 23, 29]. The company designs its own products, potentially cutting out middleman upcharges [3]. You can choose to self-monitor, or opt for professional monitoring plans, starting at reasonable prices [26]. SimpliSafe offers a variety of different starter kits that usually start at around $320, and you can often get them for less through discounts [2].
Key Features:
- Easy Installation: SimpliSafe is known for its easy-to-install systems, making it accessible for those who want reliable home security without complicated installations [10].
- Equipment Variety: Offers a wide range of sensors, cameras, and accessories [2].
- Flexible Monitoring: Choose between self-monitoring or professional monitoring plans with no long-term contracts [5, 26].
- Active Guard Monitoring: SimpliSafe’s Active Guard monitoring provides proactive protection to help stop a break-in before it happens [5].
- Wireless Indoor and Outdoor Cameras: SimpliSafe offers active intervention through its wireless indoor and outdoor cameras [15].
Pros:
- Easy to install and use.
- Affordable equipment and monitoring plans.
- No long-term contracts.
- Wide range of equipment options.
Cons:
- Smart home integration could be stronger [5].
- Some features require a subscription [2].
Practical Example:
Imagine you're going on vacation. You can easily set up your SimpliSafe system with door/window sensors, motion detectors, and a security camera. If a sensor is triggered while you're away, you'll receive an alert on your smartphone, and the monitoring center (if you subscribe) can dispatch emergency services if needed.
2. Ring Alarm: Best for Amazon Ecosystem Users
Ring Alarm, made by Amazon, is a strong contender in the DIY security market, particularly for those already invested in the Amazon ecosystem [5, 16, 28]. The Ring Alarm (2nd generation) offers an excellent kit for smaller homes at a reasonable price, with a reliable platform that can easily connect to any Amazon Echo or Alexa devices you may have (if you choose a subscription) [2]. The app offers a simple setup process that first-timers shouldn't have much difficulty with [2].
Key Features:
- Easy Setup: Ring's app offers a simple setup process [2].
- Amazon Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Ring devices and Amazon Alexa [2].
- Affordable Monitoring: At $20 a month, Ring Alarm includes cloud video storage for all of your Ring video doorbells and security cameras without forcing you to upgrade to a more expensive plan [5].
- Equipment Packages: Offers several equipment packages to choose from and a fleet of Ring outdoor cameras and lights to protect your home and keep your backyard illuminated [5].
Pros:
- Affordable equipment and monitoring.
- Excellent integration with Amazon devices.
- Easy to install.
Cons:
- Integrations with platforms like Google Assistant aren't possible [2].
- Relies heavily on the Amazon ecosystem.
Practical Example:
You're expecting a package delivery. With a Ring Video Doorbell, you can see and speak to the delivery person remotely via your smartphone. You can also receive alerts when motion is detected, allowing you to monitor your porch for potential package thieves. You can then arm your Ring Alarm system through the Alexa voice assistant.
3. Cove Security: Most Affordable Equipment
Cove is a newer home security company known for its low prices and customer experience [3, 5, 23, 28]. Cove offers two affordable monitoring options, which both give you professional monitoring, environmental monitoring, InstaText notifications, cellular backup, access to the app, and hourly automated check-ins [3]. Their systems start as low as $99 with inexpensive security cameras [3].
Key Features:
- Affordable Equipment: One of the cheapest systems around [3].
- Low-Cost Monitoring: Plans start at $19.99 per month [3].
- Customer Experience: Known for its customer experience [5].
- Flexible Payment Preferences: Offers freedom with flexible payment preferences [9].
Pros:
- Very affordable equipment and monitoring.
- No long-term contracts.
- Good customer service.
Cons:
- Equipment may not be as high-quality as some competitors [23].
- Fewer smart home integrations compared to some other systems [32].
Practical Example:
You want a basic security system for your apartment. You purchase a Cove system with door/window sensors and a motion detector for under $200. You pay $19.99 per month for professional monitoring, giving you peace of mind without a significant financial burden.
4. Abode: Best for Smart Home Enthusiasts
Abode stands out for its flexibility and smart home integrations, making it a great choice for tech-savvy users [3, 5, 10, 16]. It is ideal if you want complete control over your security setup [10]. Abode excels in providing customizable security solutions tailored to users’ needs with no contracts [10].
Key Features:
- Smart Home Integration: Works with a wide range of smart home devices, including Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, and Apple HomeKit [10, 11].
- Customization: Offers highly customizable security solutions tailored to users' needs [10].
- No Contracts: No contracts required [10].
- Monitoring Options: Supports both professional monitoring and self-installation, so you can decide between manual and professional control of your home security [9].
Pros:
- Excellent smart home integration.
- Flexible monitoring options.
- No contracts.
Cons:
- Equipment can be more expensive than some competitors.
- Customer service ratings are lower than some competitors [3].
Practical Example:
You have a smart home with Philips Hue lights, an Ecobee thermostat, and a Yale smart lock. You can integrate all these devices with your Abode security system, creating a seamless and automated smart home security experience. For example, when the Abode alarm is triggered, your Philips Hue lights can flash red, and your Yale smart lock can automatically lock all doors.
5. Arlo Home Security: Best Self-Monitoring
Arlo is known for its high-quality security cameras, and their home security system is a good option for those who primarily want video surveillance with self-monitoring capabilities [5, 16]. The sensors can detect motion and sounds such as smoke or CO alarms, plus changes in ambient light or temperature [2].
Key Features:
- High-Quality Cameras: Arlo offers great features and clear video [5].
- Self-Monitoring Focus: System doesn't require a subscription to use [5].
- 8-in-1 Sensors: Affordable starter kits available for $150 with discounts [24].
- App Controls: Great app controls [24].
Pros:
- Excellent camera quality.
- No required subscription for basic use.
Cons:
- Pricier than most brands [5].
- The main restrictions for self-monitoring is that there's no smoke or carbon monoxide alarm detection without a professional monitoring plan [5].
Practical Example:
You live in an apartment and primarily want to monitor your front door and living room. You purchase an Arlo security system with a base station, door sensor, and two Arlo cameras. You self-monitor the system, receiving alerts on your smartphone when motion is detected. You can then view the live camera feeds to assess the situation.
DIY Security System Installation Tips
Regardless of which system you choose, here are some general tips for successful DIY home security installation:
- Plan Your Setup: Assess your home's layout and identify all potential entry points [14, 25]. Determine the best locations for sensors and cameras [4, 14, 25].
- Read the Instructions: Carefully read the instructions before you begin [14, 27].
- Test Your System: After installation, test all sensors and cameras to ensure they are working properly [14].
- Secure Your Wi-Fi: Protect your home network with a strong password to prevent unauthorized access to your security system [2].
- Consider Professional Monitoring: While self-monitoring can save money, professional monitoring provides 24/7 protection and can dispatch emergency services even when you're unable to respond [3, 26].
- Placement of the Control Panel: Be strategic about control panel placement; it should be easily accessible yet hidden from view [4, 25].
- Motion Sensor Placement: Aim motion sensors at doorways and stick motion sensors at least 6 ft. high, and in the corner of a room or hallway [12].
- Exterior Lighting: Add enough exterior lighting to enable your CCTV cameras to capture footage of any potential intruder [4, 25].
- Install Security Components: Make sure to install security components like smoke detectors, flood sensors, etc. to ensure your family's safety [4].
The Bottom Line
Protecting your home doesn't have to cost a fortune. With a little research and effort, you can install a budget-friendly DIY security system that provides reliable protection and peace of mind. Consider your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise when choosing the right system for you.
Next Steps
Ready to take control of your home security? Here are some actionable next steps:
- Research: Explore the DIY security systems mentioned above and compare their features and pricing.
- Plan: Assess your home's security needs and determine the components you'll require.
- Purchase: Order your chosen system and any additional accessories.
- Install: Follow the installation instructions carefully and test your system thoroughly.
- Monitor: Choose a self-monitoring or professional monitoring plan that fits your needs and budget.
By taking these steps, you can create a secure and protected home environment without breaking the bank. Don't wait – start your DIY security journey today!