Cheap Home Security Systems
Cheap home security systems give you affordable equipment and services without sacrificing durability and reliability. Most cheap home security systems are contract-free and have generous trial periods. You can also save money by choosing DIY installation and self-monitoring options. The best affordable home security systems give you more flexibility with budget-friendly equipment options like picking the equipment you want and adding more later. Here are our top five picks for cheap home security systems we’d recommend.
Compare Cheap Home Security Providers
 SimpliSafe Security |  Cove Security |  Ring Home Security |  Blue by ADT |  Abode Security | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Professional monitoring cost | $14.99/mo. | $14.99/mo. | $10/mo. | $19.99/mo. | $19.80/mo. |
Equipment starts at
| $183 | $136.95 | $199.99 | $179.99 | $219.99 |
Installation
| DIY & Professional | DIY | DIY & Professional | DIY | DIY |
Trial period
| 60 days | 60 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
Compare Affordable Security Systems
- Best Overall DIY Security System
Our take on SimpliSafe Home Security:
SimpliSafe is our top pick for inexpensive monitoring, durable equipment and reliable services that simplify home security. You’ll have all the right devices and features to give you peace of mind — even when the unexpected happens.
★ Recommended package: Barrington
Pros
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- Wireless equipment
- Cellular monitoring
Cons
- Mobile alerts not available in the basic monitoring plan
- No selection of smart home devices
- Smart home capabilities not available in the basic monitoring plan
Our take on Cove Security:
Although Cove Security launched just a couple of years ago, it offers some unique perks, such as the ability to avoid a contract by paying for equipment upfront altogether. Another major selling point is Cove’s ease of installation.
★ Recommended plan: Build your own
Pros
- Affordable monitoring and equipment
- Installation takes about half an hour
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Limited equipment selection
- Does not connect to Z-Wave equipment
- Smartphone app only available with the most expensive monitoring package
Our take on Ring Home Security:
Ring is a popular DIY camera choice, especially for those that aren’t looking for whole-home security quite yet. Its security systems and cameras can give you affordable security, monitoring and surveillance without a contract.
Recommended package: 14-Piece Security Alarm Kit
Pros
- Inexpensive equipment and professional monitoring
- Easy to install
- A range of security camera devices for outdoor surveillance
Cons
- Video recording not available without a Ring Protect Plan
- Higher-tiered packages cover more area but don’t add any features
- Cellular backup not available without a Ring Protect Plan
Our take on Blue by ADT:
Get trusted professional monitoring and an easy-to-install security system with Blue by ADT. Even better, your first month of monitoring is free. As a Blue by ADT customer, you have the option to choose a no-contract plan. By doing this, you can purchase the equipment and skip the professional monitoring. You can always go back and add professional monitoring to your system if you decide you need it later down the line.
★Recommended package: Blue Doorbell Camera System
Pros
- Smart home compatibility
- 7-Day Practice Period
- 24/7 professional monitoring available
- No contract option
- Free self-monitoring
Cons
- Limited Blue by ADT equipment
- Cloud storage costs extra
- No smart home add-ons
Our take on Abode Home Security:
Abode lets you create your home security package based on your equipment and monitoring needs. Choose between DIY and professional monitoring for your DIY equipment to give you the best home security at an affordable price.
★Recommended package: The Iota All-In-One Security Kit
Pros
- Flexible monitoring plans
- Option for short-term professional monitoring
- Access to an all-in-one security system
Cons
- Professional monitoring only available in the highest tiered monitoring plan
- Cellular backup not available in the basic monitoring plan
- Understanding custom home automation features could be difficult for some
Factors to Consider When Buying Cheap Home Security Systems
Cheap home security systems can save you money, but there are a few factors to keep in mind before you buy. Here are some takeaways to consider as you shop for affordable security options:
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- Equipment must be purchased upfront. Some options like ADT and Vivint let you pay for your equipment through your monthly contract cost. Equipment costs can be expensive upfront, depending on the provider.
- Extra fees. Keep additional fees in mind when adding up home security costs. Factor in activation fees and cloud storage for surveillance. Sometimes these fees can make it more expensive than planned.
- Look for warranties and trial periods. Make sure you understand your system’s warranty before buying. Some equipment warranties only last one year and only cover certain parts of the system or service. It’s best to see if a trial period is available to try the system risk-free.
A cheap home security system can provide peace of mind, just like some of the more expensive alarm systems on the market. You can always choose a basic starter kit and add additional equipment over time. If you decide you want more advanced technology or a lifetime warranty, you may want to go with a pricier provider. It’s best to also look for coupons or deals to save money while still giving you a durable, reliable security system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Home Security Systems
The best cheap home security system will depend on your equipment and service needs. If you only want the basics for intrusion detection (control panel, sensors, and signage) at a low cost, then we’d recommend choosing a basic package with a provider like SimpliSafe, Cove, Blue by ADT, and Ring.
Home security costs depend on the provider, equipment, and any monitoring fee. With most home security providers, you can expect to pay at least $100 for the equipment. For professional monitoring, you can expect to pay at least $8 a month with DIY systems.
DIY providers usually don’t require a contract. You’ll typically be responsible for the cost of equipment and monitoring. If you want a professional to install your system, you’ll also have to pay an installation fee.
Yes, most cheap home security systems have a monthly monitoring fee unless you decide to monitor your own system. In that case, you may be able to avoid this fee.
As with most home security systems, you’ll get the essentials: a control panel, motion sensors, door/window sensors, and signage. If you want additional equipment like security cameras, smart home devices, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, glass break sensors, and other devices, you can expect to pay more. If you want some of these additional features for less, we’d recommend providers like Blue by ADT and Cove.
DIY systems are more convenient to take with you when you move because they are not hardwired into your home’s electrical system. However, if you don’t feel comfortable with DIY installation or monitoring, we recommend looking for a professionally installed system for extra help.
Although many cheap security system providers offer self-monitoring as an option that suits your budget, self-monitoring isn’t always practical. There are moments in your life when you can’t check your phone for alerts. A professionally monitored security system is highly recommended because your home will be monitored 24/7, and police will be dispatched when needed, even if you aren’t aware of the problem yet.