Cheap Home Security Systems
Home security systems can get expensive, especially when adding on equipment like security cameras and smart home devices. Fortunately, there are cheap home security system options that still include advanced features, but may differ in setup and pricing structure. We’ve put together a list of the top 5 affordable home security systems you should consider if you’re working on a budget. Check out their features below.
Top 5 Cheap Home Security Systems in 2020
- SimpliSafe – Best for Easy Installation
- Cove – Best for Instant Text Alerts
- Blue by ADT – Our Recommended DIY Smart Home Security
- Protect America – Best Entry-Level Pricing
- Ring Home Security – Best for Video Doorbells
Compare Cheap Home Security Providers
| Pro monitoring starts at | $14.99/mo. | $14.99/mo. | $19.99/mo. (first month is free) | $19.99/mo. | $10/mo. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installation type | DIY or Professional | DIY | DIY | DIY or Professional | DIY |
| Contract | No contract required | No contract required | No contract required | 36 months | No contract required |
| Trial Period | 60 days | 60 days | 7 days | 15 days | 30 days |
| BBB rating | A+ | A | A+ | A | C- |
Compare Cheap Home Security Providers
Starting at $14.99/mo
Our take on SimpliSafe Home Security
SimpliSafe could be considered a disrupter in the home security industry, because it was among the first to provide forward-thinking customer benefits like self-installation, self-monitoring, video verification and month-to-month pricing. Its generous 60-day risk-free trial helps ensure long-term customer satisfaction.
What we like
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- Wireless equipment
- Cellular monitoring
What we don’t like
- Mobile alerts not available in the basic monitoring plan
- No selection of smart home devices
- Smart home capabilities not available in basic monitoring plan
Our take on Cove Security
You’ll find the basics you need for intrusion detection with Cove Security. Cove stands out with locked monitoring rates, a lifetime warranty, and a $5 credit each month that can be used towards any future equipment purchases. While Cove does not offer any preset home security packages, you can easily build your own online. With Cove, you also get access to features like Cove InstaText™ for fast notifications on activity in your home and voice control when you choose a Cove monitoring plan. Cove monitoring ranges from $15/mo. – $25/mo.
What we like
- Custom packages with low-pressure sales
- Easy cancellation
- 60-day money-back guarantee
What we don’t like
- Premium app subscription required for many features
- Relatively new company
- Lack of smart home integration and camera options
Our take
For decades, customers have trusted ADT’s equipment and services for extra home security and safety. Their home security systems require professional monitoring, installation and long-term contracts. Blue by ADT gives families flexible and affordable DIY security solutions with a focus on privacy with encrypted networks for your personal and home data. You’ll find smart cameras, ADT professional monitoring, and 24 hours of free cloud storage for easy home monitoring from anywhere.
What we like
- Smart home compatibility
- 7-Day Practice Period
- 24/7 professional monitoring available
What we don’t like
- Limited Blue by ADT equipment
- No smart home add-ons
- Cloud storage costs extra
Starting at $19.99/mo
Our take on Protect America Home Security
Protect America stands out for its low starting prices, over 25 years of award-winning service and monitoring plans that are based on connectivity type. If you’re looking for a capable no-frills home security system you can install yourself, Protect America might have the best priced option.
What we like
- Price-match guarantee
- Smart home devices and features
- Mobile app access & control
What we don’t like
- Contract required
- Must upgrade to get video surveillance, smart features and smoke detection
- Cellular monitoring is the most expensive plan
Our take on Ring Home Security
Ring offers complete security systems, video doorbells, cameras and more for your home’s protection.The base security system comes with 5 pieces: a base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, and range extender. This alarm security kit has a retail price of $199.00.
What we like
- Inexpensive equipment and professional monitoring
- Easy to install
- A range of security camera devices
What we don’t like
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Home Security Systems
What is the best low cost home security system?
We think that the right home security system for you will heavily depend on your needs, and it might not necessarily be the cheapest. If you only want the basics for intrusion detection (control panel, sensors, and signage) at a low cost price, then we’d recommend choosing a basic package with a provider like SimpliSafe, Cove, Blue by ADT, and Ring.
How much does a home security system cost?
This is going to depend on the provider, equipment, and any monitoring fee as well. For most home security providers, you can expect to pay at least $100 and up for their systems. For professional monitoring, you can expect to pay at least $8/mo. (and that’s on the low end). But for DIY providers, you’ll generally pay $14.99/mo. and up for professional monitoring.
Do cheap home security systems require a contract?
If you’re looking at DIY providers, the answer is no. Most DIY home security providers do not 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.
Do cheap home security systems have a monthly 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.
What equipment can I get with an affordable home security system?
As with most home security systems, you’ll get the essentials: a control panel, motion sensor(s), 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.
