What is DIY Home Security?
DIY home security systems are designed for homeowners and renters who would rather install their own security system and or monitor their own system. There are a host of DIY home security providers today, many with inexpensive professional monitoring. Most DIY security systems are wireless, meaning they do not require hardwiring. Some of the devices can be adhered to walls, doors, and windows or placed on level surfaces. Some DIY providers also allow you to choose between professional monitoring or self-monitoring. With professional monitoring, a team of specialists are available around-the-clock for emergencies. If you’d rather self-monitor your security system, you’ll be responsible for receiving alerts and alerting the authorities if necessary. DIY home security is more suitable for those who are looking for more affordable solutions, are more tech savvy, and are likely to move more frequently.
The 10 Best DIY Home Security Systems
- SimpliSafe – Best for DIY Self-Installation
- Blue by ADT – Best for Flexible Monitoring
- Cove Security – Best for Instant Text Alerts
- Protect America – Best Entry-Level Pricing
- Frontpoint – Best for Professional Monitoring
- Alder Security – Best for Basic Security
- Link Interactive – Best Contract Flexibility
- Ring – Best Video Doorbell System
- LifeShield – Best Wireless Equipment
- Abode Connected Home Security – Best for Free Monitoring
Compare Top DIY Home Security Systems
| Starting price for monitoring | $14.99/mo. | $19.99/mo. | $19.99/mo. | $14.99/mo. | $44.99/mo. | Not provided | $30.99/mo. | $10/mo. | $24.98/mo. | $8.33/mo. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Professional installation option | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Self-monitoring option | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Professional monitoring option | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Contract length | No contract required | No contract required | 36 months | No contract required | No contract required | 5 years | 1-3 years | No contract required | No contract required | No contract required |
| Guarantees / Refunds | 60 days | 30 days | 15 days | 60 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ | A | A | A+ | B- | A+ | C | A+ | C |
The Best DIY Home Security Systems
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
SimpliSafe Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
SimpliSafe equipment is attractive, modern and easy to install, and it adds new products all the time. SimpliSafe systems work with Alexa and Google Assistant, so it supports voice commands through Amazon Echo and Google Home devices (sold separately).
SimpliSafe’s Monitoring Service
SimpliSafe’s monitoring services offers two tiers of 24/7 monitoring plans (one with expanded app functionality, one without) with a Visual Verification option for customers with cameras. Visual Verification lets monitoring personnel review surveillance footage if an alarm is triggered, which SimpliSafe says speeds response time and reduces false alarms. These services are performed by COPS Monitoring, a company with 41+ years of experience serving over 3 million customers. There’s also an option to self-monitor using the mobile app, but some functionality is limited if you don’t subscribe to a monitoring plan.
Why SimpliSafe is Best for DIY Installation
According to SimpliSafe, installation requires no tools and usually takes less than 30 minutes. The ease of self-installation makes SimpliSafe a go-to choice for renters, homeowners and frequent movers alike.
SimpliSafe Pricing & Value
With SimpliSafe, equipment is paid for upfront (or financed through PayPal Credit) and packages start at $229. Long-term monitoring contracts are not required and month-to-month subscriptions range from $14.99-$24.99/mo. Overall, SimpliSafe is a popular system that offers great value with lots of flexibility.
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
Blue by ADT Security Packages and Smart Home Equipment
Blue by ADT equipment is easy to install and connect to your favorite smart home equipment including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Their devices support voice control and remote control using the Blue by ADT mobile app for modern home security. Blue by ADT has a collection of cameras that connect to LifeShield security systems wirelessly.
Blue by ADT’s Monitoring Service
Blue by ADT gives you the option to choose between self-monitoring free of charge and professional monitoring for only $19.99/mo. Their professional monitoring plan comes with emergency alerts, 30 days of cloud video storage and the first month free.
Why Blue by ADT is Best for DIY Smart Home Security
Blue by ADT is completely DIY for an easy, free set-up that doesn’t require a professional. Their videos and technical support make it easy to set up your cameras and wirelessly connect them to your smart home equipment. What we love most is that their indoor camera doubles as fire and carbon monoxide detection to cover your family’s safety and security. Their equipment is filled with next-level features including custom motion zones and facial recognition making them the best provider for DIY smart home security.
Blue by ADT Pricing & Value
Blue by ADT has affordable cameras and monitoring services. All cameras cost $199 each and the monitoring service is $19.99/mo. on a month-to-month rate for more flexibility without requiring a contract.
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
Cove Security Packages & Equipment
Cove doesn’t offer preset packages you can choose from, but you can easily put together your own security system online. Cove focuses on providing the essentials you need for protecting your home with intrusion detection equipment and an indoor security camera for monitoring your home. Cove’s Touch Alarm Panel boasts two-way communication and Smash & Grab Protection for additional security against intruders.
Cove Security Monitoring Services
You’ll get 24/7 professional monitoring with Cove through either the Cove Basic or Cove Plus plans. Cove provides this service through COPS Monitoring, an organization that has 6 UL-Listed centers. Your home will be monitored over a 100% cellular connection for greater protection against power outages or Wi-Fi internet issues.
DIY Installation
Cove Security’s system is designed for DIY installation. The provider claims their system can be installed in as little as 30 minutes. Cove’s equipment is pre-configured so that when it arrives, you’ll simply follow the provided instructions for setup.
Cove Security Pricing & Value
With Cove, you have greater control over the cost of your security system by choosing the devices you need and want online, no up-selling involved. Compared to other DIY providers, Cove’s equipment is less expensive, and you may be able to find the devices on sale during any promotions.
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
Protect America Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Protect America’s equipment and plans center around simple and affordable home security systems, with upgradeable capabilities that include smart home automation, video service and smoke and fire monitoring. It doesn’t offer the same variety of smart home devices as some other top providers, but it does offer fundamentals like app control, smart lighting and locks
Protect America Monitoring Services
Protect America subcontracts its monitoring services to COPS Monitoring, an award-winning, UL-certified company with six nationwide monitoring stations and a 16.2-second average priority alarm response time. It also offers different monitoring plans based on the desired connectivity – landline, broadband or cellular.
DIY Installation
Frontpoint customers give the provider high ratings for service, especially throughout the product selection and DIY installation process. The company also maintains a high Better Business Bureau rating, and its mobile app has strong reviews in the Apple Store and Google Play. Plus, the provider recently shifted from an outdated long-term contract model to a more user-friendly monthly plan.
Protect America Pricing & Value
In our opinion, Protect America’s biggest downside is its three-year minimum contract. But there’s a plus side: Once you enter the contract, Protect America provides the essential home security equipment for free without additional upfront costs. You’re only responsible for the monthly monitoring fee and any optional upgrades. There’s also a price match guarantee.
Starting at $44.99/mo
Our take on Frontpoint Home Security
Frontpoint offers a competitive range of security equipment and monitoring services with the freedom of do-it-yourself installation and month-to-month contracts. We also appreciate their straightforward pricing and solid customer service reputation.
What we like
- Month-to-month contract
- Renter-friendly services and equipment
- Good customer service
What we don’t like
- Outdoor camera, doorbell camera only available as add-ons
- Limited home automation devices available
- High monitoring starting price
Frontpoint Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
The Frontpoint security product lineup includes everything you need for smart home security, including activity detection, cameras and mobile app access. Choose a starter package or build your own system from scratch. The Frontpoint alarm panel also serves as a Z-wave smart home hub.
Frontpoint Monitoring Services
Frontpoint customers are served by Rapid Response Monitoring, a multi-award winning monitoring center with two central stations. Rapid Response is UL-certified and approved by the New York Fire Department (NYFD), one of the strictest certifications in this field.
Why Frontpoint is Best for Customer Service
Frontpoint customers give the provider high ratings for service, especially throughout the product selection and DIY installation process. The company also maintains a high Better Business Bureau rating, and its mobile app has strong reviews in the Apple Store and Google Play. Plus, the provider recently shifted from an outdated long-term contract model to a more user-friendly monthly plan.
Frontpoint Pricing & Value
Frontpoint equipment pricing is on the low end, but its monitoring services start at a higher price point than many of its competitors. However, Frontpoint offers all customers benefits that are often only available through higher-tier plans, such as complete mobile app access and “Crash & Smash” protection. Frontpoint pricing represents a good value overall and it’s even better with a seasonal discount. There’s also a 30-day no-risk trial period.
Starting at $/mo
Our take on Alder Security
Named the 10th fastest growing company in Utah by Fast 50 and Utah 100, Alder Security’s aim is to provide simple, customized home security solutions. Alder does not have a selection of pre-made packages you can choose from, but works with customers to build out security systems that are best for their homes. With Alder, you’ll find essential intrusion detection and environmental monitoring equipment. The price of professional monitoring will vary based on the equipment you choose. As some additional perks you’ll find with Alder Security, installation services are free if you ever need assistance, and your equipment is covered by a lifetime warranty.
What we like
- Fast, 3-second alarm response rate
- Limited lifetime equipment warranty
- Easy DIY installation process
What we don’t like
- No equipment pricing provided online
- No monitoring pricing provided online
- No smart home devices
Alder Security Packages & Equipment
Alder doesn’t offer any preset home security packages you can choose from. The provider instead will work with you to help you choose the right devices to protect your home. Some will find this aspect about Alder frustrating as they may be upsold on equipment that they may not need. Some customers may also want the ease of choosing a preset package versus working with a specialist.
With Alder Security, you will find typical equipment such as a touchscreen control panel, motion sensors, door/window sensors, a key fob, smoke detector, flood & freeze sensor, and signage. Alder also offers security cameras. You can choose from the Arlo Pro Indoor/Outdoor camera or the YI Indoor Camera.
Alder Security Monitoring Services
Alder offers professional monitoring via a cellular network connection. The price will depend on the equipment you purchase. The provider doesn’t advertise monitoring pricing online, but by working with a specialist, you can find out how much you’ll need to pay for monthly monitoring.
DIY Installation
Alder Security systems are designed for self-installation. The provider claims that installation is an easy process–all you’ll need to do is follow the instructions for setup and you can have your system ready in as little as 10 minutes. Installation doesn’t require any tools on your part as most devices can be adhered in the appropriate locations.
Alder Security Pricing & Value
Alder doesn’t advertise pricing for its security systems online, and since each customer’s individual system may vary, the price may vary as well. We’re not able to compare Alder to other providers regarding price, but Alder does offer the essentials and more for protecting your home, and we believe that contributes to the provider’s overall value.
Our take on Link Interactive Home Security
Link Interactive combines the best of time-tested security solutions with modern technology and equipment. It’s the nationwide DIY branch of Mountain Alarm Fire & Security, a commercial and residential protection company founded in 1952 operating out of Utah.
What we like
- Build-your-own equipment packages
- 1, 2 or 3-year contracts
- Family owned and operated
What we don’t like
- No smart home capabilities in base plan
- No professional installation option
- Video monitoring only available in highest-tiered plan
Link Interactive Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Link Interactive offers a wide variety of panels, sensors, remotes, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, cameras, smart home hubs and smart locks, thermostats and lights – everything you need for intrusion detection, surveillance, environmental monitoring and home automation with the freedom to build your own system from the ground up.
Link Interactive Monitoring Service
Link Interactive’s monitoring service is handled by Avantguard, a wholesale monitoring center that serves over 500,000 subscribers. Avantguard is TMA Five Diamond and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certified, both important accreditations. It’s also possible to request a self-monitored plan through Link Interactive, though it might not be available in your area, and there is still a considerable fee ($30.99/mo.) associated with app use.
Why Link Interactive is Best for DIY Custom Packages
Link Interactive’s website provides a comprehensive listing of all product options with specifications. It’s a great tool for configuring the system and learning the role of each device. We recommend you use this tool for research and call Link Interactive to actually make your purchase. At the time of writing, there are service plans, deals and options not listed online.
Link Interactive Pricing & Value
It’s possible to get a very good value with Link Interactive with the right equipment selection and service agreement. Customers purchase equipment up front and sign on to a 1, 2 or 3-year contract. Equipment runs on the expensive side, but Link rewards longer contracts with increasingly substantial discounts on equipment. Monitoring costs $30.99-$44.99 monthly.
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
Ring Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
Ring (owned by Amazon since 2018) is first and foremost a smart home technology company. It played a huge role in turning video doorbells and wireless security cameras into the everyday items they are now. Beyond cameras, Ring sells smart lighting and a customizable Alarm Security Kit with optional professional monitoring.
Ring Monitoring Services
With Ring, professional monitoring is available through the Ring Protect Plus subscription. At $10 per month or $100 per year, it’s the most affordable option we’ve seen. Monitoring services are performed by a third party monitoring service with an 30-second average response time. Ring users also can take advantage of the Neighborhood mobile app, a community social network for sharing news, security footage and safety info.
Why Ring is Best for Video Doorbells
Ring’s video doorbells help set the standard for the industry. They’re competitively priced with a well-rounded set of specs and features. Whether you want to buy a security system and add on a video doorbell, or to build a safer, smarter home one device at a time, Ring is a solid option.
Ring Pricing & Value
Ring products are generally affordable. Its video doorbells start at $99 and the 5-piece security kit starts at $199. Plus, Amazon regularly posts Ring discounts, especially around the holidays. Monitoring is a bargain compared to traditional home security companies, but remember that Ring’s first focus is smart home products, not security service.
Starting at $19.99/mo
Our take on LifeShield Security
LifeShield provides home security solutions for the DIY-er and individual who prefers professional installation. The company offers three home security packages; each package is equipped with the basics like the LifeShield base, an entry keypad, door and window sensors and more.
LifeShield is also a great option for customers who want to monitor their own homes. With self-monitoring, customers can keep tabs on activity in their homes at an affordable price and create their very own smart homes. Customers can also add 24/7 professional monitoring for as little as $19.99/mo. for the Shield Your Pad Package. Monthly monitoring costs increase with higher packages which include additional sensors, environmental detectors and more. Customers can also build out their own security system and pick out the equipment desired for their home.
What we like
- No contract
- Mobile App included in all packages
- Customizable packages
What we don’t like
- Poor customer service
- No smart home equipment
- No professional monitoring
LifeShield Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
LifeShield offers three different wireless equipment bundles plus the option to build your own. Pick between a full spectrum of intrusion protection, activity detection and environmental monitoring devices. Lifeshield doesn’t offer extensive options for smart home products, but the Lifeshield Operating Unit (the hub for the system) doubles as a Z-wave smart home hub. It also works with Alexa. There are many compatible products available from top brands.
LifeShield Monitoring Services
LifeShield has three in-house monitoring centers. Monitoring service includes intrusion, fire and flood response. All systems have smash and crash protection, meaning that the monitoring center will be alerted if the keypad is tampered with. Packages with video surveillance require a higher-tier monitoring subscription for $24.99/mo.
Best for Basic Wireless Equipment
While many providers offer a mix of security basics and fun-to-use smart devices, LifeShield focuses on sensors that can detect motion, glass breaks, temperature, flood and smoke, as well as the hubs that tie them all together. This straightforward equipment lineup should appeal to a budget-minded person whose main priority is protection.
LifeShield Pricing & Value
LifeShield is slightly more expensive than some other DIY home security options, but many people feel it is worth it because of the scope of equipment available and the reassurance of being backed by ADT. It also frequently advertises monitoring promotions, so keep your eye out for seasonal discounts.
Our take on Abode Home Security
Abode is a budget-friendly option for tech-savvy individuals who are comfortable setting up and monitoring their own security systems. Its ample smart home integrations provide a good foundation for uniting all of your home automation devices.
What we like
- 30-day return policy
- Option for short-term professional monitoring
- Two self-monitoring plans
What we don’t like
- Professional monitoring only available in highest tiered monitoring plan
- Cellular backup not available in basic monitoring plan
- Understanding custom home automation features could be difficult for some
Abode Security Packages & Smart Home Equipment
In terms of equipment, Abode offers the typical do-it-yourself selection of intrusion protection and alarms, plus a few different indoor camera and home automation options. It doesn’t have a carbon monoxide detector or an outdoor camera, which might be dealbreakers for some people. However, the Abode hub supports Z-wave, Zigbee, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can find plenty of compatible third-party devices.
Abode Monitoring Service
Abode offers affordable plans for both self-monitoring and professional monitoring. Self-monitoring through the mobile app is free, which is unusual. Many security providers will charge at least a nominal fee for full access to mobile app monitoring. There’s also a $7/mo. self-monitoring plan that includes cellular backup if the home wifi network goes down. Professional monitoring starts around $16.66/mo., and you can even get on-demand short-term professional monitoring for if you only need it now and then.
Why Abode is the Best for Self-Monitoring
Many people who are looking for DIY home security solutions want systems that they can install and monitor themselves. Because of its range of self- and professionally monitored plans, Abode is our top pick for the diehard DIYer.
Abode Pricing & Value
Abode is a budget-priced optionfor tech-savvy people who want to set up and monitor their own system. Equipment and/or monitoring are often steeply discounted if you bundle them together. We’ve seen professional monitoring start as low as $8.33/mo. with the purchase of a starter kit.
Showing 5 of 10 providers
Showing 10 of 10 providers
How Do We Rank the Best Home Security Systems?
At Safety.com, we continually refine our lists in order to provide up-to-date, well-researched insights. When ranking home security providers, we consider value, availability, brand reputation, trustworthy reviews, popularity, warranty and other reliability indicators. Learn more about our reviews and rankings methodology.
DIY Home Security Facts
Safety.com conducted a survey to find out more about home security ownership and the motivation behind these purchases. Here’s a few tidbits about the DIY home security industry:
- 29.1% of Americans own a DIY home security product, such as a video doorbell, self-monitored system, or a smart lock.
- 8.1% of Americans own a full self-monitored home security system.
- 12% of our survey respondents aged 18-34 mentioned owning a self-monitored system (vs. 7% aged 35+).
- 74.3% of survey respondents said their new security system or product makes them feel safe.
Pros and Cons of DIY Home Security Systems
Pros of DIY Home Security Systems
- No installation fee
- Can avoid contracts
- Easier to transport
Cons of DIY Home Security Systems
- Can have upfront equipment costs
- Potential for improper installation
- Potential for privacy risks
Common Home Security Equipment and Features
How to Install a DIY Security System
Be sure to read any guides or manuals included with your security system on DIY installation. Here are some general steps for setup:
Step 1 – Find an appropriate location and set up your control panel and keypad (if one comes with your security system). You may be able to adhere your control panel to a wall, or it may require nails for setting in place.
Step 2 – Place your motion detectors and door/window sensors appropriately throughout your home. These devices may be adhered to surfaces as well.
Step 3 – Place any signage like stickers in windows and a yard sign out front.
Step 4 – If you have any smart home devices, you’ll need to follow the specific instructions for setup to ensure that they function properly with your security system.
Step 5 – If you have any security cameras, follow the instructions required for setup to ensure proper function.
How Much Do DIY Home Security Systems Cost?
DIY home security systems are typically less expensive than traditional systems because you can cut out the cost of professional installation and potentially monitoring as well. With self-monitoring options, your home security costs can range from $10 to $50 per month. Additionally, the upfront cost of home security equipment typically ranges from $100 to $250 and monthly equipment renting costs are around $10 to $35 per month. The actual equipment cost will depend on the DIY security provider you choose. Installation, monitoring, and equipment costs are all important factors to consider when finding the best security system for your home.
Want to Compare Providers?
Already have a few providers in mind but not sure which one is best? Let us help with our head-to-head provider comparisons. Here are our most popular provider comparisons:
DIY Home Security System FAQs
What is a DIY security system?
A DIY security system is one that you can install on your own. A professional installation technician won’t come out and install it for you. One of the perks of a DIY system is that you won’t have to pay an installation fee.
Is a DIY home security system right for me?
Would you feel comfortable with assembling, troubleshooting and possibly repairing a security system on your own? If not, then a DIY security system might not be the best solution for you. If, however, you perceive that you’ll have no problem with installation, troubleshooting and repairs, then this type of system may be suitable for you. It’s also important to consider your budget when considering a DIY system as well.
Can I take my DIY security system with me if I move?
With most DIY security systems, you can. Most providers highlight that their systems are easy to install, and usually that’s through adhesive mounting or setting on a level surface. So, in most cases, you should be able to disassemble your system and take it with you. Be sure to check the provider’s website for additional details on moving.
Do most DIY security system providers have mobile apps for control?
Yes, most DIY security system providers have mobile apps that will allow you to remotely arm and disarm your security system. In some cases, this feature is not available in the basic package or monitoring plan and may require purchasing a more expensive package or monitoring plan.
Do most DIY security system providers offer smart home devices?
Yes, most DIY security system providers offer smart home devices that either come with packages or as standalone products. You may have to pay more for packages that come with smart home devices and capabilities.
