The Best Self-install Home Security Systems of 2026
ADT Blu may be simple and affordable, but it’s 2K camera lineup and ADT-branded equipment make it the best DIY security system of 2026.
&
Last Updated on May 26, 2026
- No need for professional installers
- Easy to set up voice commands and routines with both Alexa and Google Home
- Pick out the components that are right for your particular living situation
- ADT-branded equipment with cameras featuring up to 2K HD resolution
- App-guided self-installation via ADT+
- No-contract professional monitoring with option for self-monitoring
- Affordable equipment and frequent deals
- Systems are fully customizable
- Ships pre-paired sensors and equipment
The best DIY home security systems aren’t just about being easy to set up — though that matters a lot. They also need to deliver reliable equipment, trustworthy professional monitoring, and genuinely useful security features. To top it off, they need to do all that without breaking the bank.
Our team of home security experts spent six months installing and testing over a dozen self-installed home security systems. We assessed them on several factors, including reliability, durability, and how they compare to professionally installed counterparts. Let’s go through our findings and look at our top 5 recommendations.
Editor’s Note: For our complete security system rankings including professionally installed options, see our guide on the best home security systems of 2026.
The Best Self-Install Security Systems, Ranked
- SimpliSafe - Best DIY Installation and Monitoring
- ADT Blu - Best Equipment
- Cove - Most Affordable
- abode - Best for Home Automation
- Frontpoint - Best Customer Service
Side-by-Side Comparison of the Top Self-Install Security Systems
| System |
SimpliSafe
|
ADT Blu
|
Cove
|
abode
|
Frontpoint
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th |
| Ratings | 9.8/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Installation time | 30 minutes | 35 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes | 55 minutes |
| Equipment tested | Sensors, security cameras, video doorbell | Sensors, security cameras, video doorbell | Sensors, security cameras, video doorbell | Sensors, security cameras, video doorbell, home automation | Sensors, security cameras, video doorbell, smart thermostat |
| Monitoring style | DIY or professional | DIY or professional | Professional | DIY or professional | Professional |
| Professional monitoring cost (per month) | $22.99 and up | $24.99 and up | $22.99 and up | $26.99 | $44.99 and up |
| Contract required? | No | No | No | No | Yes (3 years) |
| Read Review | SimpliSafe Review | ADT Blu Review | Cove Review | abode Review | Frontpoint Review |
What’s The Best DIY Security System For You?
-
1. SimpliSafe - Best DIY Installation and Monitoring
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Packages starting at $250.96 Monitoring Options Professional and DIY Monthly Monitoring Costs Starts at $22.99 Contract Lengths Month-to-month Installation Options DIY or professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home SimpliSafe is one of the easiest security systems to install. The Wireless Indoor Camera sits on a shelf, and the motion sensors stick to surfaces with adhesive. SimpliSafe even offers self-monitoring plans, which is a useful add-on for security systems for apartments trying to keep costs down. We also recommend SimpliSafe as one of the best security systems for large homes with features like Intruder Intervention and Active Guard.
>> More Details: SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro Review
What We Like
- Set up in 30 minutes
- Indoor and outdoor security camera options
- Cellular and battery backup
- Optional professional monitoring
What We Don’t Like
- Live video monitoring for Wireless Indoor Camera comes with privacy risks
- Recent monitoring rate increase
- Security cameras don’t record locally
- Security cameras require a separate cloud storage plan or the Core plan to record
Installing SimpliSafe
It took us 30 minutes to set up SimpliSafe. Most of that time was dedicated to hardwiring the video doorbell. The battery for the outdoor camera also needed an overnight charge. Here’s how our installation went:
- We plugged in the base station and turned on the keypad by removing the battery tab. They connected to each other immediately.
- We downloaded the app and signed in. We also linked the base station to our app and connected it to Wi-Fi.
- Using the app, we paired sensors individually with the base station.
- We placed the sensors using the peel-and-stick adhesive backing that came with them.
- We plugged in the indoor camera, scanned a QR code using the app, and connected it to Wi-Fi.
- We followed the same steps to connect the outdoor camera to Wi-Fi after charging it overnight. We then mounted it out on the porch.
>> Read More: The Best Battery-Powered Security Cameras
Expert Tip: SimpliSafe sensors come with adhesive tape, but we recommend anchoring them with screws instead. During our testing, we noticed the tape started to lose its stickiness after a few months.
SimpliSafe Equipment
All the SimpliSafe equipment we bought was enough to cover the 2,500-square-foot house we tested it in. SimpliSafe’s equipment range may be more affordable than security systems like ADT and Vivint, but it doesn’t look or feel cheap. The motion sensors, for example, survived a three-foot drop during installation. More importantly, SimpliSafe didn’t skimp on features. Comparing SimpliSafe and ADT, we found that both systems offer cellular and battery backup to keep equipment running through outages. At one point, SimpliSafe ran for four hours during a neighborhood-wide outage.
SimpliSafe doesn’t offer an extensive camera range like ADT, but you can still get your hands on an indoor, outdoor, and doorbell camera. Here’s how much they cost:
SimpliSafe security cameras Price Wireless Indoor Camera $149.99 SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera $199.99 SimpliSafe Video Doorbell $169.00 >> Further Reading: The Legality of Security Cameras and Video Surveillance
SimpliSafe Monitoring
Free self-monitoring is available, but we recommend choosing a professional monitoring plan. Basic protection starts at $22.99 per month. The Core plan, which includes video support, Intruder Intervention, and video verification is $32.99 a month.
We chose the $49.99-per-month Pro plan to test Active Guard Outdoor Protection. It works similarly to Intruder Intervention, but it’s for the outdoor doorbell cameras. While SimpliSafe’s plans vary in price, there are no contracts. We easily switched from the Pro to Standard plans when we worked from home and could be more hands-on. This flexibility is what makes SimpliSafe such a great DIY system.
Test Result: We simulated a break-in to trigger Intruder Intervention. As soon as the front door entry sensor detected us, the indoor camera came alive and we heard a voice telling us we’re on camera and that the police are on the way. All that happened within 20 seconds of us opening the front door.
We wall-mounted the battery-powered SimpliSafe outdoor camera to keep watch of our property. 
Expert TakeFrom Gene Petrino, Retired SWAT Commander and Law Enforcement“I’ve investigated numerous incidents where a suspicious person was seen in the backyards of homes, checking windows and doors, and fled as soon as they realized that there were security cameras capturing their every move. In one specific situation, the suspect tried to disable the camera, only realizing that another camera was capturing his activities.” -
2. ADT Blu - Best Equipment
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Packages starting at $249 Monitoring Options Professional or DIY Monthly Monitoring Costs Starts at $24.99 per month Contract Lengths Month-to-month Installation Options DIY Smart Platform Integrations Alexa and Google Home ADT has been in the security industry for over 150 years, and ADT Blu is their purpose-built DIY platform. Unlike ADT’s professionally installed systems — which use Google Nest cameras — ADT Blu uses its own camera lineup: the ADT Blu Indoor Camera ($69), Outdoor Camera ($89), and Doorbell Camera ($109), all delivering 2K HDR video and smart detection for people, animals, vehicles, and packages. That camera lineup, paired with ADT’s industry-leading monitoring network, is what earns ADT Blu the top equipment spot on this list.
What We Like
- 2K ADT Blu camera lineup with smart detection for people, animals, vehicles, and packages
- Quick and easy DIY installation guided by the ADT+ app
- Flexible monitoring with self-monitoring from $9.99 per month or professional monitoring from $24.99 per month
- Works with Google Nest smart home products (smart thermostat, smart display, etc.)
What We Don’t Like
- More limited equipment lineup compared to ADT Pro Install
- No included keypad (costs an extra $99.99)
- Bulky, screenless hub
- Requires a monthly fee even if self-monitored
Installing ADT Blu
Installing ADT Blu took us about 35 minutes. We didn’t run into any problems, but it was reassuring knowing that we could schedule a video call with an ADT expert if we did. Here are the steps we took:
- We plugged in the ADT hub and downloaded the ADT+ app.
- We paired our phone to the hub via Bluetooth then connected to our Wi-Fi.
- Next, we paired all our sensors, which took about ten minutes.
- Then we set up the ADT Blu cameras through the ADT+ app. Setting up each camera took about five minutes.
Note: The hub only connects to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi channels. If you have a dual-band router, make sure you connect your phone to the 2.4 GHz band before pairing the hub. If you’re connected to the 5 GHz channel, it simply won’t connect.
ADT Blu Equipment
ADT Blu uses its own camera lineup, separate from the Google Nest cameras available through ADT’s professionally installed systems. The ADT Blu Indoor Camera, Outdoor Camera, and Doorbell Camera all deliver 2K HDR video with smart detection for people, animals, vehicles, and packages. Inside the ADT+ app, we could set up smart detection notifications, create activity zones to cut down on false alerts, and review cloud-stored footage. We also integrated the Nest Hub Max for voice control, though the ADT Blu cameras themselves are not Google Nest devices.
>> Check Out: The Best Outdoor Security Cameras of 2026
Although ADT Blu uses different cameras than the original ADT Pro Install system, the sensors and other components are the same. ADT Blu Monitoring
ADT Blu’s monitoring plans are among the most flexible on this list. Self-monitoring starts at $9.99 per month for camera-only setups and $14.99 per month for full systems. Professional monitoring starts at $24.99 per month for systems without cameras and $34.99 per month for systems with cameras. No contract is required, and prices are aligned with typical DIY security system pricing. Here’s the full list:
ADT Blu monitoring Camera-Only Self-Monitoring Full System Self-Monitoring Pro Monitoring (No Cameras) Pro Monitoring (With Cameras) Cost per month $9.99 $14.99 $24.99 $34.99 24/7 Professional monitoring No No Yes Yes SMART monitoring Yes Yes Yes Yes Access to ADT+ app Yes Yes Yes Yes Cloud video recording Yes Yes No Yes With six monitoring centers across North America dedicated to home security system customers, ADT’s monitoring network is top-of-the-line.SMART monitoring is the standout feature. It speeds up responses by sending you a text message within seconds of an alert before an agent calls. This helps if you’re in an emergency and don’t have time to wait 30 seconds for ADT to call. It’s also useful if you accidentally trip the alarm and want to cancel it before it becomes a big fuss.
-
3. Cove - Most Affordable
See Pricing Links to Covesmart.com
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Systems start at $109.5 Monitoring Options Professional only Monthly Monitoring Costs Starting at $22.99 Contract Lengths Month-to-month Installation Options Professional or DIY Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home
Cove keeps costs down without cutting corners on protection features. We spent just $30 on an eight-piece system during a sale, which seems to run year-round. The range isn’t as extensive as ADT or SimpliSafe, but we still managed to get everything we needed to protect our home.
>> Related: Affordable but Top-Quality Security Systems
What We Like
- Affordable equipment and frequent deals
- Systems are fully customizable
- Ships pre-paired sensors and equipment
- Professional monitoring with security camera support for less than $30 per month
What We Don’t Like
- Some pieces of equipment don’t seem durable
- No smart home automation features
- Limited security camera options
- No wireless indoor camera
Installing Cove
Cove was the easiest system to install, as all the devices came pre-synced. All we had to do was set up the equipment and turn them on. The whole process took less than 30 minutes. Here’s how it went.
- Turned on the base unit and connected the touchscreen panel.
- Downloaded the Cove app and linked our account to the system.
- We installed the sensors and cameras, and turned them on so the touchscreen panel could find them.
- We watched the touchscreen panel sync our equipment.
- We rang Cove to activate the monitoring subscription and test the system.
>> Also See: The Best Security Systems With Apps
Cove Equipment
Without installation fees and with a less than $300 price tag, this Cove security system is the most affordable DIY option we tested. We built our Cove system from the ground up. When it arrived, the first thing we noticed was how lightweight and plasticy the equipment felt. They didn’t match the same high quality we were used to with ADT Blu and SimpliSafe.
Cove cameras offer great specs, like 2K video quality, but just like the sensors, they don’t feel as durable as our top security camera options, such as the ones from Lorex. (See our Lorex review.) In any case, they are affordable. We got the indoor camera for free and the new Cove Solar Cam $160, which was half price.
>> Learn More: Eufy 2K Camera Review
Cove Monitoring
Cove offers two professional monitoring plans. Like ADT, if you need security camera support, you’ll need the more expensive options. Here’s a breakdown of both Cove plans.
Features Cove Basic Cove Plus 24/7 alarm monitoring Yes Yes Text-based alerts Yes Yes Cellular backup Yes Yes Camera support No Yes Alexa and Google Home voice control No Yes Price $22.99 per month $32.99 per month The main difference between the plans is voice control from Alexa and Google Home and camera support. That means if you plan on including security cameras as part of your system, you have no choice but to go with the more expensive option. ADT Blu’s top plan with camera support costs $34.99, so Cove Plus is a pretty good deal when you look at it that way.
FYI: Cove Plus upgrades the equipment warranty from one year to lifetime. Keep in mind that it’s only available while you’re on the Plus plan.
A look at our complete Cove system, including security cameras from Eufy. -
4. abode - Best for Home Automation
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Packages starting at $149.99 Monitoring Options Professional and DIY Monitoring Costs Starting at $26.99 Contract Lengths Month-to-month or Yearly Installation Options DIY or professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit
Like SimpliSafe, Abode offers flexible monitoring plans. The main difference is that Abode offers better home automation features and lets you connect third-party Z-Wave and Zigbee devices. Abode is also one of the few systems compatible with HomeKit, which is why it’s on our list of the best security systems for Apple users.
>> Related: The Best Smart Home Security Systems
What We Like
- Choice between different types of hubs
- Affordable security cameras (as low as $24.99)
- Quick and easy DIY installation
- Free and premium monitoring plans
What We Don’t Like
- Lots of missing features from free monitoring option (e.g., home automation)
- Internet-reliant without professional monitoring
- No cellular backup even for premium self-monitoring plan
- No smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors
Installing Abode
Our Abode experience was similar to Cove, in that the equipment came pre-programmed. Some devices needed manual setup, which pushed out the installation process to around 45 minutes. Here’s how it played out.
- We set up the hub and connected it to the Wi-Fi using an Ethernet cable. This allowed us to initialize the hub and register the Wi-Fi SSID and password on the Abode app.
- Our sensors came pre-programmed, so we pulled the battery tabs once they were installed. They paired instantly.
- We used the Abode app to pair our cameras. This took roughly five minutes, which is similar ADT Blu’s camera setup.
abode Equipment
We tested the Abode iota All-in-One security system, the most advanced security system from Abode. All your equipment connects to an Abode hub. Unlike ADT Blu, SimpliSafe, and most other companies, Abode offers three options. Each one offers slightly different features like built-in cameras and motion sensors. Here’s what each model provides.
Smart Security Hub Abode Security Hub iota All-in-One Hub No built-in camera No built-in camera Built-in camera Ethernet-only Ethernet or Wi-Fi Ethernet or Wi-Fi Loud siren Loud siren Loud siren Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, Z-Wave, Zigbee Alexa and Google Assistant Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, Z-Wave, Zigbee No built-in motion sensor No built-in motion sensor Built-in motion sensor abode’s package pricing depends on the hub that comes with the system. They range from $65 for the basic Security Hub system to $399 for the Iota Hub. Both come with the same equipment; the hub, an entry sensor and a keyfob. There are larger security bundles as well that include entry sensors, glass-break sensors, and motion sensors. For our tests, we decided on the iota hub package. We also added an indoor camera, smart bulbs, and smart plugs.
Product Stats: Instead of smoke alarms, Abode offers monitors that listen for smoke alarm sirens. You’ll get a notification if the smoke alarm is activated. We suggest checking if your existing alarm is compatible with Abode’s smoke alarm monitor before buying one.
Expert TakeFrom Gene Petrino, Retired SWAT Commander and Law Enforcement“Many of the false alarms we responded to were from DIY systems. I remember one instance where the homeowner installed the system but never set up notifications. The neighbor called an alarm activation to the police department when they heard the audible alarm activate, and the homeowner was completely unaware. We were able to determine that the activation was caused by a fan blowing a balloon which set off the motion sensor.”Abode Monitoring
Abode’s monitoring plans are as flexible as SimpliSafe. You can self-monitor for free or pay $8.49 per month for features like smart home integration, AI detection, and video support. Professional monitoring is affordable at $26.99 if you pay month to month. Annually it’s $245.99, which works out to be $20.50 a month.
We started with the premium self-monitoring plan, which comes with a 10-day video history, person detection, and the CUE home automation engine. After a month, we felt that we needed more, so we upgraded to professional monitoring. It adds cellular backup in case our Wi-Fi drops out, which gives us peace of mind that our system is always online.
>> Learn More: The Best Security Systems With Cellular Backup
One downside of Abode is that it offers only one camera – the Abode Cam 2 that works indoor and outdoors. -
5. Frontpoint - Best Customer Service
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Starting at $69 Monitoring Options Professional only Monthly Monitoring Costs Starting at Contract Lengths 1-36 months Installation Options DIY Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home Frontpoint offers the best customer support on this list, which is handy if you’re new to DIY security systems. We found it easy to get help via chat, phone, or email. We’ll show you how their support team handled a specific door sensor issue below.
What We Like
- Customer support available until 11 p.m. (EST)
- 30-day money-back guarantee and three-year equipment warranty
- Semi-affordable equipment
- Functional app
What We Don’t Like
- Universal monitoring pricing for all systems
- Three-year contract
- Limited smart home options
- May require a credit check
Installing Frontpoint
Our Frontpoint installation wasn’t as smooth as SimpliSafe. Some of our devices wouldn’t sync, so we contacted customer support. It took us about an hour to set everything up. Here’s a rundown of how it went.
- We started by plugging the hub into an outlet.
- Next, we used the Frontpoint app to guide us through setting up the hub and pairing it with the keypad.
- We connected the sensors, holding the pair button until they were discoverable.
- One of our door sensors wouldn’t connect, so we called Frontpoint. After troubleshooting for about ten minutes, we determined it was likely broken. They sent a replacement.
- We connected the cameras using the Frontpoint app and our Wi-Fi connection.
- A couple of days later, the replacement door sensor arrived and we installed it without any issues.
FYI: Our experience with Frontpoint’s support team was great. That’s not a guarantee that every interaction will go the same way, though.
Frontpoint Indoor Camera Frontpoint Equipment
Like Cove, we built our Frontpoint system from scratch. We started with the basic kit that costs $69 and comes with a hub, keypad, and two entryway sensors. We added a few more sensors, security cameras, a smart lock, and a thermostat. The total cost was just over $500.
Frontpoint regularly runs discounts, so it’s worth keeping an eye out before you buy. We’ve seen equipment prices drop by as much as 60 percent off. Since Frontpoint’s prices run a bit higher than competing brands, those deals make a real difference to your bottom line.
FYI: If the upfront costs are too much of a strain on your bank account, you can finance your equipment and pay it off over 36 months.
>> Alternative Options: The Best Security Systems Without Credit Checks
Frontpoint Monitoring
Our starter Frontpoint security system with a touch screen keypad (bought separately). Frontpoint has three monitoring plans available online. The most expensive option is $49.99 per month, and includes professional monitoring for intrusions and hazards, home automation, and cellular backup in case the power goes out.
There is also a self-monitoring video-only option and a professional monitoring plan for hazards like fires, CO, and floods. Keep in mind that a contract is required when signing up for all plans.
Why DIY? The Pros of DIY Security
We like DIY security systems because they don’t require an installation fee, reducing the total ownership cost of a security system. Plus, it’s convenient. You can set up the security system in your own time – you don’t have to leave work or wait for a technician who might or might not arrive on time. Simply put, you’re more in control with a DIY home security system than with a professionally installed security system.
You Might Also Like: If you’re looking for DIY security cameras, check out our guide on the best wireless security cameras. These don’t require professional installation and are easy to get up and running.
We also find DIY home security systems beginner-friendly. Brands like Cove and Frontpoint preprogram the equipment so all you have to do is choose where it goes. Companies like ADT even offer video support with technicians who walk you through setup and troubleshoot any issues. Here are some other reasons why we like DIY security systems:
- Easy to move: Wireless DIY security systems are easy to uninstall and take with you to a different address. They’re just as easy to set up in your new home.
- Renter-friendly: Another advantage of wireless equipment is that it’s easy to remove when you move out. Most sensors attach to walls with adhesive, and some cameras sit on a shelf. With little to no drilling, you’re more likely to get your security deposit back when you choose a DIY security system.
- Cheaper or optional professional monitoring: Most DIY systems offer a self-monitoring option. The catch is that you’re responsible for contacting emergency services. If you’re looking to keep costs down, we suggest choosing a professional monitoring plan from SimpliSafe or Cove.
>> Read More: DIY Installation vs. Professional Installation
Things to Consider: The Cons of DIY Security
DIY security systems aren’t for everyone. We recommend professionally installed systems for many different reasons. Here are a few of them:
- Prone to incorrect installation: We admit that we’ve botched our share of security system installations, resulting in calls to customer service departments. Everyone makes mistakes, but a DIY error can be costly because your home security is on the line.
- Warranties are limited: In the same vein, since you’re doing the installation work, DIY systems often have limited warranties, and repairs stemming from incorrect installation will be your responsibility. In contrast, professionally installed systems often come with lengthier warranties and guarantees — like ADT’s six-month money-back guarantee — giving you a stronger safety net.
- Limited equipment options: To make installation as easy as possible, DIY systems limit the equipment they offer. For example, Cove only offers a wired indoor camera and one outdoor camera model.
>> See Also: The Best Video Doorbells of 2026
Our Testing Process: How We Selected The Top DIY Home Security Systems
Our Testing Process
Finding the right security system for your home means more than checking brand websites. Our recommendations are grounded in our Editorial Guidelines, and our testers physically set up and run each product. They time the full installation end-to-end, manually activate alarms to measure live response speeds, and stress-test companion app responsiveness under load. We run every system through real-world disruptions, including sudden internet loss, full power outages, and false alarm scenarios. We also evaluate total system costs, monthly monitoring fees, and lock-in and cancellation policies to ensure every pick delivers solid value, especially as a long-term security system.
What We Looked For
We’ve been comparing security systems since 2018, including setups you install yourself and those installed by a technician. To compare apples to apples, we focus on both the equipment and the monitoring options available.
- Ease of installation: You shouldn’t need an engineering degree to set up these security systems. It should be as easy as sticking or mounting devices to surfaces with as few tools as possible.
- Equipment quality: Most DIY devices are wireless, but that doesn’t make them any less reliable. We perform the same break-in simulations as hardwired security systems to make sure DIY setups react just as fast.
- Monitoring options: We highly recommend professional monitoring, but not everyone needs this level of protection. For DIY systems, in particular, we like those that offer the flexibility to opt in and out of professional monitoring.
For our top DIY home security systems, the average installation time ranged from 30 minutes to an hour.
Who We Are and Why Trust Us
Security.org is made up of an independent team of security experts. Our goal? Help you find the right system. Our team is made up of more than 20 security researchers and hands-on testers who have collectively spent over 25,000 hours of research and testing across 740+ security guides. Our work has been referenced by major outlets including The New York Times, TechRadar, and CBS News.
Our home security testing team is led by Paul Frew, a home and personal security expert with over a decade of experience reviewing and testing security systems, cameras, and doorbell cameras. The wider team behind our home security coverage includes:
- Gene Petrino: Retired S.W.A.T. commander and former law enforcement sergeant, contributing three decades of crime prevention and security expertise as a subject matter advisor
- Corey Birnstengel: Editor and videographer with 200+ in-depth video reviews across eight security and tech product categories
- Matthew Adkins: Researcher with a doctorate with 100+ security systems tested and ranked
- Cort Honey: Engineer-turned-security reviewer with over 1,000 hours of hands-on testing and a talent for making complex tech accessible to everyday readers
Our editorial and testing team makes sure that no brand can pay to make our lists. For you, that means our recommendations are unbiased and editorially independent.
DIY Vs. Professional Monitoring
Security system monitoring is optional with some of our top picks. Others require a subscription for the equipment to function. We don’t generally recommend self-monitoring, as it means you need to respond to alerts and call police when you need help. You also miss out on useful features like cloud storage for video recordings and home automation routines.
>> Keep Reading: The Best Security Systems That Work With IFTTT
Cameras alone can deter crime, but subscribing to a professional monitoring plan provides more reliable protection. Monitoring centers can actively respond to threats with capabilities like those found in SimpliSafe and Deep Sentinel plans. On top of that, you unlock extras like activity zones, smart home integrations, and voice control that simply aren’t available with basic self-monitoring.
Recap
We love installing and testing DIY security systems, though they’re not for everyone. While a lot of the devices require zero tools to set up, some other vital equipment might need mounting or access to internal wires. You also need to know where to place the components for maximum coverage. This is why we often recommend professional installation. You can take advantage of a technician’s expertise.
Of course, you’re free to make your own decision. If none of the options we recommended above seem like a good fit, take a look at our home security guide, which discusses how to best pick a security system for your specific setup, wants, and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
While you think more about DIY home security, we’ll answer the questions we get the most.
-
What is the best “do it yourself” security system?
The best DIY home security system is ADT Blu. It combines ADT’s industry-leading monitoring network with a purpose-built DIY platform — no professional installation required and no long-term contract. Its 2K camera lineup delivers smart detection for people, animals, vehicles, and packages, and flexible monitoring plans start as low as $9.99 per month for self-monitoring.
-
What is the best home security system without a monthly fee?
We also consider SimpliSafe the best home security system without a monthly fee, because even if you self-monitor the security system, you’ll have access to the SimpliSafe app and almost all features of the equipment. One thing to note is that cloud video storage isn’t included in the free tier. If you want your cameras to record footage, you can add cloud storage for $9.99 per month.
-
Which is better, SimpliSafe or Ring?
Both are DIY security systems with self-monitoring and professional monitoring options, but SimpliSafe is slightly better. It has a more proven track record, plus it offers a wider variety of home security equipment. Ring offers more security camera and doorbell camera options, though, so that’s one thing to consider if you’re deciding between the two.
-
Will I have to go through a credit check to buy a DIY security system?
Not always, but buying a DIY security system doesn’t guarantee that you won’t need a credit check. If you finance your equipment, the security system provider or their financing partner will have to check your credit worthiness. However, if you purchase your equipment upfront, you won’t need a credit check. Most DIY security system providers have that option.
-
Are DIY security systems suitable for large homes?
Yes, there are DIY security systems that work well in large homes, including SimpliSafe, Cove, ADT Blu, Frontpoint, and Abode. That being said, installing security equipment in a larger home requires more effort and time, which is why we typically recommend professional installation.
-
National Monitoring Center. (2024). VIDEO VERIFICATION.
nmccentral.com/video-verification/
