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14 min read
Edited ByRebecca EdwardsWith 9 years in journalism, John focuses on smart home tech, previously writing for ASecureLife and serving as Smart Home Editor at Top Ten Reviews.
Security systems don't have to come with a hefty installation fee—you can easily install DIY alarms on your own, like our top pick, SimpliSafe. It catches our attention with affordable monitoring and equipment, and the long warranty and 60-day return policy are worth sticking around for. Its smart home compatibility could be better, but it's a great choice for most folks.
Read on to learn more about how SimpliSafe handled hands-on testing and how it compares to other monitored security systems.
No extra fees
No wires (perfect for renters)
No strangers in your home
No contracts, usually 
You do the work
No professional expertise
Higher up-front equipment costs
Bigger houses take longer 
🔥 SimpliSafe is offering 60% off any new system with professional monitoring.
🔥 Frontpoint is offering up to 82% off of monitoring and packages starting as low as $69!
🔥 Abode has a Prime Day sale: Security Kit for $29.99 & up to 50% off accessories.
Do-it-yourself security systems offer various starter kits—with prices going up as you buy more equipment. Most DIY brands allow you to build your own alarm system or add items to existing kits. Starter kits often include a base station or control panel, a motion sensor, and a couple of entry sensors—you get to customize it from there.
Company | Best for | Lowest price | Self-monitoring option | Base kit price |
| Best overall | $21.99/mo. |  Yes | $249.96 (4 pieces) | |
| Best DIY quality equipment | $24.99/mo. |  No | $129.00 (4 pieces) | |
| Best for smart homes | $21.99/mo. | Yes | $279.00 (5 pieces) | |
| Best self-monitoring | $24.99/mo. | Yes | $199.99 (3 pieces) | |
| Best customer reviews | $17.99/mo. | No | Quote required Online quiz |
Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change Read full disclaimer.
Our proprietary research1 says that the average monitoring price for DIY security is $23.92/month compared to $42.24/month for professionally installed systems. DIY security companies don’t need to pay technician wages or recoup equipment costs, so they pass the savings on to you.
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If you need more help figuring out if a DIY system fits your needs, read our comparison page on Professional Installation vs DIY Installation.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Long contracts can be scary; SimpliSafe's month-to-month plans aren't. SimpliSafe is a great option if you're curious about adding a security system but don't want a long-term relationship right out of the gate. It's a reader favorite, and we agree wholeheartedly.
No contract required
Affordable professional monitoring
5 packages to choose from
Limited smart capabilities
Some buggy equipment 
Image credit: SafeWise
Monthly monitoring prices range from $21.99 to $31.99—way less than many people's coffee budget (especially if you live "the Venti life"). SimpliSafe's plans include professional monitoring with RapidSOS for security issues and environmental threats like fires and gas leaks. Still, only the Fast Protect™ plan uses video verification to check for false alarms using security cameras.
All SimpliSafe plans give you mobile app access to your system so you can keep an eye on it from your phone. You can arm, disarm, change settings, and get some alerts on every plan. Still, SimpliSafe's Fast Protect™ plan is worth the upgrade since you'll unlock full access to the app's smart home and security camera options.
SimpliSafe also has generous equipment policies. We like that it includes a three-year warranty on its equipment rather than the thin one-year coverage from brands like Abode, Arlo, and Wyze. If you upgrade to the Fast Protect™ plan, you'll get lifetime warranty coverage. Plus, its 60-day return policy is twice as long as other brands on our list.
SimpliSafe is a cinch to install and has all the equipment you need to protect your family. Setup took less than an hour during testing. Still, had only some hiccups getting the smart lock and outdoor camera to work. But our interactions with customer service were excellent. That said, SimpliSafe's equipment selection lacks smart home options like a thermostat and Z-Wave compatibility.
Overall, SimpliSafe's a great find for anyone who wants to protect your home, big or small.
Get more info from our SimpliSafe review.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
The Frontpoint DIY security system offers an upgraded experience compared to other options with professional monitoring. We found customer reviews consistently praise Frontpoint's easy setup, helpful customer support, and effective equipment.
Frontpoint is a high-end DIY security system with monitoring starting at $24.99 a month. As a bonus, Frontpoint includes Allstate Identity Protection with every system to help protect you online. Frontpoint offers a three-year warranty on its equipment, like SimpliSafe, but differs by offering more smart devices and Z-Wave compatibility.
Easy install
Crash & Smash protection
Live video feed
Higher monitoring fees
No pro install options 
Image credit: SafeWise
Our testing experience showed Frontpoint was easy to install, but the app and cameras could use improvement. The Frontpoint app did a poor job sending notifications, even when a pet sitter accidentally set off the alarm. That's a bummer because you should expect alarms to instantly trigger a notification. As for the cameras, they feel pretty basic for the price—especially compared to options from Arlo, Wyze, and Ring.
This system is pricier than other brands on our list, but we think Frontpoint is well worth the investment to get excellent customer service and high-end equipment options. Make sure you call to order instead of online if you want the no-contract deal.
Get the full scoop in our Frontpoint review.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Abode is the best DIY smart security system. Not only is it compatible with heavy-hitters like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, but it also connects to devices running Apple HomeKit, Z-Wave, and Zigbee. No other DIY system on our list even comes close.
Strong smart home compatibility
Custom automations
Optional self-monitoring
No custom automation on the free plan
Trouble with video recording on Iota 
Image credit: SafeWise
Abode goes a step further than basic smart home connections with custom automations using its CUE service upgrade. These are easy to set up (unless you use the mobile app) so your system can run automatically based on time of day, your location, and when sensors detect something. One automation worth trying is having Abode arm itself when you leave the house.
The company steps up and fixes issues. For example, we didn't like how the CUE automations and some settings weren't very accessible through the Abode app during testing. Abode noticed, and it's much better now. On another occasion, we struggled with some glitches in the Abode app while recording video with the Abode Iota's camera—it's over three years old at this point and the hardware may be showing its age.
For $22 a month, Abode's professional monitoring compares well with SimpliSafe and Cove. Or you can self-monitor your Abode system. We think most folks will appreciate Abode's affordable equipment as well.
Overall, we think Abode is an underrated gem of a system. Its smart home prowess is hard to beat and is practically on the same level as some smart home hubs.
Check out our full Abode review to learn more.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Arlo is one of the top names in wireless security cameras, so we were happy when its first security system soared through our hands-on testing with flying colors. It stands out most for the Arlo All-in-One Sensor, which combines eight functions that detect motion, water leaks, open doors, smoke alarms, and more.
Read our full Arlo Security System review to learn more.
All-in-One Sensor detects up to 8 trigger types
Outstanding security camera selection
Great self-monitoring options
Weak smart home compatibility
Short warranty
Cellular and battery backup requires an $80 add-on 
Image credit: SafeWise
This single sensor is super affordable, which means you don't need any pricey extras to expand your system—just more sensors based on the size of your home. Plus, you can supplement your sensors with any of Arlo's fantastic security cameras, though the best integration comes from the new Arlo Pro 5S, which communicates directly with Arlo's hub instead of through your Wi-Fi network.
We love Arlo's approach to self-monitoring. The system doesn't require a subscription to use, so you can save some cash by choosing a cheaper, camera-only Arlo plan or no plan at all. The main restrictions for self-monitoring is that there's no smoke or carbon monoxide alarm detection without a professional monitoring plan.
Arlo's monitoring plan is fairly competitive, but is pricier than most brands in our comparison. Still, it's about $3 cheaper per month than comparable plans from SimpliSafe and Cove. While Arlo's cameras boast strong smart home connections, this doesn't extend to the security system just yet.
Arlo has a few rough spots compared to its rivals. For one, it's the only system on our list without a built-in battery backup. But at least you can add this feature—and cellular backup—by purchasing an accessory for around $80. Also, Arlo's warranty tops out at one year, which is more in line with what you expect for retail electronics than a security system with pro monitoring.
Overall, we think the Arlo security system is an easy choice for folks wanting fewer sensors that watch for multiple things. On top of that, Arlo has the most advanced security cameras on our list.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
One of our favorite things about Cove is its strong focus on customer satisfaction. Its great customer reviews reflect some excellent policies, like a no-contract subscription, a 60-day return policy, and a price-lock option that keeps your monthly fees from going up.
Great customer reviews
Lifetime warranty available
60-day money-back guarantee
Limited smart home compatibility
False alarms are a pain to dismiss Cove's monitoring plans (with RapidSOS) start at $17.99 a month for basic service without mobile app controls or security cameras—matching SimpliSafe's pricing tiers. But Cove's pricier Cove Plus plan ($27.99 a month) ups the ante with a lifetime warranty.
When you sign up for this system, you'll customize it with any sensors you want to install. These extras include a glass break detector, flood sensor, outdoor camera, and a medical alert/panic button. While there aren't any preset starter kits like other brands, Cove's quick survey and online shop keep the process simple. Plus, Cove more regularly discounts equipment for new subscribers than most rivals.
Cove's smart home gear lags behind Abode and Frontpoint. The system has some compatibility with Alexa and Google but no Z-Wave support, so you need to buy directly from Cove if you want to expand your system.
As we tested Cove, we liked how easy the installation was—it took about 30 minutes. Still, Cove was a little too eager to sound a full-blown alarm when we set off the smoke detector while cooking. We'd appreciate an easier way to cancel false alarms in the app or on the control panel.
Overall, Cove is a solid alternative to SimpliSafe, with competitive prices, security cameras (learn more about Cove cameras), and equipment to match. Cove's wildly easy to set up in only a few minutes, and you won't need a contract to do it.
Check out our full Cove review to learn more.
Ring Alarm starter kits cost $249.99, making it an affordable wireless security system and a good alternative to SimpliSafe. Ring's most expensive kit is a little over $300, when similar kits from Frontpoint and SimpliSafe cost nearly $500.
It has several equipment packages to choose from and a whole fleet of Ring outdoor cameras and lights to protect your home and keep your backyard illuminated. It also has more smart doorbell options than other DIY alarm systems on our list.
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. And if you have a Ring Alarm Pro system, you get 3 GB of backup internet to keep your system connected in an outage.
During testing, it was difficult to know which arming mode was active using the keypad alone—it took some trial and error.
Because Ring is an Amazon company, it has excellent integration with Amazon Alexa smart speakers and fits nicely into an Alexa-centric smart home. Overall, we like Ring because it's an easy alarm system with some neat add-ons.
Read our full Ring Alarm review.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Whether you want bare-bones or bells and whistles, Link Interactive has truly customizable DIY security systems. You can pick your equipment, choose your contract length, and add video monitoring.
Installing a security system by yourself might sound intimidating, but Link Interactive makes it as easy as peeling off a sticker or grabbing a screwdriver. This security company has a lot of equipment to choose from too, including indoor and outdoor cameras, though they're available only through the priciest plan.
And, while there are limited smart home capabilities on the Standard plan ($31 a month), you can still purchase smart locks to secure your home.
Learn more in our full Link Interactive review.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Kangaroo is notable for its rock-bottom prices—all of its equipment costs less than $80, with most devices costing $30 or less. It even offers professional monitoring for $8.25 a month (paid annually)—only Wyze's monitoring even comes close.
Aside from low prices, the company has a unique approach to how its equipment works. All of its devices connect directly to Wi-Fi, and you don't need the keypad unless you want a siren and more convenience outside the mobile app.
Kangaroo was easy to use in our testing, but the system feels too simple at times. There's not a huge equipment selection so you're stuck with some basic sensors and a handful of cameras. Though the sound detection on the Indoor + Outdoor Cam helps make up for a lack of glass break sensor and smoke detector options.
While we like Kangaroo (especially for apartments), it doesn't offer much smart home compatibility aside from Alexa and Google voice controls. But, overall, it's a budget alternative to Wyze.
Read our full Kangaroo review to learn more.
Recently a Wyze security issue was brought to light in an article from The Verge. For a brief period of time, Wyze was experiencing an issue with its online camera portal and a small number of logged in Wyze users were able to see camera feeds that were not their own.
Katie McEntire of SafeWise explains more in a short Tik Tok video.
Wyze's status page provided an apology for the incident and states that "this experience does not reflect our commitment to users or the investments we’ve made over the last few years to enhance security." Based on their lack of communication and transparency related to this incident, we have moved them out of our top lineup.
Wyze Home Monitoring redefines budget security systems almost as much as its cameras did for budget security cameras. This DIY system has the most affordable monitoring in the industry at just $9.99 a month and even sells equipment for next to nothing. If you buy directly from Wyze, the Wyze Sense Hub costs around $30 up-front with a monthly subscription (or free with an annual plan).
Out of all the DIY home security systems with cameras, Wyze offers the best cameras. They aren't just affordable, they offer great features and clear video too. Plus, the Wyze DIY home security camera systems are incredibly easy to install.
Most affordable monitoring
Cheap security cameras
Includes cloud storage for one Wyze camera
No cellular backup
Can't share system app access with household Wyze offers a huge selection of devices. You can expand your system with extra keypads, entry sensors, motion detectors, climate sensors, and a water leak sensor. Throw Wyze security cameras and smart home devices in the mix, and it's as robust as what Frontpoint, Abode, and Ring offer.
The subscription includes cloud video storage for a single Wyze camera, though you need to pay extra to store video from other cameras. (Or skip the cloud plan in favor of a microSD card.)
Wyze's biggest blindspot is a lack of cellular backup, so it won't work if your internet goes down like other brands on our list (at least there's a battery backup for power outages). While the mobile app is easy to use, it took a while for Wyze to allow multiple users like with Wyze cameras—other family members needed the physical keypad to arm and disarm the system.
Overall, Wyze is the perfect appetizer for anyone wanting to try pro monitoring for the first time without spending too much. We enjoyed our time testing Wyze, but we wish it had a self-monitoring option that doesn't require a subscription.
Learn more in our full Wyze Home Monitoring review.
SimpliSafe is our favorite contract-free DIY home security system. In addition to five equipment plans and simple setup instructions, its professional monitoring is economical and you have the option to self-montior. It doesn't lock you into a contract, and there's a 60-day money-back guarantee if you decide the service isn't for you.
To find out how DIY home alarm systems stand up to professional systems, see our review of the best overall home security systems.
After researching, we found that SimpliSafe is an ideal DIY alarm system pick. It offers affordable monitoring and equipment, a long warranty and a 60-day return policy.
Yes, you can easily install DIY home alarm systems on your own. Most of the top DIY home systems come in pre-bundled or customized packages with detailed installation instructions, online videos, and live support to help you troubleshoot via online chat or phone.
Today's DIY systems come with companion apps that guide you through installation, monitoring, and emergencies. Some companies include apps for free, while others have them in more expensive monitoring plans.
Your house size determines how many contact sensors you'll need. At a minimum, you should have a door and window sensor at each main entry point—exterior doors and easily accessible windows. This may mean only one contact sensor if you live in an apartment or dozens if you have a larger house with multiple exit points.
Pets under 40 pounds generally don't trigger motion detection. For dogs over 40 pounds, you can replace the motion sensor with a glass break sensor or security camera. Just note that not all companies monitor security cameras for you (usually called video verification).
Learn more on our list of pet-friendly security systems.
Not usually, but systems compatible with Z-Wave technology allow you to customize your home with third-party products like smart light bulbs and outlets.
Z-Wave uses radio signals to connect your smart home device to a smart hub, which controls everything from one place. You can find Z-Wave products from a variety of manufacturers.
Other products use Zigbee technology that creates a connected mesh network throughout your home. The more Zigbee products you have, the stronger your network becomes.
When paired with the right security system, both Z-Wave and Zigbee devices can make your home smarter and safer.
Hacking is a risk every user takes when using any internet-connected wireless system.
The good news is you can minimize the risk with proper internet security. Secure your system from online threats with these tips:
For a DIY home security system under $100, Wyze is your best bet. Monitoring starts at just $9.99, and it's the only top DIY home security system with a starter pack under $100. They have a huge number of smart devices you can connect with their system too.
Most DIY wireless home security systems come with at least a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you have problems with your system within that first month, you can return it for free. Each home security company has a unique policy and warranty, so it's best to read the fine print before purchasing:
Most DIY systems are easy to set up and can move with you, making them great for renters. All the companies above let you take your equipment with you. The simple assembly makes for easy disassembly when you pack up to move out, which is convenient for renters.
DIY system moving tips
Always verify that your DIY house alarm system doesn't have a contract (our top five picks don't require contracts) since it might renew for a new term if you move.
Image: SafeWise
To find the best fit for a range of lifestyles and budgets, we've extensively researched more than a dozen DIY systems. We looked at key features, home security policies, installation, customer reviews, instruction manuals, and all the fine print.
We also did hands-on testing in real homes and mystery-shopped for a more authentic experience. Over the years, we've personally tested most of the systems on our list—except Link Interactive. None of the systems we tested is perfect and they all have quirks. But we couldn't find any fatal flaws that prevented alarms.
We wanted our rankings to fit what folks want from self-install security systems—so we surveyed our readers directly. Ultimately, it comes down to that sweet, sweet moolah—over two-thirds of respondents said saving money is their main goal.
Learn more about the methodology we use for each of our reviews.
1. The averages presented for average monitoring prices reflect data SafeWise gathered from 21 national home security companies in the United States. These figures do not represent all home security companies or services available, and pricing may vary based on the specific provider, location, and service level chosen.
2. Information provided by an interview with Cove representatives in October 2021.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.
†Google, Google Nest, Google Assistant, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.
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