5 Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems to Stay Safe
Updated: Feb. 01, 2023Secure your home and keep watch of your property no matter where you are with one of the best self-monitored home security systems.
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If you’re looking to secure your home and keep tabs on it while you’re away, a self-monitored home security system is a fantastic option. These security systems let you monitor your property through an app or a website, so that you won’t have to pay for a pricey, third-party monitoring service. However, some self-monitoring security systems may have monthly fees you’ll need to consider.
The best self-monitored home security systems provide various levels of security using different types of technology. Some rely on cameras, while others have sensors or motion lights.
Our favorite part? We love that there is no need to call someone to install your security system; newer options are relatively simple for users to set up in a matter of hours.
Best Overall Self-Monitored Home Security System
SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security System
Our pick for the best self-monitored home security system goes to SimpliSafe. This wireless system is an all-around winner, but we especially appreciate that it is pet friendly. The sensors know when your dog or cat is on the move versus an intruder, so the system will only send notifications when a human is creeping about your home. And as anyone who has had their security alarm tripped at 3 a.m. by a hyperactive cat can tell you, a pet-friendly security system is an investment in safety and a good night’s rest.
In addition, most SimpliSafe system packages are less expensive than many competitor brands. This home security camera system is also easy for any level DIYer to install—plug in the base station, place your sensors where you want them and connect the camera (no tools required).
Pros
- Easy to install
- More affordable than other brands
- Can tell the difference between pets and humans
Cons
- Outdoor camera not included
Best Budget Self-Monitored Home Security System
Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit
Budget-conscious but still want to protect your home adequately? The Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit is here to save the day. This kit includes a base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector and range extender—making it a stellar choice for condos, apartments and smaller homes.
And when you’re ready to upgrade your smart home, it’s easy to add additional components, such as the Ring Doorbell, to meet your security needs.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price point
- Can add additional pieces
- Compatible app
- Easy to install
Cons
- Works best for smaller homes, condos and apartments
Best Outdoor Self-Monitored Home Security System
Blink Outdoor Wireless 3-Piece Camera Kit
If monitoring the outside of your home is your focus, check out the Blink Outdoor Wireless Security Camera Kit. This battery-powered outdoor security camera system allows you to keep tabs on your home at any time with infrared night vision.
Store video clips and photos in the cloud with the Blink Subscription Plan and save clips locally to the Blink Sync Module 2 via a USB flash drive (sold separately). You can even customize motion zones via the Blink app to alert you when movement is detected in certain areas. And since these hardy cameras were built to withstand Mother Nature, they are durable and long-lasting. There’s also no wiring necessary, so this security system sets up quickly.
Pros
- Withstands various types of weather
- Can add additional cameras
- Easy to set up
- Buyers like the night vision clarity
Cons
- Video storage requires subscription plan
Best Splurge Self-Monitored Home Security System
Reolink Security Camera System
If you’re interested in having all the latest bells and whistles on your security system, the Reolink Camera might be what you’re looking for. This eight-piece wired security system is a splurge, but the cameras deliver crystal-clear clarity—even when you zoom in. The outdoor cameras can identify people and vehicles based on their shapes, which minimizes unwanted alerts to harmless animals or shadows. Additionally, the free Reolink app allows you to access all your cameras remotely, regardless of how many you have or where you are.
Pros
- Cameras identify people and vehicles
- High level of clarity in video
- Can add additional pieces
Cons
- Pricey
Best Self-Monitored Home Security System With No Monthly Fee
Eufy Security Pro 4-Cam Kit
While it’s a bit more pricey than other systems upfront, the Eufy Security Pro 4-Cam Kit is our pick for the best self-monitored home security system with no monthly fee. This wireless kit provides 180 days of battery life on a single charge (and works in almost any type of weather).
The system uses Eufy HomeBase 2 as its hub and is compatible with other Eufy products, so you can add additional smart security devices as needed. Buyers liked the security camera’s night vision, picture quality and motion detection capabilities.
Pros
- No monthly subscription
- Good picture clarity day or night
- Can add additional pieces
Cons
- Pricey
What to Consider When Buying a Self-Monitored Home Security System
When considering the best self-monitored home security system for your needs, determine the upfront costs and any monthly subscriptions the prospective system requires. You’ll also want to think about how you’ll monitor the system and what type of equipment it uses.
Types of Self-Monitored Home Security Systems
- Subscription or Contract Security Systems: Third-party security systems require a monthly or yearly subscription to store camera footage, or to use the system’s app or monitoring website.
- Sensors: Motion sensors pick up movement in a specified area, either inside or outside the home.
- Security Cameras: Cameras record video and take photos of an area inside or outside the home. This footage can then be stored for later use.
- Wireless: Wireless security systems run on a battery, which will need to be charged or replaced after a certain amount of time.
- Wired: These security systems are integrated into your home’s wiring, which then sends information back to a central control.
How We Found the Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
What home security system does not require a subscription?
Several companies offer home security systems without a subscription, including Ring, Arlo and SimpliSafe. Some companies offer optional subscriptions for higher levels of security coverage.
Do burglars avoid homes with security systems?
Many convicted burglars say they would avoid breaking into a house with a visible security camera, and the sound of a home alarm system going off deters most.
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