Best affordable home security systems in 2025
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Investing in a home security system is among the smartest financial decisions you can make, as it keeps your family, home, and assets safe. Still, current-day pricing makes it a bit tough for homeowners to pick an affordable option. That’s why I’ve taken it upon myself to bring you nearly enterprise-grade solutions on a budget.
This guide, updated July 2025, will serve you with all the facts and features of affordable home security systems based on expert research done by the Cybernews team and me.
Whether you prioritize smart integrations, easy installation, or comprehensive coverage, I’ll explain everything you need to know to pick the best affordable home security system.
Top 5 home security systems - shortlist
- Vivint – best for advanced smart home automation
- Abode – best for flexibility and no contracts
- SimpliSafe – best for DIY installation
- Xfinity – best for integrated services
- ADT – best for trusted professional monitoring
Our team combines security industry experts and consumer protection specialists who thoroughly analyze home security systems and services. Our transparent research process includes a systematic evaluation of features, costs, and real-world performance. We maintain independence from manufacturers while staying current with industry developments. Read our full methodology to learn more about our review and testing process.
Quick comparison table: prices & key specs
This comparison table lets you quickly review the essential features and differences of the top affordable security systems, simplifying your decision-making process by presenting key information at a glance.
| Security system | Cybernews rating | Equipment price range | Monthly monitoring cost | Monitoring options | Smart home integration | Unique features |
| Vivint | 4.8 | From $449.99 (upfront payment), from $113/month for the first four months | From $40/month | Professional monitoring | Alexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Nest | 4K resolution cameras, Smart Deter system for automatic counteracting against light, sound, and cameras, GPS tracking, and disturbance detection |
| Abode | 4.6 | From $7.99/month to $25.99/month | Free self-monitoring, professional monitoring included in the “Pro” plan | Professional monitoring, self-monitoring | Alexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Apple Home Kit | Iota protection system with a built-in motion sensor, emergency response, no-fee self-monitoring |
| SimpliSafe | 4.5 | From $249.96 to $729.90 | From $1.06/day to $2.66/day | Professional monitoring, self-monitoring | Alexa, Google Home | No long-term contracts, emergency button for help signaling, an Active Guard system with an AI-powered camera |
| Xfinity | 4.5 | From $360 to $480 | From $10/month to $45/month | Professional monitoring, self-monitoring | Philips Hue, Escobe, August, Google Nest | Entry sensors for doors, smoke detectors, outlet controllers, and AI motion detection |
| ADT | 4.3 | $199 to $718+ | From $29.99/month | Professional | Alexa, Google Home | Motion detection sensors for doors and windows, glass-break sensors, and video verification |
The best cheap home security systems reviewed
To bring you the best affordable home security systems, I spent hours checking all the equipment, pricing, monitoring features, and other quirks. I also read all sorts of user reviews and feedback left on renowned platforms and forums, and here’s a top 5 list I was left with after all the hard work:
1. Vivint – best for advanced smart home automation
| Equipment price range: | From $449.99 |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting from $40 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional only |
| Contract length: | From 42 to 60 months |
| Installation options: | Professional installation |
| Smart home integration: | Google Home, Amazon Echo, Google Nest |
Vivint overview
Vivint offers cutting-edge home security technology, focusing on smart home integration. It stands out for its extensive range of automation options that can be customized to fit your lifestyle.
Vivint is all about keeping your home safe while making life more convenient. With smart technology and customizable options, it’s perfect for anyone looking to blend security with home automation.
Equipment
Vivint’s equipment cost starts at $449.99, and it ranges north of $1000, depending on the included components and customization. Your package may include a Smart Hub, glass-break sensors, motion detectors, and Outdoor Camera Pro with Smart Deter. This camera is designed to help keep intruders at bay by flashing lights and playing sounds when it detects suspicious activity.
| Starter package | Premium package | Premium Plus Package | |
| Vivint Smart Hub control panel | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Door/window sensors | 2 | 4 | 4 |
| Motion sensor | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Doorbell camera | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Smoke & CO detector | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Water sensor | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Outdoor camera | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Monitoring
Vivint only supports professional monitoring with cellular backup, so you get reliable, around-the-clock coverage from its highly-rated monitoring centers. The monthly cost of this is approximately $40/month.
User experience
The Vivint app is straightforward to use. It lets you control the system remotely, sends you notifications, and works with Alexa and Google Assistant for seamless integration with other smart home devices.
2. Abode – best for flexibility and no contracts
| Equipment price range: | From $7.99/month to $25.99/month |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Free self-monitoring, professional monitoring included in the “Pro” plan |
| Monitoring options: | Hybrid (professional or self) |
| Contract length: | Custom, no pre-defined contracts |
| Installation options: | Professional, DIY |
| Smart home integration: | Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest, Yale |
Abode overview
Abode excels in providing customizable security solutions tailored to users' needs with no contracts. It’s ideal if you want complete control over your security setup.
Abode makes home security simple and flexible, allowing you to choose how you want to protect your space. It’s affordable and works well with other smart home gadgets, making it easy to tailor to your needs.
Equipment
Abode’s package includes a central hub, sensors for doors and windows, and high-quality 1080p HD cameras. It’s built to fit right in with your smart home and works smoothly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Yale for more convenient home automation. I also liked the rather affordable equipment cost, ranging from $159.99 to $329.99 when paid in full, or from $7.99/month.
| Abode Plan | Security Hub 14-Piece bundle | Security Hub 12-Piece bundle | Security Hub 9-Piece bundle | Iota Hub 6-Piece bundle | Iota Hub 8-Piece bundle |
| Security Hub | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Iota Hub | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) |
| Keyfob | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) |
| Keypad | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) |
| Acoustic glass break | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) |
| Motion sensors | ✅ Yes (x2) | ✅ Yes (x2) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Door/window sensors | ✅ Yes (x8) | ✅ Yes (x6) | ✅ Yes (x4) | ✅ Yes (x2) | ✅ Yes (x4) |
Monitoring
Abode offers both self-monitoring and professional monitoring, letting you switch between them whenever you like. Its alerts are quick, so you get notified instantly and can handle things remotely without any hassle. If you opt for the professional monitoring plan, it will set you back approximately $20/month.
User experience
The Abode app is easy to use and makes remote access a breeze. Setting it up is simple, and users love how easily it connects with other smart home devices, making it an excellent option for seamless home management.
3. Simplisafe – best for DIY installation
| Equipment price range: | From $249.96 to $729.90 |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting from $1,06/day |
| Monitoring options: | Professional or self-monitoring |
| Contract length: | No contracts (custom, month-to-month plans) |
| Installation options: | Professional, DIY |
| Smart home integration: | Alexa, Google Assistant, August |
SimpliSafe overview
SimpliSafe is known for its easy-to-install systems and flexible pricing options, catering to various security needs and budgets.
SimpliSafe is designed for people who want reliable home security without the hassle of complicated installations or long-term contracts. It’s straightforward, affordable, and fits perfectly into any home.
Equipment
SimpliSafe offers packages that include indoor and outdoor cameras, motion sensors, and entry sensors. With night vision and wide-angle views, you get solid coverage to keep an eye on things. Equipment costs from $249.96 to $729.90, depending on the elements and features included. Adding two outdoor cameras with Active Guard protection and multiple motion detection sensors brings you closer to the latter price with the Beacon plan.
| SimpliSafe Plan | The Foundation | The Starter | The Hearth | The Knox | The Haven | The Lighthouse | The Beacon |
| Base station | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) |
| Keypad | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Outdoor camera | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x2) |
| Entry sensor | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x3) | ✅ Yes (x3) | ✅ Yes (x6) | ✅ Yes (x4) | ✅ Yes (x3) | ✅ Yes (x4) |
| Motion sensor | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x2) | ✅ Yes (x2) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x2) |
| Outdoor camera power cable | ✅ Yes (1 free cable) | ✅ Yes (1 free cable) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (1 free cable) | ✅ Yes (1 free cable) | ✅ Yes (1 free cable) |
| Panic button | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Water sensor | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Siren | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Smoke detector | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ✅ Yes (x1) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Monitoring
You can choose to monitor the system yourself with the mobile app or go for professional monitoring. Monthly monitoring with this one starts at $1.06/day and it climbs up to around $2.66/day.
User experience
The system is easy to use, and the mobile app gets high marks for being simple and intuitive. You can easily control your security settings and connect to other smart home devices.
4. Xfinity – best for integrated services
| Equipment price range: | From $360 to $480 |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting from $10/month |
| Monitoring options: | Professional or DIY |
| Contract length: | Optional month-to-month subscription without a contract, 24-month to 36-month permanent contracts |
| Installation options: | Professional, DIY |
| Smart home integration: | August, Lifx, Yale, Philips Hue, Ecobee |
Xfinity overview
Xfinity combines home security with internet service, offering comprehensive solutions that are easy to manage.
Xfinity takes home security up a notch by combining it with internet services for an all-in-one solution. It’s easy to manage, works even during power outages, and is ideal if you’re an Xfinity customer.
Equipment
Xfinity offers a range of packages with essentials like touchscreen controllers, door and window sensors, and HD cameras. It’s built to be reliable with battery and cellular backup, so it keeps running even if the power goes out. The basic setup starts with the $360 price point, and it moves up to $480, depending on the added accessories.
| Xfinity Plan | Self Protection | Xfinity Home Security |
| Professional monitoring | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Battery backup | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Cellular data | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| 24/7 video recording | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| No service term contracts | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Xfinity Gateway compatibility | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| System customization | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Monitoring
Depending on your needs, you can choose to monitor the system yourself or hire professional monitoring. Naturally, you won’t have to pay anything for self-monitoring, while Xfinity’s professional assistance might set you back from $10/month.
User experience
The Xfinity app is simple and intuitive, letting you easily manage alarms, cameras, and automation. It also integrates well with other Xfinity services, which is handy if you’re already an Xfinity customer.
5. ADT – best for trusted professional monitoring
| Equipment price range: | From $199 to $718+ (depending on the setup) |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting from $29.99/month |
| Monitoring options: | Professional or self |
| Contract length: | 24-month to 36-month contracts (depending on availability and location) |
| Installation options: | Professional, DIY |
| Smart home integration: | Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, Kwikset |
ADT overview
ADT is a well-established name in the security industry, and it is known for its reliable, professional monitoring and high-quality equipment. It’s a dependable option for anyone seeking a security system backed by experience and a solid reputation.
Equipment
ADT provides various devices, including indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, sensors, and a control panel. Thanks to its partnership with Google Nest, you get top-notch video quality and extras like floodlight integration. I’d also point out that the starting cost of ADT equipment is $199, and it grows quite a bit to over $718, based on your configuration and included system elements.
| ADT Plan | Security Starter | Life Safety | Video Essentials |
| ADT+ mobile app control | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Intrusion detection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Motion detection | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| DIY easy installation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Video camera | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Trusted neighbor feature | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| 30-day event history | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Alarm cellular backup | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Theft protection guarantee | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Money-back guarantee | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 24-hour battery backup | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Monitoring
ADT offers both self-monitoring and professional monitoring, backed by 12 monitoring centers to protect your home around the clock. I do have to say that their plans are a bit on the heftier side, starting at $29.99/month.
User experience
The ADT app and control panel are easy to use, and the system integrates smoothly with other smart home devices for a more connected experience.
Why do you need a home security system?
A home security system is essential to protect your home, family, and belongings, regardless of your budget. Having a security setup can deter crime by making your property less appealing to potential intruders, who are more likely to avoid a monitored home.
It also safeguards valuable assets within your home, like electronics, important documents, and irreplaceable personal items.
Furthermore, it provides invaluable peace of mind, whether you’re home or away. Thanks to advancements in technology, there are affordable security systems that offer strong protection.
In short, a home security system empowers you to monitor and control your space, significantly improving your overall safety and comfort.
How to cut the price of your security setup
If you’re a DIY-type of homeowner, here’s a price-related hint: if you can’t find an affordable home security system, make one. Of course, I’m not referring to coming up with your own setup, but rather optimizing existing ones to fit your budget range. Here are some useful tips that will get you there:
- Install the system yourself. If you think you're up for the task, you can always save on installation costs by getting the job done yourself. Professional setup can be rather expensive, especially with options like Vivint, so you can cut the overall price down substantially by doing it on your own.
- Make use of self-monitoring. Although professional monitoring options are perfect for those running businesses or observing multiple objects like storage units, you should be just fine with self-monitoring for your home. That’s why I’ve included the best DIY systems like XFinity, which lets you choose between professional and self-monitoring to reduce the cost.
- Don’t commit for too long with long-term contracts. The pace with which home security systems are advancing is mind-boggling, but those on the other side of the law are always eager to keep up. So, instead of committing for too long with 2-year or 3-year contracts, I’d recommend that you consider no-contract options like Xfinity and SimpliSafe. Going with a month-to-month plan might prove useful in case any such advancements occur and affect the contract price.
- Follow up on the discounts. You might get a more affordable price by shopping for discounts. By that, I don’t just mean getting your security system on Black Friday and similar dates, although that would certainly be useful. Here’s an example: while crafting this guide, I stumbled upon an exclusive discount for SimpliSafe, which reduced the price of the top-tier Beacon pack from $729.90 to just $292 if paid with Affirm. So, my two cents is to always go for similar discounts when they're available.
Alternatives to full security systems
If the higher price point of home security installation is turning you off, I’ve got another idea for you to explore. There are lots of DIY-style alternatives to full-fledged home security systems, and these are some of the most effective ones:
- Install door and window locks. One of the most effective ways of keeping your home safe is by installing door and window locks. Not only are reinforced doors and windows less appealing to intruders, but they also make a physical barrier between potential wrongdoers and your home.
- Set up motion-activated lighting. Installing motion-activated lights can be a wise move, even if you don't have a monitoring system centered around them. Potential intruders certainly won’t be able to tell if the lights turning on are a part of a security system or just a flick of the switch, and that gives you the upper hand. Plus, it increases the visibility of your yard and the area around the house, making it easier to call for help in times of need.
- Keep your yard in good shape. Another useful tip is to always keep your yard tidy and without any trash or mess. If you don’t keep up with the maintenance, it can be a sign to offenders that nobody is home, making your house an easy target.
- Get a video doorbell. After the huge success of the Ring Video Doorbell system, major companies like Google have gotten in on the race. So, you can now get a Google Nest camera or other variations that stream the doorbell video feed in real-time. That allows you to keep track of potential intrusions and monitor your yard without even having to be around.
- Set up fake TV lights. I’d also recommend taking a look at fake TV lights. There are numerous options available out there, including affordable projector-based devices. They shoot artificial TV lights so that they can be seen from outside the house, leaving an impression of someone being home at all times.
- Give window sensors a try. You can also set up window sensors with motion detection and sound alarms without purchasing them as part of a home security system.
Our methodology
To find the best home security systems in this category, I didn’t just look at the price. I also explored other metrics like equipment components, ease of installation, and monitoring, trying to give you a complete picture concerning the best affordable solutions. Here’s a glance at the key aspects I based my search on:
Equipment components and quality (25%). First things first, I focused on system components included in the package and their quality. I mainly aimed for durable and long-lasting solutions like the high-quality sensors and cameras provided by ADT. I also wanted to leave you some customization room, which is why I recommended Xfinity and its adjustable setups, too.
Total cost (35%). Next, Iexamined the total cost, considering upfront expenses like installation and ongoing monitoring fees. I also made sure to bring you systems like SimpliSafe with free optional self-monitoring to help you optimize your spendings.
Installation ease (15%). Installation ease was also key. I prioritized systems with straightforward setup options, particularly for users lacking technical skills. Moving on, I analyzed their features, highlighting systems that offer essentials like mobile alerts, smart home compatibility, and real-time camera access, ensuring value-packed options.
Monitoring options (25%). Finally, I looked at monitoring options, noting systems that support both self-monitoring and professional monitoring.
A final word on the best home security system
Among all the systems I analyzed for this guide, Vivint stands out as the best for its advanced features and exceptional service. It offers customizable equipment with installation pricing varying accordingly, seamless smart home integration, and dependable, professional monitoring, delivering a comprehensive solution that enhances security and convenience.
Still, other options I’ve discussed also deserve a look. Abode excels with its no-contract policy for more convenient month-to-month handling, while SimpliSafe makes the best DIY solution with intuitive manuals and tools. One final piece of advice from the Cybernews team and me: make sure to browse all the options, and look for discounts like SimpliSafe’s deal with Affirm payments.
FAQ
What is the cheapest home security system that offers professional monitoring?
SimpliSafe and Abode are among the most affordable options for professional monitoring. SimpliSafe offers monitoring plans starting at around $1.06/day, while Abode offers flexible pay-as-you-go monitoring, which allows you to activate professional monitoring only when needed. Both provide quality equipment, low upfront costs, and flexible monitoring contracts.
Can I install an affordable home security system myself?
Yes, many budget-friendly systems like SimpliSafe and Abode are designed for easy DIY installation. These systems come with straightforward instructions, no complex wiring, and app support to help guide you through setup. This not only saves on installation costs but also allows you to customize the placement of devices to your preference.
What should I look for in a budget-friendly home security system?
Look for essentials like quality cameras and sensors, mobile app control, and monitoring options. Self-monitoring is a cost-effective option, but choose a system with affordable professional monitoring if you want extra protection. Other helpful features include smart home compatibility (for easy control of lights, locks, etc.) and expandable equipment options so the system can grow with your needs.
Are affordable home security systems reliable?
Yes, many affordable systems, such as those we’ve highlighted in this article, provide dependable security. These systems undergo testing for quality and performance and can be trusted to deliver effective home protection. While high-end features might be limited, budget-friendly systems often include essentials like mobile alerts, robust sensors, and optional professional monitoring, making them reliable for your home security.
