Best affordable home security systems in 2025
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Home security is more important than ever today, but protecting your property and loved ones shouldn’t be expensive. The Cybernews research team and I have conducted research and tests to find the best affordable home security systems to allow you to protect your property without financial strain.
In this article, I provide a data-driven comparison of the top budget-friendly security systems. I’ll highlight essential features that maximize value and offer practical guidance on selecting a security system for your budget and ideal setup.
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
What features to look for in an affordable home security system
There are key features to consider when choosing an affordable home security system to enhance your security and get the most value for your money. Here are the features I recommend looking out for:
- Customizable packages: Look for systems that allow you to customize the equipment and services based on your individual security needs. This flexibility can help you avoid paying for unnecessary features that may not be relevant to your specific needs. Some companies allow you to easily add or remove devices and services, ensuring your system grows with your needs.
- Monitoring options: Consider whether you prefer self-monitoring or professional monitoring services. Self-monitoring can help you save money but requires you to be vigilant for alerts. On the other hand, professional monitoring provides peace of mind, knowing that trained personnel are responding to alerts and contacting authorities if necessary.
- Smart home integration: It is crucial to be able to integrate your security system with other smart home devices. This feature lets you control various aspects of your home security, such as lights, locks, and cameras, all from one app.
- Mobile app control: A user-friendly mobile app is vital for modern home security systems. The app should allow you to monitor your home remotely, receive alerts, and control your security devices from anywhere. It should make it easy to stay connected to your home while you're away.
- Expandable equipment: Your system should be able to expand as your security needs evolve. Look for providers offering additional sensors, cameras, or other devices that can easily be integrated into your system. This will help you protect your home more effectively as your needs change.
The best affordable home security system – our detailed list
After assessing numerous affordable home security systems, I ranked them based on price, features, and customer reviews. Here’s a breakdown of my top picks, providing insights into each system’s strengths and weaknesses so you can make an informed choice.
1. Vivint – best for advanced smart home automation
| Price range: | Starting from $599.00 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional only |
| Equipment included: | Cameras, sensors, smart locks, environmental sensors |
| Mobile app: | Yes |
| Smart home integration: | Google Home, Amazon Echo, Google Nest |
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 package includes its 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.
Monitoring: Vivint only supports professional monitoring with cellular backup, so you get reliable, around-the-clock coverage from its highly-rated monitoring centers.
Cost: Vivint’s equipment costs around $599.00, with monthly monitoring plans between $30.00 and $50. You’ll need professional installation, which comes at an extra fee, and if you move, reinstalling the system will cost you again.
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
| Price range: | Starting from $159.99 |
| Monitoring options: | Hybrid (professional or self) |
| Equipment included: | Cameras, key fob, Mini door/window sensor |
| Mobile app: | Yes |
| Smart home integration: | Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest, Yale |
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.
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.
Cost: Abode’s equipment costs range from $159.99 to $329.99, and monitoring costs start at $17.00 a month. Plus, there are no contracts, so you get flexibility without being locked into a commitment.
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
| Price range: | Starting from $249.96 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional or self |
| Equipment included: | Cameras, sensors, keypad, auxiliary siren, base station |
| Mobile app: | Yes |
| Smart home integration: | Alexa, Google Assistant, August |
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.
Monitoring: You can choose to monitor the system yourself with the mobile app or go for professional monitoring.
Cost: SimpliSafe’s equipment costs $249.96 to $499, and monthly monitoring starts at $31.00. There are no hidden fees or long-term contracts, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
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
| Price range: | Starting from $360.00 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional or DIY |
| Equipment included: | Sensors, yard sign, indoor/outdoor, wireless keypad |
| Mobile app: | Yes |
| Smart home integration: | August, Lifx, Yale, Philips Hue, Ecobee |
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.
Monitoring: Depending on your needs, you can choose to monitor the system yourself or hire professional monitoring.
Cost: Xfinity’s basic home security setup costs $360.00 upfront or $10.00 monthly for 24 months. The package includes a touchscreen controller, a pet-friendly motion sensor, three door/window sensors, and a yard sign. For a bit more, the Complete Home System costs $480 and adds extra sensors and a camera.
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
| Price range: | Starting from $269.00 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional or self |
| Equipment included: | Cameras, sensors, detectors, Keychain remotes |
| Mobile app: | Yes |
| Smart home integration: | Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, Kwikset |
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.
Monitoring: ADT offers both self-monitoring and professional monitoring, backed by 12 monitoring centers to protect your home around the clock.
Cost: ADT’s equipment starts at $269.00, and monitoring plans begin at $29.99 monthly. Professional installation is required for some setups, but there are also DIY options if you prefer to handle it yourself.
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.
The most affordable home security systems compared
This comparison table lets you quickly review the essential features and differences of the top affordable security systems. From pricing and monitoring options to smart integrations and user experiences, this overview simplifies your decision-making process by presenting key information at a glance.
| Security system | Vivint | Abode | SimpliSafe | Xfinity | ADT |
| Starting price | $599.00 | $159.99 | $249.96 | $360.00 | $269.00 |
| Monitoring options | Professional only | Hybrid (Self/professional) | Self/Professional | Professional/DIY | Self/Professional |
| Smart home integration | Amazon Echo, Google Home | Alexa, Google Nest, Yale | Alexa, Google Assistant | Lifx, Yale, Philips Hue | Alexa, Z-Wave, Kwikset |
| Equipment | Cameras, sensors, smart locks, motion detectors | Cameras, sensors, key fob, Mini door/window sensor | Cameras, sensors, keypad, auxiliary siren, base station | Sensors, yard sign, wireless keypad, cameras | Cameras, sensors, detectors, keychain remotes |
| Unique features | Advanced automation, Outdoor Camera Pro | Flexible packages, no contracts | DIY-friendly, affordable pricing | Integrated internet & security services | Trusted monitoring, Google Nest devices |
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 set a budget for your home security system
When setting a budget, consider both upfront equipment costs and any ongoing fees for monitoring services. Assess what you need for comprehensive protection and account for potential future expansions. Balancing equipment and monitoring costs will help you make an informed decision that fits your financial goals.
Equipment cost
The cost of home security equipment varies widely. Basic systems, including cameras, sensors, and a control panel, typically cost $150 to $300, while advanced systems with added features, like smart locks or HD cameras, can cost up to $500 or more. You can choose to buy equipment outright or opt for a subscription service that includes the equipment in exchange for a monthly fee.
Buying upfront often costs less in the long term, while subscriptions allow for lower initial expenses but may involve a contract.
Installation cost
DIY installation is generally the most budget-friendly option, as it requires no additional costs beyond the equipment. However, hiring professionals can ensure optimal setup. Depending on the system's complexity, this typically costs $100 to $300.
Professional installations may include hidden fees, like extra charges for additional devices or moving fees if you relocate, so it’s wise to ask about potential extra costs before choosing this option.
Monitoring cost
Professional monitoring services can vary, with basic plans starting around $15 to $30 per month and premium plans reaching $50 or more. Premium plans offer added features like cellular backup and enhanced response times.
For those on a tight budget, self-monitoring is a viable alternative with no monthly fees, but it requires active engagement and attentiveness to alerts. This cost-effective choice is suitable if you’re comfortable managing the system independently.
How to pick a budget-friendly but high-quality home security system
To balance affordability with quality, focus on essentials like cameras and sensors and skip add-ons like professional monitoring unless needed.
- Equipment: Buy only what’s necessary to cover key entry points. Bundles can save money, and limiting cameras can reduce costs.
- Monitoring: Self-monitoring is the most affordable option. Only opt for professional monitoring if extra oversight is crucial.
- Installation: DIY installation saves money. Consider professional setup only if tools or expertise are an issue.
- Insurance discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for security systems, so check if your provider offers any savings opportunities.
Our methodology
The Cybernews research team conducted an in-depth evaluation of affordable home security systems to ensure quality, reliability, and affordability.
Equipment quality: First, we assessed equipment quality, focusing on the functionality and durability of devices included in budget packages, such as cameras, sensors, and control panels.
Total cost: Next, we examined total cost, considering upfront expenses and ongoing monitoring fees to identify options that deliver value without straining your budget.
Installation ease: Installation ease was also key. We prioritized systems with straightforward setup options, particularly for users lacking technical skills. We then analyzed features, highlighting systems that offer essentials like mobile alerts, smart home compatibility, and real-time camera access, ensuring value-packed options.
Monitoring options: Finally, we looked at monitoring options, noting systems that support both self-monitoring and professional monitoring.
A final word on the best home security system
Affordable home security systems allow you to safeguard your home without breaking the bank. We encourage you to explore the security systems we’ve reviewed in this article and select one that best meets your needs.
Among all the systems we analyzed, Vivint stands out as the best for its advanced features and exceptional service.
Vivint offers customizable equipment, seamless smart home integration, and reliable professional monitoring. Whether you prioritize cost, ease of installation, or cutting-edge technology, Vivint delivers a comprehensive solution that enhances security and convenience.
While other options like Abode, SimpliSafe, Xfinity, and ADT are excellent alternatives, Vivint’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction sets it apart.
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 $31.00 per month, 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.
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