Best affordable home security systems in 2026
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Affordable home security systems come with a lot of benefits. You’ll enjoy peace of mind, simple installation, and low monthly costs. That’s why you should make an informed decision before you invest in a home security system. However, with all the options on the market, this can be a bit more challenging.
To help you make the most out of the best affordable home security system, I thoroughly reviewed and investigated the best solutions with the help of my Cybernews research team.
In this guide, you’ll find the top 5 options and explore their features. Also, I’ll show you why you may need a home security system, how to save the most on installation, and how I made my selection. So, let’s begin right away.
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
After extensive and thorough analysis of the best affordable home security systems, I came up with the list of the top 5 options. Together with the Cybernews team, I reviewed their equipment, pricing, monitoring features, and all other necessary aspects. Here are the solutions that made it to the final cut:
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 is one of the most popular home security systems on the market. You’ll get a simple smart home experience with numerous customization options, round-the-clock expert monitoring, and technologically advanced equipment that can be tailored to your home.
All of these aspects make it highly secure yet affordable. You get a bunch of features for a decent price.
Key features
One of the best things about Vivint is that it comes with a bunch of features. However, here are the ones that got my attention immediately:
- Remote control: Thanks to the Vivint app, you can control your entire smart home system remotely. This includes arming and disarming the system, controlling smart devices, and viewing live camera feeds from your phone.
- Smart locks: Vivint comes with smart locks that enable keyless entry, remote locking and unlocking, and assigning unique access codes for different users.
- Smart deter technology: All of Vivint’s security cameras utilize Smart Deter technology. This enables the cameras to identify and deter potential threats by sounding the alarm and turning on lights.
Equipment
The equipment cost of Vivint starts at $449.99, and it can reach even over $1,000. However, this depends on what you want to include and the customization options. More precisely, you can include a Smart Hub, glass-break sensors, motion detectors, and Outdoor Camera Pro with Smart Deter.
The aspect I find the most unique is the Smart Deter technology, which keeps intruders away by triggering an alarm sound and flashing lights.
But Vivin’t equipment also integrates with smart home devices, allowing you to control smart thermostats, locks, lighting systems, and even garage door controllers remotely.
| 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
While Vivint doesn’t support self-monitoring, you can be sure that you’ll receive 24/7 professional monitoring. More precisely, you’ll have backup when the alarm triggers, as the best experts are always ready to respond.
And even while you receive notifications and alerts, if you’re not available at the moment, or they can’t reach you, the team will immediately be on its way. The monthly cost for the professional monitoring starts at $1/day.
Pricing
You can get a customized Vivint offer based on a few key choices, including the equipment you get, the monitoring plan you select, and the add-ons you plan to use, like cloud video storage or smart home features.
The security starter bundle starts at $449.99 when purchased upfront, or $113/month if financing. The best part is that there are no hidden fees.
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.
More precisely, you can arm or disarm your security system, lock or unlock doors, and control smart home devices like lights and thermostats with a few clicks. Plus, you’ll receive instant notifications for any suspicious activity.
One of the things I definitely like the most is the live camera feed. This enables you to watch the footage of the indoor, outdoor, or doorbell cameras in real-time without any hassle.
Use cases
The Vivint home security system is best for homeowners who want a comprehensive and high-tech solution for their homes. In fact, it’s perfect if you seek intelligent security cameras, smart home automation, and professional installation and monitoring.
Also, Vivint is ideal for larger homes, as it can accommodate a wide range of devices and offers a lot of features. This might not be suitable for smaller homes.
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 is one of the best customizable security solutions. You can easily tailor it to your needs and enjoy top-notch safety without being tied to a contract. This home security system is pretty budget-friendly when you consider that it’s flexible, simple, and offers free self-monitoring.
On top of this, it even works well with other smart home gadgets, making it easy to tailor to your needs.
Key features
The affordable Abode home security system surprised me with the numerous available features. Among the best ones are:
- Multi-sensor technology: Thanks to Abode’s multi-sensor, the system is able to detect motion, light, temperature, and humidity. Due to this, it provides comprehensive monitoring capabilities that prevent any kind of threat or disaster.
- CUE automations: Abode’s CUE platform lets you create custom automations. But the most unique part is that you can base them on a specific security event, location, time, or device status.
- Built-in panic alarms: Through the Abode app, you can even trigger panic alarms. This enables you to request instant help, both loudly and silently.
- Multiple sensors: Last but not least, Abode stands out due to its various sensors. These include door and window, motion, glass break sensors (both acoustic and vibration), and environmental sensors, such as smoke and water leak detectors.
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.
More precisely, its US-based monitoring center keeps an eye on your home 24/7. Therefore, the team is ready to act in no time. In case of a break-in, they even alert the police, while for fire or medical emergencies, they send the respective emergency responder.
However, if you opt for self-monitoring, you can check video footage by yourself for free.
Pricing
When it comes to the pricing, you can be sure that you won’t break the bank with Abode. You can pick from numerous offers, with the initial security system being only $79.
What’s even better is that you can save a significant amount even on the Standard and Pro subscription plans. More precisely, you’ll get $100 off on each system if you use some of these subscriptions.
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.
Although this home security system is relatively new in this industry, it has managed to become a synonym for convenience and smart home automation. This is because Abode lets you easily control the system using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.
Additionally, it also works with multiple IoT devices from popular companies like Nest, ecobee, and Philips Hue.
Use cases
Abode is perfect for homeowners or renters who want affordable yet powerful protection with the option to self-monitor or use professional monitoring. It’s also a great fit if you prefer DIY installation, look for smart home integration, or simply like to customize your system without signing a contract.
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. This is a popular DIY home security system that offers a broad range of equipment and monitoring options. Due to this, I can indeed say it's affordable considering its customization options and flexibility.
Key features
SimpliSafe has a lot of features, but its key ones are:
- One-tap arming/disarming: This feature lets you secure your home with a single tap on your phone. Thanks to the intuitive interface, you just need to choose whether you want to arm or disarm the system.
- Real-time notifications: You can easily set up push alerts for your alarms, senors activity, or motion detection. In case of any suspicious activity or potential threat, you’ll receive a notification immediately.
- Live monitoring: Thanks to the app, SimpliSage lets you check live footage of your indoor and outdoor cameras. Therefore, you can ensure constant surveillance at any time.
- Sensor and device status checks: This feature helps you make sure that the system works properly. More precisely, you can easily monitor the entry sensors’ status, motion detectors, and any other connected devices.
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.
When it comes to professional monitoring, you get the first month for free, which is great if you first want to test the security system.
What I really liked is that SimpliSafe has an AI-enabled camera that detects potential threats on your property and alerts the monitoring center. Due to this, within 30 seconds, the agent evaluates the situation and takes appropriate action.
They can either communicate through the camera, activate the siren, or turn on the light to scare off intruders. In case there’s a crime on the footage, the agent contacts the police. And you receive updates on the agent’s actions through the app at all times.
Pricing
In terms of pricing, SimpliSafe provides affordable and flexible monitoring options. You can use the system without a subscription and still enjoy all the necessary features, such as real-time notifications and local alarms.
However, if you want more advanced capabilities, like professional monitoring, you need to get some of SimpliSafe’s subscriptions. The entry-level one, standard monitoring, costs only $21.99/month. The best part is that everything is transparent, meaning you won’t face any hidden fees.
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.
Through the app dashboard, you can easily control and monitor the home security system remotely. More precisely, you can track your system’s recent activity and navigate with ease between different features.
You can adjust settings, check recorded video footage, or view event history. Basically, you can have full access to your system from anywhere and manage any aspect of SimpliSafe with a few clicks.
Use cases
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.
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 is one of the most popular broadband providers, which launched a modern home security system with internet service. Thus, it offers robust solutions that you can easily manage and not pay a lot.
What makes it affordable is the combination of internet services with security features, which work even during power outages. You’ll even get professional installation for $55/month.
Key features
Surprisingly, for a home security solution by a broadband company, you’ll enjoy a lot of features. The ones that got my immediate attention are:
- Cellular and battery backup: This feature makes sure the system will continue to work even if there’s an internet disruption or power outage.
- Voice control: The voice control is probably one of my favorite functionalities because it lets you control the Xfinity security system hands-free. This is possible due to the integration with the Xfinity X1 Voice Remote assistant.
- Motion detectors: Thanks to the motion detectors, Xfinity will trigger the alarm when there’s any movement inside or outside the house while the home security system is still on.
- Immediate assistance: With the professional installation, you’ll enjoy 24/7 monitoring by trained agents who will immediately respond to any alarm or emergency.
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. As I mentioned, the professional monitoring of Xfinity comes at $55/month, while the self-monitoring option is only $10/month and comes with all the available features of the professional assistance.
When it comes to the professional monitoring capabilities, you’ll immediately receive a notification from Xfinity if the alarm goes off. Aside from this, the team can also contact the right authorities on your behalf if there’s any security incident.
Pricing
Xfinity comes with two plans: the Self-Protection or the Pro Protection Plus plan. Pro-Protection Plus costs $55/month, while the Self-Protection deal is available for only $10/month.
The only additional costs are for the professional installation or any add-ons you’d like to include.
User experience
Overall, Xfinity provides you with an excellent user experience. However, you need to be aware that there’s no DIY installation option. This means that you need to pay for professional installation for various components of the system, like door sensors and motion sensors.
Still, the Xfinity app makes up for this with its intuitive approach and incredible simplicity. As a result, you can manage alarms, cameras, and IoT devices without any hassle. On top of this, the security system integrates well with other Xfinity services, which is great if you’re already using some of the company’s offers.
Through the app, you can arm or disarm the alarm system, control your connected devices, set automation, receive notifications, and watch and live stream camera footage at any time.
Use cases
The Xfinity Home Security is ideal if you already use some of Xfinity’s services, such as internet, mobile, and cable. It’s also suitable if you want professional installation and monitoring, or look for smart home integrations. But this solution can be great if you want a customizable system with flexible capabilities
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.
This security system offers smart home automation, security cameras, business security, ADT 24/7 monitoring, and senior safety. All of this is available for around $50/month, which is why it got placed on my list of affordable home security systems.
Key features
ADT has multiple features, which is how it provides robust security. So, I decided to point out the ones that stood out to me the most, such as:
- Video doorbells: The ADT video doorbell cameras let you see, hear, and even speak to your visitors, all via the mobile app.
- Smart home integration: ADT integrates with various IoT devices, like thermostats, smart lights, and locks. Due to this, you can remotely control them through the app.
- Trusted Neighbor: The Trusted Neighbor feature allows you to grant temporary access to someone you trust. You can set specific permissions, timeframes, or even event-based access.
- Smart locks: Ultimately, you can benefit from the ADT smart locks. They offer keyless entry and remote locking and unlocking capabilities.
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. When it comes to self-monitoring, you won’t need to pay anything for this service. All you need is dedication.
ADT monitoring has wireless sensors that protect all entry points in your home, both doors and windows. You can even place them on cabinets and drawers to protect your jewelry, cash, and anything else that’s valuable. But I really liked that these sensors can make a difference between your pet and a burglar.
Pricing
The ADT home security system comes with three different plans. That said, you can choose from Outdoor Video, Front Door Protection, and Total Safety. You need to know that all three include professional monitoring, which comes at an additional cost.
Speaking of price, you can get the initial subscription, Outdoor Video, for $8.03/month, plus $44.99/month for the professional monitoring.
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.
Your experience will be even more seamless due to ADT’s app, which puts all devices, such as cameras, thermostats, and locks, in a single platform.
Thanks to this, you can easily monitor your security system, watch live feed, and use any feature. Plus, the built-in Google Nest integration lets you control Nest products and view Nest Cam footage directly in the app.
Use cases
It’s a dependable option for anyone seeking a security system backed by experience and a solid reputation.
ADT is also a suitable option if you want professional installation and monitoring, a robust smart home experience, or a reliable security provider. Plus, it’s also ideal for those who like a hands-off approach, as ADT handles the setup and ongoing monitoring by itself.
Why do you need a home security system?
There are a lot of reasons why you need a home security system. Some of the most prominent ones are:
- Deterrence of crime: These systems will protect your homes and make them less appealing to intruders.
- Protection of valuables: Your jewelry, money, documents, or any other personal items will stay safe.
- Peace of mind: You can rest assured that your home is safe even when you’re traveling or at work.
When it comes to property crime statistics and trends, CCJ reports that in the first six months of 2025, they have decreased. Overall, the burglaries in urban areas are lower than the frequency of burglaries in suburban areas.
Studies also show that security systems can deter crime, as burglars are less likely to target objects or homes that are protected.
Ultimately, you should keep in mind that setting up a home security system can be far less costly than the aftermath of a burglary. While the home security systems start at around $300, you can lose thousands in valuables, repairs, and even emotional stress.
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.
Other worth-mentioning home security systems
Aside from the top affordable home security systems I listed, many others didn’t make the cut. Some of the most prominent ones are Frontpoint and Kangaroo.
While Frontpoint has good hardware, its monthly monitoring is $50/month, which can be too expensive if you’re on a tighter budget. As for Kangaroo, you’ll get a system that has slightly poor hardware and cheap quality.
Our methodology
To find the best home security systems in this category, I didn’t just look at the price. 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, I examined 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
After carefully analyzing numerous systems, my top pick is Vivint, which stands out for its advanced features and exceptional service. This home security system is affordable, but still provides customization options, pricing variety, and seamless smart home integration. You can even enjoy professional monitoring for top-notch security.
Still, the other systems are also worth it. Abode, for example, is perfect for no-contract protection, while SimpliSafe is ideal if you’re looking for a DIY solution.
But regardless of your choice, first make sure you explore all the options and check the deals of each.
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.
