Best DIY home security system in 2026
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You no longer have to rely on expert assistance to secure your home. DIY home security systems are becoming widespread and beginner-friendly so that users can set them up without help. However, choosing the best DIY home security system is challenging, subject to specific household needs.
I have researched a variety of do-it-yourself home security systems to select 5 worth your investment. With the help of Cybernews research team, I have analyzed their features, setup processes, pricing, and customer support options. I have also inspected user reviews and first-hand opinions to identify potential issues and strong points.
In this article, you will find affordable DIY security system pioneers like SimpliSafe alongside services like ADT, which introduced a DIY solution more recently. To help you choose, I will outline the chosen service's advantages and setbacks, monitoring and equipment options, and provide tips on choosing the right one.
How we tested and ranked the top DIY home security systems
For us at Cybernews, choosing the best DIY home security systems means focusing on what truly matters for everyday users: ease of installation, overall value, and reliable security. Therefore, each DIY home security system was assessed using clear criteria, with weighted importance assigned to reflect real-world priorities. Here’s exactly how we tested and ranked them:
- Ease of installation (25%). We first looked for systems with clear instructions, minimal tools required, and setup times under an hour for the average user. Even the simplest setup can raise questions, so I checked that each provider offers 24/7 live chat support for DIY customers.
- Value for money (25%). Pricing had to justify itself. Not just for the initial kit but also for ongoing costs. So, we analyzed self-monitoring vs professional monitoring plans and whether the features match the price.
- Security and monitoring options (20%). Every system on our list offers professional monitoring. I also checked for key security features like backup connectivity, mobile alerts, and fast response times.
- Smart home integration (15%). We tested whether the systems work with popular platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, plus compatibility with other smart devices such as locks, lights, and cameras.
- Customer support and resources (10%). Beyond live chat, I reviewed online help centers, FAQs, and community forums like SimpliSafe’s comprehensive guide library, to make sure help is easy to find when you need it.
- User and expert feedback (5%). I factored in verified, real user reviews, expert opinions, and ranking site scores to balance professional assessments with real-world experiences.
DIY home security systems compared
The best DIY home security systems are highly customizable, so it can be challenging to know their exact benefits and setbacks. With the help of the Cybernews research team, I have compared their core and additional features, price, equipment variety and quality, and setup process. Below is a table with side-by-side comparison results.
| DIY security system | Rating | Monitoring | Smart home integration | Ease of setup | Additional features | Price breakdown |
| Xfinity | 4.5★★★★★ | Self and professional | August door locks, Philips Hue lighting, ecobee thermostats, and more | Easy | Integration with Comcast services, wide US coverage, automation routines | Self-monitoring costs $10/month, professional monitoring goes for $55/month |
| SimpliSafe | 4.5★★★★★ | Self and professional | Alexa, Google Assistant, August smart locks | Very easy | Wireless sensors, cellular backup, silent alerts | Starts from $279.94 + $0.73 per day for professional monitoring |
| Cove | 4★★★★☆ | Professional | Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant | Easy | Highly customizable initial setup, wireless sensors, cellular backup | Negotiable initial equipment fee + $0.67 per day professional monitoring |
| Abode | 4.6★★★★★ | Self and professional | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave | Easy | Optimized for smart homes, customizable initial setup, cellular backup | Negotiable initial equipment fee + $69.99 for standard professional monitoring |
| ADT | 4.3★★★★☆ | Professional | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave, Zigbee | Average | Integration with Google Nest products, incredible home security experience, automation routines | Starts from $269 + $29.99 for professional monitoring |
The best DIY home security systems – our detailed list
Following are my top 5 DIY home security system picks. All selected providers are easy to install without expert assistance needed, offer 24/7 customer support, and self and professional monitoring.
1. Xfinity – best smart home DIY security
| Type of monitoring: | Self and professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Easy |
| Equipment options: | Touchscreen controller, window, door, and motion sensors, yard sign |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts from $10/month + initial equipment fee |
| Smart home compatibility: | August door locks, Philips Hue lighting, ecobee thermostats, and more |
Xfinity is the best DIY home security system, especially if you use other Comcast services, like cable or Internet. Xfinity has been securing households since 2012, but the company goes way back. It’s a part of the American telecommunications giant Comcast Corporation that also offers mobile, cable, and internet services.
Xfinity equipment
Xfinity core, standard components include a touchscreen controller, 3 window and door sensors, 1 motion sensor, and a yard sign. You can also use the Build Your Plan tool on Xfinity’s website to customize your package. I recommend this option, as, depending on your location, you may be able to add extra sensors, HD security cameras, or smart devices like connected locks.
Xfinity monitoring
This DIY home security system offers both professional and self-monitoring, but unlike others on this list, self-monitoring is a paid service. Professional monitoring means trained experts will respond to alarms 24/7, while self-monitoring provides direct alerts through the app, and you decide on the next steps yourself.
Xfinity cost
Xfinity core DIY equipment prices may vary based on location, so it's best to contact them directly for a breakdown. DIY self-monitoring costs $10/month, going up to $55/month for professional monitoring.
Installing Xfinity
Installing Xfinity is straightforward:
- Unbox the kit
- Download the Xfinity Home app
- Follow the touchscreen controller’s guided prompts
- Mount the sensors on doors, windows, and entry points, and place the motion sensor for optimal coverage
- Test everything through the app
User experience
Xfinity stands out regarding smart device compatibility. It supports August door locks, Philips Hue lighting, ecobee thermostats, and more, but doesn’t work with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. All system controls, alerts, and automation settings are managed through the Xfinity Home app, which has a clean interface and straightforward navigation.
2. SimpliSafe – simplistic and affordable DIY security
| Type of monitoring: | Self and professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Very easy |
| Equipement options: | Entry, motion, glassbreak, and hazard sensors, wired and wireless cameras, doorbells, sirens, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts from $279.94 + $0.73/day professional monitoring |
| Smart home compatibility: | Alexa, Google Assistant, August smart locks |
SimpliSafe excels at easy-as-a-breeze DIY setup and affordable prices but falls behind smart home compatibility compared to Xfinity. This is one of the do-it-yourself home security systems pioneers with nearly 2 decades of experience. A polished DIY setup results in one of the easiest installations you can get in the current home security market.
SimpliSafe equipment
Initial indoor equipment includes 1 base station, 1 keypad, 3 entry sensors, and 1 motion sensor. The Outdoor plan adds 1 exterior camera, and the Elite plan (called The Beacon) adds 2 more sensors and 1 more outdoor camera. All components are designed for quick, tool-free mounting.
SimpliSafe monitoring
SimpliSafe offers free self-monitoring and a set of professional monitoring plans that range from $0.73/day for standard to $2.66/day for 24/7 active outdoor monitoring. Professional monitoring includes emergency dispatch and real-time alerts for break-ins, fires, and other events.
SimpliSafe cost
The most affordable Starter plan costs $279.94, going up to $479.93 to include outdoor security, and the most expensive plan costs $729.90. Professional installation costs $124.99, so the DIY solution significantly reduces expenses. You can also test SimpliSafe’s services. If you aren't satisfied, you can get back a full refund within 60 days.
Installing SimpliSafe
I found SimpliSafe’s installation to be quick and easy:
- Plug in the base station
- Connect the keypad
- Follow the voice-guided instructions
- Sensors attach to doors, windows, and walls with adhesive strips, so no drilling is required. Once placed, you can test each component through the app in just minutes
User experience
This highly rated DIY security system is liked for exceptionally easy installation and great customer service, but some users have had issues with false alarms and app performance. Despite these minor drawbacks, I found that it remains one of the most user-friendly systems available.
3. Cove – easy setup with professional customer support
| Type of monitoring: | Professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Easy |
| Equipement options: | Variety of sensors and detectors, Eufy cameras, sirens, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Negotiable initial equipment fee + $0.67/day professional monitoring |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant |
Cove is an easy-to-install DIY home security system with inexpensive professional monitoring, but it lacks a free self-monitoring option. Cove is a relatively new player in the home security industry that launched in 2018. It specializes in no-contract and highly customizable plans tailored to individual needs.
Cove equipment
Cove offers a variety of security gadgets, from standard sensors to loud sirens to smoke detectors. I recommend using the Choose My Equipment tool on Cove's website, which generates a suitable DIY home security system with cameras according to your household details.
Cove monitoring
This provider has two no-contract monitoring plans: Cove + and Cove Basic. The latter costs $0.67/day and offers 24/7 professional monitoring with a 30-second response time. Meanwhile, Cove + adds a lifetime equipment warranty, Google and Alexa voice controls, and a $5 monthly bonus to spend on new equipment (accumulates each month). Cove + costs $1/day.
Cove cost
Cove doesn't offer pre-packaged plans, so you will have to use its Choose My Equipment tool, which will generate the price according to your household specifics. This ensures you only pay for what you actually need.
Installing Cove
Cove is designed for quick, no-hassle installation that most homeowners can complete in under an hour. Just follow these simple steps:
- Unbox the devices and check that all components are included
- Plug in the main control panel and power it on
- Follow the on-screen instructions to start the setup
- Attach sensors and detectors using the included adhesive strips
- Pair any cameras through the Cove mobile app
- Run a system test to confirm all devices are connected and working
User experience
Cove receives primarily positive user reviews regarding easy setup and professional support, but simultaneously, I noticed that some users have mentioned long wait times for support and occasionally unhelpful responses when troubleshooting.
4. Abode – highly customizable DIY security setup
| Type of monitoring: | Self and professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Easy |
| Equipement options: | Cameras, sensors, detectors, smart locks and power switches, sirens, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Negotiable initial equipment fee, $69.99 Standard plan, $169 Pro plan |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave |
Abode is one of the best smart home DIY systems with numerous integrations, but it has experienced camera security issues, which have been fixed by now. A former ADT executive founded Abode in 2014, so this home security newcomer was built with a lot of experience from the get-go. This business focuses on DIY security solutions and home automation.
Abode equipment
Similar to Cove, Abode lets you choose the initial equipment but also all-in-one security kits. For example, its Iota kit includes 1 hub, a door and window sensor, and a keyfob. Meanwhile, the Smart Security kit adds 1 motion sensor, so you'll have to add additional equipment (such as additional sensors, cameras, and smart-home accessories) for comprehensive home safety.
Abode monitoring
Abode offers free self-monitoring. Its professional monitoring costs $24.99/month or $229.99 if paid for the whole year. Professional monitoring provides 24/7 coverage and quick emergency dispatch when alarms trigger.
Abode cost
The initial setup cost depends on the chosen equipment. Additionally, Abode has 2 service plans: Standard ($69.99) and Pro ($169). Both include insurance policy discounts and AI-powered detection, but the Pro plan adds free ground shipping and cellular backup.
Installing Abode
Now, let’s walk through the beginner-friendly Abode’s setup process:
- Unbox your kit and check all devices are included
- Connect the hub to power and your Wi-Fi network
- Follow the in-app instructions, pair sensors
- Mount sensors on doors, windows, and motion coverage areas
- Add optional devices such as cameras or smart-home integrations
- Test the system to ensure all components are working properly
User experience
From my analysis, Abode receives mixed-to-positive reviews. Some users value straightforward setup and smart home integration. On the other hand, some note that the build quality of certain equipment feels average compared to competitors.
5. ADT – DIY security with Google Nest integration
| Type of monitoring: | Professional |
| Installation difficulty: | Average |
| Equipement options: | Google Nest products, environmental hazard detectors, glassbreak sensors, remote keychains, and more |
| Starting price and monthly fees: | Starts from $269 + $29.99/month professional monitoring fee |
| Smart home compatibility: | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Z-Wave, Zigbee |
ADT is a professional home security service that uses Google Nest Cameras. It provides outstanding video quality but also significantly increases the price. It's hard to compete with the ADT experience that dates back to its roots in 1874. Over two centuries, it grew into one of the biggest home security companies with over 14,000 employees. ADT launched DIY services in 2023.
ADT equipment
ADT DIY Build Your Own pack comes with 1 base, 1 door and window sensors, a yard sign, and a window sticker. You can expand your setup with Google Nest cameras, smart thermostats, Nest hubs, and safety devices such as heat, carbon monoxide, and smoke detectors.
ADT monitoring
Like Cove, ADT doesn’t offer free self-monitoring. However, it has 3 professional monitoring plans: Secure Monitoring ($29.99/month), Smart Monitoring ($34.99/month), and Complete Monitoring ($44.99/month). These plans provide 24/7 emergency response, with higher tiers adding smart-home automation and advanced security features.
ADT cost
The Build Your Own plan starts from $269. Alternatively, you can get a Front Door Protection plan for $287.59 and a pricey, yet elaborate, Total Safety for $823.95 (includes the most extensive range of devices and coverage).
Installing ADT
Installing ADT is quite similar to other providers on out list, you just need to follow these steps:
- Unbox the starter kit, double-check you have everything
- Download the ADT+ app to guide you through the process
- Place and power the base station, follow the on-screen pairing instructions
- Mount sensors on doors or windows
- Connect Google Nest devices via the app (if included)
- Run a system check to confirm everything is functioning
User experience
After investigating ADT’s user reviews online, I noticed that generally ADT is praised for its professional monitoring, fast response times, and experienced professionals. On the downside, it receives some backlash for its steep prices.
What are DIY home security systems?
A DIY home security system is one that homeowners or renters can install themselves without expert assistance. Compared to professionally installed ones, they are more affordable, expandable, and can be freely tailored to individual needs. For example, Cove charges $129 for professional installation, which is even more expensive than the $112 Xfinity Starter pack on sale.
Another widely valued benefit is flexibility. DIY home security systems typically have no-contract policies, while professionally installed ones often require a long-term commitment. Similarly, the latter can only offer professional monitoring service that comes at an extra charge, while the DIY solution leaves an open opportunity for self-monitoring.
What are the advantages of a DIY home security system?
The top advantage of self-installed home security systems is affordability. Saved money can be used to buy additional safety equipment or upgrade existing ones, like switching to AI-powered cameras to lower false alarm rates. You can save even more by opting for a self-monitoring option, but keep in mind that it requires continuous attention.
You also have more freedom to install equipment. Firstly, you don't have to wait for a specialist who often gives an approximate time window when you have to stay at home. You can also place cameras, sensors, and motion detectors wherever you feel like, as long as you research and follow best home security practices.
Feel like moving to a different home? Unlike most professionally installed home systems, you can pack a DIY home alarm system and reinstall it in a new location. Proceed with configuring it in a new environment, like setting your own alarming and disarming schedules and personalized alerts.
What are the disadvantages of a DIY home security system?
While DIY solutions are becoming more popular, they also have important challenges you should be aware of. Home security is not something to take lightly, so if you decide to take this route, you must install DIY alarm systems properly. In other words, you must have some technical skills to do it right.
For example, outdoor cameras ideally should be placed 8 to 9 feet high (244cm to 274cm) beyond human reach but close enough for a clear view. Indoor cameras should not face direct sunlight, and this type of knowledge is mandatory for an efficient DIY security system setup.
Just as important is picking the proper monitoring type. Opting for self-monitoring may be tempting to avoid a monthly subscription, but do you always have the time to react to every alarm? Generally, DIY systems may issue more false alarms, so you may develop a habit of ignoring some.
Luckily, most DIY home security systems allow upgrading to professional monitoring. This way, a trained professional must respond to each alarm and notify the appropriate department in case of burglary, fire, or medical emergency. I strongly recommend opting for a professional monitoring option, especially when it is as low as Cove's $17.99/month.
DIY vs professional monitoring
When choosing a home security system, perhaps one of the most important choices is whether to monitor yourself or hire professionals. DIY monitoring places you firmly in the driver's seat. Upon alarm activation, notifications immediately go to your phone, so you can access live camera footage, call the police, or silence false alarms yourself.
This option is usually cheaper, often with no ongoing fees, and is great if you want flexibility, live in smaller spaces, or prefer a portable system that you can take with you.
| Feature | DIY monitoring | Professional monitoring |
| Setup | Self-install | Expert installation |
| Cost | Lower upfront and monthly | Higher because of professional fees |
| Monitoring response | Handled by you | Handled by experts |
| Customization and equipment | Simple kits, scalable | Tailored layout and high-end gear |
| Support and maintenance | You manage it | Experts manage it |
However, it also means you’re responsible for responding quickly. If you’re asleep, traveling, or out of service range, it’ll be on you.
Professional monitoring, on the other hand, connects your system to a monitoring center operating 24/7. Experts will verify the alarm, call you, and contact emergency services if needed. While it costs more each month, it offers greater peace of mind, faster response times, and ongoing system support. Therefore, it’s great for homeowners who want 24/7 protection without needing to personally manage notifications.
How to choose the best DIY home security system?
Affordability is a crucial DIY security system selling point, but it comes secondary to safety. You will make the most out of it if you get the required equipment without overpaying. Here are the key factors you should consider:
- Essential features. The best DIY security system should provide door and window sensors, indoor and outdoor cameras, an intuitive control panel, and a user-friendly mobile app for remote control. With the help of the Cybernews research crew, I picked and prioritized systems with customizable alert settings.
- Monitoring options. While self-monitoring is excellent for saving expenses, it also requires continuous vigilance. All 5 DIY security systems with cameras offer both professional and self-monitoring, so you can choose whichever works best for you.
- Expandability and smart home integration. One of the best DIY home security aspects is that you can always add more gadgets to it, like top-notch Xfinity doorbell cameras. If you live in a smart home, consider Abode as your primary choice, which has one of the best smart home integrations in the market.
- Ease of installation. When it comes to DIY, the best security system must be easy to install. That means that most components must be wireless, require as little drilling as possible, and come with an easy-to-follow installation manual.
How to set a budget for your DIY home security system?
Going the do-it-yourself way allows you to create the best DIY home security system tailored to your individual needs. The initial price depends on the household size, the depth of desired protection, equipment quality, and monitoring type. Let's see how much that amounts to.
Abode has one of the more affordable indoor-outdoor Wi-Fi cameras that go for $59.99, going up to $99.99 for a wireless video doorbell. In comparison, ADT offers Google Nest cameras, which cost $99.99 for a standard indoor wired camera, and ask $179.99 for a Google Nest Doorbell. Regarding quality, ADT cameras often have 1080p or higher image quality but also require a professional monitoring plan, while Abode falls behind in AI-powered person detection in dim environments.
You should also consider what kind of equipment you actually need. Large homes require more motion sensors. If you require environmental hazard protection, consider SimpliSafe water sensors ($19.99), smoke, carbon monoxide detection ($69.99), or a temperature sensor ($29.99).
To put things into perspective, consider SimpliSafe's Starter pack. It goes for $279.94 and includes 1 base station, 1 keypad, 4 entry sensors, and 1 motion sensor. It does not include outdoor cameras and doorbells, so you will have to add each desired component for an additional price.
Other security systems you might be interested in:
Google Home security systems; check out the best Google Home-compatible security systems
Business security systems: secure your assets and data with the top-ranked systems
Apartment security systems: supercharge your home with smart security systems
Home security apps: learn more about the best security apps for home in 2026
Final word on DIY home security systems
During my research, Xfinity secured the best DIY home security spot. Its vast US coverage, excellent smart home integration, easy setup, and intuitive app offer exceptional value. On the other hand, DIY systems are highly customizable to respond to individual needs, so the finest is the one that provides the features that you require.
The Cybernews research crew helped me to overview widely used DIY home security systems. After narrowing the list down to 5, I scrutinized each for pricing, smart home integration, monitoring options, and installation difficulty. The result is a list of 5 top-notch DIY alarm systems with a plethora of benefits.
Before committing, I suggest noting your budget and tech skills. ADT is a pricey but reliable home security system that’s a bit harder to install; meanwhile, SimpliSafe may lack a few advanced features, but you will have no trouble setting it up.
FAQ
Are DIY home security systems reliable?
Yes, DIY home security systems are reliable. Although you can take control of your home security without any help, all DIY security providers on this list offer professional monitoring. This way, you can always upgrade to expert assistance and take your home safety to the next level.
Can I install a DIY home security system myself?
Yes, installing a DIY home security system yourself is the whole point. That's why providers like Xfinity offer easy-to-follow installation manuals alongside 24/7 customer support in case you run into some troubles. Even ADT, a long-time professional security-only service, launched a DIY option in 2023.
Can I add more devices to my DIY home security system later?
Yes, installing a DIY home security system yourself is the whole point. That's why providers like Xfinity offer easy-to-follow installation manuals alongside 24/7 customer support in case you run into some trouble. Even ADT, a long-time professional security-only service, launched a DIY option in 2023.
Do DIY home security systems offer professional monitoring?
Yes, some DIY home security systems offer professional monitoring, but not all of them. However, in my list I added only those services that let you upgrade to professional monitoring at your convenience. This way, you can self-monitor to save expenses or upgrade to a professional whenever you feel at risk.
