Best unmonitored home security systems in 2026
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Want the safety of home security systems without the cost of professional monitoring? For some homeowners, unmonitored home security may be the right move. Modern home safety systems allow you to receive alerts directly on your smartphone so you can take action in case of a break-in or emergency.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or simply prefer to manage your own security, unmonitored systems allow you to tailor your setup to your specific needs.
Working with the Cybernews research team, I explored the best unmonitored home security systems available right now, assessing features like ease of installation, smart home integration, remote access, and more.
After studying dozens of home security options, we shortlisted the best unmonitored home security systems in 2026. In this article, I review a range of options to ensure you can find the perfect solution to protect your home without breaking the bank or relying on external monitoring services.
Top 5 unmonitored home security systems – shortlist
- Abode – overall best self-monitored home security system
- SimpliSafe – flexible and affordable home security system
- Xfinity – best self-monitored home security for third-party integrations
- Ring – scalable self-monitoring home security system
- Cove – best unmonitored home security system for renters
Key features to look for in unmonitored home security systems
If you’re looking for an unmonitored (also called “self-monitored”) home security system, then you probably value flexibility, cost-efficiency, and customization. I’m in the same boat. Here are some key features to prioritize when shopping for an unmonitored home security system:
- Ease of installation. Choose a system that supports DIY installation so you can tailor-fit your home security to your property.
- Remote access through mobile app. Ensure the security system provides real-time alerts and live video feeds so you can contact authorities when needed.
- Smart home integration. Check the system’s compatibility with voice assistants and other third-party integrations, which allows for greater customization.
- Cameras with motion detection and night vision. Ensure the system’s cameras have advanced surveillance features, like motion detection and night vision, to keep your home protected even without professional monitoring.
- Customizable alerts. Choose a system that allows you to tailor alerts to your needs, letting you respond more quickly to security incidents.
- Backup power and cellular fail-safe options. Ensure the system has backup power and cellular connection to keep your system running in case of power or Wi-Fi outage.
The best unmonitored home security systems – our detailed list
Researching home security is one thing, and ranking them is another. These three home safety expert choices are backed by expert opinions and customer feedback. Here are my top picks for the best unmonitored home security systems in 2026.
1. Abode – overall best unmonitored home security system
| Self-monitoring: | ✅ Yes |
| Installation options: | DIY |
| Equipment included: | A central control unit, sensors, cameras, and more |
| Mobile app: | iOS, Android |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave |
| Starting price and monthly cost: | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $159.99 |
Abode offers free self-monitoring and DIY installation, making it perfect for tech-savvy homeowners who want complete control and ownership over their home security system. Thanks to its affordability and customization options, Abode is by far the best option on the list.
Abode is all about customization, from its self-monitoring option to its automation routines and notification preferences. You can also purchase add-ons for your equipment packages to further tailor your home security system.
Equipment: The Abode Security Kit (a.k.a. the starter kit) comes with a security hub, one mini door/window sensor, and one keyfob for only $29.99. The security hub that comes with this plan works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Monitoring: Abode makes self-monitoring possible with real-time push notifications on your phone and security cameras with facial recognition. You can scale up or down your system at any time.
Cost: Self-monitoring with Abode is free (by contrast, the Abode Pro Monitoring plan costs $169.00/year). Abode security equipment packages range from $159.99 to $379.99.
User reviews: Users are generally happy with Abode’s ease of use and commend its customer support team for being reliable. Even the occasional connection issues were quickly resolved.
2. SimpliSafe – flexible and affordable home security system
| Self-monitoring: | ✅ Yes |
| Installation options: | DIY and professional installation |
| Equipment included: | Central hub, entry and motion sensors, cameras, smart locks, and more |
| Mobile app: | iOS, Android |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, August Smart Locks |
| Starting price and monthly cost: | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $100.00 |
Coming in second is SimpliSafe, one of the most budget-friendly home security services today. It has flexible payment plans, sells refurbished equipment, and offers a 60-day money-back guarantee. SimpliSafe is a popular and reliable home security option that combines ease of use, flexibility, and affordability in one service.
Equipment. SimpliSafe’s starter kit includes a base station, one keypad, three entry sensors, one motion sensor, and one free wired indoor camera. It retails for only $112.00, which is a great deal, considering self-monitoring is free of charge.
Monitoring. The unmonitored plan doesn’t come with advanced technologies like 24/7 emergency dispatch, a built-in cellular connection, and a subscription lifetime warranty. However, you can enjoy SimpliSafe’s live video feed and arm or disarm your system through the mobile app.
Cost. Self-monitoring is free with SimpliSafe. You can upgrade to camera recording for up to 10 cameras for only $9.99/month. Professional monitoring plans, on the other hand, start at $1.06/day. Equipment packages cost at least $100.00, though packages above $150.00 allow for flexible payment plans.
User reviews. SimpliSafe customer reviews are generally favorable, with many focusing on its user-friendliness, simple setup, and payment flexibility. Unfortunately, however, some users reported having issues with customer support.
3. Xfinity – best self-monitored security system for third-party integration
| Self-monitoring: | ✅ Yes |
| Installation options: | Professional installation only |
| Equipment included: | Touchscreen control, door, window, and motion sensors |
| Mobile app: | iOS, Android |
| Smart home compatibility: | August smart locks, LIFX lighting, Cor thermostats, and more |
| Starting price and monthly cost: | Self-monitoring costs $10.00/month, and equipment packages start at $360.00 |
If you’re already a Comcast subscriber, then Xfinity Home Security may be the option for you. Don’t be disheartened by the paid self-monitoring; Xfinity offers seamless integration with almost a dozen third-party services, making it ideal for smart home enthusiasts.
Xfinity is one of the best smart home security systems, thanks to its integration with partners like GE Lighting, Cor thermostats, Yale smart locks, and more. Unfortunately, it can’t be used with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Equipment. Xfinity Home Security offers a variety of equipment. You can get a touchscreen control panel, window/door sensors, pet-friendly motion detectors, indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, and more.
Monitoring. The Xfinity Self Protection plan requires Xfinity’s high-tech security equipment to work. For instance, for an additional $5.00/month for 24 months, you can get an Xfinity Outdoor Camera that has HD live video, night vision, motion notifications, two-way audio, and weather resistance.
Cost. Xfinity’s Self-Protection plan costs $10.00/month. You’ll also need to purchase equipment separately and pay for professional installation.
User review. Many customers seem unsatisfied with Xfinity, citing its expensive costs and poor customer service.
4. Ring – scalable self-monitoring home security system
| Self-monitoring: | ✅ Yes |
| Installation options: | DIY and professional installation only |
| Equipment included: | Touchscreen control, door, window, and motion sensors |
| Mobile app: | iOS, Android |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa |
| Starting price and monthly cost: | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $99.99 |
In the US, the average lease term is around only a year. Your home security system should be able to keep up with your changing needs. The 2nd generation Ring Alarm base station is backwards compatible with first generation sensors. This means you can easily scale up your home security without having to spend on replacing old equipment.
Self-monitoring is free with Ring Home Security, and self-installation is also an option. This makes Ring a good pick for DIY enthusiasts.
Equipment. Ring’s cheapest equipment package ($99.99) includes a battery doorbell and a security camera. You can easily expand this set by delving into Ring’s variety of security equipment, which includes spotlight cameras, floodlight cameras, wired doorbells, alarm range extenders, flood and freeze sensors, glass break sensors, and more.
Monitoring. Free self-monitoring is available with or without a Ring subscription. With a subscription, Ring will send an alert to your phone when your Ring Alarm Base Station is triggered. Without a subscription, your alarm siren will still sound, but you won’t receive mobile notifications.
Cost. Self-monitoring is free, but you’ll need a Ring subscription if you want mobile notifications. Ring’s plans start at $4.99/month, and each one comes with 10% off on select Ring purchases.
User review. Ring users enjoy the simplicity of its setup and the convenience of its mobile app. Many also praise the long battery life on Ring devices, with some reporting that it takes months before the equipment needs recharging. However, customer support gets less than favorable feedback.
5. Cove – Renter-friendly unmonitored home security system
| Self-monitoring: | ✅ Yes |
| Installation options: | DIY and professional installation only |
| Equipment included: | Touchscreen control, door, window, and motion sensors |
| Mobile app: | iOS, Android |
| Smart home compatibility: | Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Starting price and monthly cost: | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $90.00 |
Unlike other home security providers, Cove doesn’t require you to sign a long-term contract. Instead, Cove offers monthly plans, making it a good pick for renters. What’s more, you get a 60-day money-back guarantee that ensures your money is returned if you’re unhappy with Cove.
Unfortunately, Cove self-monitoring is generally not available for new accounts. It’s only extended as a special offer to accounts that have been cancelled. Users can expect an email with an offer to switch to self-monitoring after they cancel their professional monitoring subscription.
Equipment. Cove offers the standard security equipment, including a monitoring hub, door and window sensors, and detectors for motion, glass break, carbon monoxide, flood, and smoke. Indoor cameras are from Eufy.
Monitoring. Cove only allows professional monitoring for new accounts. This requires subscribing to a monthly plan. As with the others on this list, Cove’s self-monitoring means you won’t get notifications sent to your mobile.
Cost. Cove’s professional monitoring plans start at $19.99/month. This counts as an upfront fee (in addition to equipment purchases) since you can’t opt for self-monitoring without first subscribing to a paid plan. Cove also has a “self-monitoring with camera streaming” plan for $9.99/month being advertised on its website. However, you can’t purchase this option online.
User review. Cove typically gets mixed user reviews. While Cove devices are easy to install, many report that they’re unreliable. For instance, the control panel can lose connection to the sensors from time to time. Users also say that cancelling a Cove subscription can be difficult.
The best unmonitored home security systems compared
Need a recap of all the key features of our best unmonitored home security systems? Check out this table below.
| Medical alert integration | Self-monitoring | Smart Home Integration | Installation | User-friendliness | Pricing | |
| Abode | Panic button | ✅ Yes | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-Wave | DIY | Easy | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $159.99 |
| SimpliSafe | Wireless panic button | ✅ Yes | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, August Smart Locks | DIY and Professional | Easy | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $100.00 |
| Xfinity | N/A | ✅ Yes | August smart locks, LIFX lighting, Cor thermostats, and more | Professional | Easy | Self-monitoring starts at $10.00/month, and equipment packages start at $360.00 |
| Ring | Wireless panic button | ✅ Yes | Amazon Alexa | DIY and Professional | Easy | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $99.99 |
| Cove | Panic button | ✅ Yes | Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant | DIY and Professional | Easy | Self-monitoring is free, and equipment packages start at $90.00 |
Monitored vs. unmonitored home security systems: What's the difference?
Monitored systems come with professional monitoring services, where a third-party company actively watches over your system 24/7. Suppose your security system detects a break-in, fire, or other emergency. In that case, the monitoring center is immediately notified and will take action — usually by contacting emergency responders or dispatching law enforcement to your location.
Monitored systems may provide you with more peace of mind, as you know professionals are always monitoring your property, even when you’re not around. These professionals are trained to respond to situations and act quickly, especially in emergencies.
In short, monitored security systems are ideal for people who want extra security but don’t have the time or inclination to monitor their systems by themselves. However, professional monitoring can be expensive.
In contrast, unmonitored systems do not rely on outside professionals for monitoring. Instead, you’ll receive alerts directly (usually via an app) when the system detects activity or an emergency. You’re responsible for deciding what action to take, whether that’s calling the police or simply resetting the alarm.
The biggest benefit of unmonitored systems is their cost-efficiency. You also have more control over your security and can customize the system to your liking. Unmonitored systems are a good choice for tech-savvy homeowners who are comfortable managing the security of their homes.
Pros and cons of self-monitoring home security systems
Are self-monitoring home systems right for you and your family? Here are the advantages and disadvantages to consider:
Our methodology
How did we determine the best unmonitored home security systems? We studied dozens of service providers and evaluated them based on the following standards:
- Equipment quality: Do they have high-quality equipment, including cameras, sensors, and control panels?
- Total cost: What fees are to be expected when paying for the service? Do the costs justify the service being provided?
- Installation: What installation options are available? Is the equipment easy to install?
- Features: What other benefits does the home security system provide? Is there integration for voice assistants and third-party apps?
- Customer feedback: What are customers saying about the service? Does the company have a good track record of responding to customer complaints?
From here, we shortlisted the top-ranking unmonitored security systems and dove deeper into their list of features.
Other home security systems you might be interested in:
A final word on the best self-monitoring security system
Self-monitored security systems are a fantastic alternative to traditional monitored options, providing homeowners with the flexibility, cost-efficiency, and control they desire. By cutting out monthly fees for professional monitoring, these systems allow users to manage their security independently.
Top-ranking systems like Abode, SimpliSafe, Xfinity, Ring, and Cove provide a range of features, such as smart home integration, remote control through apps, customizable alerts, and the ability to add cameras or sensors to fit individual needs.
While unmonitored systems can offer significant savings, they come with some trade-offs. The most notable are slower response times and the potential to miss critical alerts. However, with the right system, you can enjoy a high level of customization, real-time control, and peace of mind without being burdened by costly monthly services.
FAQ
Do unmonitored security systems provide real-time alerts?
Yes, unmonitored security systems typically provide real-time alerts via smartphone apps.
Can unmonitored systems be expanded with more devices?
Yes, many unmonitored systems are highly customizable and can be expanded with additional sensors, cameras, smart locks, and other devices.
Is professional installation required for unmonitored systems?
No, professional installation is usually not required for unmonitored systems. Most unmonitored systems are designed for DIY installation, allowing homeowners to set up the equipment themselves.
