Best home security system without a subscription in 2025
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With the help of the Cybernews research team, I’ve conducted extensive research to find the best home security systems that do not require monthly subscriptions. These systems have become popular as users increasingly seek no-fee security solutions that will not lock them into long-term contracts.
In this guide, we will look at the top no-subscription home security systems available today. You will find a detailed analysis of each top provider and its pros and cons. I’ll also provide tips on what to look for in a home security system.
Top 5 home security systems without subscriptions - shortlist
- SimpliSafe – affordable, no-contract home security
- Abode – customizable, DIY security system
- ADT – trusted home security system
- Xfinity – all-in-one home security
- Vivint – advanced smart home integration
What features to look for in a home security system without a subscription?
There are several things to consider when choosing a home security system without a subscription. I recommend paying particular attention to the following key features:
- Self-monitoring options: Most no-subscription systems are DIY, so find one that is easy to set up without professional help and allows self-monitoring. You want a user-friendly mobile app and remote system control.
- High-quality video surveillance: Select systems with high-definition (HD) cameras, night vision, and advanced motion detection with adjustable sensitivity. This helps you maintain clear visuals of your property and ensures suspicious activity is recorded and viewable. Consider cameras with wide-angle lenses and zoom functions for maximum coverage and analysis.
- Local storage vs. cloud storage: No-subscription systems typically use local storage like SD cards or hard drives, eliminating cloud storage fees. While cloud storage has benefits, such as off-site backups, local storage gives you direct access to footage. Make sure your system has enough space to store video recordings. HD video uses about 1-2 GB per hour, while 4K uses 5-10 GB per hour.
- Customizable settings: Choose a system that lets you customize sensor sensitivity, alarm schedules, and notifications.
- Smart home compatibility: Select a system that supports integration with popular smart home platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. This way, you can control your setup and other smart devices in your home using your voice or an app at no extra cost.
The best home security system without subscription – our detailed list
I spent many hours researching the best home security systems without a subscription (or no fee). Here are my top picks:
1. SimpliSafe – affordable, no-contract home security
| Type of monitoring: | Self-monitoring & optional professional monitoring |
| Equipment included: | Sensors, hub, cameras, smoke detectors, doorbell cameras |
| Local storage capacity: | Cloud storage only |
| Starting price: | $250 for equipment |
| Smart home compatibility: | Google Assistant, Alexa |
SimpliSafe has been in the home security business for almost 20 years. It is known for simple, affordable systems with DIY installation.
Equipment: SimpliSafe offers entry sensors, motion detectors, a base station, and a keypad with add-ons like cameras, doorbell cams, and environmental sensors.
Monitoring: SimpliSafe's app allows self-monitoring via live feeds and alerts. Professional monitoring is optional. Without a subscription, users have to rely on internet-based alerts.
Cost: SimpliSafe’s basic security kits start at $250. Add-ons are priced individually. There are no subscription fees for self-monitoring.
User experience: Users like SimpliSafe’s quick installation (often under 30 minutes) and affordability. However, some reported delayed responses during emergencies and customer service issues.
2. Abode – customizable DIY security system
| Type of monitoring: | Self-monitoring & optional professional monitoring |
| Equipment included: | Sensors, hub, cameras, smart devices |
| Local storage capacity: | Available through microSD card in select devices |
| Starting price: | $159 for equipment |
| Smart home compatibility: | Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Alexa, Zigbee, Z-Wave |
Abode stands out as it offers DIY-friendly security systems with no long-term contracts. This company, founded in 2014 by a former ADT executive, caters to homeowners seeking a customizable security system, especially one with Apple Homekit integration.
Equipment: Abode’s equipment ranges from door/window sensors, motion detectors, and a hub to add-ons like doorbell cameras, glass break sensors, and smart locks. It is well-built, reliable, and integrates well with smart home devices.
Monitoring: This security system allows self-monitoring via the Abode mobile app without a subscription. Professional monitoring is optional but not required for basic security essentials.
Cost: Abode’s equipment starts at $160. Users must pay extra for add-ons or replacements, such as additional sensors or cameras.
User experience: Users like the Abode’s easy setup and app control, though some find its advanced features slightly more difficult to manage.
3. ADT – trusted security system provider
| Type of monitoring: | Self-monitoring & professional monitoring |
| Equipment included: | Control panel, motion sensors, cameras, door/window sensors, glass break sensors |
| Local storage capacity: | Cloud storage only |
| Starting price: | $600 for equipment. Self-monitoring comes with ongoing fees |
| Smart home compatibility: | Alexa, Google Assistant |
ADT has been around for over a century and is known for its 24/7 professional monitoring. ADT also offers DIY self-monitoring options through its ADT Plus system, but it is not free.
Equipment: ADT’s equipment includes essentials like control panels and sensors. Users can customize packages with add-ons like cameras and smart home integration.
Monitoring: Self-monitoring is available through the ADT+ app (and it costs $10/month to receive real-time alerts and manage the system), while professional monitoring starts at $29.99/month.
Cost: ADT’s equipment prices start at $600, and self-monitoring is $10 monthly. Installation is not free (about $100).
User experience: Users like ADT’s user-friendly app and touchscreen panel. However, some dislike the professional installation requirement and customer service long wait times.
4. Xfinity – all-in-one home security solution
| Type of monitoring: | Self-monitoring & professional monitoring |
| Equipment included: | Touchscreen hub, door/window sensors, motion sensor, camera, smart devices |
| Local storage capacity: | Cloud storage only |
| Starting price: | $360 for equipment |
| Smart home compatibility: | LIFX, Philips Hue, August, Kwikset, Chamberlain MyQ |
While it is primarily known as a cable and internet provider, Xfinity offers an all-in-one, customizable home security system designed to be integrated with its other services. Self-monitoring is not free, but there is no long-term contract requirement.
Equipment: Xfinity’s base security system includes a touchscreen controller, door/window sensors, and a motion sensor. Add-ons like smart locks are also available.
Monitoring: You can opt for self-monitoring (at a fee) with real-time alerts via the app or professional monitoring with cellular backup. Both plans are contract-free.
Cost: Xfinity’s home security kit starts at $360. Self-monitoring costs $10. Professional installation is required and costs about $100.
User experience: Users like the Xfinity app and touchscreen panel. However, some dislike the fact that self-monitoring is not free.
5. Vivint – advanced smart home integration
| Type of monitoring: | Professional monitoring |
| Equipment included: | Cameras, motion sensors, door/window sensors, garage controls |
| Local storage capacity: | Cloud storage only |
| Starting price: | $600 for equipment |
| Smart home compatibility: | Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave |
Vivint is a cutting-edge smart home security solution founded in 1999. It specializes in automation and professional installation and has a reputation for white-glove service and tailored systems.
Equipment: This security system includes door/window sensors, motion detectors, smart locks, and a Vivint Smart Hub for centralized control. It also includes AI-powered indoor and outdoor cameras, doorbell cameras, glass break sensors, smart locks, thermostats, and garage door controls. All the equipment is high-quality and durable.
Monitoring: Vivint requires 24/7 professional monitoring and does not offer a self-monitoring option. However, it offers cellular backup and rapid emergency response.
Cost: Vivint’s equipment price starts at $600 while monitoring plans range from $30 to $45/month. Additional costs could arise from upgrades, replacement parts, or advanced add-ons like AI cameras or smart thermostats.
User experience: Users had no complaints about the company's professionalism or the quality of its products. Negative feedback generally focused on its high pricing and limitations with third-party equipment.
Best home security systems without subscriptions compared
This table shows all the home security systems we’ve reviewed side-by-side to highlight the differences in their features, costs, and compatibility
| Rating | Push Notifications | Installation | Smart platform integration | Free live streaming | Free cloud storage | Free local storage | Equipment package prices | |
| SimpliSafe | Yes | DIY | Google Assistant, Alexa | Yes | No | No | $250 | |
| Abode | Yes | DIY | Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Alexa, Zigbee, Z-Wave | Yes | No | Yes (some devices) | $160 | |
| ADT | Yes | Professional | Alexa, Google Assistant | Yes | No | No | $600 | |
| Xfinity | Yes | Professional | LIFX, Philips Hue, August, Kwikset, Chamberlain MyQ | Yes | No | No | $360 | |
| Vivint | Yes | Professional | Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave | Yes | No | No | $600 |
What is a home security system without a subscription?
Home security systems without subscriptions are essentially setups where you do not pay an ongoing monthly fee for professional monitoring services. Instead of relying on a security company to watch over your property and alert authorities, you will self-monitor your property.
This is why these systems are more affordable: you only need to spend on the initial purchase, installation of the equipment, and maybe some minor maintenance down the road.
These systems include devices like cameras, motion detectors, and door/window sensors that connect to a central hub or a mobile app. The app sends real-time notifications if and when necessary.
Although no-subscription systems may lack features like automatic emergency services dispatch, they offer more control and flexibility. This makes them ideal for budget-conscious users who prefer to manage their home security without recurring fees.
Pros and cons of no-fee home security systems
Here are some pros and cons of a no-fee home security system.
If you are confident you can self-monitor, I highly recommend a no-subscription system.
Our methodology for choosing the best home security systems without subscription
The Cybernews team and I used stringent criteria to select the best no-subscription home security systems.
First, I thoroughly researched the equipment quality and range of each security system to confirm that the equipment is reliable and that components meet common security needs and standards.
I researched how intuitive the installation process is and prioritized user-friendly DIY systems to save on professional installation costs.
Then, I assessed the features of each system, focusing on self-monitoring abilities, mobile app functionality, storage options (local vs. cloud), and smart home integration with platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Homekit.
I assessed the equipment cost (since there is no subscription to pay) and how that plays into the overall value of your investment without hidden expenses.
Finally, I chose reliable brands known for their self-monitoring (or DIY) packages, equipment quality, and customer support.
Other home security systems you might be interested in:
A final word on the best home security system without a subscription
No-subscription systems may offer great cost-saving benefits but lack the hands-off convenience of professional monitoring.
Few providers offer the convenience of self-monitoring with no recurring fees. However, most providers usually aim to lock users into contracts with high recurring fees. If you are confident in your DIY abilities and can track your system for critical alerts, then some of the options in this guide will suit you perfectly.
While SimpliSafe is a fantastic system, Abode is also great for those who prioritize DIY self-monitoring without monthly fees. Choosing the right system comes down to your individual preferences and the specific security needs of your household.
FAQ
Do home security systems without subscriptions still offer professional monitoring?
Yes, several do. Professional monitoring is usually available at an additional fee on top of the base system, which operates without monthly charges. You can add it later if you want 24/7 emergency response services.
What happens if I miss an alert on a no-subscription system?
The system will not take automatic action. Because you are self-monitoring, missed alerts mean you missed a critical event that the system detected. It’s important to always be on alert with self-monitoring systems.
Is local storage safe in a home security system?
Not if it is physically damaged or stolen. If the storage device is stolen or damaged during a break-in, you may lose your footage. It’s best to combine local storage with cloud backups.
Are no-subscription systems as reliable as systems with monthly fees?
Yes, they are practically identical. Often, the components will be the same, but software and/or setup may differ. They may lack advanced features like professional monitoring, cloud services, and advanced analytics that come with subscription-based systems.
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