Best home security system without a subscription in 2026
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Knowing someone will jump into action if your burglary sensor goes off is a massive benefit of subscription-based home security systems. Yet, the costs of this type of protection can also leave a significant dent in your pocket over time.
If you’re looking to protect your home on a budget or simply want to monitor everything yourself, home security systems without a subscription are the way to go. They let you save money on recurring monthly fees, provide complete control over your setup, and even offer portability that contract-based systems can’t match.
Cybernews researchers and I conducted extensive research to hunt down the best subscription-free systems. In this guide, we’ll go over our findings and compare the top providers based on installation, monitoring options, equipment costs, and other related factors.
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Subscription-free home security systems are ideal for homeowners who want to self-monitor their homes, but they also require more responsibility from the user.
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In most cases, opting for a home security system without a subscription means paying the full price of the equipment upfront.
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Vivint is my top overall pick, as it offers a comprehensive set of high-quality equipment and a wide range of easy-to-set-up smart home integrations.
Our top picks for no-contract home security systems
- Vivint – best home security system without a subscription, hands down
- SimpliSafe – best customizable home security system in 2026
- Abode – best subscription-free security system for budget-conscious shoppers
- ADT – best time-tested home security system for reliability
- Xfinity – best no-subscription security system for existing Xfinity customers
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.
Best home security systems without contracts 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.
| Home security system | Cybernews rating | Installation type | Contract length | Monitoring options | Equipment cost | Monthly monitoring cost |
| Vivint | Professional | Month-to-month (only if you purchase the equipment outright) | Professional | Packages starting at $599.99 | Starting at $30.00/month | |
| SimpliSafe | Professional or DIY | No contract required (month-to-month) | Professional or DIY | Packages starting at $250.96 | Starting at $31.80/month ($1.06/day) | |
| Abode | Professional or DIY | No contract required (month-to-month) | Professional or DIY | Packages starting at $159.99 | Starting at ~$6.25/month ($74.99/year) | |
| ADT | Professional or DIY | Month-to-month (only for DIY-installed systems) | Professional or DIY | Packages starting at $269.00 | Starting at $24.99/month | |
| Xfinity | Professional or DIY | No contract required (month-to-month) | Professional or DIY | Packages starting at $360.00 | Starting at $10.00/month |
The best home security system without a subscription – our detailed list
With the side-by-side comparison out of the way, we can dive into the reviews of each of my top picks. So, let’s explore their equipment, installation, and monitoring options, and see why I’ve chosen these five as the best home security systems without a subscription in 2026:
1. Vivint – overall best system with advanced smart home integration
| Equipment cost: | Packages starting at $599.99 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting at $30.00/month |
| Contract length: | Month-to-month, if you purchase the equipment outright (42-60 months otherwise) |
| Installation options: | Professional |
| Smart home integrations: | Alexa, Google Assistant, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Nest thermostats, and Philips Hue smart lighting |
General overview: Since its inception in 1999, Vivint has managed to establish itself as a leader in the home security industry. Today, it’s widely recognized for its innovative security solutions, comprehensive services, and advanced monitoring options. It’s also known for its white-glove approach as the brand only supports professional installation and monitoring.
Vivint offers a wide range of security products, including video doorbells, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a variety of sensors for complete home protection. Yet, even with such a vast array of equipment, Vivint’s home security systems are a breeze to set up and control via different devices, as the company specializes in automation and smart home integration.
Equipment: Vivint relies on proprietary equipment, which is both a benefit and a drawback. On the one hand, you’ll have to pay a premium, and you’ll only be able to use it with Vivint’s system. However, you also get premium build quality with advanced features you won’t find with competing brands.
In terms of the equipment you get, it depends on the package you choose. The brand’s Starter Package includes a control panel, two door/window sensors, and one motion sensor.
The Premium Package doubles the number of door/window sensors and adds a video doorbell on top of what’s included in the Starter. Meanwhile, the Premium Plus Package adds a smoke & CO detector and a water sensor for environmental monitoring, as well as a 4K outdoor camera.
Installation: If you’re the type of person who’d rather let professionals handle things, Vivint is the home security brand to go with. While the company allows you to customize any of its three pre-existing packages, it also requires professional installation for both pre-selected and added pieces of equipment.
This professional-only approach ensures that all Vivint home security systems work precisely as intended. Fortunately, this type of installation is also included in your smart home package, and it covers free equipment replacement for the first year.
Monitoring: The professional-only approach continues with monitoring, as Vivint requires it for all three of its home security packages. Its state-of-the-art monitoring centers in Provo, Utah, and Eagan, Minnesota, are staffed 24/7, so you’ll have nothing to worry about here.
The company also promises response times of under 15 minutes, which is the industry standard. On another note, all Vivint systems include cellular, battery-powered backup, so Wi-Fi issues and power outages won’t affect your home monitoring system.
Why I picked it: While Vivint’s equipment prices are a bit high for my liking, the quality of its proprietary pieces and monitoring services is top-notch.
Pair that with multiple customization options and free professional installation, and you get a home security system that’s easy to recommend. There’s also the fact that you pay on a month-to-month basis if you buy the equipment outright, which sweetens the deal.
2. SimpliSafe – customizable, no-contract home security
| Equipment cost: | Packages starting at $250.96 (currently $125.46) |
| Monitoring options: | Professional and DIY |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting at $31.80/month ($1.06/day) |
| Contract length: | No contract required (month-to-month) |
| Installation options: | Professional and DIY |
| Smart home integrations: | Google Assistant, Alexa, Apple Watch, and August Smart Locks |
General overview: Much like Vivint, SimpliSafe has been in the security industry for almost two decades. The company was founded in 2006 and has, over time, established itself as a customization-first brand.
Today, it offers at least seven home security packages, all of which are tailored to meet different user needs. Moreover, each of these affordable security systems can be further customized with additional pieces of equipment. So, whether you’re looking to secure a small home or an apartment, or want to cover every inch of your yard with cameras, SimpliSafe has you covered.
Equipment: SimpliSafe offers a variety of burglary sensors, cameras, hazard sensors, and optional add-ons. As with most brands, the number and type of equipment you get depend on the package you go with.
For starters, the entry-level Foundation package includes a base station, a keypad, an entry sensor, and a motion sensor. Conversely, the Haven package has 14 equipment pieces, including a panic button, a temperature sensor, a water sensor, a key fob, a 105dB siren, and a smoke detector, on top of everything in the Foundation.
The brand’s equipment is praised for its high build quality and reliable performance. Meanwhile, the user-friendly equipment makes DIY installation seamless, while its inconspicuous design allows the hardware to fit with other home decor items.
Installation: Unlike Vivint, SimpliSafe offers both professional and DIY installation. So, if you like to get your hands dirty, you can install the entire system yourself, and SimpliSafe includes detailed instructions for all the different pieces.
On the other hand, you can also schedule a professional installation and sit back and relax while SimpliSafe’s technicians do it for you. However, you should keep in mind that professional installation comes with a fee that starts at $125.
Monitoring: SimpliSafe offers flexibility in terms of monitoring, too. On the one hand, customers can choose to watch their own homes via live feeds and alerts. For these users, SimpliSafe has prepared a self-monitoring plan, which costs $10.00/month ($0.33/day).
Conversely, you can opt for one of the three professional monitoring plans, where everything is overseen by SimpliSafe’s 24/7-staffed Rapid Response Monitoring Center. Here, the entry-level Core plan starts at $31.80/month ($1.06/day).
At $49.80/month ($1.66/day), the Pro plan adds SimpliSafe’s Active Guard Outdoor Protection, which is available between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. local time. Meanwhile, those who want the feature available 24/7 will need to opt for the Pro Plus package, which costs $79.80/month ($2.66/day).
Why I picked it: Although I wasn’t a fan of SimpliSafe’s paid self-monitoring plan, its seven different equipment packages, affordable add-ons, and detailed instructions make it a top choice for DIY enthusiasts who want to customize their home security systems.
3. Abode – budget-friendly DIY-focused security system
| Equipment cost: | Packages starting at $159.99 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional and DIY |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting at ~$6.25/month ($74.99/year) |
| Contract length: | No contract required (month-to-month) |
| Installation options: | Professional and DIY |
| Smart home integrations: | Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Alexa, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Sonos, and Bose |
General overview: If you’re looking for a security system that doesn’t break the bank, Abode is the way to go. The brand stands out for its budget-friendly home security equipment and services, with everything available without long-term contracts.
The company, founded through a Kickstarter campaign by a former ADT executive in 2014, also caters to homeowners who want to install the system themselves. Its equipment is remarkably DIY-friendly, but professional installation is also an option.
Equipment: Abode’s equipment includes door/window sensors, motion detectors, and a durable security hub with a 93dB siren. Add-ons like doorbell cameras, glass break sensors, and smart locks are also available, and everything is well-built, reliable, and integrates well with smart home devices.
The entry-level security system is a self-monitoring-focused option, and comes with a hub, a single door/window sensor, and a key fob. Meanwhile, the Smart Security Kit replaces the standard hub with a smart one and adds a separate motion sensor, but removes Wi-Fi connectivity.
Then, there’s the Iota All-in-One Security Kit, which offers a high-quality camera that, alongside the motion sensor, is built into the hub.
Installation: Abode’s DIY option is among the most user-friendly in the game. The company provides comprehensive guides with detailed instructions on how to install every piece of Abode equipment yourself, so you’ll have no problem going the DIY route.
However, if you prefer to kick back and let the pros work their magic, Abode also offers professional installation, albeit at a cost. While the exact price will depend on the type of system and add-ons you get, you can expect to pay at least $99.
Monitoring: While Abode primarily targets DIY enthusiasts and self-monitoring users, it offers some flexibility. There’s the self-monitoring option, which, unlike SimpliSafe, is entirely free. It also includes live video feeds and smart home integrations, including Apple HomeKit.
Professional monitoring is also available, but the Standard plan still requires you to forward the alarm to a monitoring center. It also doesn’t include a cellular backup. If that’s what you’re after, you’ll need Abode’s Pro plan.
Why I picked it: Abode’s security systems are far from the best in the business. For example, the quality of the Abode Cam 2 is alright, but it lags quite a bit behind Vivint or SimpliSafe models.
Yet, at the price point Abode’s equipment and monitoring plans are at, these systems provide the best bang for your buck. And that’s why I had to add Abode to this list.
4. ADT – well-established security system provider
| Equipment cost: | Packages starting at $269.00 (currently $199.00) |
| Monitoring options: | Professional and DIY |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting at $24.99/month |
| Contract length: | Month-to-month for DIY-installed systems (36 months otherwise (24 months in California)) |
| Installation options: | Professional and DIY |
| Smart home integrations: | Alexa, Google Assistant, and Nest |
General overview: As a company, ADT has been around for almost a century and a half, so its reputation is one of the brand’s main selling points. Yet, its 145 years of experience in the industry aren’t the only thing ADT has going for it.
The company is well-known for its comprehensive security systems with dual Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity, as well as 24/7 professional monitoring. Of course, self-monitoring is also available, but it comes at a cost.
Equipment: ADT’s equipment depends on which of the six different packages you go with. If that kind of choice feels overwhelming, you can also take advantage of the company’s complimentary in-home consultation offered to first-time buyers. With it, you’ll know exactly which plan, or what type of equipment, best fits your home.
If you prefer to choose yourself, ADT provides everything from essentials like control panels and door/window sensors to smoke & CO detectors. However, it’s worth noting that certain packages limit your monitoring options.
Installation: ADT caters to a wide range of homeowners, offering both DIY and professional installation options. While going the DIY route will require rolling up your sleeves, it won’t cost you a dime, unlike ADT’s professional installation.
In most cases, you can expect to pay around $150 for the white-glove approach, which is a downside here. After all, some competitors, such as Vivint, offer a free professional installation.
Monitoring: Whether you prefer to look after your home yourself or want professional monitoring, ADT has you covered. Here, the ADT+ app is responsible for providing live feeds for DIY monitoring users, but it requires a $10/month subscription for real-time alerts and system management features.
Moreover, certain security packages prevent you from opting for DIY monitoring. For example, if there’s a camera in your ADT security system, you’ll be restricted to using professional monitoring. In that case, you can expect to pay at least $39.99/month, while professional monitoring without cameras starts at $24.99/month.
Why I picked it: With over 145 years of history, ADT isn’t a brand one can ignore when looking into home security systems. Its long-standing reputation was more than enough reason to look into the company and its offerings.
However, it’s actually ADT’s flexibility in terms of installation and monitoring, high-quality equipment, and the complimentary in-home consultation that secured it a spot on my list.
5. Xfinity – all-in-one system for bundling with other Xfinity services
| Equipment cost: | Packages starting at $360.00 |
| Monitoring options: | Professional and DIY |
| Monthly monitoring cost: | Starting at $10.00/month |
| Contract length: | No contract required (month-to-month) |
| Installation options: | Professional and DIY |
| Smart home integrations: | LIFX, Philips Hue, August Smart Locks, Kwikset, and Chamberlain MyQ |
General overview: While it is primarily known as a cable and internet provider, Xfinity also offers an all-in-one, customizable home security system. Although they can work independently, these systems are best suited for users who already utilize other Xfinity services.
Furthermore, while the company’s packages deliver a well-thought-out set of modern and robust high-quality equipment, the focus here is on customization. All packages can be enhanced with add-ons, and the company offers consultations to help you determine precisely what you need.
Equipment: Xfinity’s Base Home System kicks things off with a touch screen controller, three door/window sensors, and one pet-friendly motion sensor. Go up a level to Complete Home System, and you also get two more door/window sensors, a wireless keypad, and an HD camera.
The top-of-the-line Ultimate Home System doubles the number of door/window sensors (from 5 to 10) and adds a camera you can set up for indoor or outdoor usage. Meanwhile, batteries and cellular system backups are present in all three packages, so Wi-Fi disruptions and power outages won’t be a problem.
Installation: While Xfinity recommends letting their technicians handle the installation for you, the company also provides a DIY option. So, if you’re a tech-savvy user, you can easily install and set up any of the aforementioned pieces of Xfinity equipment.
If that’s not your style, Xfinity charges a $100 fee for professional installation. It’s worth noting that the fee also applies if you try to install the equipment yourself but aren’t able to complete the job.
Monitoring: Xfinity’s no-contract monitoring plans are easy to understand. On the one hand, there’s the Xfinity Smart Home, built with self-monitoring homeowners in mind. Yet, much like with SimpliSafe and ADT, Xfinity’s self-monitoring service isn’t free, which is one of its biggest downsides.
Go for the Xfinity Home Security plan, and you can expect a significantly larger monthly fee. However, you also get best-in-class 24/7 professional monitoring with cellular backup and on-the-go app access.
Why I picked it: While I disliked the fact that Xfinity’s DIY monitoring plan comes at a cost, that doesn’t change the fact that the company’s all-in-one security systems are among the best in the business.
Xfinity’s equipment offers top-notch quality at an affordable price, while the company’s professional 24/7 monitoring ensures peace of mind when you’re away.
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.
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.
Our methodology for choosing the best home security systems without a subscription
To ensure we’re only recommending the best subscription-free home security systems, the Cybernews research team and I carried out a thorough evaluation process. Here’s a look at the criteria we used to rank these providers and create a list of the top five:
- Equipment quality (25%). I first looked into the spec sheets and expert reviews to evaluate the quality and performance of each provider’s sensors, cameras, and control hubs.
- Installation (15%). After assessing equipment quality, I examined both installation guides and comments related to equipment installation to evaluate how intuitive the process really is.
- Features (20%). From self-monitoring options and live video feeds to on-the-go system arming and disarming and smart home integrations, I assessed each security system based on its feature set.
- Total cost (25%). With or without professional monitoring, up-front equipment costs matter and shouldn’t break the bank, regardless of how high-tech a system is. That’s why I also ranked providers based on their total system cost.
- Customer feedback (15%). Last but not least, I checked multiple review platforms to evaluate how real users felt about these providers and their home security systems, as well as whether they were satisfied with their purchases.
Other home security systems you might be interested in:
A final word on the best home security system without a subscription
If you’re feeling confident about monitoring your home yourself, there are plenty of great subscription-free home security systems you could go with. After spending considerable time researching and comparing the top options, Vivint has emerged as the overall winner.
That said, different users require different systems, and each of our five picks excels in at least one area. For example, Abode offers the best value for budget-conscious shoppers. Meanwhile, SimpliSafe offers tremendous customization, while ADT has a proven track record, and Xfinity does great when bundled with the company’s other services.
At the end of the day, it’s all about your specific needs, so make sure to carefully consider all of the aspects of a home security system before you opt for any one brand.
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.
