These Are the Best Home Security Systems in 2023
If you’re thinking about investing in a home security system, you don’t have to go for expensive options that cost a fortune. Instead, you can take advantage of one of the many do-it-yourself security options available: these services allow you to choose what type of protection you need, so you can personalize your home’s security the way you want.
SimpliSafe: simplified home protection
Everything you need to know about this home security system is in the name. SimpliSafe products, including the various kits you can choose from, are easy to work with. Once purchased, install the security system using only a home tool kit and you’re done.
Of course, as with most of the options on this list, you’ll have to pay a fee if you want professional monitoring and it doesn’t have advanced Wi-Fi integration like other platforms, but you can set up your SimpliSafe system with your Alexa or Google for even more smart home integration. SimpliSafe also offers a ton of different sensors as well as home security cameras so you can mix and match whatever you need for your home security system.
SimpliSafe starts at $250 , but promotions are ongoing on their packages , with monthly subscriptions ranging from $9.99 to $29.99.
Ring Alarm Pro: professional quality in a DIY package
Ring was one of the first companies to offer do-it-yourself security systems, and despite the prices of the devices, Ring Alarm Pro is still one of the best in the business. You can choose from several starter kits and connect the ring alarm system to a video intercom, as well as indoor and outdoor security cameras.
Ring Alarm Pro also features a built-in Wi-Fi router, cellular backup, and local and professional level monitoring (albeit at a monthly cost). Ring’s only real downsides are concerns about the company’s privacy policy , but it’s undoubtedly one of the best do-it-yourself home security systems on the market right now. The setup instructions may seem a little confusing, but once you get the hang of them, you can easily expand your system however you need. If you want to record video from video intercom or security cameras, you need to upgrade to a monthly plan.
The Ring Alarm Pro system starts at $300 (again, with frequent discounts) and offers 24/7 professional monitoring for $20/month .
Wyze: a budget option
Wyze has made a name for itself by offering affordable technology with incredibly good features: Wyze’s home monitoring system continues the company’s trend of offering great technology at affordable prices. Like SimpliSafe, Wyze lets you fully customize your starter kit, offering access to different sensors and cameras at different prices. If you want to take full advantage of its features, there is a monthly monitoring fee, but the maximum subscription cost is $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year.
You can always find deals on Wyze too: many offer up to six months of home monitoring plus your security kit for as little as $150. The downside here is that Wyze doesn’t offer any sort of cellular backup, so if your internet goes down, you won’t be able to stay connected.
Wyze home security kits start at $100 , but you can also mix them to your specifications on the Wyze website .
Arlo: universal sensor
The Arlo home security system is one of the most intriguing on this list as its sensors are very versatile. Where many alarm systems require the use of many different sensors for specific situations, Arlo relies on multifunctional sensors that have eight different potential functions. This includes motion detection, water leak detection, open window and door detection, garage door tilt detection, temperature change detection for freezing pipes, and even smoke alarm detection. This gives you the ability to move Arlo sensors wherever you need to change without having to buy a new sensor to perform a specific function.
In addition, you can customize the Arlo kit to determine which sensors and devices suit you best, allowing you to build the perfect DIY home security system effortlessly. There is a monthly monitoring fee that does not exceed $24.99 per month and gives you access to real-time security experts, video verification and escalation, and cell and battery backup. However, you do not have to purchase a monitoring service.
Arlo kits start at $199, although they can often be found on sale.