Do-it-yourself home security companies aren’t like the ADTs and Vivints of the world. Instead of locking you into a multiyear contract with a broad coverage-based subscription fee, most DIY security systems give you the flexibility to chose how and when you monitor your home.
That usually means you can sign up for a professional monitoring service on an optional basis and cancel any time — without early termination fees or other hidden charges. Factors we considered included the quality of the security cameras (do they have motion detection and night vision?), is there a monitoring plan, can window sensors and door sensors be incorporated, whether the system had a mobile app, can it work with your door locks, and can it be incorporated into an existing smart home setup, including with voice commands via Amazon Alexa.
Scroll through your options below to learn more about the best DIY home security systems available today. We update this list periodically.
The best DIY home security systems
Chris Monroe/CNET
SimpliSafe was one of the first DIY home security systems to hit stores and is a reasonable alternative to ADT and other professional firms. That’s due in large part to its wide variety of accessories. Its starter kit costs just $230 and underwent a hardware update recently that looks much better than before.
You still have to pay at least a $15 monthly fee to access any remote security features (something that’s typically offered for free with other systems), but SimpliSafe’s impressive array of accessories and solid performance make it our top pick overall.
Read our SimpliSafe Home Security System (2018) review.
Chris Monroe/CNET
Abode has all of the standard sensors and devices for an easy entry-level security system. It integrates with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT for voice-enabled arming and disarming, as well as other advanced automations. You can add accessories to the system a la carte. Professional monitoring is available for $30 per month and includes cellular backup.
It also supports Zigbee and Z-Wave, which means you can connect the system to a wide variety of third-party devices so you can control everything from within the Abode app.
I wish you didn’t have to use Abode’s web app to make custom rules and automations, but this scalable self-install system delivers reliable performance at a good value.
Read our Abode review.
Julie Snyder/CNET
If you want a simple home security system at an incredible value, consider the second-gen Ring Alarm Security Kit. Version 2.0 was introduced this year and it’s very similar to the original — and that’s a good thing.
The eight-piece kit I tested, complete with a base station, a keypad, a range extender, a motion detector and four door/window sensors costs $200. In addition to its affordable price, the Ring Alarm Security Kit has a simple app, it’s easy to install and the whole system works well.
You can scale it up with additional Ring devices, including Ring security cameras and doorbells, and even add in select third-party smart locks and other products. The kit works with Alexa, so you can arm/disarm the system with voice commands — and Ring offers optional professional monitoring for $10 per month or $100 per year (also a great value).
Definitely consider this system if you want a basic entry-point into home security that can also be scaled up over time, as needed.
If you have concerns about Ring’s privacy and security policies, check out this commentary.
Read our Ring Alarm Security Kit review.
Still have questions? Check out this comprehensive guide to all things home security.
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