Securing your home for peace of mind doesn’t have to break the bank or be complicated.
While traditional home security systems usually entail long contracts and expensive professional installation, most smart DIY security systems are affordable, easy to set up, and offer the option to pay for a monitoring plan only when needed.
Ring provides two top-performing and easy-to-use DIY home security systems we’ve tested: the Ring Alarm Pro and the original Ring Alarm. Both systems can be set up and controlled using the same straightforward smartphone app, and they can be customized with a wide range of add-on accessories to fit your preferences. Ring also offers a wider selection of cameras and video doorbells than any of our other picks, and its monitoring plan is one of the most comprehensive and cost-effective.
Our top choice
This system is compatible with almost every type of security accessory, offers options for internet and power backup, and includes a built-in Wi-Fi 6 router.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Works With Ring
Ring has the most reliable sensors and devices of any system we tested. It also offers the best value for professional monitoring ($20 per month or $200 per year). With this plan, you get 180 days of video storage, cellular backup, and 3 GB of 24/7 backup internet with the option for more ($3 per 1 GB). The Ring Alarm Pro system stands out because it also features a built-in Eero Wi-Fi 6 router. This enables you to replace your standard home Wi-Fi router, depending on your service, or even create a wireless mesh network, which can enhance your Wi-Fi’s range and speed—a significant advantage for security cameras and other smart-home devices throughout the house. Ring no longer provides smartphone notifications and the ability to arm or disarm the system using the app to new customers who choose self-monitoring, so opting for the monitoring plan is advisable (and we don’t recommend self-monitoring anyway).
Our top choice
The original Ring system is simple to use and affordable to set up, and it offers more camera add-ons than any of our other picks.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Works With Ring
The Ring Alarm system delivers the same excellent performance as the Ring Alarm Pro. It is dependable, fast, and offers a fantastic selection of add-ons, including more cameras and doorbells than any of our other choices. The only difference is that this model does not come with a built-in Eero 6 router, but if you already have a mesh network or don’t want one, you can get almost the same security system for a lower price.
Runner-up
This kit is affordable, easy to install and use, and it works reliably. The optional monitoring plan costs the same as the one for our top pick but doesn’t include video storage.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, August Smart Locks
SimpliSafe is the only choice among our top picks to offer genuine self-monitoring, allowing you to arm or disarm the system from the app and receive smartphone alerts when a sensor is triggered without having to pay a monthly fee. However, we strongly recommend opting for professional monitoring, and SimpliSafe’s monitoring prices are competitive and can be adjusted based on your requirements. The company offers a good range of accessories, including door, smoke, and other sensors, as well as indoor and outdoor video cameras, a doorbell camera, and a smart lock. Apart from smart speakers, the only non-SimpliSafe devices this system is compatible with are August locks.
Also excellent
Abode offers more smart-home integration than any other security system we tested, allowing you to connect it to smart-home devices from various manufacturers.
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, IFTTT, Zigbee, Z-Wave
Abode is tailored for smart-home enthusiasts looking for a security system that can integrate with smart lighting, thermostats, voice-controlled speakers, and other connected devices—and who don’t mind putting together such a setup. Abode supports both Zigbee- and Z-Wave–enabled devices, as well as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home (HomeKit), Google Home, and IFTTT (If This Then That). However, this level of support comes at a cost: We found Abode starter packages, most accessories, and live monitoring to be pricier than those of our other selections.
