Top 7 Best No-Contract Surveillance Bundles of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
This chart shows the top aspects to consider when choosing between DIY home security systems with no monthly fee. Check out which brands have what you need, be it outdoor cams, file storage, or something else.
Provider | Total Score | Price | Monthly Fee | DIY Instal | Trial Period | Warranty | Backup | Custom Kits | Indoor/Outhoor Cams | Integrations | Mobile Control | Pro Monitors | Siren | Video Storage | Wireless | 1. ADT | 9.8/10 | $599 | $0-$8.33 | Yes | 30 Days | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Cloud | Yes |
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2. Vivint | 9.7/10 | Custom | $0-$29.99 | Yes | 30 Days | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Cloud | Yes |
3. Abode | 9.6/10 | $179+ | $0-$8.33 | Yes | 7 Days | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Cloud | Yes |
4. SimpliSafe | 9.6/10 | $229+ | $14.99-$24.99 | Yes | 60 Days | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Indoor | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Cloud | Yes |
5. Nest | 9.5/10 | $399+ | $0-$29 | Yes | 30 Days | 2 years | Yes | Yes | Both | Limited | Yes | Yes | Yes | Cloud | Yes |
6. Arlo | 9.5/10 | $139+ | $0-$19.99 | Yes | 90 Days | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Both | Limited | Yes | No | Yes | Cloud | Yes |
7. Ring | 9.2/10 | $199+ | $0-$10 | Yes | 30 Days | 1 year | Yes | Yes | Both | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Cloud | Yes |
Customer Advantages of No Monthly Fee Home Security Systems
There are more benefits than meets the eye when it comes to no monthly fee home security system. Besides the potential monetary savings, consumers don’t have to worry about strict contracts, policy restrictions, or subscription requirements. Here is a look at three top advantages.
1. Avoid Hard Credit Inquiries
One of the great things about these DIY brands is that they typically don’t require a credit check. This means that even individuals with a poor credit history can still get their hands on one of these packages. The lack of regular payments every month can help to relieve stress, too.
2. Keep the Budget in Balance
Going off of point number one, these types of plans eliminate the need to worry about how you’ll make next month’s payment. The primary concern is paying for the upfront costs. After that, some brands offer an expert monitor package for an additional fee, but otherwise, there aren’t any recurring costs to deal with.
3. Freedom to Change Locations
This is especially convenient for renters because they don’t have to pay an extra charge for relocating or canceling their service. Certain companies are particularly kind to short-term customers, allowing them to try the products for 30 or even 60 days with a refund guarantee.
Features to Expect From No-Fee Security
Whichever best no monthly fee home security system you choose, keep these top features in mind. These are the most sought-after aspects that consumers desire, especially in a smart, self-installed surveillance package. While no single brand will have all of these, decide which highlights are non-negotiable to help you choose.
Affordability - You’ll Get What You Pay For
This is somewhat of a given, but there are brands out there that will promise great things at a discounted rate. In reality, they're skimping on safety. It's often worth spending a bit extra for the peace of mind of assured protection. That said, this professional service and quality can still come at a fantastic price point.
Buy It, Own It - No More Paying Off Equipment
The thing about long-term contracts and plans is that they often charge you every month until, eventually, you own the equipment. In contrast, these no-contract bundles have a higher upfront cost, but then the customer owns the products and can keep them, even if they cancel their service.
Contact Sensors - Keep Every Entryway Safe
A contact/entryway sensor will ensure that the base station picks up on any movement in the vicinity. It will then send that information to the user's smartphone, alerting them of any intruders or naughty pets. A basic bundle will include these products, although you can usually buy more if your house is larger.
Control Hub - A Base Station That Does It All
These control panels differ depending on the company, but they usually serve as the brains of the entire operation. That means they should ideally include a touchscreen, keyless entry, and easy syncing with the other products. That way, the user's mobile phone can receive alerts and updates from the base station throughout the day.
Motion Detection - Movement Triggers Day & Night
Clients need to be able to count on their movement sensors to sound the bell day and night. Most basic packages come with at least one of these, although today's models are becoming way more advanced. This includes things like infrared night vision, LEDs, wider ranges, and facial or pet recognition.
Room to Grow - Expandable, Custom Kits
The ability to have a plan that grows with you can make a huge difference. More and more companies are offering custom kits or the option to tack on more products a la carte as the family grows. This allows for a better-suited bundle and more peace of mind.
Self-Installation - Save Money & Time
Ideally, DIY home security systems with no monthly fee will involve straightforward self-installation. A do-it-yourself approach can save time and money because you don't need to wait around for an agent to set things up. Plus, you don't have to pay them for their time and labor.
Texts & Push Notifications - 24/7 Mobile Access
Companies never underestimate the power of mobile control because it's something that consumers expect these days. Being able to check in on the house day or night with the push of a button is invaluable. Every brand and package needs to include this convenient and stress-busting feature.
Most of the time, a wire-free kit means easier installation and a more attractive presentation. Hardwired packages have those annoying cables that get in the way. Plus, burglars can easily cut these wires before getting into the house. Look for wireless plans with battery or cellular backup and a consistent connection.
Useful Things to Consider Before Choosing
Finally, here are some last-minute things to look for in a surveillance plan. Consider this the master list of features that you shouldn’t negotiate on. This will help you find top no monthly fee security systems.
1. The Features List
Every consumer should know what they desire out of their surveillance plan. This is why there are so many different options out there; everyone has their specific needs. Maybe you would like indoor and outdoor cameras, or perhaps you need extra movement detectors. Keep a list of your must-haves to make finding the ideal match even easier.
2. The Convenience (or Inconvenience) of DIY
Before spending on a self-installed safety package, be sure that the do-it-yourself route is the right one. Some people aren’t technologically-savvy, and they would be better off paying a bit extra for the convenience of professional set-up. On the other hand, others may save loads of time, money, and energy by setting things up by themselves.
3. Client Reviews
When shopping for a big-ticket item, it’s always a good idea to see what previous customers have to say. This goes for surveillance packs, too. Check out review sites and see what actual clients think about the brand and products. If they feel they got their money’s worth, then go ahead and proceed.
4. Customer Service & Support
While looking through those reviews, pay attention to what past clients have to say about the company’s customer service. You need to know that you’ll be supported as you set up the products and keep things up and running. Courteous and knowledgeable representatives will make the experience so much better.
Finally, affordability is a huge factor to consider. Just remember that people get what they pay for, so if they cut all the corners, they'll be left with nothing of quality. Decide where you can splurge and where there are savings to be found. Brands desire your business, so there are usually nice discounts available.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the Best No Monthly Fee Home Security System?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, and that’s a good thing. Some individuals want extra surveillance outside while others prefer indoor safety products. The top no monthly fee home security system will differ for each person because everyone has their unique needs. Fortunately, there are five wonderful options here that will fit most families’ requirements, budgets, and lifestyles.
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Who Has the Cheapest Home Security System?
It depends on what kind of package you’re looking for. Some companies offer basic plans for less than $200, but they might not include everything that the customer wants. Others may charge for equipment that you don’t need. Instead, try to find an affordable base plan or a customized kit so that you can pick and choose your products. Keep in mind that self-monitored and installed kits will automatically cut costs.
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Do No-Fee Security Systems Store Videos?
Yes, some of them do, but it’s up to the client to find out which ones they are. Some research is necessary, but a good place to start is this list of the top five choices. Most of them offer media file storage to some extent.
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Do Security Systems Without Monthly Subscriptions Offer Monitoring?
Yes, but the expert monitors often come with an additional charge. This could be as low as $10 per month, so for many families, it’s worth it. Experts can keep an eye on the property 24/7, alerting clients of any suspicious activity before it becomes apparent.
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Do Security Systems Without Service Charges Offer the Same Protection as Those With Monthly Fees?
In most cases, they certainly do. Start by checking out this listing of the top five plans to get a feel for what a trusted company can offer. Just because there aren’t any month-by-month payments, that doesn’t mean the household won’t be secured.
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How Much Money Do DIY Home Security Systems With No Monthly Fee Cost?
Again, this depends on what kind of equipment the customer orders. Some basic plans that cost a couple of hundreds of dollars. Others cost upwards of $500 for a full suite of products. The wise thing to do is conduct some research into the most-liked companies as well as what your unique set of needs are.
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Can I Still Get a Homeowners Insurance Discount With a No Monthly Fee Security System?
Usually, you can get the advantage of homeowner’s insurance discounts even if the surveillance package is a no-contract one. Safety products, whether they’re monitored by yourself or a professional, can reduce the cost of insurance by up to 20%.
Cutting Costs Doesn't Have to Mean Compromising on Safety
It’s easy to see that buying a surveillance bundle is something that is tailored to the individual’s needs. That said, it’s also obvious that people don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get quality service and assurance. Even the no-contract plans offer tons of benefits, such as 24/7 access and views, media file storage, countless sensors, and mobile updates. A bit of research can go a long way in keeping your smart home and loved ones safe and your wallet happy.