Best Home Security Systems With No Contract (Pricing & Features)
Here is a side-by-side look at what buyers can expect from these seven companies. Keep in mind that the prices in the table reflect the basic plans only.
Provider | Total Score | Monthly Price | DIY instal | Trial Period | Good For | Upfront | Setup | Backup | HD Quality | Night Vision | Mobile App | Glass Break | Voice Command | Video Doorbell | Siren | Env. Protection |
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1. Vivint | 9.6/10 | $29.99+ | Yes | 3 days | Upgrades | $99+ | DIY/Pro | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
2. SimpliSafe | 9.5/10 | $15+ | Yes | 60 days | Essentials | $229+ | DIY | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
3. Abode | 9.3/10 | $3.33+ | Yes | 30 days | Custom Packs | $229+ | DIY | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
4. Ring | 9.2/10 | $9.99+ | Yes | 30 days | Pro Monitors | $199+ | DIY | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
5. Nest | 9.0/10 | $19+ | Yes | 30 days | DIY Smart House | $499+ | DIY | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
6. Scout Alarm | 9.0/10 | $10+ | Yes | 60 days | Automation | $229+ | DIY | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
7. Cove | 9.0/10 | $14.99+ | Yes | 60 days | Overall Value | $184+ | DIY | Yes | 1080p | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
A Note About Pricing
Just because all of these brands have an obligation-free option, that doesn’t mean that they have identical pricing schemes. In lots of cases, additional charges apply. An example of this could be an installation fee, particularly if the customer is paying for secure expert set-up. In some cases, there are upfront product charges, such as paying for the base station or touchscreen control hub.
Brands that have long-term arrangements often include the price of the device into the monthly fee. Some clients like that because they can slowly pay off the purchase. Without a term agreement, consumers will probably have to buy all of the accessories in full and at once.
Features of No-Contract Home Security Systems
Here are some of the greatest features that come in many commitment-free kits, including the ones in this review. It’s simple to see that even though there isn’t a term agreement, that doesn’t mean that clients don’t get the secure accessories and quality support they want.
Wireless Equipment
Since lots of packages are do-it-yourself, it makes sense that most of the products are wireless. This eliminates the need to drill holes or take care of pesky hardwiring. This also helps with keeping things streamlined and aesthetically-pleasing. Moreover, many companies these days back up their devices with cellular power in case the WiFi goes out.
Do-It-Yourself
Some people feel insecure about letting a salesperson into their abode. Even though it’s their profession, they may end up pressuring consumers to make a large purchase, and there’s always the risk of the representative selling services that the client doesn’t need. A do-it-yourself plan allows the buyer to be in control. Plus, these kits are user-friendly and set up in minutes.
Cellular Monitoring
Again, most providers offer cellular or battery backup with their wireless devices because it makes connectivity even easier. This is essential in case the Internet goes out, or there’s some kind of emergency. Cellular backup tends to be the most reliable option, as long as buyers live near a cell tower.
Remote Access
These days, being able to review and control things from a distance is something that most people expect. Remote controls and mobile access are almost guaranteed with these kinds of kits. The ability to visually check in on the house while at work or on vacation adds so much peace of mind.
Entryway Sensors
This is another staple to many do-it-yourself bundles. These detectors are inconspicuous and can stick to a variety of surfaces. They make it simple to tell if someone is at the door or if a naughty teenager is trying to sneak out of the house. Plus, they are easily removable for added convenience.
Motion Detectors
This is one of the first things that people imagine when they hear about household surveillance. Today’s motion detectors are so technologically advanced that some of them can differentiate between a family member, and intruder, and a dog. This helps to reduce false alarms. Moreover, these products sync up with the user’s cellphone, so they always know when someone is approaching the house.
Special Features
With so many similar plans and products out there, businesses need to up the ante by offering unique features. This could come in the form of a video doorbell, an emergency siren, panic buttons, or smart thermostats. The possibilities are endless, so be sure to explore the options before making a choice.
Specified Alert Zones
This is a cool feature that not every company offers. Those who have naughty pets or rambunctious kids will appreciate special zoning products that keep certain areas off-limits and reviews them periodically. For instance, parents can utilize these items to protect little ones from outlets, medicine cabinets, or gun lockers.
Choosing the Right Home Security Systems With No Contract
After reviewing the top seven kits out there, there may still be some confusion about how to make a buying decision. Here are some tips for weighing the options and determining which brand most suits the needs of the family and property.
1. Peruse the Equipment Offerings
Check out what kinds of items are in the brand's arsenal. Since different families will have specific needs, it's important that each buyer reviews their house and determines where there might be some safety risks. For instance, a property with lots of entry points will benefit from multiple door and window sensors.
2. Check Out What Clients Say
The simplest way to get a taste for a company is by reading what previous customers have to say about it. Most people are brutally honest when it comes to business reviews, so check out the feedback and get the real facts. Sites such as Trustpilot, Yelp, and BBB.org are great places to start.
3. Ensure the Support Team Measures Up
It's not only the items that should be top-notch, but it's also the support staff, too. Shoddy customer support is one of the primary complaints in this industry. Even though these are do-it-yourself kits, that doesn't mean that buyers won't need some extra help. Make sure the company offers online resources and an assistance hotline.
4. Budget Accordingly
Finally, affordability is going to be a major factor to consider. At the same time, purchasing these kits is an investment in the future safety of oneself and the family. As great as the system fits within the budget, buying a surveillance package is a worthy purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the Best Home Security System Without a Monthly Fee?
The most suitable package will be different for each consumer. Households have their specific needs and concerns, so safety isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing. Fortunately, there are plenty of choices out there today, even within the do-it-yourself arena. This review of home security kits with no contract is a wonderful place to start the search. Remember to consider the top aspects like affordability, connectivity, remote access, camera quality, and mobile control.
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Will a No-Contract Security System Work for Me?
These types of plans often end up working out for lots of families of varying economic levels. The question is less about whether it will work and more about if it’s something that the client actually wants. For example, some people prefer expert assistance, either because they’re too busy to do it themselves or they’re not very tech-savvy. Even so, some self-monitored kits come with professional set-up and monitors to add that extra layer of protection.
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What Should I Do If My System Breaks or Malfunctions?
The first thing to do is to contact the company as soon as possible. Give them a call or shoot them an email to let them know that the products are malfunctioning. If they can, individuals should try to pinpoint the issue. It could be lost connectivity, damage to the accessories, or something else. Fortunately, many kits come with a troubleshooting tutorial for such cases.
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Are No-Commitment Security Plans Safe to Use?
Absolutely. They are just as safe as those that do require a term agreement. It’s less a matter of the arrangement and more a question of how reliable the products are. This is why it’s useful to read customer reviews and carefully research each package. Also, practice safety procedures like using a unique password and keeping the access codes a secret.
Enjoy Greater Flexibility & Have Fun
The month-to-month flexibility of these plans ensures that individuals only pay for what they’re using. Plus, it makes it easier for them to try things out without the burn of cancellation fees. As with any big purchase, always review the pros and cons as well as how it fits into the family budget. These top seven brands from 2019 are some of the greatest out there, so start there. Happy shopping!