Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
Finding the self-monitored home security system that adapts better to a house takes time. Doing research is key to this. But there is so much data that it may get confusing. Here is an easy way to contrast all the info and see which brand has the most to offer.
Total Score | Price | DIY instal | Trial Period | Warranty | Return Policy | Wireless | Cellular Backup | House Automation | Upgrade Options | App | HD Cameras | Environmental sensors | Remote Control | 1. ADT | 9.6/10 | Custom | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | 6 month | Yes | Yes | Yes | 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
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2. Vivint | 9.6/10 | $180 | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | 3 days | Yes | Yes | No | 2 | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | 3. Abode | 9.6/10 | $199 | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | 30 days | Yes | Yes | No | 2 | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
4. Canary | 9.6/10 | Custom | Yes | 60 days | 1 year | 60 days | Yes | No | No | 1 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
5. SimpliSafe | 9.4/10 | $229 | Yes | 60 days | 3 years | 60 days | Yes | No | No | 5 | Yes | No | Yes | No |
6. iSmartAlarm | 9.4/10 | $299.99 | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | 30 days | Yes | No | No | 2 | Yes | No | No | Yes |
7. Nest Secure | 9.4/10 | Custom | Yes | 30 days | 2 years | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | 1 | Yes | No | No | Yes |
8. Samsung SmartThings | 9.2/10 | $117.31 | Yes | 30 days | 1 year | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | 3 | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
9. Arlo Pro 2 | 9.0/10 | $149 | Yes | 7 days | 1 year | 45 days | Yes | No | Yes | 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Unmonitored Home Security Systems: Everything You Have to Know
There are many good aspects to monitoring the house by oneself. But it is not all perfect. This is why some people prefer to have a team of pros doing it for them. While others choose flexible plans and decide which months they will need someone to do the job. Here are the weak and strong points of unmonitored home security systems.
Benefits
Many people wonder if getting a self-monitored home security system will solve their problems. In that case, consider these perks of having one of these before making a decision.
1. Price
The only cost to worry about with these services is the upfront price of the devices. There are no monthly payments or installation fees.
2. Smart Home
This means setting up some things to happen automatically when another event triggers them. For example, for the thermostat to lower when one leaves the house.
3. No More False Alarms
First responders will not be called unnecessarily when something happens. The user will receive an alert, and then he can decide if it is OK to ring them.
4. Control
People can choose how they want their system to work. They can, for example, decide which devices to install and whether they want an upgrade.
Drawbacks
These services are not all benefits, though. There are some negative aspects to bear in mind. Else, one could get disappointed when trying them out.
1. Comfort
The owner has to be constantly vigilant in case something happens and they need to call the police. If they do not, nobody will.
2. Safety
Doing everything by oneself is less safe. At one point or another, the user will need to sleep or will be distracted, and burglars could break in then.
3. No Discounts
Those who have a security system can get some discounts on their house insurance. Yet, these companies only give this to the people who pay for professional monitoring and have a technician do the setup.
Features of Home Security Systems Without Monitoring: What You Need to Have in Mind Before Buying
These types of systems are very similar to the monitored ones. The main difference lies in their connection with the police. Let’s take a look at some common specs for these devices.
With or Without Wires
Both options have their good points. Wireless connections are faster and easier. They do not take a lot of space and never get messy. Hardwires, on the other hand, are, at times, more reliable. But they still need tools and making holes on the wall to mount them.
Type of Setup
It can be DIY or professional. The last one is better in terms of time saved. And making sure there are no errors. But this also means a stranger has to enter one’s house. And that the client has to wait for them to come.
Alerts via Phone
Very useful to get an eye on what is going on at the house. Even if the owner is far away. Most companies have their own apps so people can either see live cameras. Or they can get alerts every time motion sensors are triggered.
Remote Control
This little device allows users to control the whole system without having to be there. Among other things, clients can arm and disarm the alarm, set off the panic button, and more. This is the best friend of the person who keeps an eye on the house. And they are so small that they fit in every pocket.
Entryway Sensors
These items are in charge of sending a notification to the phone when someone comes in. They work with little magnets that trigger the alert once the door is opened, and they are separated. When this happens, they immediately follow the agreed procedure.
Motion Detectors
These usually work with infrared lights to track and detect any type of movement. They send a notification when something triggers them. Or sometimes, they also make the siren sound. Try to get the ones that do not sense pets, or else there will be lots of false alerts.
Special Features
These little perks will make what each brand offers unique. What are they? That will depend on the company. Some offer stickers to warn burglars to stay away. Others give extra devices like detectors. Bear in mind that most vendors will also sell these as upgrades.
Specialized Alert Zones
The purpose of this feature is to put extra safety in one specific room. This usually requires more sensors and cameras in that place. When this is done, the service can take care of only that area while the other ones are unprotected. This comes in handy if one has valuables in one room and does not care much about the rest.
Ownership
The systems that come with contracts usually belong to the provider, and they rent them to the users. So, it is not possible to move them to another house or use them in whichever way one wants. But this is not the case for those who pay for the equipment upfront and have no commitments. They can use the devices; however they want.
How to Choose the Best Self-Monitored Home Security System [Infographic]
Those who are struggling to choose the right equipment may not have found their match yet because they are not following the appropriate steps. Here are the main things to focus on when choosing the right devices.

1. Options and Equipment
Review the market and analyze all the systems. There are many players in this field, and all of them have something to offer. Check what devices they have, how much they cost, and if they are the most suitable for the house. Consider its size, since this will determine how many items to get.
2. Convenience in Self-Monitoring
Think about how convenient doing all of this by oneself will be. Not everyone has the time or availability to keep an eye on the house for the whole day. So, make sure that at least there is someone that can review when the user cannot. Also, consider if maybe one needs to pay for monitoring maybe one month every now and then.
3. Reviews
When everything about the possible devices one could buy is clear, read what people who used them have to say about them. This includes reading the reviews written by experts, but also checking out what other people say on Amazon, for example.
4. Customer Support
This aspect is often overlooked, but it is essential to have a satisfying experience. Check what channels of communication they offer and at what hours they are available. Also, see what previous users review about this. This is to say, if they were knowledgeable, efficient, kind, etc.
5. Affordable Pricing
One of the top reasons why people like to do the monitoring themselves is pricing. There are no monthly payments and, in most cases, no installation fees. So, in order to save even more, the only solution is to choose affordable equipment. The good news is that many brands sell bundles or packages with many items at a discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Is the Best Self-Monitoring Alarm System?
The most efficient safety devices are the ones that are easy to install. The whole process should last no more than a few minutes. People often look for a sensor that is wireless. These are easy to pair with your smartphone and have the best reviews. A single button is enough to arm or disarm the system at any time. Some users favor devices they can customize, adding an extra camera, for example. Others, instead, prefer devices that are easy to use. This will depend on what each person is looking for.
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Is It Safe to Use a Self-Monitoring Alarm System?
It is very safe. When a regular device, like a camera, triggers an alarm, a middleman receives a message. It is usually a monitoring center. The centers review the house and contact users to check if they need help. With self-monitored devices, there is no need for a middleman. Users get in contact with the authorities. They don’t need to deal with a call center. In addition, there is little risk of a false alarm. This is because first responders show up at a user’s house only if this user phones them.
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Do Self-Monitored Home Security System Companies Offer Equipment Financing?
Generally no. Regular devices do use contracts. This is because it spreads out the cost of the safety equipment. And in general, companies offer monthly fees for this kind of product. But with self-monitored devices, it’s not the case. Users must pay upfront. However, it might depend on the brand or the store.
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Can I Have Friends or Family Members Help Me With Monitoring?
Yes, companies recommend it. Users should select two or three reliable people. They can be friends, neighbors, or relatives. This way, there will be more than one person handling potential dangers. Some people like using the Ring Neighbors App. This app helps citizens keep each other safe.
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Can I Self-Monitor Individual Security Devices Without Having an Entire House Security System?
Yes. Many brands offer a variety of devices that users can pair with a smartphone. Users can buy different products and connect them to their app as they go. A good example of this is a video doorbell. It’s not connected to an alarm device. But it sends the user a message when visitors ring the door. Most cameras allow users to talk to their visitors. This is an effective way to scare criminals away without the help of professionals.
The Solution to Save Money
Those who want affordable protection against everyday dangers are the ones that will profit the most from this type of system. Fortunately, in 2021, there are many devices that are ready to complete this task efficiently. Yet, it is key to make sure that the chosen one will be suitable for the house it is going to keep safe.