Affordable Home Security Systems
Effective home security systems can guard your windows and doors, detect motion inside your home, and automatically contact dispatchers in the case of an emergency. Many cheap security systems have extra features too. But before we get too far on features, check out these quick stats on affordable home security:
Security System Stats
| Systems Tested |
14+ |
| Cheapest Option |
SimpliSafe |
| Equipment Cost |
$99-$489 |
| Best For |
Intrusion Protection |
Now, here are points to consider when shopping for cheap home security systems and monitoring.
Home Security System Costs
Home security companies earn revenue in different ways. Some have simple pricing. Others charge not-so-obvious fees. When comparing prices for home security, include any expenses for equipment, installation, activation and monitoring. Total expenses can be the lowest when you own the equipment. The best DIY security systems are typically easy to install, meaning they don’t require a professional to come to your home.
If you do want professional installation, go with Vivint. There, you can build a system with a knowledgeable sales agent and schedule your Vivint installation in one fell swoop. Then, your pro will arrive at your home to walk you through each component of the system and make sure you’re comfortable with it.
How Much is a Home Security System?
So, you’ve decided to buy a home security system. Welcome! As you begin determining how much you want to spend, we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the variety of options this industry offers for both budget-conscious and high-end users, from easy DIY kits to state-of-the-industry monitoring services, from simple motion sensors to complex control panels.
A no-frills system from newcomer Cove, for example, is a thrifty homeowner’s dream; we reviewed Cove’s DIY security kit with inexpensive equipment and fast setup, and while it wasn’t a flawless experience, we can’t understate the peace of mind we got from a system like this. We spent just under $250 for a full system that included a YI Home 3 security camera at no extra charge, but if you’re looking for more coverage, you can spend as much as $400 on a deluxe kit.
FYI: Other DIY systems, like SimpliSafe and Ring, start even cheaper at around $199 for a package. And Frontpoint, another top contender, is a bit more expensive at about $300+ for a full system.
On the flip side, traditional security packages such as those we’ve tested from ADT, a classic in the industry, are harder to pin down in terms of cost. For our review of ADT, we ordered the equipment and monitoring in one package upfront, with installation included. ADT’s costs aren’t as easy to break down as other brands, but that’s not necessarily unique in the industry. Vivint and Alder security systems are tight-lipped about individual pricing, too, so total costs will likely vary depending on the size of your home, how many people and pets live there, and how much security you’re really looking for.
A final cost consideration is 24/7 professional monitoring. This will range from $10 monthly (Ring Alarm) to $50-$60 per month (ADT and Vivint). But the industry average here is around $25-$35 monthly. Now, if you’re really looking to protect your home on a budget, consider self-monitoring your system to avoid the monthly fee altogether.
Well, that’s that! We hope this helps you with budgeting out your home security system. And be sure to look at our individual home security system reviews to see exactly how much you’ll pay by brand, depending on the level of security you desire.
Security Equipment
Whichever security company you choose, your basic security set will include a control panel, entryway sensors, and motion detection for inside your home. Also with basic monitoring service, the top-ranked companies provide keychain remote controls for wireless systems. These have panic buttons and can arm/disarm the alarm system. Mobile apps are another crucial consideration, and we’re glad to see most security systems these days have them. But keep in mind that the strength of your system’s mobile app depends on which monthly plan you choose – and they’re not all created equal across the industry. Learn which brands do it best in our list of the top home security mobile apps.
Home automation requires specialized equipment, usually controlled from the company's app. To automate your home, you need specialized devices that are compatible with the security provider you want and with the other devices in your system. You can avoid any issues by purchasing an automated system up front, but most companies also offer incentives and easy ways to upgrade your basic system to an automated one. Most automated or smart systems offer remote control for connected cameras, sensors, thermostats, and door locks.
Installation
A security system can only protect your family once it is installed and activated, but installation includes potential costs. Many companies require professional installation, which can cost more than $500. Even companies who offer free professional installation often charge for maintenance and repairs. There are also hidden costs to deal with. Wired installation typically costs more than wireless, and homes automation costs more than basic security. To reduce installation costs, choose a security system that allows you to install it yourself.
DIY installation is free and gives you the ability to add to your system as you need. Because you set up the system, you know how to configure it and how to reinstall it if you move. It also gives you the freedom to place devices where you want. Many security systems are wireless and easy to install, but companies that offer DIY installation also offer installation guidance through customer support and online guides, so you're never alone. DIY systems can provide you with the same level of security as professionally installed systems but at a fraction of the cost. When you do it yourself, you can save money on installation costs or avoid them entirely.
Activation
Some security companies require a one-time activation fee to start using your system. The fee is separate from installation and equipment costs and is often negotiable. If you move, you may have to pay the activation fee again for your new home. If you're interested in a system that includes this activation fee, it's worth haggling with the company sales department. You can negotiate your way out of the one-time activation fee with many companies if you ask firmly and nicely enough.
Monitoring
24/7 security monitoring can give you peace of mind, but it will cost you. The amount you pay depends on the security package and devices you choose. An automated system will cost more than a basic system, and a system that includes indoor and outdoor cameras, glass break sensors, and motion detectors will cost more to monitor than just a door and window sensor. With each device you add, expect the cost of monitoring to increase. SimpliSafe is one of many top-rated security systems that let you self-monitor. With optional monitoring, you can choose when to monitor the system yourself and when you'd rather a professional do it, like when you go on vacation. Optional monitoring gives you the freedom to make choices.
Security companies often require you to sign a 1- to 3-year monitoring contract up front with automatic renewals after that. Be sure that you want a contract when you sign, because it isn't uncommon for termination fees to charge more than 50% of the remaining contract. With optional monitoring, you pay monthly and have no extra fees to worry about. If you decide you don't want monitoring one month, the company won't penalize you. If you'd like to start monitoring back up the next month, the company won't charge you any extra activation fee either. With long-term contracts, not only will you be locked into a set price and be liable for termination fees, but you will also be locked into a security plan that may or may not work for your home. If you want to transfer to another plan, companies with long-term contracts often charge you to change plans. There is no wiggle room.
The best buy with home security monitoring is monthly optional monitoring. It gives you the protection you need and the freedom to change your mind.
Video
Security systems often include video at an additional cost. When you opt for video, you will be responsible for equipment costs and, in some cases, installation and monitoring. You can buy a stand-alone camera separate from a system that you then monitor from an app on your smartphone or computer. You can also choose complete video surveillance that includes interior and exterior cameras with a professional monitoring plan. Adding video to your home security can cost you nothing (for self-monitored) or can be quite expensive.
If you’re thinking about using cameras with your security system, keep in mind that your video footage must be stored somewhere. The storage your cameras use depends on your security plan and the cameras you use. Cameras that allow you to remotely view live-streaming video often give you a set amount of cloud storage for those video files, or they only give you access to the cloud if you pay the monitoring fee. Some cameras only record when something triggers the alarm, and then those video clips are saved on the cloud or on a local storage device. Some security cameras save video to an internal SD card as well as or in lieu of the cloud. This local video storage could save you the cost of cloud storage but at a loss of convenience. If you want continuous video recording (CVR), you will have to buy a cloud plan to hold the hours of footage. The bottom line with cameras is to know how your videos are stored and how much that will cost you.
You can save money when you buy wireless cameras with DIY installation. If you don't need an entire security system, many companies sell stand-alone cameras that you can self-monitor. You may have to pay to use the company's app or for cloud storage, but these costs are minimal when compared to full-scale professional monitoring plans. To avoid these costs entirely, consider using a system of cameras instead of a monitored security package. Standalone cameras from Reolink, like the wire-free Argus 3 or the pan-tilt-zoom E1, are both great options, and you’ll find much more in our full Reolink analysis. With those cameras, you can record video in 1080p, the standard for HD, and pull up live-streams 24/7 through the Reolink app. You can also download, share, and store videos on the cloud for a low monthly fee.
Extended Warranty
Check with your security company for the extended warranties they offer. These warranties on equipment often come at an extra cost, but it's up to you whether these costs are actually worth the price. Companies offer return policies, and many offer money-back guarantees for a set amount of time. Companies most likely to offer extended warranties are those with monitoring contracts. If you want an extended warranty, you must purchase it up front, but be advised that you will have to follow strict rules so as not to void the warranty. Scrupulous companies will exchange defective items free of charge, so ask questions and read the fine print before you decide on your security company. With the right security system, you won't even need an extended warranty.
Save Money with Home Security Promotions
Home security companies have a lot of competition, with more than 100 companies in the U.S. and more springing up each year. This is great news for security customers, because you can leverage promotions from one company to get the best price for the system you want. Home security promotions can save you hundreds of dollars, from free equipment to discounts on services. You can watch the most affordable companies for deals as they arise, but that may occupy quite a bit of time waiting for that perfect promotion.
SafeHome can save you time and money. We aggregate the best deals, promotions, packages, and prices of the top home security systems on the market. We do the leg work, so you can make the best possible decision for your family. When security companies offer a promotion, we're on it. We regularly update our site with current security system promotions, and we even offer exclusive deals from time to time. At SafeHome, we are dedicated to making communities safer.
Packages and Bundles
Security companies offer packages to save you money, as long as you need all of the equipment that comes in the package. They will also bundle equipment and services together. Compared to systems you piece together device by device, packages and bundles can save you a significant amount of money. Many ISPs (internet service providers) have home security offerings that easily and seamlessly integrate into current bills and services. If you have a reliable, friendly ISP, then you may want to consider adding an alarm system to your current internet bill.
Deals and Sales
Home security companies know that peak break-in season begins in the fall and stretches through the new year, coinciding with the time of year people often give and receive expensive gifts. For that reason, you’ll find some of the best home security deals and discounts during this time. But you don't have to wait for a major holiday to buy a system. At SafeHome, we update our site with the current deals and sales. We know how important it is to find the right security system, and we give you the tools to do that without breaking the bank.
FAQs About Budget Friendly Home Security Systems
Do low-cost home security systems provide professional monitoring services?
Yes, many home security systems, including those with low prices, offer professional monitoring services. SimpliSafe, Abode, and Frontpoint are three options.
Do budget home security systems have upfront costs for equipment?
Yes, some home security systems with low overall costs will have upfront equipment costs. The cost may be lower than other systems. Sometimes, companies that do charge upfront equipment fees do not require long-term contracts and may not require professional monitoring, helping to cut back on those costs if you do not want those services.
What if I don't like the system after I get it? Can I return a home security system?
In most cases, you can return a home security system. Many companies offer trial plans or money-back guarantee for a set number of days or months. This is a great way to test out a system to see how well it works for you.
Do cost conscious home security systems require add-on purchases for home automation?
Yes, in some cases, you may need to purchase additional equipment to build your home automation up.
Do affordable home security systems have long-term contracts?
Not all home security systems that are affordable will require a long-term contract. Some systems do. Abode and SimpliSafe, for example, do not. Frontpoint has a longer contract requirement than other systems.
Do cheaper home security systems come with a warranty?
Yes, in some cases, affordable home security systems will feature a warranty. However, this differs from one company to the next.
Do I have to pay for professional installation if I buy a low cost home security system?
No, you do not always have to pay for professional installation of your affordable home security system. Many companies do not require pro installation and have designed their systems to be DIY.
If I buy a home security system, will I have to pay an activation fee?
Some home security systems require an activation fee. This fee gets the system turned on and working for you. Not all companies require it, but some will. However, some companies will negotiate an activation fee or drop it if it is a part of a promotion.
Features of Affordable Home Security Systems
Top-ranked affordable security systems include all the essentials plus some extras.
Here’s what to expect for about $1/day or less.
Updated June 7, 2023
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