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Not all home security systems require monthly fees. Here are our top picks that we’ve personally tested.
Updated March 1, 2024
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We’ve heard all the excuses, and we know this one well: I haven’t invested in a home security system — even though I know I need one — because I don’t want to be saddled with another monthly bill. Here’s the thing: Like all the other excuses we hear, this one just doesn’t hold water. It turns out that there are plenty of great systems out there that don’t actually require any monthly fees.
“But I don’t know which systems don’t charge monthly fees,” you might say. “And I don’t know how to tell which no-monthly-fee home security systems I can trust.” Well, we’ve got all the answers you need in this guide. Whether you’re looking for a system with excellent home automation features or plenty of camera choices, you’ll find what you need below. So, what are the best no-monthly-fee home security systems? Let’s dive right in!
>> Check Out: Home Security System Guide
SimpliSafe Essentials Kit
SimpliSafe offers a wide range of equipment packages at affordable prices. It gave us easy DIY installation, which saved us even more money. Best of all, SimpliSafe gave us a choice between paying for professional monitoring or self-monitoring with no monthly fees. We’re fans of choice — the more options, the better, especially when they’re all good ones.
Choice is the name of the game with SimpliSafe. That’s one reason it’s not just a great no-monthly-fee home security system; it’s one of the overall best home security systems. The choices start with equipment packages to suit every budget, from the $250 Foundation to the $700 Beacon. Similarly, there are a range of SimpliSafe monitoring plans. Of course, you can go with true self-monitoring for no monthly fee whatsoever. But you can also add video storage for $10 per month, professional monitoring for $20 per month, or a Fast Protect plan with 24/7 live guard protection for $30 per month.
FYI: SimpliSafe is almost always running a sale. Equipment packages are sometimes up to 60 percent off. The current SimpliSafe sale includes 20 percent off, and the company will throw in a free Smart Alarm Wireless Indoor Camera and a free month of its Fast Protect monitoring service.
SimpliSafe equipment
SimpliSafe has been working hard to improve its product line. Once upon a time, for instance, it didn’t offer an outdoor camera. You had to buy an outdoor “skin” for the indoor SimpliCam and hope for the best. Not only does the SimpliSafe camera line include a real outdoor model now, but the company has also recently introduced a new Wireless Indoor camera that can tell the difference between pets and people.
Of course, you can still get the entry-level SimpliCam, the outdoor camera, and even an easy-to-install video doorbell. And SimpliSafe manufactures lots of other security equipment — from entry sensors to water sensors.
We don’t know any home security systems that offer professional monitoring for free. If you’re going to avoid monthly fees, you’ll need to self-monitor. The question is just what features you get. SimpliSafe’s no-fee plan gives you instant alerts and livestreaming so you can always find out what’s going on at home. In addition, you can use the app to turn your system on and off.
SimpliSafe is a system that’s designed to give you control over your own home security. That starts with giving customers lots of choices. There are eight different prepackaged systems, the most of any company on this list. Installation is in your hands as well. You put equipment where you want it, and you can move it when you need to. You can even move it to a new home. And equipment is designed to be set up easily, which gives you a sense of control as well. We managed to do the whole thing in around half an hour, and that included the time we spent thinking about the best place to put our indoor camera.
Testing out SimpliSafe’s keypad.
We had control over our monitoring too. Since we were putting this list together, we went with true DIY self-monitoring. No monthly fees, but we were still in charge of our entire system. We got real-time alerts when the outdoor camera noticed someone lurking on our lawn and were even able to pull up live footage from our SimpliCam. Turns out it was just a neighborhood kid whose bike had gotten a little off course, but at least we knew what was happening.
The nice thing about SimpliSafe is that the company lets you add monitoring features if you need them. Heading out of town for a business trip? For $30 per month, you can have your home professionally monitored, and since there are no long-term contracts, you can cancel it once you get back home.
But SimpliSafe is by no means perfect. On our SimpliSafe wish list are free video storage options. If we could save video to a local storage device or to the cloud, we’d truly have control over our system, even without having to pay monthly fees. For now, video storage requires a fee. Although $10 per month for five cameras worth of recordings isn’t outrageous, free is always better.
>> Compare: SimpliSafe vs. ADT
| Monitoring Options | Self or professional |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY or professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $249.96 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $19.99 |
| Contract Length | Month-to-month |
We got smart home features like you might get with a more expensive, full-service company, but we got them for free. That’s the thing with abode: It seems like the company is always looking to save you money. That also applies when it comes to monitoring. Self-monitor and you’ll never have to pay abode a monthly fee.
abode’s security kits start at just $139. That’s not a sale price. That’s the everyday price. At the other end of the spectrum, you can get abode’s best equipment package for $379.99. Then you can choose self-monitoring and pay nothing more, ever. That’s affordable enough to be within the reach of most people.
Of course, if abode’s on this list, then you know that you can self-monitor for free. If you’re interested in adding some monitoring features, like Smart Detect and cloud storage for an unlimited number of cameras, you can purchase the Standard plan for just $5.83 per month, or you can get 24/7 professional monitoring for just $20 per month.
>> Ways to Save: abode Black Friday Deals
abode Equipment
abode is somewhat unique in that its different equipment packages don’t just include more equipment; they include different levels of equipment. The most expensive system, for instance, the Iota, includes a hub with a built-in HD camera and Z-Wave technology.
Add a low-priced abode camera, and you’re all set. All the packages work with both Alexa and Google Home, and they’re even compatible with Apple HomeKit. You won’t find that with other no-monthly-fee systems.
Like SimpliSafe, abode offers a choice of self- or professional monitoring, plus a third option that lets you add some useful self-monitoring features. We always recommend professional monitoring because you just never know when you’ll be changing a kid’s diaper and won’t have a free hand to check a system alert.
We get it: There is something freeing about no monthly fees, and you can go that route with abode. And it’s nice to know you can let the professionals take over if you want to, with no long-term contracts. Or maybe once you get that big raise at work, you can bump up to professional monitoring full time.
>> Compare: abode vs. SimpliSafe
You just aren’t going to find any self-monitored, no-monthly-fee systems that offer the kinds of smart features abode does. The truth is that abode offers a lot of the same smart home integrations you’ll only get with more expensive systems like ADT and Vivint. Heck, those two don’t work with Apple HomeKit like abode does. And with Z-Wave technology, you can connect to literally thousands of smart home products or take advantage of IFTTT functionality.
Abode Cam 2
We connected our abode app to our alarm system so motion detection shut off when we got up in the morning. Just for good measure, we also connected the toaster. We put a couple of bagels in before bed, and they were ready for cream cheese by the time we got out of the shower.
>> More Options: Best Security Systems for Apple
Some of the best smart functions require you to pay for abode’s Standard plan, and that’s a bit of a bummer. If you’re going to be a no-monthly-fee system, why not go all the way? Even the free Basic plan let us control our system using just our voice. It’s one reason why we selected abode as one of our best self-monitored systems. One word from us on the way out the door, and the system’s motion detectors snap back into action. That makes us feel pretty powerful — maybe too powerful, if we’re honest.
We should also point out that there’s always a give and take when it comes to security systems. Yes, you’ll get lots more home automation with abode than you get with, say, SimpliSafe. But abode doesn’t offer the same level of customer support as SimpliSafe. For one thing, you don’t get access to live support at all unless you sign up for a monthly paid plan. And you may need that support. abode’s DIY installation isn’t quite as intuitive as SimpliSafe’s.
| Monitoring Options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit |
| Equipment Cost | From $139.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $5.83 |
| Contract Length | Month-to-month |
In Ring, we found a home security system with no monthly fees that lets us make all the important decisions for ourselves. We decided exactly what equipment to buy and where to put it. We also decided how the monitoring should work. If only our bosses at work would listen to us like Ring does (kidding!).
In the past, Ring didn’t offer any equipment packages. Everything was a la carte, and that could get expensive fast if you didn’t pay close attention to what you were buying. Good news: There are now some kits to choose from. The lowest-priced Ring Alarm package is $235; the highest-priced is $474.98.
As with all the systems on this list, you can self-monitor your system and pay no monthly fees. You can add professional monitoring for just $20 per month — $18 per month if you sign up for a full year. Or you can add video storage for one camera to your self-monitoring for the modest price of $4 per month. You can also add an unlimited number of cameras for $10 per month.
Ring Alarm (2nd Gen) Equipment
If cameras are essential to your security, you might want to consider Ring. Few companies offer as many options when it comes to security cameras. You won’t find a car cam from anyone else, for instance. Of course, different cameras come with different features. Want a straightforward, affordable indoor camera? The Ring Indoor Cam fits the bill (see our Ring Indoor Cam review). Need an outdoor camera that can withstand the elements, features two-way audio and a floodlight, and powers up through a solar panel? Ring has you covered. As we note in our full Ring camera review, there’s probably a Ring camera out there for you.
If you’re looking to self-monitor your Ring system for free, you can do that pretty easily. The Ring app includes real-time rich notifications when a motion detector or entry sensor is triggered. You can also view live footage from any of your installed cameras. Or you can connect Ring to Alexa and pull up footage using just your voice. If you add cloud video storage, you’ll have proof to show to law enforcement, though that costs extra. Or take the plunge and add complete protection with Ring’s 24/7 monitoring plan.
Ring began life as the Ring Video Doorbell company. It didn’t sell entry sensors or smoke detectors. It didn’t even sell other cameras. So, as you might imagine, all monitoring through Ring in the early days was self-monitoring. These days, the company offers a wide range of equipment and monitoring options, including full professional monitoring. But Ring still very much understands the self-monitoring niche and gives customers plenty of options to make self-monitoring as easy as possible.
Ring Alarm sensors
We self-monitored to see what it was like and found that we had a good amount of control over the system. Everything runs through the Ring app, which is intuitive and easy to use. When our Ring doorbell notified us that the Girl Scouts had come around selling cookies, we were able to chat with them via two-way audio. We got our Thin Mints ordered, and no one even knew we were out to dinner with friends while we did it.
We sometimes think Ring is a little too DIY-centered. This is not a company that’s going to help you out if you’re having trouble deciding what equipment you need. Installation is mostly DIY as well. Ring will track down a local installer if you really need one, but you can do it easily yourself. And customer service is a bit … corporate. If you want no monthly fees, you’re probably a do-it-yourselfer anyway, so all of that may be right up your alley.
>> Compare: Ring vs. abode
| Monitoring Options | 24/7 professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $179.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | $20 |
| Contract Length | 1-12 months |
Arlo gave us a security system that’s focused on cameras, no pun intended. We had lots of camera options, they all had the latest tech features, and they were all reasonably priced. Plus, now that Arlo offers additional equipment like hubs and sensors, we were able to get everything we needed from one company.
You can get Arlo’s one Home Security System for $200. That comes with a keypad sensor, two of Arlo’s all-in-one sensors, and a hub. Or, for $300, you can add three additional sensors and a yard sign. You’ll want to add cameras since, after all, that’s what Arlo does best.
There’s a broad range of camera models with a similarly broad range of prices — everything from the Essential wired indoor for $40 to the Ultra 2 wireless for $300. Self-monitoring is free, of course, but you can add video storage for an unlimited number of cameras for just $13 per month. And Arlo offers two professional monitoring plans: a basic plan for $18 per month and a Pro plan with bonus features for $25 per month. Don’t forget to look for sales. Arlo’s Prime Day deals, for example, can save you even more.
Arlo Pro 4: What’s in the box?
Arlo is still fairly new to the home security game. Traditionally, Arlo has been known for cameras, so its equipment selection is fairly limited. The company has made up for that by introducing some revolutionary sensors that perform up to eight detection functions. One single sensor can detect motion, recognize when a door or window is open, and detect smoke, among other things. Talk about streamlined shopping. That leaves you free to browse Arlo’s large camera selection. Whether you’re looking for a no-frills wired indoor camera or a fully loaded wireless camera with LED floodlight, Arlo has you covered.
If you’re looking to self-monitor to avoid monthly fees, you can certainly do that with Arlo. All of Arlo’s equipment connects to the mobile app, so you can check alerts and take a look at live footage any time you want. Add video storage for one camera for $8 per month or an unlimited number of cameras for $13 per month with the Secure plan. Add Arlo smart features and emergency response for $18 per month with the Secure Plus plan. Or get full 24/7 monitoring with the Safe and Secure Pro plan for $20 per month. We recommend the full monitoring plan for folks who want whole-home security.
If you’re searching for no-monthly-fee home security systems, it’s probably occurred to you that you could just outfit your entire home with security cameras and call it a day. Not everyone out there needs entry sensors, glass break sensors, and hubs to run them. There are plenty of great camera systems out there that give you full access to live and recorded footage.
As we note in our Lorex review, for example, that company lets you outfit your whole home with the latest camera technology, but it offers no sensors of any kind. If you’re going to go that route, why not get the best of both worlds? Go with a company that started out making cameras but has transitioned into a full home security company. Arlo fits the bill.
Arlo makes great cameras for an affordable price (for proof, check out our Arlo camera review). Even the $40 wired indoor camera comes with a 130-degree field of view, and some cameras max out at 180 degrees. We installed an Arlo Ultra with 4K resolution and were astounded. We could make out the return address label on the smart coffee maker we ordered from Amazon because, yes, Arlo equipment works with lots of smart home devices, including coffee makers. But it actually was not our coffee maker; it was a box of dog toys. Because of Arlo, we were able to text our neighbor from work and let them know their dog toys had arrived. We’re sure Fido was pleased.
The Arlo Pro 4
A word of caution: Most of the smart features on all this equipment need a paid plan to work, so you won’t get person detection on your cameras or Google Home integration if you don’t sign up for at least the Secure Plus plan. If you’re looking for great cameras with no monthly fees ever and you’re willing to work within Arlo’s parameters, this can be a great system.
>> Compare: Arlo vs. Ring
| Connectivity | Wi-fi, ethernet |
|---|---|
| Power | Wired, battery, PoE |
| Field of View | Up to 180° |
| Resolution | Up to 2160p |
| Storage | Cloud |
| Smart Platform Compatibility | Alexa and Google Home |
You’re into self-monitoring; otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this. So it makes sense that you might want to do a little home security system research for yourself. Here’s what we might suggest you look for during your search.
Obviously, you want to start by finding systems that offer no-monthly-fee security. Plenty of systems out there require you to sign up for paid professional monitoring — ADT and Vivint, for instance. You want to avoid those brands.
You also want to make sure that eliminating monthly fees doesn’t compromise your ability to operate the system. If you’re going to be self-monitoring your security, you need a few minimum features.
Of course, you want all the other aspects of your system to be top tier as well. There’s no reason to have a home security system if it’s not going to do its job. So, as we’ve talked about here, you also want to consider:
Once you’ve got a list of systems that meet all these criteria, you can start comparing features, like how much home automation a particular system offers and whether or not you get a cool key fob and yard signs when you sign up. The main thing is that you and your family are protected. And, if you’ve looked carefully at price, equipment, monitoring, alerts, video feeds, and system control options, you will be protected.
We’ve mentioned it a couple of times already: If you’re looking for a home security system with no monthly fees, you’re going to need to monitor it yourself. Companies don’t give professional monitoring away for free. Of course, having no monthly fees is going to save you money over the long haul (maybe a lot of money). You’ll have to do the setup and monitoring yourself if you want to keep your home and your family safe. What’s involved?
Finally, keep in mind that you’re on your own when it comes to monitoring your home security; that means you need to get into the habit of checking when alerts come through. That includes nighttime alerts. It also includes all those times when you’re busy getting your teeth cleaned, sitting comfortably in your movie theater seat, or out biking. It can be helpful, in these situations, if you have someone to back you up, someone who can watch for alerts until you can take over again.
There’s certainly something to be said for security systems with no monthly fees. That feeling you get once you’ve put your money down and installed your equipment — the feeling that you’re done. Nothing more to buy. No customer service reps using every monthly bill to try and upsell you on more equipment or more services. Oh, and then there’s the saving money bit. That’s always nice as well.
There are affordable systems, and then there are cheap systems. You know what we mean — systems that don’t cost much because they don’t really protect you much. We can guarantee that you’ll get solid, high-quality protection from all the systems on this list. All you need to do is decide which one suits your particular needs.
Our four top-rated no-monthly-fee home security systems are SimpliSafe, abode, Ring, and Arlo.
No. Most no-monthly fee security systems don’t offer video recording. Many of these systems offer real-time viewing for free, but most require a monthly fee if you want to add video recording.
No. Security systems without monthly fees don’t usually offer professional monitoring, at least without adding a fee. Many security systems without monthly fees do offer professional monitoring, but they include it as an add-on service that you must pay for. This would be an upgrade from the free self-monitoring option. Prices vary among companies.
Generally, the cost of a no-monthly-fee security system is the cost of the equipment you choose to install. That can vary greatly from one home to another. A single security camera may cost less than $100. Equipment for an entire DIY home security system averages between $250 and $400.
Yes, in many cases, you can, but it depends on the insurance company. Many offer a discount no matter what type of home security system you have. The discount may be higher if you subscribe to a professional monitoring service. Check with your insurance company for guidelines.
