You’re tired of paying monthly fees for home security monitoring, but you still want reliable protection for your family and property. The good news is that several excellent systems offer extensive security features without the recurring costs that drain your budget. From SimpliSafe’s robust security capabilities to Kangaroo’s budget-friendly approach, these seven systems prove you don’t need to sacrifice quality for affordability—but choosing the right one requires understanding what each offers.
SimpliSafe – Best Overall Security Features
When you’re searching for a security system that doesn’t lock you into expensive monthly contracts, SimpliSafe stands out as the top choice with its extensive features and flexible monitoring options.
Starting at $249.96, you’ll get essential equipment including a hub, keypad, motion sensors, and entry sensors with easy DIY installation.
SimpliSafe’s security features earn an impressive 9.2/10 SecureScore, delivering reliable protection and peace of mind.
With a stellar 9.2/10 SecureScore rating, SimpliSafe delivers exceptional security performance that homeowners can truly rely on.
You can choose between self-monitoring at no additional cost or professional monitoring starting at $21.99 monthly.
The robust app provides live camera feeds, customizable alerts, and remote control capabilities.
Smart home integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant enhances convenience, while flexible monitoring lets you switch between options without contracts.
Ring Alarm – Best Equipment Selection
You’ll find Ring Alarm stands out with its extensive equipment selection that adapts to virtually any home layout or security need.
The system’s flexible packaging lets you start with essential components and expand with additional sensors, cameras, and smart devices as your requirements evolve.
Ring’s compatibility with numerous third-party smart home products means you can integrate existing devices while building a thorough security ecosystem tailored specifically to your property.
Diverse Device Options
Ring Alarm stands out from competitors by offering a vast selection of security devices that you can mix and match to create your ideal home monitoring setup. You’ll find everything from motion detectors and door sensors to indoor and outdoor cameras, giving you complete control over your self-monitored home security configuration.
| Device Category | Options Available | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Sensors and Cameras | Motion, contact, glass break, doorbell cams | Extensive coverage |
| Smart Home Integrations | Alexa compatibility, Z-Wave devices | Seamless automation |
| Monitoring Plans | Professional or DIY options | Flexible security choices |
This Ring Alarm system lets you build affordable security around your home’s unique layout. With live video streaming and customizable packages, you’re getting DIY home security systems that adapt to your specific monitoring needs without mandatory monthly fees.
Equipment Package Flexibility
Three distinct equipment packages give you the freedom to build a Ring Alarm system that matches your exact security needs and budget.
Starting at $139.99, these customizable equipment options let you create thorough home monitoring without monthly fees.
You’ll appreciate the flexibility to design your security setup with:
- Core Protection – Base sensors and keypads for essential monitoring
- Enhanced Security – Added security cameras, doorbell cameras, and environmental sensors
- Complete Coverage – Full-scale protection with motion detectors and expanded device options
DIY installation takes under an hour, making setup straightforward.
You can add additional devices whenever needed without contracts or ongoing costs.
This scalable approach means you’re not locked into predetermined configurations – you build what works for your specific situation and expand your system as requirements change.
Smart Home Integration
When you’re building an all-inclusive security system, seamless smart home integration becomes essential for maximizing your investment.
Ring Alarm excels in this area by connecting effortlessly with various security equipment, including indoor/outdoor cameras, smart lighting, and motion sensors. You’ll appreciate the Amazon Alexa compatibility that enables voice control for arming your system and receiving real-time alerts hands-free.
The Ring app lets you create customizable routines that integrate multiple devices, from smart locks to cameras, ensuring thorough automation.
You can monitor live video feeds directly through the app while coordinating with other monitoring systems in your home. This integration transforms individual security components into a unified ecosystem, giving you complete control over your home’s protection without monthly subscription requirements.
Abode – Best for Smart Home Integration
You’ll find Abode stands out when you’re looking to integrate your security system with existing smart home devices, offering compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Z-Wave, and Zigbee protocols.
The system’s installation process gives you flexibility with free DIY setup or professional installation for an additional fee.
At $159.99 for the starter kit, you’re getting an affordable entry point, though you’ll need to take into account potential subscription costs for advanced cloud storage features.
Smart Device Compatibility
Why settle for a security system that can’t communicate with your existing smart home devices? Abode’s smart device compatibility makes it the ultimate choice for seamless home automation integration.
You’ll connect effortlessly with major platforms including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, while Z-Wave technology expands your possibilities with lights, locks, and thermostats.
Here’s what makes Abode’s compatibility exceptional:
- Universal Platform Support – Works with all major smart home ecosystems without compatibility headaches
- Extensive Device Range – Z-Wave technology connects hundreds of smart home devices from different manufacturers
- Scalable Growth – Add new devices anytime through the user-friendly mobile app as your automation needs evolve
You’re getting a system that grows with your smart home ambitions, not one that limits them.
Installation and Setup
Since Abode prioritizes user independence, you’ll appreciate how their DIY installation process eliminates the hassle and expense of professional setup appointments.
The user-friendly setup typically takes less than an hour, making it perfect if you prefer straightforward installation without professional assistance.
Your starter kits, priced from $159.99, include all necessary components to secure your home immediately.
The customizable hub supports Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols, ensuring seamless integration with your existing smart home devices.
Abode’s Iota hub features a built-in HD camera, two-way audio, and motion detection for enhanced functionality.
You’ll manage everything through their intuitive mobile app, which delivers real-time alerts and thorough monitoring capabilities, completing your smart home integration experience effortlessly.
Pricing and Plans
Abode’s pricing structure offers three distinct tiers that cater to different security needs and budgets.
You’ll find their approach invigoratingly transparent, with clear options for avoiding monthly fees while maintaining robust smart home integration.
Here are Abode’s main pricing plans:
- Base Kit ($159.99) – Includes essential components with DIY installation, mobile app access, and self-monitoring capabilities at no additional cost.
- Standard Plan (Free) – Provides basic functionality without monthly fees, though cloud storage for recorded footage requires upgrading.
- Abode Pro ($24.99/month) – Offers professional monitoring services for users wanting thorough coverage.
You can enjoy full control through their mobile app without ongoing costs.
The system’s smart home integration works seamlessly across multiple platforms, making it ideal for tech-savvy homeowners seeking flexibility without subscription commitments.
Arlo – Best Camera Performance
When it comes to camera performance in subscription-free home monitoring, Arlo consistently delivers exceptional results that set it apart from competitors.
You’ll get high-definition video quality with resolutions up to 4K, ensuring crystal-clear recorded footage. The advanced night vision capabilities let you monitor your property effectively in low-light conditions, while AI-powered motion detection distinguishes between people, animals, and vehicles to reduce false alerts.
You can choose from various indoor and outdoor cameras, including doorbell models, providing flexibility for extensive coverage throughout your home.
Arlo’s local storage options allow you to save footage without monthly fees, though cloud storage features remain available if you want enhanced accessibility. This combination delivers professional-grade monitoring without ongoing subscription costs.
Eufy Security – Best Value Option
While Arlo excels in premium camera performance, Eufy Security stands out as the top choice for budget-conscious homeowners who won’t compromise on quality. Starting at $159.99, these home monitoring systems deliver exceptional best value through local storage that eliminates monthly fees while keeping your security footage private.
Eufy Security delivers premium home monitoring at budget-friendly prices with local storage eliminating monthly subscription fees.
You’ll appreciate Eufy security’s straightforward approach:
- Easy DIY installation takes under 30 minutes without professional help
- Smart detection capabilities with enhanced long-distance connectivity for larger homes
- Real-time alerts through the intuitive smartphone app for complete control
The system offers impressive cost savings while maintaining professional-grade features.
If you want additional support, optional professional monitoring costs just $10/month, giving you flexibility without sacrificing your budget priorities.
Reolink – Best Easy Setup
Although installation complexity often deters homeowners from DIY security solutions, Reolink eliminates this barrier with its remarkably simple setup process that gets your system running in under 30 minutes.
You won’t need professional installation or technical expertise to establish thorough home surveillance.
Starting at $199.99, Reolink delivers no-monthly fee home security that’s genuinely easy to install. The cameras feature 1080p HD video quality, night vision capabilities, and motion detection technology.
You’ll access real-time monitoring through their intuitive mobile app, letting you view live footage and review recordings from anywhere.
What sets Reolink apart are its robust local storage options, which eliminate ongoing subscription costs entirely. Your footage saves directly to your devices, providing reliable storage without cloud dependencies while maintaining complete control over your security data.
Kangaroo – Best Budget Choice
For just $69, Kangaroo delivers the most affordable entry point into professional home security monitoring without sacrificing essential protection features.
This budget-friendly home security system puts complete control in your hands through self-monitoring via their intuitive mobile app with no monthly fees.
Your Kangaroo system includes three key advantages:
- DIY Installation – Motion sensors and door/window sensors install quickly without professional help.
- Real-Time Alerts – Receive instant smartphone notifications when sensors detect activity.
- Expandable Protection – Add a security camera with 1080p HD video recording as your needs grow.
The customizable system lets you purchase additional equipment individually, building exactly the protection you need.
Whether you’re securing a studio apartment or entire home, Kangaroo’s flexible approach makes professional-grade security accessible to any budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Security System Does Not Have a Monthly Fee?
You can choose SimpliSafe, Ring Alarm, Abode, Eufy, or Reolink systems that don’t require monthly fees. You’ll pay upfront for equipment and handle self-monitoring through mobile apps without ongoing subscription costs.
Can You Get Simplisafe Without a Monthly Fee?
Yes, you can get SimpliSafe without a monthly fee by choosing their self-monitoring option. You’ll pay the upfront equipment cost starting at $249.96 and monitor your system through their mobile app.
How Much Does Home Monitoring Cost per Month?
You’ll pay between $4.99 and $39.99 monthly for home monitoring services. Ring Alarm starts at $4.99, while Cove begins at $19.99, SimpliSafe at $21.99, and ADT’s premium plans reach $39.99.
How Much Is ADT a Month per Month?
You’ll pay $24.99 monthly for ADT’s basic self-setup monitoring plan, while the ADT Plus plan costs $39.99 per month. You’ll also need equipment packages starting around $194.98.
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