Cheapest Home Security Systems Sold Online
With the variety of home security systems now available, strong competition has increased their overall quality and many of the cheapest home security solutions are also among the very best. Some offer dedicated installation by professionals, while an ever-growing majority are designed to be 100% DIY. The user-friendly and wireless nature of many devices makes this simple.
Many of these low-cost home security and protection systems include Google/Alexa integration, as well as a wide variety of sensors. These various sensors can be used to secure and monitor doors and windows, as well as alerting you for environmental concerns like water, smoke, and broken glass. Toss in some internal and external HD cameras, panic buttons, home stations, keypads, control panels, and you've got many of the major features covered.
There is a lot of information here, and these companies do not always make it easy to directly comparison shop. Thankfully, our 9Ranks review squad has compiled the cheapest home security systems from among the very best platforms. And because we only review and rank trust-worthy companies, you can feel comfortable knowing that they have met or exceed expectations in customer service, available features, and plan levels.
Index#1SimpliSafe
Pros
- Livestream video on app
- Support for Alexa and Google Assistant
- Great voice control response
- Quick DIY setup
Cons
- Cameras stop working below 20 degrees F°
- Not compatible with Apple's HomeKit
One of the cheapest home security system choices, SimpliSafe an excellent option for many homeowners looking to secure a property, without buying extraneous features that allow a system to connect with dozens of home devices and electronics. In addition, as the DIY setup here is among the easiest available, you can also save some cash by doing the installation yourself. There is a wide variety of security equipment available for all of your needs including security cams, battery-powered motion detection sensors, panic buttons and much more. Should you feel uncomfortable tackling the installation yourself, there are also competitively priced professional installation options as well.
Because each of the SimpliSafe sensors comes with pre-applied sticky tabs on detachable backs, you can easily and quickly peel and stick the device where you want it to go and then proceed to the next sensor. The system is wireless, which means no cutting and reattaching wires and no need to try and hide the equipment. Whenever you need to move or relocate sensors, simply detach them from their backings, and then release the sticky tabs. This means no damage to the walls or windows, making it a solid choice for renters and property owners alike. After you've placed all of your sensors, cameras, or other accessories, the only remaining installation task is to plug the base station into a nearby electrical outlet.
You'll then select pairing mode on the base, press a button on each sensor, and assign it a name like front door, or bedroom window. SimpliSafe's user-friendly web portal works well, though most will prefer the ease-of-use of the dedicated SimpliSafe smartphone app. Because you have the choice of self-monitoring, the total cost of securing your property with SimpliSafe is quite competitive. Even better, should you opt for one of the professional monitoring plans, you'll be pleased to see the lineup of monthly plans that don't require you to sign up for a 1-year contract.
Specifications
Installation
SmartHome Integration
Security Systems
Add-on options
#2Arlo
Pros
- Excellent video quality up to 4K
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
- Option for Infrared night vision cameras
- Full color night vision cams available
Cons
- Person-detection only for paid subscribers
- Pricing on the expensive side
- Cloud storage for some cameras is extra
With some of the best high-definition home video cameras available anywhere, Arlo is among the most popular security systems on the market. You have the option to select from a variety of notification settings, so that you can go about your day without giving too much thought to your home protection. These Arlo cameras and sensors can easily detect people, packages, or pets, and alert you accordingly. This is tremendously helpful if you have pets or frequent deliveries. All of the outdoor cameras are wire-free, and they also include a spotlight. This helps to serve as yet another layer of protection from would be home invaders. Cameras include zoom and track features, and some offer full-color night vision.
While all of these excellent cameras, sensors, and additional home security devices are on the more expensive side, the value for your money here is among the best. The intelligent cameras that distinguish between pets, packages and people are brilliant. The only down side is that to get the full functionality here, you need to opt for one or more of the add-on options including features such as video recordings that operate 24/7. Adding the Arlo Smart Hub lets you keep your video files saved locally, and not in the cloud.
Even at a slightly higher total cost than some security systems, Arlo is still an excellent choice for many, especially those who have an existing HomeKit from Apple. Beyond the ability to connect a HomeKit, it is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa as well. The mobile app offered by Arlo lets you make a call to 911, and regardless of you or your cell phone's location, Arlo will dispatch the closest and most appropriate emergency services directly to your home.
Specifications
Installation
SmartHome Integration
Security Systems
Add-on options
#3Vivint
Pros
- Professional monitoring available for all systems
- Excellent app for Android and iPhone users
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Can connect with Phillips lighting and more
Cons
- Monthly plans can get expensive
- Charge for moving and reinstalling system
- Lack of self-monitoring mobile app
As a home security systems with one of the sleekest interfaces and user experiences, Vivint offers a number of excellent features. Though it is a more expensive option than many low-cost systems, the connectivity and integration here are second to none. The overall user interface and platform experience is far superior to that which you get from any of the standalone security devices and systems. With professional installation, you can rely on the equipment functioning fully and working seamlessly to create a solid home security system.
Vivint features a diverse array of entry, environmental, and glass breakage sensors, and more. The touchscreen tablet that serves as the system hub can be attached to your wall, giving you easy access to the entire system in an easy-to-use format.In a brilliant move, the Vivint Smart Hub has a Z-Wave receiver built into it. This means that low-energy devices like flood sensors and motion detectors will work seamlessly with the larger system, and because these security devices are all a part of the Vivint universe, there are zero communication problems.
While paying for a solid collection of these security devices is no small investment, the ability to relax as a professional handles the entire process is an exceptionally great perk. Beyond the basic installation, the setup crew will ensure that the system is a unified whole, with everything integrated where possible, before moving on to test each of the settings. While some might prefer to save cash and install a system themselves, there are a solid number of people who would prefer to let pros set it up. Should you move at any point, you can have the system re-installed, but will have to pay a premium to do so.
Specifications
Installation
SmartHome Integration
Security Systems
SimpliSafe | Arlo | Vivint | |
---|---|---|---|
Contract | Optional | Optional | Optional |
Installation | |||
Professional | |||
DIY | |||
Over the Phone | |||
SmartHome Integration | |||
Alexa Integration | |||
Google Integration |
Choosing the Best Home Security System on a Budget
There are a few basic considerations you should keep in mind when shopping for a new home security system. The first is deciding what level of security you need. Many cities provide online crime stats, and those in higher theft areas, are well advised to investing in an excellent home security system. Deciding how much you are willing to spend is next, though these low-cost systems are all very competitively priced. Finally, you'll need to decide if you want to handle the installation yourself, or if you'd rather let a team of professionals mount and connect the pieces together for you.
Even professional installation is quite reasonably priced on these budget-friendly systems. These excellent and low-cost home security systems can even snag you a reduction on your home owner's or apartment renter's insurance annual premium. Many of these home security systems are designed to be fully functional with little or no technical knowledge. There are a number of wireless security devices here including cameras, environmental sensors, doorbell cams and more that are essentially plug and play, making it easier then ever to cheaply secure your home sweet home.