Hiring a company to install and manage your home security is a thing of the past. With several reliable security companies empowering smart homeowners to install and monitor their home security systems.
This means that they won’t have to be concerned about contracts or monthly fees. The good thing about these DIY systems is that they are almost as perfect as professionally monitored systems in preventing intruders and controlling emergencies.
The best home security system without subscription comes with interior and exterior cameras, sensors, and alarms.
These systems can come pre-configured, while others are more modular, letting you scale up according to your needs.
In this article, we will help you find the best home security system without subscription. Our selection of the best home security systems without monthly fees offers a wide range of solutions for every homeowner.
Irrespective of whether they are first-timers or experienced smart homeowners.
What to Expect From the Best Home Security System Without Subscription
Traditionally, if you set up a security system, you will have to pay an equipment fee plus a monthly monitoring fee.
Some of these security systems charge for premium features like cloud video recording and home automation.
However, there is an option to install a security system without any other strings attached. These home security systems without a monthly fee are sometimes called self-monitored security systems.
As the name suggests, the best home security system without subscription doesn’t require a professional to keep tabs on what is going on in your home.
You may just need them to set up the security system, complete with cameras, sensors, and other components required to protect your home. Then, after that, you will be responsible for monitoring the system.
While you may have more work cut out for you, this option is affordable and doable. You just need to choose the right security system with the proper features.
In the next section, we will recommend the best home security system without subscription. As a bonus, most of these home security systems offer optional professional monitoring services.
So, if you change your mind along the way, you can easily upgrade to paid options.
The Best Home Security Systems Without Subscription
1. SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe offers one of the best DIY home security systems on the market. It outperforms the competition in many aspects.
From setup to use, this system is simple and straightforward. The package comes with all the components you need, including cameras and sensors.
In fact, you may not need to buy any additional devices to make it work. Generally, its hardware is of high quality and affordable.
Performance-wise, SimpliSafe is a well-rounded home security system with the right components that are necessary to keep your home safe.
These include sensors to detect hazards, motions, leakages, and temperatures, and cameras for both outdoor and indoor use. The good thing about SimpliSafe is that it is a no-contract security system.
And if you are away from your home for a lengthy time or just busy keeping tabs on what is happening in your home, you can easily upgrade to a professionally monitored service and cancel it when you are back.
2. Arlo
While it might be the newest entry to offer a self-monitored system, Arlo stands out in many aspects. First, Alro has an all-in-one sensor that offers an economical way to add sensors to different parts of your house.
These sensors can detect light, motion, water leaks, temperature, and multiple types of door or window openings.
Some can even detect when your smoke and carbon dioxide alarms are off. Arlo’s cameras and sensors can work to varying degrees even without the paid option.
Another good thing about the Arlo self-managed security system is that it records higher-quality videos than most competitors.
For instance, Ring tops out at 1080p, while Arlo can record up to 4K. We also loved Arlo’s straightforward setup process.
3. Abode
Abode is also the best home security system without a subscription because of its home automation capabilities. You can control this system using your smartphone or voice commands.
The good thing is that this home security system works with a number of smart device companies, like Ecobee and Philips Hue. It is also compatible with Nest.
Setting up Abode is a breeze. All you need is to choose a simple system with an all-in-one unit referred to as the Iota.
This unit includes a motion detector, a siren, and a security camera. Actually, you can install the system in four simple steps, involving lugging in the hub, connecting the hub to your internet router, downloading the Abode app, and setting up sensors in your house.
One of the most likeable things about Abode is the high-quality equipment without the stress of a monthly fee.
Also, the Iota hub can pair with Z-Wave and Zigbee devices and control them using the Abode app. You can also connect it with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant, a feature that most home security systems lack.
Unfortunately, some advanced features are only available to paying subscribers.
4. Ring
Ring Alarm is almost similar to Abode in terms of functionality, but it comes with better camera selections.
This means that Ring cameras are just as expensive as Arlo’s. Sadly, these cameras lack local storage, so they are likely to work best with a subscription.
On the positive side, Ring Alarm offers a strong selection of sensors and cameras. Its starter kit is huge, packed with many combinations of cameras, sensors, and even an Amazon Echo.
But you should note that this security package is not cheap, but at least it works well with Alexa.
5. Eufy
Eufy is the best home security system without subscription, especially when you consider its price. It is a solid alternative to some of the above systems, suitable for customers with tight budgets.
The best thing about this system is that it stores footage locally without a monthly charge and offers several cameras.
These cameras can detect vehicles, people, and animals. Unfortunately, Eufy falls short in terms of sensor selection.
It also has limited integration options and lacks cellular backup to sustain the system when the power drops.
6. OSI 14-Piece Smart Home Security System
This home security system comes with a big touch screen and plenty of entry and motion sensors to provide an efficient, fee-free way to monitor the security of your home.
For a budget shopper, the OSI 14-Piece security system delivers outstanding value for money. It offers more equipment in the package than most security systems.
For instance, it comes with not one but two sirens. Another unique thing about it is that all the components in the OSI system are linked to its unique WiFi alarm panel with an LCD touchscreen display.
7. Google Nest Total Security Package
Another best home security system without subscription is Google Nest’s Total Security Package.
The package comes in three components, including a base station, its smart video hub, and a built-in camera for interior monitoring. Besides this, there is a video doorbell to provide security at the front door.
Generally, we liked this system because of its scalability, the ultra-large video display, and the fact that it is a product from one of the most trusted brand names.
It performs best when paired with Google Assistant, but the package is also compatible with Amazon Alexa.
So, you can expect the security system to integrate seamlessly with Amazon- and Google-powered smart devices.
8. Kangaroo
Kangaroo offers a slightly different home security system than the other systems listed here. Most home security systems require a base station or hub to work.
Thankfully, you can set up a Kangaroo system without these expensive requirements. Moreover, it comes with flexibility and is more affordable.
We were particularly impressed by its standalone sensors. But just like Eufy, it lacks cellular backup and offers limited equipment options.
9. Honeywell Smart Home Security Starter Kit
This is an affordable DIY home security package with contract-free video, audio, and motion monitoring through the Honeywell Home app.
As you know, Honeywell has a reputation for delivering the best smart home equipment, so the competitive price point for this security package was sort of a surprise.
Honeywell smart home security systems are a good option for homeowners on a budget.
You will also appreciate its straightforward installation and the security accessory equipment that comes with the starter kit, including a key fob, an HD camera base station, and some entry sensors for doors and windows.
Also Read: Honeywell Thermostat: The Most In-Depth Review in 2023
10. GRSICO 9-Piece Wireless Home Alarm Kit
GRSICO wireless home security kit offers a simplified home security solution with the option of using your smartphone as the network hub.
With this system, you can get sensor and instant alarm notifications directly on your phone with zero contracts or upgrades. You might also love it because you can add additional sensors with ease.
Final Word
The best home security system without a subscription provides reasonable flexibility and functionality without being tied to expensive premium services.
So, if you are yet to decide if you need professional monitoring or if you are just testing things out, this is a better option. Any of the above picks will offer value.
Overall, SimpliSafe and Arlo are great options. Both of them offer smart sensors, cameras, and other components that perform most of the functions without the need for monthly charges.
If your smart home runs on Apple HomeKit, then Abode is the best option for home automation. Ring, too, is a quality alternative if you prefer to control your home via Alexa.
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