What We Considered:
- Simple DIY install
- Mobile app design
- Product components and features
- Customer support
- Professional monitoring price points
Abode: iota DIY Security System
What we love
- A quick and easy DIY system that can be set up in under 30 minutes.
- The only company that offers on-demand monitoring, which allows you to turn on professional monitoring for just 3–5 days while you’re traveling.
- Monitoring starts at $8.33 a month with no contracts, which is well priced compared to the competition.
BEST FOR
- People living in smaller homes.
- Renters that expect to move as the design enables very easy relocation.
Its DIY package was hands down the easiest of all the systems we tested. Their great mobile app, flexible monitoring options, and system designed to be relocated make it our favorite system.
Additional Details:
- Professional monitoring is optional and with no term commitments
- Hub with a built-in camera, motion sensor, and siren
- 1 additional motion sensor
- 1 Mini door/window sensors
- 1 key fob
Things to be aware of
- The initial base system has a higher price than competitors, but its professional monitoring options are very affordable.
“Abode is the ideal smart security solution for anyone who wants to save some money by installing it themselves and avoid committing to a hefty subscription.”
Aug 25, 2021
Scout DIY Alarm System
What We Love
- There are no contract obligations, just month-to-month monitoring plans.
- It has a fantastic user experience and the ability to set event-based alerts.
- Flexible packages allow you to build the right solution for any home.
- The equipment has an aesthetically modern design.
- Users can turn professional monitoring on and off from month to month, allowing for flexibility.
Best For
- People looking for an easy first-time system with flexible terms.
Additional Details:
- 24/7 professional monitoring and video cloud storage for $19.99 per month
- Available self-monitoring plan for $9.99 per month
- Can change or cancel monitoring plans at anytime
- Option to choose device color in black or white
- 60-day free returns
SimpliSafe: The Essentials kit
WHAT WE LOVE
- You can set up the system in minutes without any tools or drilling.
- It offers flexible, no-commitment professional or self-monitoring plans.
- It's easily customizable.
- The camera's motion sensors aren't triggered by pets.
BEST FOR
- Homeowners with multiple door entry points looking for easy DIY installation.
Additional Details:
- Professional monitoring for $28 per month
- Self-monitoring for $9.99 per month
- No contracts required
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Frontpoint: The Safehouse System
What we loved
- The number of devices you get for the price.
- Easy to set up, add devices to your home, customize your settings, and create automations. Great self-explanatory instructions on where to place all the devices.
- Adding additional devices can be done right from the cart.
Things to be aware of
- It’s a contracted system. You get a free trial, after which you are technically locked into a three-year contract at $49 per month.
Best for
- Long-term homeowners that want to protect an array of potential entry points.
Easy DIY installation
“With security equipment that’s quick and easy to install by yourself, Frontpoint is a top-rated option that offers the same quality of equipment and monitoring as full-service home security companies.”
Feb 15, 2022
“Okay, that Frontpoint install wasn’t nearly as tough as I thought it might be. Thanks for the super helpful install videos, @frontpoint”
@sophia_phillips22
Alarm System Product Comparison
| Brand | Best For | System Price | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abode | Smart device integrations | $254 | $18.99/mo. |
| Scout | Quality DIY pick | $229 | $19.99/mo |
| SimpliSafe | Best Overall | $219 | $28/mo |
| FrontPoint | System Affordability | $129 | $49/mo. |