Best Self Monitored Home Security System: Smart Integration

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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According to the FBI, property crime dropped by 4.1% in 2020, although only 23.1% of people have home security systems. Imagine the drop the country would experience if the other 46% got involved! But, if you have heard anything about professional systems, it’s that they come with hefty monthly fees and even false alarm fees that discourage people from installing them. Luckily, the best self-monitored home security system takes care of this while giving you the peace of mind you need knowing your home is secure.

Obviously, there are many reasons for installing a safety system in your home. You could do it to protect your valuables, create a safe neighborhood, or just for peace of mind. While the traditional professional home systems aren’t entirely obsolete, self-monitored systems give them a run for their money.

You see, these systems are easy to set up and do not come with hefty monthly subscription fees popular with professionally monitored systems. You do not have to pay false alarm penalties, and you can easily upgrade whenever there is a need.

Unfortunately, getting a self-monitored home security system can be tricky. Think about it. What should you consider and why? So, if you aren’t sure which self-monitored system to buy, these top picks should steer you in the right direction.

Top 5 Best Self Monitored Home Security System

1. Simplisafe 8 Piece Wireless Home Security System - Best DIY System

SimpliSafe 8 Piece Wireless Home Security System -...
  • Ready to protect right out of the box. Just plug in the base...
  • Optional 24/7 professional monitoring and cloud recording with...
  • Sound the alarm. Pioneering signal burst technology that is...
  • Panic Button instantly triggers the alarm and dispatch police...
  • Backups for your backups. Up to 24 hour battery and dual Wi-Fi &...

Simplisafe wireless home security system is our top choice for the best DIY security systems. It's easy to install by plugging the base station, placing the motion sensors at strategic places, and the system is good to go. It requires no equipment or tools upfront.

The system comes with optional 24/7 professional monitoring and cloud records with police, medical, and fire dispatch. No extender is required because Simplisafe is powered by pioneering signal burst technology, which covers different sized homes of up to 1000 feet.

The panic button that comes with this home system instantly triggers the alarm, and if you want to be more discreet, it comes with a silent panic button option. In case of power outages, the security system will protect your home for the next 24 hours.

A Simplisafe wireless home security system comes with a 24-hour battery backup, a dual WIFI with cellular connections to pair the system with your preferred smartphone, tablet, or a smart home integral platform. Should you move to a bigger home, you can customize your system with up to 100 additional motion sensors.

The system can pair with Alexa and Google Assistant, and you can monitor your home, pet, or kids from anywhere on your terms. It has robust motion sensors that can detect movements within 30 feet and can’t detect small pets weighing less than 30 lbs.

Pros:

  • Comes with a 3-year warranty.
  • Requires no equipment upfront.
  • Compatible with Google assistant and Alexa.
  • Easy self-installation.
  • Suitable for both small and large homes.

Cons:

  • Professional monitoring requires a monthly subscription.

Ring Alarm 14-Piece Kit - home security system

Ring Alarm 14-Piece Kit - home security system with...
  • A great fit for 2-4 bedroom homes, this Alarm Kit includes one...
  • Includes an intuitive Keypad that can arm and disarm your Alarm...
  • Choose the Ring Alarm Kit that fits your needs and detect even...
  • With a Ring Protect Plan (subscription required, sold...
  • Level-up your protection. Get 24/7 emergency police, fire and...

If you live in a condor or a small apartment, Ring alarm home security system may be what you need to self-monitor your home. It comes with one base station, one keypad, one contact sensor, one range detector, and one motion sensor.

If you still need professional monitoring, the home security system comes with a 247 optional professional monitoring service for a small fee of $10 per month. Once you subscribe to the service(optional), you get an emergency police response and free medical response when the ring alarm is triggered.

The self monitored security system has an intuitive keypad with emergency buttons and contact sensors. It is easy to set up in minutes with no tools and equipment, and you can customize the ring alarm according to your needs. The system is Alexa enabled, and you can check the alarm status, arm or disarm with your voice.

Once the sensor detects any movements, it sends a notification to your smartphone or tablet. You can also receive mobile notifications for any broken glass sound in your home.

Pros:

  • Easy to set up.
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty.
  • Comes with a 24-hour battery backup.
  • Convenient to use.

Cons:

3. Blink Outdoor Wireless Home Security System - Best Outdoor and Indoor System

Blink Mini – Compact indoor plug-in smart security...
  • Monitor the inside of your home day and night with our 1080P HD...
  • See, hear, and speak to people and pets in your home from your...
  • Get alerts on your smartphone whenever motion is detected or...
  • Use Mini as an indoor plug-in chime for Blink Video Doorbell....
  • Choose to save and share clips with a free 30-day trial of the...

If you are looking for a versatile self-monitored security system, this may be your ideal choice. Firstly, it comes with options of one, two, three, or five security cameras. Secondly, you can use both indoors and outdoors.

The system is wireless and easy to install, taking only a few minutes of your time. It's one of the best DIY security systems requiring no professional expertise or special equipment to install.

Blink outdoor security system comes with infrared night vision and comes with powerful batteries that can last up to two years. You get motion detection signals directly into your smartphone or tablet, and you can hear or speak to your visitors before welcoming them into your home.

Monitored home security systems sometimes detect small motions that do not require your attention. You can customize signals on your security system so that you only get alerted when there is a need.

Blink outdoor security system has two-way audio features where you can chat with your visitors in real-time. It's also Alexa compatible to help self-monitor the security of your home using your voice.

The security system will protect your home throughout the year because it can withstand any weather conditions. You can save videos and photos and capture events later when you subscribe to the Blink cloud plan.

Pros:

  • It can fit both small and large homes.
  • You can use it for both indoor and outdoor security.
  • Weather-resistant.
  • It has a powerful battery.

Cons:

  • Requires a subscription plan to save photos and videos.

4. Ring Flood Freeze

Ring Flood Freeze
  • Ring Alarm Flood and Freeze Sensor protects your home from flood...
  • Easy setup in minutes—without tools or professional...
  • With a Ring Protect subscription (sold separately), manage Ring...
  • Battery life 3 years max. Batteries are replaceable.

If you’re hunting for versatility without ongoing professional monitoring and real time alerts, we highly recommend the Ring Flood Freeze as your best bet among self monitored home security systems for homeowners.

The Ring Flood Freeze was an excellent self-monitoring home security option for those worried about leaks or temperature drops that could result in costly home damage. This works well with other Ring products to round out your smart home solution. But if you're after a system that lets you know when someone enters or moves around (motion detection or break-in alert), you’ll probably want to supplement it with other devices.

Pros:

  • No contract or cancellation fees.
  • Professional installation is not required.
  • Comes with a yard sign.
  • Twenty-four hours battery backup.
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty.

Cons:

  • Not Alexa enabled.

5. Zmodo Outdoor Home Security Camera - Best for Night Vision

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  • ★ Anti rust powder coated Aluminum frame with 8 Aluminum ribs...
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If you are working to secure your home on a budget, the Zmodo home security system may be what you need. You can get clear 1080 p full HD images of your home on your smartphone from anywhere, at your terms. The camera protects your home even at night with smart and adjustable night vision which can see up to 65 feet in a dim or dark environment.

The camera is weather-resistant and can stand in any weather condition to protect your home all year. It can stand low winter temperatures and hot summer temperatures between 10 to 50 degrees. You can use the camera both inside and outside and protect your valuables.

Zmodo, a home security system, is compatible with Alexa allowing you to control your voice. You can receive live videos of what is happening in your home when you subscribe to the Zmodo cloud. The subscription will enable you to enjoy a free 30-day trial of the Zmodo 7-day cloud recording plan.

It has flexible options such as four-camera, three-camera, and two camera packs. You get clear colored HD photos and videos of your home that you can share with friends and family. Cloud intelligence gives peace of mind for a productive day by reducing false alerts.

Pros:

  • You can use it both indoors and outdoors.
  • Have clear night vision.
  • Flexible security camera options.
  • Affordable cost.

Cons:

  • Not Alexa enabled.
  • Require professional installation.

What To Consider When Choosing The Best Self Monitoring Security Stem

When it comes to choosing the best self-monitored system for your home, the internet will bombard you with various options. If you are unsure of what to look for in a home security system, you should consider the following factors;

1. Size Of Your Home

When it comes to home security systems, there is no one-size-fits-all. There are a variety of options for large homes and condos, and apartments. Choose a monitoring system that will be compatible with the size of your home.

2. Installation

Security systems may be professionally installed or DIY self-monitored security systems. Most of these systems are quick to install and require no special tools or equipment. Consider the installation method before buying your home security system because professionally installed security systems may come at an additional cost.

3. Features

There are different features to look for in a self-monitored home security system, such as:

  • A Mobile App

A self-monitored home security system should come with a mobile app to help you monitor your home from where you are. A mobile app also enables you to receive alerts, photos, and videos when the motion sensors detect any movement.

  • Pet-Friendly Motion Sensors

Some home security systems may alert you when your pets move. Look for a security system with a pet-friendly motion sensor that can't detect pets weighing less than 30 lbs.

4. Ease Of Use

The best self-monitoring system should be easy to use. It should come with a short manual explaining different types of alerts and how to respond to them. You should be able to locate the panic button quickly in case of an emergency.

5. Expandability

The best self-monitored security should expand with the size of your home. It should come with the option of additional cameras and motion sensors to suit the growing size of your home.

6. Home Automation

A sound home security system should be compatible with home automation systems and integrate well with a smart home system. Settle for a self-monitored home security system compatible with Alexa or Google assistant and blend in a smart home system.

7. Design

Our homes are designed differently, so are self-monitored home security systems. Most self-monitored security systems are wireless and can blend well with any interior design. Some come with cables and wires that may require drilling into the walls. Choose a self-monitored security system that is compatible with your home design and will not require any changes.

Conclusion

A self-monitored home security system gives you the power to monitor the security of your home without paying any monthly fees or false alarm penalties. Most of these security systems are easy to install and compatible with smart home security integration systems. When choosing a self-monitored home security systems, consider factors such as expandability, features, and compatibility for the security of your home.

Home Security Systems Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best self-installed home security system?

The best overall self-monitored home security system is the Simplisafe wireless home security system. It's easy to install and customize with up to 100 additional motion centers. It comes with a 24-hour battery backup and can pair with any smart home integration system.

2. What is the best home security system with no monthly fee?

The best self-monitoring system with no monthly fee is the Simplisafe wireless home security system. You pay per day if you require any professional monitoring services and do not have contracts or cancellation fees.

3. Can I monitor my home security system?

You can monitor your home security system using a self-monitored home security system. There is no need to pay hefty monthly fees because you can watch your home from your smartphone, desktop, or tablet.

4. Which is better, Cove or Simplisafe?

Both Cove and Simplisafe have different unique features. Although their pricing is almost similar, Simplisafe does not require any monthly fees. On the other hand, Cove automatically signs you for Cove plus subscription when you activate the security system from the website. Both are easy to install, but we recommend Simplisafe because you can integrate it with any smart home system.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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