Best Affordable Home Security Systems: Top Providers in 2025

Top Affordable Home Security Systems in 2025

Choosing a home security company can be tricky because there are so many options available. To help narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of the top home security companies in the industry based on their affordability, reliability, and verified customer reviews.

• SimpliSafe: Best for DIY Home Security
• Cove: Best for Affordable Home Security
• Ring: Best for Home Security Customization
• ADT: Best for Time-Tested Home Security

SimpliSafe: Best for DIY Home Security

SimpliSafe is known for its easy-to-install, budget-friendly systems. It offers a variety of equipment, including alarms, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide sensors, and doesn’t require long-term monitoring contracts.

Here’s a quick breakdown of SimpliSafe home security costs:

• Equipment (System Package): $229 to $489
• Monthly Monitoring: $17.99 to $27.99

Customers on BestCompany.com say SimpliSafe’s monitoring is quick and reliable, and they appreciate the helpful support team.

Read SimpliSafe reviews

Cove: Best for Affordable Home Security

Cove offers low-priced, easy-to-install security systems with month-to-month monitoring — no contracts required. Equipment is customizable and covered by a lifetime warranty (with the Cove Plus Plan).

Here’s a quick breakdown of Cove home security costs:

• Equipment: Starting at $200
• Monthly Monitoring Fees: $17.99 to $27.99, depending on plan

89% of Cove reviews on BestCompany.com are 4 or 5 stars, with many praising its value and customer service.

Read Cove reviews

Ring: Best for Home Security Customization

Ring offers one of the most customizable home security systems, with a wide range of cameras and devices. Its monitoring plans are pricier, but they often include extended warranties and discounts.

Here’s a quick breakdown of Ring home security costs:

• Equipment: $199.99 to $329.99
• Monthly Monitoring: $30 to $100, depending on plan

86% of Ring reviews on BestCompany.com are positive. Customers love the system’s flexibility and easy setup.

Read Ring reviews

ADT: Best for Time-Tested Home Security

ADT has over 150 years of experience in home security. Its systems are customizable and backed by professional monitoring, though prices are higher compared to other providers.

Here’s a quick breakdown of ADT home security costs:

• Equipment: $599 to $1,387
• Monthly Monitoring: Starting at $45.99

While reviews are mixed, many ADT customers note that they feel safer with a company that has such a long-standing reputation.

Read ADT reviews

Comparing Budget Home Security Systems

_{* Listed costs and ranges are subject to change. For the most current pricing, it’s recommended to contact the company directly.
** All home security companies listed above (SimpliSafe, Ring, ADT) have mobile apps that allow home security users to access and manage their devices and security from their smart phones. Professional monitoring is also available, typically as an add-on to your home security package/plan — the cost of professional monitoring is usually covered in your monthly monitoring fee.}

What to Look for In an Affordable Home Security System

When choosing a home security system, you’ll want to balance features, reliability, cost, and ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:

Core Home Security System Features

1. 24/7 Monitoring

You’ll want to make sure that professional monitoring alerts emergency services on your behalf. Some systems offer self-monitoring via app notifications, which may be cheaper but potentially less reliable in an emergency.

2. Sensors

Common sensors available from home security companies include the following (not all are required, but many home security system packages will include all of the following sensors):

• Entry sensors for doors and windows
• Motion detectors for inside the home
• Glass break sensors for extra security near windows

3. Cameras

Common camera products and features to consider for your home security system:

• Indoor and outdoor cameras look for HD resolution, night vision, and motion detection
• Doorbell cameras combine video with two-way audio
• Cloud vs. Local Storage: Cloud storage allows remote viewing, but may come with subscription fees

4. Alarm System

Loud alarms deter intruders and alert occupants. If available, sirens integrated with sensors or a central hub are ideal.

Smart Home Integration

Most home security systems are integrated with smart home systems, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, etc. A smart home-integrated home security system allows you to arm/disarm the system, check cameras, or receive alerts via your phone or voice assistant.

Connectivity and Backup

Home security systems are typically equipped with some sort of backup technology, ensuring that your system will continue working during a power outage and/or internet outage. Common backup options include the following:

• Wi-Fi and Cellular Backup: Cellular backup ensures your system works during power or internet outages
• Battery Backup: keeps your home security system operational during blackouts

Cost Considerations

There are various costs and fees associated with a home security system installation. It’s important to be aware of the following costs:

• Equipment Costs: upfront price for sensors, cameras, etc.
• Monthly Fees: for monitoring, cloud storage, or mobile access
• Installation Fees: Some systems are DIY; others require professional installation

Installation and Support

DIY systems are usually more budget-friendly, while professional installations are often more comprehensive. No matter which you choose, make sure the company offers helpful, responsive customer support.

Pros and Cons of Budget Home Security Systems

Budget home security systems can be a great option for many homeowners, especially if you’d like to add some security to your home without breaking the bank. While there are various budget home security options out there, it’s important to understand that while they may be more affordable, they may also come with trade-offs.

Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of budget security systems:

Pros

Affordable Pricing

Budget home security systems typically have lower upfront costs and/or monthly fees compared to premium systems, and often no long-term contracts.

DIY Installation

Many budget systems are designed for easy self-installation, saving on setup costs. This is especially beneficial for renters or individuals who move frequently.

No/Low Monthly Monitoring Fees

Some home security providers offer free local storage or app-based monitoring with no professional monitoring subscription required.

Scalability

Affordable home security providers may sell products individually, allowing you to start small (as simple as one camera and one sensor) and expand your system as needed, on your terms.

Wireless Technology

Many budget home security systems are wireless, meaning that the system is easy to set up without any hardwiring (you won't have to schedule and/or pay for professional installation). While this will likely appeal to many homeowners, this ease of installation could be ideal for apartments or older homes.

Cons

Limited Features

Budget home security systems may lack advanced options like facial recognition, video analytics, or 24/7 professional monitoring.

Reliability Concerns

Cheaper sensors and cameras might be prone to false alarms or glitches. In addition, some budget systems may not perform well in extreme weather or power outages.

Privacy Risks

Lower-cost systems may use cloud storage without strong encryption or data protection standards.

Smart Home Integration Limitations

Budget home security systems might not work well with smart home ecosystems (like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit) — you may have greater difficulty connecting devices.

Shorter Equipment Lifespan

Budget home security equipment (camera, sensors, doorbells, etc.) may use cheaper materials — cheaper hardware may degrade faster or need replacing more often.

Tips for Saving Money on Home Security

Home security systems can be a large investment once you add up equipment costs, monitoring fees, potential installation costs, and more. However, there are some ways that you can save money on your home security, without sacrificing too much peace of mind.

Here are 6 tips for saving money on home security:

1. Start Small

Don't overbuy sensors or cameras right away — see what you actually need after living with the basics. It will be tempting to buy all the gear and tech at once, but you might find that you don’t need all of it. 

When considering what to purchase for your home security system, focus first on key home entry points (front and back doors, ground-floor windows, etc.) — in many cases, you can cover these with just one or two pieces of security equipment, such as a video doorbell and one or two cameras/sensors.

2. Go DIY

In the current home security market, there are many providers that offer DIY security systems that allow you to skip professional installation and install it yourself. Many modern home security systems are plug-and-play, meaning that the equipment should be able to connect with your mobile phone and be ready for use immediately.

3. Compare Monitoring Plans

If you want professional monitoring, it’s recommended to compare home security providers first. Some providers have flexible plans you can pause or adjust, but some may not, so make sure to compare all available options to secure the most flexible and affordable monitoring options for you.

Additionally, you may also consider asking home security providers directly for discounts or promotions — many companies may match a competitor's offer.

4. Choose Free Monitoring

Some home security companies offer self-monitoring via mobile apps, saving you from the monthly fees associated with professional monitoring. When comparing self-monitoring options, a good rule of thumb can be to look for systems with local storage (SD card) to avoid potential cloud storage fees.

5. Bundle for Discounts

Some home security providers offer discounts if you bundle multiple devices or add multiple cameras at once.

6. Check with Your Insurance

Some home insurance policies offer discounts for having a monitored security system, even a very basic one. It’s important to note that insurance policies may have specific home security system coverage requirements to qualify for discounts.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right affordable home security system means balancing features with cost. Companies like SimpliSafe, Cove, and Ring offer solid value, flexible pricing, and easy DIY options. ADT, while more expensive, brings decades of trusted experience.

Start with the basics, and scale up as needed. Look for self-monitoring, DIY setup, and bundled packages to maximize your savings. A thoughtful approach will help you build a secure, budget-friendly system tailored to your home.