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Home security is important, but a fancy security system over $500 with a professional monitoring service that can reach up to $70 a month isn't in everyone's budget. In my years of reviewing the latest home security systems, I've come across five special systems that perform very well while costing a whole lot less.
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- Best Cheap Home Security Systems for 2025: I Found the Real Deals
- What is the best cheap home security system of 2025 overall?
- Best cheap home security systems of 2025
- Best overall cheap home security
- Best cheap home security with cameras
- Best cheap home security system for renters
- Best cheap home security system for Apple and other platforms
- Best ultra-cheap security system
- Cheap home security systems compared
- Other home security systems we tested
- How we test home security systems
- Factors to consider when buying a cheap home security system
- What we updated
Many of my picks are DIY security systems that cut costs while still meeting your household’s needs. Others are flexible models that can move with you, or systems that only need a couple of sensors to do a ton of work with less -- while sparing your budget by around $200 to $300.
What is the best cheap home security system of 2025 overall?
SimpliSafe remains a top DIY security system.
Tyler Lacoma/CNETAfter testing more than a dozen security brands and all the sensors they offer, my top pick for affordable security is SimpliSafe's DIY kit, thanks to its user-friendly design and low upfront cost, plus SimpliSafe's useful add-ons if you ever want to expand the system. Starter kits are usually around $250 to $300 for a simple setup, which is laudable considering what you get in return.
We also chose other cheap systems well worth your time, from Arlo's all-in-one sensors for those who want to keep things simple to the high-tech features Ring provides. Take a look, learn more about security systems and find the best one for you.
Best cheap home security systems of 2025
Pros
- Variety of starter kits at or under $300 to help save
- Easy to install and operate
- Great add-ons within the SimpliSafe ecosystem
- Professional monitoring options that can add live guards, AI face recognition and other tricks
Cons
- Limited to no smart home integrations with third parties like Google, Alexa, Yale, etc.
- Website is a bit confusing
- Higher-priced than other budget picks
Why I like it:
SimpliSafe is one of our favorite security kits for DIY installation, with easy-to-understand setup that’s ideal for people who’ve never had a home security system before. But its benefits don’t stop there: The smaller home security kits are very affordable, with the eight-piece version available for only $240 and easily enough for the average house. The Foundation kit, starting at $200, is even cheaper if you only want a sensor or two.
SimpliSafe makes it easy to build out systems with more sensors, leak detectors and cameras, but has very limited support for any other smart home brand. Subscriptions range from a basic self-monitoring package to a full professional monitoring with live guards and AI features that can ignore friends and family.
Finally, watch for deals on holidays: SimpliSafe usually throws in a free security camera or other add-on frequently during these times.
Who is this for:
DIYers who want an effective starter system that they don't have to pay much for -- with monitoring options if they decide to upgrade.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People who want more for around $200; buyers who hate comparing the details of different packages.
Pros
- Low starter pricing at $200
- Advanced extra features like remote arming and cellular backup with subscription
- Included range extender
- Easy to expand, especially with cams
Cons
- Not everyone needs a Wi-Fi range extender, especially in small homes
- Limited smart home integration with an Alexa focus, which isn't great for Google users
Why I like it:
Ring’s second-gen Alarm security system is a small but mighty security kit that includes a contact sensor, motion detector and a range extender if your Wi-Fi can’t quite reach the distant doors of your home. Ring’s design is reliable and its app is serviceable. As an Amazon brand, you can also easily find extra accessories to add for expansions, although this $200 kit is ideal for saving money.
Amazon’s involvement also means that Ring Alarm doesn’t have much compatibility outside of Alexa. The Ring Protect system has several important features, including the ability to arm or disarm the system remotely, so a subscription is recommended. Fortunately, a subscription also includes valuable AI detection and AI video search features if you add one of the many Ring cameras to your kit.
Who is this for:
Fans of Alexa, people who want a quick setup with an eye on potential security cameras later on.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
Fans of Google; people who want to avoid subscriptions at all costs.
Pros
- All-in-one sensors for easy, versatile setup in any space
- Arlo’s high-quality app is intuitive and helps with setup
- Subscription isn’t necessary to get key features like alerts
Cons
- May be too limited for extra-large homes
- Requires investment in doorbells and fobs if you really want to extend its capabilities
Why I like it:
Arlo’s system is made for people who groan at the idea of setting up a whole security system. This affordable bundle includes two all-in-one sensors. Want them to guard doorways or windows? No problem. Want them to check for leaks or temperature problems? They’ll do it, and with a wireless, adhesive setup, too. They can also monitor sounds like alarms and sudden light changes, among other capabilities. Put them wherever you want, and add a few more if you don’t mind bumping the price up to $300.
Arlo offers a compatible doorbell and fob if you want to expand, but we don’t think it’s particularly necessary. Few vital features are locked behind the subscription if you don’t have an Arlo cam, so this is an ideal option for those who don’t want to pay any subscription fees at all.
Who is this for:
People who only need a small security system and want to save maximum bucks; those who have a lot of sensor needs and want sensors they can enlist for all kinds of duties.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People who want extra simple sensors that they don't want to think about too much; buyers looking for a larger system.
Pros
- Excellent third-party support with many different brands including Sonos, Ecobee, Philips and more
- Easy setup
- Largely optional subscriptions
Cons
- Cheap versions under $300 don’t have many sensors
Why I like it:
Abode gets plenty of points for its broad smart home compatibility, working with not only the big three voice assistants (Alexa, Google and Siri) but also with speaker brands like Sonos and Bose, light brands like Ecobee and Philips Hue, Z-Wave smart locks, Ecobee thermostats and more. If you already have smart home devices or think you'll want some in the future, Abode is an easy way to plan for compatibility at an affordable price.
But Abode’s most affordable systems are limited in size. If you want to keep costs down, you’ll be limited to one sensor most suitable for your front door or a similar area. That makes the cheap version more suitable for apartments or dorms, but a great option if you want to build out your security in the coming years.
Who is this for:
People who already have home security devices and want to integrate them with a cheap security system; Apple fans.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People who want at least a few sensors in their starter kit instead of just one.
Pros
- Extra affordable around $150 and extra compact
- Sensors tie into a high-quality 2K wired camera that can detect motion and more
- Aqara app is easy to use for basic functions, especially for fast setup
- Reliable sensor performance
- Apple Home compatibility
Cons
- Too tiny for larger spaces and multiple doors
- More complex settings can be difficult to figure out
Why I like it:
Aqara's little system is the smallest security kit I've tested, but it still manages to shine. The sensors, including a tiny motion detector, a vibration sensor and an open/shut access sensor, are all easy to set up and connect to the 2K camera hub (which includes a siren and two-way audio). You can get a variety of movement alerts and check on history easily with the Aqara app, or even set more complicated routines if you want to really dig into settings.
The system also has support for Google Home, Alexa and Apple Home. Perhaps best of all, it's incredibly cheap, starting at $165 but with occasional sales bringing it much lower. It's an ideal DIY security system for small spaces like entryways, offices, garages and other spots that need a watchful eye. A monitoring subscription is optional and not necessary to access most features.
Who is this for:
People who want to save as much as possible and only have a small space to watch over.
Who shouldn’t buy it:
People who want a larger system that's easier to expand into other areas or products
Cheap home security systems compared
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| $239 | $200 | $200 | $300 | $160 |
| $15/month | $20/month | $25/month | 18 per month+ | N/A |
| 1 base station, 1 keypad, 1 panic button, 1 motion sensor, 4 entry sensors | Door/window sensors, motion detectors, a keypad, a siren and optional professional monitoring subscriptions | 1 keypad control panel, 2 All-in-One sensors | 1 base station + motion sensor, 1 mini door/window sensor, 1 key fob | 1 base camera hub, 1 motion sensor, 1 vibration sensor, 1 open/shut sensor |
| No | No | No | No | No |
| DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY |
| Customizable system, built-in Wi-Fi and cellular, integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant | Cellular-powered backup Wi-Fi, network security monitoring, local processing, storage for all of your Ring devices | 24/7 emergency response, smart interactive notifications, cellular and battery backup, integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant | 24/7 emergency response, smart detect notifications, cellular and battery backup, integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Siri, broad smart home compatibility | Camera motion detection routines, integration with Google, Alexa and Apple |
| 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | Coming soon |
Arlo's new Security Tag is a great fit for its super-compact home security system.
ArloWe haven't listed every cheap security system here, since some, such as AT&T Digital Life, are no longer available. For the ones that are available, we made decisions about not including them, often based on extra prices.
- Frontpoint: Although Frontpoint's hardware is solidly priced, its $50 monthly subscription fee is simply too much to recommend to anyone trying to stick to a budget.
- Kangaroo: While Kangaroo is an incredibly wallet-friendly DIY security system, its value simply isn't as high as our top picks. Its hardware isn't just cheap on paper, it also feels cheap. Its doorbell camera is terrible.
- Cove Home Security: While Cove's hardware is reasonably priced, the inability to self-monitor the system — or even have app access — without significant monthly fees makes it a less-than-ideal option for the budget-conscious buyer.
- ADT: Professionally installed systems probably aren't the way to go for the best cheap home security system, and ADT is worse than others on the list simply for its astronomically high prices and forced contracts.
- Vivint: Like ADT, Vivint isn't for the faint of wallet. While it's a great system for those interested in smart home integration, opting for Vivint won't save you money in the short term or long run.
Read more: How to Turn Your Old iPhone or Android Into a Home Security Camera for Free
The CNET home security editors have tested out every major home security system over the years with dozens of brands and new upgrades reviewed. Hands-on testing is core to our evaluations of any home security products. We do the testing in a real home environment over at least a full week, often longer to test all kinds of security features.
Installation and setup
Setup is especially important for security systems because there are so many parts and they need to be installed carefully to work. I generally favor adhesive mounts because they are easier to install in more places and can be taken off easily as well. As I explore mounting options, I also review setup instructions and account creation in the app to see how confusing it may be for newcomers.
Setup time ranges depending on how big the system is. For these cheap starter kits, which are largely adhesive-based, newcomers should be able to set them up in a couple of hours, or sooner if they know exactly where they are going to place the sensors.
Blink app and Outdoor cam home screen.
Tyler Lacoma/CNETApp use
Home security apps can sometimes be complex or frustrating, especially for more in-depth home routines. I dig around in the app thoroughly as I test settings, controls, routines and general management, like options to extend disarming grace periods or turning down sensor sensitivity.
Sensors and alarm testing
With the system set up, it's time to test it out. From banging on glass to creeping in front of motion sensors and opening protected doors, I see how sensors perform, how quickly they respond, the types of alerts they send, and if they have accurate tampering warnings and more. Along the way I get a good test of the sirens and alarms, too.
Aqara's app showing cards for security cam views, lights, sensors and more.
Tyler Lacoma/CNETMonitoring, contracts and ease of use
It's also important to take time to review a company's monitoring options, fees, if they have contracts and generally how opaque their purchasing system is. Security companies can be very bad about this, which is why I prefer DIY options for those looking for cheap systems that make it very clear what you're getting and how much it costs.
Since most of my systems come with a free trial, this is also the time I test out how well the extra features work, such as additional monitoring options.
Home routines
Many security systems enable home routines to set up automated arm/disarm options, customizable alerts, connections with cameras or locks and lots more. I test these functions, how well they work, and how reliably systems connect with supported apps like Alexa or Google Home (and if those connections drop over time).
Not sure how to make up your mind? Here are the most important factors when considering a home security system that will spare your wallet.
Pricing and subscriptions
Security systems can be opaque when it comes to final pricing. The listed cost is often replaced by constant, rotating discounts which are more representative of the actual cost, and total subscription fees may not be obvious.
For our list, we chose DIY companies with upfront pricing models so you can see what you get, aiming generally between $200 and $300. If you want to save as much as possible, watch subscriptions carefully to see what’s included. Sometimes, you may be able to get away without a subscription at all, especially if you don’t want any cameras. Other times, a basic self-monitoring plan may be required.
App controls
Apps should be easy to understand and avoid hiding important features behind complex menus or constant demands for subscription fees. Look for clean apps with helpful user interfaces, large touchscreen buttons and walkthroughs during your setup process.
Setup and installation
Avoiding professional installation is a great way to save money, so we chose systems that are DIY and don’t have any contract requirements.
Installation also affects value, because smaller, cheaper kits work best when you use them well. That means choosing the most vulnerable doors and windows in your home with as few sensors as possible. You may want to check out our guide on how burglars choose homes to break into.
SimpliSafe's entry sensors remain DIY-friendly during setup and testing.
Tyler Lacoma/CNETFlexible arming and disarming
Look for systems that have remote arming and disarming, customizable arming delays to get out the door and similar features. Automatic arming and disarming based on time of day, geofencing and other options are also handy.
Movability
Affordable security systems are great fits for rentals and apartments, but what happens when you have to move? We favored systems that use adhesive rather than leaving holes in the wall, and that are relatively easy to take down, pack up and install again during a move.
Additional features
Take a look at add-ons if you ever want to expand your system. Look for a variety of sensor options, including motion sensors, video doorbells, fobs, smart locks, glass break/vibration sensors and more. These should be affordable and easy to add.
You'll be alerted every time this door is opened with the do-it-all Arlo sensor.
Karen Freeman/CNETSmart home compatibility
If you already use a voice assistant or standalone smart home devices, check to see if the home security system supports them before you buy. Google and Alexa are commonly supported, but other platforms less so, and home security systems can vary a lot. Matter compatibility is helping out here, but still has a long way to roll out.
Monitoring options
Even cheap home security systems offer professional monitoring services that can call the police or fire department for you, among other services. But they cost a monthly fee, which kind of defeats the purpose of finding a cheap home security system. If you want a monitoring plan to enable extra features and get professional eyes on your home, they typically cost between $20 to $30 a month for starter versions.
Eufy's live views are unparalleled for indoor cam quality.
CNET/Tyler LacomaSummer 2025: I tested and was impressed with Aqara's unique approach to security systems -- a camera that acts as a hub for several teeny-tiny security sensors. It's extra cheap and particularly easy to set up, making it a great fit for this list. I added it as an ultra-budget option, especially when it's on sale, but be warned it's not as easy to expand as some of our other picks so it works best in small spaces.
Ultimately, you'll have to answer this question for yourself. Home security systems do deter burglars. Depending on where you live, a few hundred dollars may be a cost worth incurring to avoid the risk of burglaries or damaged property. Consider how frequent break-ins are in your area, how easy it is for strangers to access your home and how vulnerable the valuables in your home are.
Home security systems range in price anywhere from $100 to thousands of dollars. Generally, the larger the space you hope to cover -- especially the number of entryways you want to monitor -- the more expensive the system.
Many affordable systems allow you to pick your devices a la carte, and most sensors shouldn't cost more than $30 apiece. If you're looking for reliable, budget-friendly picks, you shouldn't spend more than a few hundred dollars on home security. Likewise, you shouldn't be paying more than $25 or $30 at the most for cheap monthly monitoring unless you're using a professionally installed system.
Not necessarily, and it varies greatly depending on the brand. Always look at what home security systems lock behind a subscription fee. Sometimes, there will be advanced features you can live without, especially if you don’t want to add a camera. In other cases, you’ll need at least a self-monitoring subscription to unlike vital features like remote control.
It’s easier with some systems than others. If you move a lot or are planning a move, look for systems that use adhesive that’s easy to remove and offer compact systems to bundle up. Most of the picks on our list meet the qualifications of an easy-to-move system.
You probably shouldn’t use it -- at least not right away. It’s time to ask some questions instead. It could be a landlord’s, a system wiped and left behind by the previous owner or just a few unwanted devices. We have a full guide on what to do with it here.
