SimpliSafe holds a clear lead as the primary choice for DIY setup, no-contract flexibility, and comprehensive app control. Broader inquiries about general home security systems show no single preferred option.
If you want a home security system you can monitor entirely from your phone, without paying a monthly professional monitoring fee, I’d focus on DIY security systems with a smartphone app, motion and door sensors, and optional cameras.
The best choice depends on whether you want a simple alarm system, live video, smart-home integration, or the ability to have emergency services dispatched if something happens.
Here’s how I’d narrow it down: prioritize a system that lets you arm and disarm remotely, receive instant alerts, check sensor status, and view camera footage without requiring a subscription for basic features.
My top 3 home security systems for self-monitoring
1. SimpliSafe Smart Home Security System
(Best overall alarm)
Best for: Whole-home protection with a straightforward phone app.
Remote arm/disarm and phone alerts.
Door, window and motion sensors with a loud siren.
DIY installation and optional professional monitoring.
Free self-monitoring has limitations, including no cellular backup or recorded camera history.
No monthly fees, including for local video storage
eufy
Doorbell cameras and Alexa integration
Ring
Smart-home flexibility, especially Apple Home
Abode Smart Security Kit
One important distinction: Self-monitoring means your phone receives alerts, but you are responsible for responding. If your phone is off or you miss an alert, nobody may contact emergency services on your behalf. Also, an alarm system's free app access does not necessarily include recorded video, cellular backup or automatic emergency dispatch.
Let me narrow it down to the best fit for your home
While professional monitoring remains popular, self-monitoring via mobile apps lets you control alerts, view live feeds, and manage alarms directly. Below is a breakdown of the top self-monitored home security systems available right now.[](https://www.safehome.org/security-systems/best/without-monitoring/)
Top Self-Monitored Home Security Systems
SimpliSafe - Best Overall Self-Monitored System . It features easy DIY installation, highly reliable hardware, and an intuitive app that sends instant push notifications. You can use it completely free with local alerts or opt for a low-cost app plan for remote control and video recording.
Ring Alarm - Best Budget & Video Integration . Built around the ecosystem of Ring , this DIY system is affordable and integrates seamlessly with Ring video doorbells and security cameras. The basic self-monitoring tier is inexpensive and provides comprehensive app notifications and video storage.
Eufy Security - Best No-Monthly-Fee Option . Using local storage hubs like the HomeBase, Eufy allows you to run an entire network of sensors and 4K cameras completely on your local network with zero monthly subscription fees while still accessing everything through your phone.
Comparison of Top Self-Monitored Options
System
Monthly Cost (Self-Monitor)
Smart Home Support
Key Advantage
SimpliSafe
$0 to low-cost app tier
Limited (Alexa/Google)
Rock-solid hardware & reliability
Abode
Free or ~$8.49/mo
Excellent (HomeKit, Alexa, Google)
Deep smart home automations
If you want to narrow this down, tell me:
Do you already own smart home devices (like Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit)?
Do you want indoor/outdoor cameras included, or just basic door and window entry sensors?
I can help you pick the exact package configuration for your home.
If you want to skip monthly monitoring fees and manage alerts directly through your phone , several DIY home security systems excel at app-based self-monitoring.
Top recommendations for self-monitored home security setups include:
Ring Alarm
Why it's recommended:Ring offers a robust, highly intuitive app that handles push notifications, arming/disarming, and live video smoothly. You can run the entire entry sensor and motion detector setup entirely unmonitored for $0/month.
App features: Integrates seamlessly with Ring video doorbells and cameras, custom modes, and shared user access for family members.
Abode (Smart Security Kit or iota)
Why it's recommended: Abode is widely considered a top choice for zero-fee self-monitoring. The free tier gives you full app control, push notifications, and automation triggers without a subscription. It is also exceptionally friendly with smart home platforms like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home.
App features: Clean interface, geofencing capabilities (auto-arming when you leave), and local event logs.
Eufy Security
Why it's recommended: Known primarily for high-clarity cameras and local storage options (via their HomeBase), Eufy also offers security alarm kits with wireless entry sensors. Self-monitoring via the app is completely free with live feeds and activity alerts.
App features: Fast loading times, easy device management, and local video playback that doesn't force you into a cloud storage subscription.
Reolink
Why it's recommended: If your focus leans heavily toward video surveillance paired with basic detection, Reolink's plug-and-play Wi-Fi or PoE cameras and sensors operate entirely subscription-free. Footage can be saved locally to an SD card or NVR.
App features: Crisp high-definition feeds, free AI person/vehicle detection, and remote access via mobile or desktop apps.
To help narrow down which system fits best, tell me:
Are you looking for just security cameras/doorbells , or a full alarm kit with door/window sensors?
Do you prefer saving video locally (SD card/hub) or in the cloud?
Yes. If by “I handle the monitoring myself” you mean you get alerts on your phone, check cameras yourself, and decide what action to take rather than paying a monitoring center, there are several good DIY systems.
If you want a simple home security system that you can monitor yourself, I’d focus on a DIY system with phone alerts, door and window sensors, motion detection, and optional cameras—without a required monthly monitoring contract.
The good news is you can start small, install it yourself, and expand over time. The main decision is whether you want a traditional alarm system, a camera-focused setup, or a combination of both.
The 3 best approaches
1. Ring Alarm
Best overall for most homes
A straightforward DIY alarm with door/window sensors, motion sensors, a keypad, and smartphone notifications. You can add Ring cameras and a video doorbell later.
Best for: Easy setup and a single connected system.
Watch for: Some features, video recording, and cellular backup may require a subscription or eligible plan.
2. SimpliSafe
Best traditional alarm experience
A dedicated alarm system with a base station, entry sensors, motion detection, and a keypad. It is designed for simple self-installation.
Best for: People who primarily want an alarm that sounds when someone enters.
Watch for: Confirm which app features, remote controls, and alerts work without a paid plan.
3. Eufy Security
Best for a camera-first, subscription-conscious setup
Eufy offers cameras, doorbells, and selected alarm sensors, with local-storage options on compatible devices.
Best for: Seeing what happened at home while keeping recurring costs low.
Watch for: Not every Eufy camera or sensor works with every hub; verify compatibility before buying.
What I would actually buy
If I were setting up a simple system from scratch, I would start with one of these kits. The prices below are examples from current retailer listings and may change.
SimpliSafe Smart Home Security System (7 pc.) with Base Stat…
$99.99
Sold by The Home Depot
A good starter alarm with a base station, keypad, motion sensor, and multiple entry sensors. My first choice if your priority is protecting doors and windows.
eufy 5-Piece Home Security Kit with Homebase 2, Keypad, Moti…
$159.99
Sold by Walmart
A useful alternative if you want an alarm with no routine subscription fees. Check which cameras and storage options are included in the particular kit.
Ring Alarm Wireless Security System, 5 Piece Kit (2nd Gen)
$199.99
Sold by Lowe's
A sensible choice if you also want to add a video doorbell or cameras within the Ring ecosystem. Check the free features carefully before purchasing if you want to avoid monthly fees.
For a typical house, I'd prioritize the following equipment over buying lots of cameras right away:
1. Alarm hub and keypad
The control center and audible alarm.
2. Entry sensors
Cover every accessible ground-floor door and window.
3. One or two motion sensors
Cover the main hallway or a natural path through the house.
4. One outdoor camera
Start with the front entrance or driveway; add a rear camera if needed.
One important distinction: self-monitoring means you receive the alerts and decide what to do. It does not mean a monitoring center automatically contacts emergency services. Also, camera recording, cellular backup, and remote alarm controls can have different subscription requirements depending on the brand.
Let me narrow it down for your home
The best option depends on your layout and whether avoiding monthly fees is essential.
The top options on the market balance easy DIY installation, reliable hardware, and robust app notifications:
Ring Alarm (2nd Gen) or Ring Alarm Pro : Widely considered a top pick for self-monitoring . It features a clean, highly responsive app [9.x], affordable starter kits, and seamless integration with Ring cameras and Alexa. You can use it completely free with local push notifications, or opt into a low-cost plan if you want cloud video storage. The Pro version even includes a built-in eero Wi-Fi 6 router and network backup. Check out the Ring 5-Piece Alarm Security Kit to explore starter options [9.x].[](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/the-best-home-security-system/)
: Known for having some of the most reliable, professional-grade entry sensors and physical keypads in the DIY space. While their best features shine with a paid plan, they offer flexible setup and reliable hardware that you can install in under 15 minutes without any tools. Learn more about their packages on the .
Ring Alarm
Low starting tier
Alexa-focused
Great budget video ecosystem
Eufy
$0 (Local storage)
Alexa/Google
Zero recurring subscription fees
Ring Alarm
$199.99
System
Self-monitoring
Subscription
Particularly good for
Ring Alarm
Yes
Optional
Cameras + Alexa/Ring ecosystem
SimpliSafe
Yes
Optional
Straightforward alarm system
eufy Security
Yes
Optional/none for core features
Local storage and minimizing recurring fees
abode
Yes
Optional
Smart-home/Apple integration
Ring Alarm is worth a close look if you want a complete app-based system. The alarm sends phone alerts when doors/windows open or motion is detected, and it integrates particularly well with Ring cameras and Alexa. Current 8-piece kits are around $250 in the product results I found.
SimpliSafe is another strong choice if you want the alarm system itself to be the priority. It is DIY-installed, has a free self-monitoring option, and you can add professional monitoring later if you change your mind. Current 7-piece kits are showing around $230.
eufy is especially interesting if you want to avoid monthly fees and prefer local storage. Its HomeBase-based systems can handle self-monitoring and local video storage, although I'd pay particular attention to exactly which cameras and storage features you buy.
abode is the one I'd investigate if you have an Apple Home setup or want more extensive smart-home automation. Its self-monitoring tier can operate without a monthly monitoring subscription, while paid monitoring remains an option.
What I'd put in a typical house
Rather than just buying cameras, I'd build around:
Smoke/CO detectors if compatible with your chosen ecosystem
Strong Wi-Fi, ideally with battery backup for networking equipment
One important distinction: self-monitoring means you're responsible for noticing and responding to alerts. If your phone is off, you're asleep, or the internet/phone connection fails, there's nobody automatically responding. Some systems can add professional monitoring later.
If you tell me (1) approximate house size, (2) number of exterior doors/windows, (3) whether you want cameras indoors, outdoors, or both, and (4) whether you use iPhone/Android/Alexa/Google Home, I can put together a specific setup and approximate current cost.
Abode (Starter Kit or Iota): An ideal choice for smart-home enthusiasts. Abode supports a massive array of third-party ecosystems (including Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, and Zigbee). Their basic tier offers free self-monitoring with a limited event timeline, making it a great hybrid of home automation and security. Read details on the platform via the Abode Home Security Review.
Eufy Security: Excellent if you want to avoid monthly cloud fees entirely. Eufy relies heavily on local storage hubs (like their HomeBase) with expandable memory, using on-device AI for motion and human detection. You get free self-monitoring out of the box with instant app alerts. View their hardware lineup on the Eufy Official Store.
Wyze Home Monitoring: The ultimate budget-friendly route. Wyze equipment (entry and motion sensors, cameras) is remarkably inexpensive, and they offer a basic free self-monitoring tier that gets the job done if you are watching pennies. Read more about their ecosystem via Wyze Labs.
If you can share:
Approximate size of your home (apartment vs. multi-story house)
Whether you already use a smart assistant (Alexa, Google Home, Apple Home)
If you want local video storage or cloud recording
I can help you narrow down the best system and kit for your needs.
