Compare our top self-monitored security systems
All our picks offer do-it-yourself installation and flexible self-monitoring plans.
| Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Monthly fee for self-monitoring | Starting equipment costs | DIY installation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 SimpliSafe | Get Started | 3.5 | Easy setup | $9.99 | $150.56 to $440.30 | Yes |
 Ring | Learn More | 1.3 | Value | $4.99 to $9.99 | $179.99 to $359.99 | Yes |
 Xfinity Home | Learn More | 1.4 | Wired cameras | $10 | $360 to $600 | Yes |
More details about our top 3 picks
To choose our top picks, we started with a list of popular home security companies, then compared features, costs, ratings and reviews to narrow it down to the best options. We prioritized self-monitoring systems with camera integration. All prices are accurate as of publication.
SimpliSafe
- Monthly self-monitoring fee
- $9.99
- Equipment costs
- $150.56 to $440.30
- Compatible with
- Amazon Alexa, Google Home, August Locks
Ring
- Monthly self-monitoring fee
- $4.99 to $9.99
- Equipment costs
- $179.99 to $359.99
- Compatible with
- Honeywell and Alexa-enabled devices
Xfinity Home
- Monthly self-monitoring fee
- $10
- Equipment costs
- $360 to $600
- Compatible with
- xFi Gateway, Xfinity camera devices
Pros and cons of self-monitoring
Self-monitoring is a proactive approach to home security. Because these systems aren't connected to emergency response centers, you don't have to worry about false alarm fines or high monthly service fees. However, the responsibility for taking action during an emergency rests entirely with you.
“You have only yourself to count on to get any alerts that come up, decide how important they are, and then call for help if needed. That’s a lot of pressure. If you can’t be available for that kind of self-monitoring 24/7, it can totally be worth it to pay a little more each month,” according to Rebecca Edwards, lead reporter at SafeWise.
Pros
- Less expensive monthly costs
- Instant notifications to your phone
- Remote access and system control
- Fewer false alarms
- Customizable equipment
Cons
- More personal responsibility
- Reliance on mobile device signals
- Limited professional support
- No automatic emergency dispatch
How to choose a self-monitored security system
The most essential feature of a self-monitored system is the app, according to Edwards. “If you truly want to self-monitor, the most important thing is full, free access to the mobile app and all alerts and notifications,” Edwards said. “If you can’t get that, you should go for a system with affordable pro monitoring. Without mobile access, you’ve basically got the equivalent of a car alarm looking after your house, pets and loved ones.”
Your system’s reliability largely depends on the quality of the components, including sensors, cameras and the central control panel. Systems typically rely on an internet connection to send alerts and notifications. If you experience frequent internet outages or interruptions, they may impact performance.
Without mobile access, you’ve basically got the equivalent of a car alarm looking after your house, pets and loved ones.”
If video monitoring is important to you, check whether the system supports security cameras and offers cloud or local storage for recorded footage. Consider factors like video quality, storage capacity and any associated costs.
» COMPARE: Best DIY home security systems
FAQ
Are there self-monitored home security systems with no monthly fees?
Yes, but they are limited. Most companies charge a nominal fee for app access and video storage. What you’re really paying for is how well your equipment connects to the app.
SimpliSafe and a few other systems may offer essential features that work without a monthly subscription. These fees are almost always more affordable than the costs of a professionally monitored home security system.
Can you DIY a self-monitoring system without paying for an app?
It’s possible but complicated. You would need significant technical knowledge to configure your own notifications and surveillance hardware. For most users, paying the small monthly fee for a polished app (like Ring’s $4.99 plan) is worth it for the reliability.
» COMPARE: Best DIY home security cameras of 2026
How do self-monitored security systems work?
Besides who gets the alerts, these work just like every other security system. Motion detectors, glass-break sensors or other devices detect potential threats. When triggered, the system sends you a notification and/or sounds an alarm.
Using an alarm system without monitoring is like having a security guard dog at home, but no one watching over it. When the dog senses trouble, it barks. You go outside — assuming you hear the alert — assess the situation and call the police if the threat is real. Your dog can't call the police, so you must rely on your judgment and response to handle any potential danger.
When a sensor detects something unusual, like a door opening or movement inside your house, it triggers a loud alarm or flashes lights to grab attention. You’re responsible for hearing the alarm, checking the cameras or physically investigating and calling help if necessary.
» MORE: Security system installation: DIY versus professional
Bottom line
Self-monitored security systems are an excellent way to protect your home on a budget, but their effectiveness depends on the quality of your equipment and internet connection.
Our picks for the best self-monitored alarm systems are SimpliSafe for ease of use, Ring for the best customizable value and Xfinity for its robust wired camera options. A traditional security system with professional monitoring, such as ADT or Frontpoint, might be a better fit if the pressure of responding to 24/7 alerts feels overwhelming.
