The Best DIY Home Security System for 2025 – Find Out Which One Reigns Supreme!

If you’re a homeowner looking for a DIY home security system, you’re not alone. These days, more and more people are opting for home security systems they can install themselves. Why? Because DIY systems offer the perfect blend of affordability, flexibility, and control—without the hefty price tag of professional monitoring. And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech genius to set up your system.

Whether you’re protecting a cozy small home or a larger property, a DIY security system can be just what you need to keep your home safe. In this article, I’ll walk you through why DIY security is such a great option for homeowners, the top features to look for, and, of course, recommend some of the best DIY home security systems on the market.

Why DIY Home Security Systems Are Perfect for Homeowners

When I first moved into my home, I was eager to secure it but didn’t want to spend thousands on professional services. Plus, the thought of waiting for someone to come out and install equipment for me just didn’t appeal to my independent nature. Like many homeowners, I was looking for a home security system that would be easy to install and affordable. And after a bit of research, I realized that DIY home security systems were the answer!

Here’s why these systems are so well-suited for homeowners:

1. Flexibility & Control

With a DIY security system, you have complete control over how your security setup looks and works. You can customize it to fit your needs—add extra cameras or sensors, choose the specific placement, and even monitor everything right from your phone.

For homes, where the layout and needs may vary, this flexibility makes a huge difference. You might need extra sensors around the backyard, or you may want cameras at specific entry points. DIY systems let you choose what works best for your space.

2. Affordable

Let’s be honest: professional home security systems can come with hefty installation fees and long-term contracts that aren’t always easy to escape. DIY security systems, on the other hand, often have a one-time cost, meaning you can get a top-rated home security system without having to break the bank.

3. Simple Installation

The beauty of most DIY systems is that they are designed for people like you and me—people who don’t want to deal with complicated setups or hire an expert. Most of these systems come with clear instructions and can be installed in just a few hours. No drilling, no wires, just a smooth setup.

Key Features to Look for in the Best DIY Home Security System

Before you dive into shopping for the best DIY home security system, it’s important to know what features will make your system the most effective for protecting your home.

I’ve actually written an entire blog post about the top features to look for in the best security cameras for DIY security systems, so instead of going into all the details here, I’ll point you to that article for more in-depth insights. But here’s a quick rundown of what you should look for:

• Wireless Setup: No drilling required! Wireless systems are easier to install and give you more flexibility for positioning cameras and sensors.
• Smartphone Integration: You should be able to monitor your home remotely via an app. This feature comes in handy when you’re on vacation or at work.
• Motion Detection: Systems with motion sensors can alert you if someone is approaching your door, which is a must-have for many homeowners.
• Video Quality: HD video is non-negotiable if you want clear footage that can actually be used in case of an incident.
• Night Vision: Make sure the cameras have good night vision so you’re always covered, no matter the time of day.

Feel free to read more about the full set of features you should be looking for in this guide on security cameras. It’s packed with helpful details that can help you make an informed decision.

Top 5 Best DIY Home Security Systems for 2025

Choosing the best DIY home security system can be overwhelming with so many options out there. To help you make an informed decision, I’ve ranked the top DIY systems for 2025 based on key factors such as price, features, ease of installation, and customer ratings.

Comparison of Key Features & Pricing

System	Price	Monitoring Price	Installation Time	Equipment Included	Contract Required	Key Features	Customer Ratings	Best For
Ring Alarm (2nd-gen)	$250	$20/month	30 minutes	Door/window sensors, motion detectors, keypad, siren, optional professional monitoring	No	Cellular-powered backup Wi-Fi, local processing, integration with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant	9/10	Homeowners looking for smart home integration
Ring Alarm Pro	$299	$20/month	30 minutes	Eero Wi-Fi 6 mesh router, door/window sensors, motion detectors, keypad, siren, optional professional monitoring	No	Backup Wi-Fi, network security monitoring, local processing, integrates with all Ring devices and Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant	9/10	Smart home enthusiasts who want integration
SimpliSafe (8-piece set)	$144	$32/month	30 minutes	1 base station, 1 keypad, 1 motion sensor, 3 entry sensors	No	Customizable system, built-in Wi-Fi & cellular, integration with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant	9.2/10	Best DIY installation & monitoring
Arlo Home Security	$71	$25/month	30 minutes	1 keypad control panel, 2 All-in-One sensors	No	24/7 emergency response, smart notifications, cellular and battery backup, works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, & Apple Siri	8.5/10	Outdoor camera-focused homeowners
Abode Smart	$130	$19/month (or $229/year)	45 minutes	1 base station, 2 mini door/window sensors, 1 glass break sensor, 1 motion sensor, 1 key fob	No	Smart emergency response, integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, broad smart home compatibility	7.9/10	Homeowners seeking flexible monitoring options
Wyze Home Monitoring	$99	$10/month	30 minutes	Entry sensors, motion detectors, camera	No	Affordable, easy setup, reliable monitoring with basic equipment	8/10	Budget-conscious homeowners

1. SimpliSafe (8-Piece Set) – Best DIY Home Security for Easy Installation & Monitoring

Price: $144
Monitoring Price: $32/month
Installation Time: 30 minutes
Customer Rating: 9.2/10

Why It’s Great:
If you’re looking for a reliable DIY system that combines affordable pricing, easy installation, and flexibility, SimpliSafe is hard to beat. The 8-piece set includes all the essentials, and it’s easily customizable with more sensors or cameras if needed.

The SimpliSafe system stands out for its simple setup—most users can install it within 30 minutes. It also offers a great range of equipment, including entry sensors, motion detectors, and a base station with keypad. Plus, you have the flexibility to choose DIY or professional monitoring based on your preference.

Best For: Homeowners who value easy installation and solid DIY monitoring.

2. Ring Alarm Pro – Best for Smart Home Integration

Price: $299
Monitoring Price: $20/month
Installation Time: 30 minutes
Customer Rating: 9/10

Why It’s Great:
If you already have Ring devices or use Amazon Alexa, the Ring Alarm Pro is the perfect fit for your home. This system integrates well with Alexa and other Ring devices and offers Wi-Fi backup to keep your home protected even during an internet outage. It also includes Eero Wi-Fi 6 mesh router technology for additional network security, making it ideal for tech-savvy homeowners.

The installation is straightforward, and it only takes around 30 minutes. The system comes with all the essential sensors and equipment you need to secure your home, and it doesn’t require a contract.

Best For: Homeowners looking for smart home integration and solid home network security.

3. Arlo Home Security – Best for Outdoor Surveillance & Video Quality

Price: $71
Monitoring Price: $25/month
Installation Time: 30 minutes
Customer Rating: 8.5/10

Why It’s Great:
If video surveillance is your top priority, Arlo Home Security is the go-to system. Known for its high-definition cameras, Arlo provides top-notch video quality and a solid range of outdoor cameras. The system is ideal for homeowners who want to monitor their property 24/7, thanks to motion detection and night vision features.

Arlo’s system comes with 2 All-in-One sensors and a keypad control panel, but you can add more cameras and sensors as needed. While it’s a bit pricier than some options, the video quality and reliability make it worth the investment for those focused on outdoor security.

Best For: Homeowners prioritizing outdoor surveillance and high-definition video monitoring.

4. Abode Smart – Best for Flexible Monitoring & Smart Home Compatibility

Price: $130
Monitoring Price: $19/month (or $229/year)
Installation Time: 45 minutes
Customer Rating: 7.9/10

Why It’s Great:
The Abode Smart system excels in flexible monitoring options and offers a wide range of integrations with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. This system comes with essential sensors like door/window sensors, a glass break sensor, and motion detectors, making it a well-rounded solution for most homeowners.

The main selling point for Abode is its ability to provide DIY or professional monitoring, which gives you the freedom to choose what fits your lifestyle best. Installation is a bit longer at 45 minutes, but the setup is still manageable for most people.

Best For: Homeowners looking for flexible monitoring and broad smart home compatibility.

5. Wyze Home Monitoring – Most Affordable Option for Basic Home Security

Price: $99
Monitoring Price: $10/month
Installation Time: 30 minutes
Customer Rating: 8/10

Why It’s Great:
For budget-conscious homeowners, Wyze Home Monitoring is an excellent option that still provides solid security features. While it’s the most affordable system on this list, it doesn’t sacrifice on features. The system includes entry sensors, motion detectors, and a smart camera for home surveillance. The DIY installation is incredibly simple, taking only about 30 minutes.

Wyze stands out for its low price and reliability, offering no-contract service. It’s the ideal choice for those who want an entry-level DIY home security system that’s easy to set up without the premium price tag.

Best For: Homeowners on a budget looking for simple but reliable home security.

Choose the Best DIY Home Security System for Your Home

With all the options out there, choosing the best DIY home security system comes down to your specific needs and priorities. Whether you’re looking for smart home integration, top-notch outdoor cameras, or budget-friendly options, the systems above cover a wide range of features that can help keep your home secure.

• SimpliSafe is ideal for homeowners seeking a balance of affordability, ease of use, and customization.
• If you want smart home integration and are willing to pay a little more, Ring Alarm Pro offers fantastic features and excellent security.
• For the best outdoor surveillance and video quality, Arlo Home Security is the system to go for.

Whatever system you choose, make sure it fits your home, lifestyle, and budget. Protecting your home with a DIY security system gives you the flexibility and control you need without the burden of ongoing contracts or expensive installation fees.

FAQs About DIY Home Security Systems

Q: What’s the best DIY security system without hidden fees?
A: Look for systems like SimpliSafe or Ring that offer no long-term contracts or hidden fees. These systems are usually pay-as-you-go, meaning you only pay for the equipment and optional professional monitoring.

Q: Are DIY systems easy to install?
A: Absolutely! DIY systems are designed to be easy for anyone to install. Most systems come with step-by-step instructions, and you don’t need any special tools or expertise.

Q: Can I integrate DIY home security with smart home devices?
A: Yes, many DIY systems are fully compatible with smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This lets you control your security system with voice commands or apps.

Q: Do I need professional monitoring for my DIY system?
A: No, professional monitoring is optional. DIY systems let you monitor everything through your smartphone, so you can stay connected wherever you are.

Q: What’s the best DIY security system for a large home?
A: For larger homes, I’d recommend systems like Ring or Abode, which offer expandability and have enough sensors to cover larger properties.

I hope this article helps you feel confident in choosing the best DIY home security system for your home. Stay safe, and take control of your home security today!

Explore EvoAbode for more Home Automation Categories & Insights

If you found this guide helpful, you might also be interested in these related articles on home automation. Dive deeper into various aspects of securing and automating your home:

• Home Automation Overview – Learn everything you need to know about home automation, from smart devices to system integrations, and how they can transform your home.
• DIY Home Automation Projects – Discover fun and easy DIY home automation projects to enhance your home’s functionality and security without the need for expensive professionals.