Best DIY Home Security Systems of 2024
We've tested more than 25 security systems, the best ones include models from Arlo, Kangaroo, Ring, and SimpliSafe
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The best DIY security systems in our tests protect your home well with core features such as keypads, smartphone apps, and remote sirens, but most of the systems we tested showcased weak data privacy. So while many home security systems secure your home from intruders, many of them may leave your data vulnerable.
Best DIY Home Security Systems
The top models from our tests include systems with optional professional monitoring: Dispatchers at alarm-monitoring centers immediately notify you and the police when your alarm goes off. Conversely, self-monitored systems send an alert to your smartphone, but it’s up to you to contact the police.
We note each system’s type of monitoring and associated costs. Because these DIY systems are sold as kits, we also list the components included in the box. Almost every system is available in multiple kits with varying numbers of accessories and price points.
For more options, check out our complete DIY home security system ratings.
How CR Tests Security Systems
In our lab tests, CR grades each system based on its array of security features. Our list of essential features include the ability to monitor a system yourself via a smartphone app, keypads and key fobs, and e911 so that you can contact your local emergency dispatcher regardless of your location. In addition to those essentials, our test engineers judge add-on security features geared toward environmental and personal safety, smart home capabilities, ease of use, ease of setup, and motion detection.
Because these systems also connect to the internet, testers at CR’s Digital Lab also evaluated their digital privacy and security to make sure both your data and your home are protected from the prying eyes of manufacturers and attacks from hackers.
For more information on our testing and advice on choosing a security system, consult CR’s home security system buying guide.
