A home security system shouldn’t cost you hundreds every year just to exist. While many people assume you need to pay a monthly fee for monitoring or professional installation, the truth is: you don’t. Today’s DIY home security systems offer strong protection, smart features, and full control—without locking you into a contract or charging a subscription.
Whether you own or rent, live in an apartment or a single-family home, there are low-cost options that can help you monitor your space and get alerts in real time. No monthly bills. No long-term commitment. Just peace of mind—and savings to match.
If you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss way to protect your home, here are five of the best DIY security systems in 2025 that work without a monthly fee.
1. Wyze Home Monitoring (With No Subscription)
Wyze started with affordable smart cameras and has since expanded into full DIY security kits. Their equipment is simple, sleek, and incredibly budget-friendly. The Wyze Home Monitoring Core Kit includes motion sensors, door/window sensors, a keypad, and a base station for under $100.
While Wyze does offer a professional monitoring option for a small fee, you can skip it and still receive instant mobile alerts whenever sensors are triggered. The free tier gives you live view and alerts through the Wyze app. You can also add Wyze Cam v3 or Wyze Cam Pan for indoor and outdoor video coverage.
It’s ideal for renters or homeowners who want solid coverage without a contract or ongoing costs. The app is intuitive, setup takes less than an hour, and you can expand the system as needed.
2. eufy Security by Anker
eufy (a sub-brand of Anker) offers impressive home security equipment with no required monthly fees. Their systems include door sensors, motion detectors, and a keypad base—but the standout feature is the local video storage. Your footage stays on the device, not the cloud, so you don’t need to pay for storage or worry about privacy.
The eufy Security app lets you manage everything remotely. You can view footage, receive alerts, and adjust settings—all for free. The eufyCam 2C and 3 series offer crystal-clear video, night vision, and smart detection features that reduce false alarms.
The one-time cost is higher than some other DIY kits, but you’ll never pay a subscription fee. That makes it one of the most cost-effective long-term solutions.
3. Abode Smart Security Kit
Abode is one of the few systems that offers both professional-grade sensors and no-contract DIY control. Their Smart Security Kit includes a gateway hub, door/window sensors, a key fob, and motion detector. You can connect it to Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and even Z-Wave or Zigbee devices.
Abode offers optional monitoring plans, but its free self-monitoring tier still includes app access, push notifications, and basic automation. You can easily arm and disarm your system from your phone or set it to arm automatically when you leave home.
This system is great for smart home enthusiasts who want flexibility without fees. It’s also expandable, so you can add sensors, cameras, or smart locks as your needs grow.
4. Ring Alarm (No Subscription)
While Ring is best known for its doorbell cameras, its Alarm Security Kit is a powerful DIY setup—even without a subscription. The base kit includes contact sensors, a motion detector, a base station, and a keypad.
Without a Ring Protect plan, you still get mobile alerts, live camera feed access, and manual control via the Ring app. You’ll also be able to arm and disarm remotely and integrate with Alexa-enabled devices.
If you want professional monitoring, you can opt in for a fee—but the system works just fine without it. And since Ring is owned by Amazon, it integrates easily with other smart home gear, making it a good fit for tech-savvy users.
5. SimpliSafe (With Local Alarm Only)
SimpliSafe offers sleek, easy-to-install systems with optional monitoring. Without paying for a monthly plan, you still get the benefit of a loud local siren, entry sensors, and a base station that alerts you with lights and sounds.
While self-monitoring is more limited on SimpliSafe compared to other options—no mobile alerts without a plan—you can still use it as a traditional alarm that deters break-ins. For many homeowners, that’s enough.
If you change your mind later, you can always activate SimpliSafe’s paid service—but unlike traditional alarm companies, you’re never locked into a contract.
What to Look for in a No-Fee Home Security System
Choosing a DIY security system without a subscription means you’re in charge of monitoring your home. That’s a plus for many people, but it also means you need a system that fits your lifestyle.
Look for systems with a mobile app that gives you instant alerts when something’s wrong. Systems that include a loud siren are helpful for deterring intruders even if you’re not home. You’ll also want gear that’s easy to install, especially if you’re a renter or don’t want to drill into walls.
If video is important to you, make sure the system offers local storage or free cloud storage—otherwise, you may end up paying a subscription anyway. And always check if the system works with your smart home setup, whether it’s Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit.
Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind Without Monthly Payments
Home security doesn’t have to mean locking into a contract or handing over $30 a month. Today’s DIY systems offer strong protection, smart features, and reliable performance—all without ongoing costs.
Whether you’re on a tight budget, tired of monthly fees, or just want more control over your home’s safety, these five systems give you everything you need—and none of what you don’t. Choose the one that fits your space, your routine, and your comfort level, and sleep a little easier knowing your home is protected.
Sources
Wyze Home Monitoring
eufy Security
Abode Security
Ring Alarm
SimpliSafe
