If you wanted to protect your home 5-10 years ago, you were reliant on large security firms who could charge you costly monthly service fees and lock you into long-term contracts. Now that wireless internet and smartphones are in just about every home across the U.S., DIY home security technology is readily available too. If you’re looking for a cost-efficient way to keep your home and family safe, check out these options below:
Arlo Home Security System from Netgear
Arlo is the world’s first 100% wire free home security system. It’s weatherproof and provides basic wireless home monitoring. When the system detects motion when you’re away from home, it sends notifications to your phone so you can instantly watch from your smartphone. Systems start at $449 for the basic model which includes three HD indoor/outdoor cameras with digital pan and zoom and night vision. You can also add on additional cameras, like one model with 2-way audio, at any time. The basic service is free and includes 7 days of cloud recordings but premium services with additional fees are available, too.
Canary Wireless Security
The Canary is a one-device system that offers a home base and night vision security camera all in one. Simply plug it in, connect it to your wireless and it’s ready to go. It automatically changes modes when you enter and exit your home and notifies you and records HD videos when motion is detected in your home. If needed, you can also sound the 90-decibel siren and/or connect with the local police from the app. A service plan is required and starts at $5/month. The Canary itself starts at $199 with a 2-pack available for $379.
Ring Video Doorbell
The Ring Video Doorbell is a great option for someone who only needs to monitor the front door of their home. It allows you to see and speak with visitors from anywhere via your smartphone and the Ring app. It also includes an HD camera with night vision and motion detector included and works with or without an existing hardwired doorbell. The cost of the basic model is $199 and cloud video recording is free for 30 days and then costs $3 a month or $30 annually.
Ismartalarm
The Ismartalarm offers a monthly fee-free system with easy installation. A piece called CubeOne is the “brain” of the system and connects with an iCamera, motion sensors and contact sensors to keep all your home entrances secure. The system can also connect with a satellite siren if needed. For $199 you can get a basic system that includes 1 CubeOne, 2 contact sensors, 1 motion sensor, 2 remote tags for controlling the system without a smartphone and window stickers to let would-be thieves know about your system. You can also add on additional pieces for larger homes and multiple entrances.
These are just a few of the hundreds of DIY home security options available on the market today. Be sure to do your research before you buy so that you know you’re getting exactly what you want!