Home security systems often come with monthly monitoring fees that can be costly over time. If you're on a tight budget and want to save money, we list the best home security systems that don't ...

Our Top PicksMost FlexibilitySimpliSafeSimpliSafe designs their own products, so you aren’t paying any middle man upcharges.

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

The cheapest is the SimpliCam – a $99 value – but ... We have a rule that whenever a security system offers professional monitoring, we always go for it. We did the same with SimpliSafe but after ...

ContractSimpliSafeWith SimpliSafe, you can choose between self-monitoring and professional monitoring. If you self-monitor, ...

Christina is a freelance editor and contributor with Newsweek’s small business team. With a passion for small business optimization and strategy, Christina has successfully launched her own ...

What we like Ring really stands out for offering a cheap DIY monitoring option. We like that systems are expandable, so you can easily add more cameras and security lights if you ever want to.

Do you spiral every time you start adding up the potential costs of home security systems? You start thinking about all the equipment you need to buy and the ...

unless you need a system reinstalled, while a monitoring plan is a monthly or annual charge, depending on which you choose. The cheapest security system in our rating is Abode, at $159.99 ...

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.

Their specialties are video, motion detection and two-way audio, but they may also come with monitoring plans. A home security system, on the other hand, focuses on door/window sensors ...