DIY home security systems are highly customizable, but you’ll typically find a variety of cameras, door sensors, hub stations, and motion sensors in most packages.

Our Testing Setup. Multiple factors can impact testing home security systems, but we find ways to make like-for-like comparisons. For starters, we install and test all the security systems in one ...

DIY home security systems are easy to install yourself with a little bit of time and technical knowhow. Check out our best DIY systems of 2025.

DIY home security systems come in a variety of types, ranging from standalone intrusion-detection setups to multi-input monitoring systems.

Protect your home and family with one of the best DIY home security systems featuring easy installation and multiple options. We reveal the 7 top companies and systems.

SimpliSafe, Abode, Ring, Arlo, ADT, Blink and Nest home security systems are affordable and easy to set up. Some are DIY alarm systems; some are only cameras.

Consumer Reports surveyed over 11,000 people to find the best DIY home security systems. Here are the top brands from our ratings.

The best self-installed, or DIY home security systems include motion and entry sensors, a loud siren and professional monitoring, all for a reasonable monthly fee.

The cost for a DIY security system can range from under $100 to well over $500, and it’s all dependent on which products (and how many products) you need to cover your property.

Consumer Reports did the math on DIY home security system costs. See the factors that affect how much you'll pay, as well as ratings and reviews of the three most affordable systems.