10 Best Diy Home Security Systems 2024 in the US

You surely want to protect your family and valuable possessions in your home. Thieves resort to more and more sophisticated methods to break in--and you have to be on guard for 24/7 nowadays. It’s not practical to have someone present in the house at all times. With all the technological advances, you can install a home security system that is well-concealed, yet is capable of notifying you if there is an intrusion. There are do-it-yourself home security systems that are simple to install and to program. They will use motion sensors as well as entry sensors--and can be programmed to notify you of any unexpected movement, as well as if someone tries to enter through a door or window. The notifications can be sent to an iPhone, tablet, or even a landline phone number.

We’ve composed this buyer’s guide to help you make the right decision when selecting a home security system. It'll help you:

• Choose the right type of home security system,

• See useful tips about that particular type of home security system,

• Read reviews of different home security systems, and what customers are saying,

• Select the right brand of a home security system, and

• Compare prices and find the best deals.

• Local alarms without a control panel: There are simple alarms that will activate a siren when a contact is broken. For example, you can have such an alarm installed on a door or window. If the door or window is opened unexpectedly, the siren will go off. These are not very sophisticated and quite inexpensive--but an experienced burglar can also disable them easily.

• Wired alarm with control panel: These will involve a control panel that monitors a number of sensors. The sensors will involve a camera that notes unexpected motion or an electrical circuit that is formed or broken by an unexpected entry. This will sound off an alarm locally where you have installed the security system.

• Wireless alarm with control panel: These security systems will send a wireless signal to a mobile device, such as your iPhone, Smartphone, or tablet. Although you might pay more for the added technology, they are quite easy to install. Each camera or sensor will be supported by a bracket and is quite easy to conceal.

• Simple assembly and installation: Most of the products that we reviewed use a control panel that you install on the wall. The actual contact and PIR sensors can be installed by means of an adhesive. You can also use screws to secure the sensors and alarm in place. Since you are alerted wirelessly with many of these devices, there are no confusing wires to have to install.

• Programming: You program the remote controls, to synchronize them with the control panel unit. It is also recommended to set up each sensor by indicating its location. In this way, you can easily find the sensor which caused the alarm to go off--whether it’s a window or door, and in which room is it located.

• With or without security codes: You’ll notice that some security systems will have a code that you have to enter to activate or deactivate the system. Even though this gives an added layer of security, it might also be a hassle for some people to always have to remember the code. Thus, the Digoo Home Alarm System has a simple on/off switch, as well as a button on the remote control, which will arm or disarm the alarm. It also employs a touchscreen control panel.

• Can give a phone alert as well: The Enklov Home Security System allows you to use the regular, landline telephone network as well, for receiving alerts. You'll see this listed in the specs as a "PSTN (= Public Switched Telephone Network) alert". This can be handy if you are in an area where cellular reception is weak. It can ring as many as 6 different phone lines, in the event of an intrusion!

• PIR sensors: You’ll see home security system manufacturers advertise that they employ a PIR sensor. PIR stands for “Passive Infra Red”. You position a PIR sensor within view of an entry point, such as a door or window. It will pick up any changes in the infrared rays emitted, within a 110° angle, setting off an audible alarm as well as an alert to your phone.

• Programmable alarm: The Bibene Home Security Alarm allows you to control the volume of the alarm. You can adjust it from anywhere between 0 to 120 decibels!

• Can be used with a security camera: The Enklov Home Security System can be used with a security camera as well. This way, you can visually monitor on your mobile device what is going on in your home. That’s a useful feature if you have children or elderly people who might need surveillance. There are also options to hook up a smoke alarm or alarms that indicate a gas or water leak.

• Takes a SIM card: There are security systems, such as the Digoo DG-HOSA, that has a slot for a SIM card so that it will be able to notify your phone when there is an event worthy of reporting.

• Voice commands: Some of these home security systems can even accept voice commands, such as the Enklov Home Security Alarm System Kit. You install an Alexa app, and tell your alarm system to either arm or disarm.

• Bibene--are makers of home security alarm systems, including motion sensors, contact sensors, security cameras, window and door alarms, and more. Their products can even support voice commands, such as from the Amazon Alexa.

• Digoo--was founded in 2016. At first, they made common household products but later expanded to surveillance cameras and security systems. Their products include smart cameras, smart home lighting and appliances, and more.

• Enklov--was created in 2018, as makers of phone charging accessories, WiFi clock cameras, window and door sensors, home security kits, spy cameras, and more.

• Fortress Security Store-- has been in business since 2005, making security systems and components for homes and businesses. Their sensors can keep you safe from burglars, fires, and gas or water leaks. Their headquarters is located in Walla Walla, Washington.

• Konlen--was established in 2009. They focus on security systems and smart home automation. Their products include smart home control systems, closed circuit TV cameras, security alarms, and alarm accessories.