How many fit
8 of the 22 models checked meet every need here: “A setup compact enough for an apartment”, “A system I can install on my own”, and “Alerts in the app, no monitoring contract required”.
8 models fit, out of 22 checkedPicked for one job
Abode iota fits the most capability into one small hub
Top pick
Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit
iota brings its camera, motion detector and siren together, and the kit adds one entry sensor and a key fob. Ring 5-Piece gives renters a physical keypad. Arlo’s two sensors can cover several detection jobs.
Why it suits this job
- Compact size
- Setup that suits renters
- The catch
- One opening is all the included contact sensor can cover.
- Go with Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit if
- Apartments and small homes that already run on Ring
More reasons we picked it
- Camera reach
- DIY monitoring
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In an apartment, a compact hub, light installation and useful coverage from only a few devices all help.
By the numbers
What the data shows
What we found across the home security systems we compare, plus the checked facts behind each finding.
Show the facts and the math
How we countedThe count uses each product's current fit ratings for “A setup compact enough for an apartment”, “A system I can install on my own”, and “Alerts in the app, no monitoring contract required”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit |
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| Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit |
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| Arlo Home Security System with 2 Sensors |
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3 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Abode, IOTA
iota All-In-One Security Kit
One compact iota hub holds a 1080p camera, a motion sensor and a siren, and it keeps broad smart-home support.
Top pick ifApartments and Apple Home users looking to own fewer separate devices
Key facts
- A 1080p camera, motion sensor and 93 dB siren are in the hub
- Apple HomeKit, Zigbee and Z-Wave are supported
The catch
One opening is all the included contact sensor can cover.
Ring, 2nd Gen
Alarm 5-Piece Kit
Ring’s compact starter gives you one entry sensor, one motion detector and a range extender.
Best forApartments and small homes that already run on Ring
Key facts
- Comes with a base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector and range extender
- A 24-hour backup battery is in the base station
The catch
Only a single door or window is covered by the one contact sensor.
Arlo, SS1201-100NAS
Home Security System with 2 Sensors
Two configurable sensors in Arlo’s compact package can detect opening, motion, water, light, temperature and alarm sounds.
Best forSmall homes where multi-purpose sensors are a plus
Key facts
- Keypad Sensor Hub and two All-in-One Sensors are included
- Eight detection functions are supported by each sensor
The catch
Premium response features keep working only if you pay for an Arlo Secure plan.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit
Compact size
See price & reviews on AmazonPick this instead if
Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit
Apartments and small homes that already run on Ring
See price & reviews on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money