How many fit
Only 5 of the 22 models checked meet every need here: “A setup compact enough for an apartment”, “Service on a month-to-month basis”, and “A system I can install on my own”.
5 models fit, out of 22 checkedPicked for one job
Ring Alarm 5-Piece is easy to take along to the next home
Top pick
Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit
A main entry and a motion zone are covered by the wireless kit, which has a separate keypad. Abode iota cuts down on device clutter. X-Sense is a loud, self-monitored alternative with two entry sensors.
Why it suits this job
- Installation you can undo
- Contract details
- The catch
- Only a single door or window is covered by the one contact sensor.
- Go with Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit if
- Apartments and Apple Home users looking to own fewer separate devices
More reasons we picked it
- Number of devices
- Everyday arming
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Renters need a system that installs cleanly, moves with them easily and does not lock them into a long service term.
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”, “Service on a month-to-month basis”, and “A system I can install on my own”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit |
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| |
| Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit |
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| X-Sense Smart Home Security System |
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3 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Ring, 2nd Gen
Alarm 5-Piece Kit
Ring’s compact starter gives you one entry sensor, one motion detector and a range extender.
Top pick ifApartments 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.
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.
Best forApartments 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.
X-Sense, AS05
Smart Home Security System
This five-piece alarm connects to an app and includes a keypad and a 100 dB base siren, with no professional monitoring plan required.
Best forA small home you monitor yourself that wants a loud central alarm
Key facts
- Base station, keypad, two entry sensors and motion sensor are included
- A 100 dB alarm is in the base station
The catch
Professional dispatch and cellular backup are both missing.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Ring Alarm 5-Piece Kit
Installation you can undo
See price & reviews on AmazonPick this instead if
Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit
Apartments and Apple Home users looking to own fewer separate devices
See price & reviews on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money