How many fit
Only 3 of the 22 models checked meet every need here: “Protection that is useful without a monthly fee”, “Alerts in the app, no monitoring contract required”, and “Service on a month-to-month basis”.
3 models fit, out of 22 checkedPicked for one job
The richest free foundation comes with Abode Smart 8-Piece
Top pick
Abode Smart Security Kit 8-Piece
App-based self-monitoring works with Abode, and this hub offers broad smart-home compatibility. X-Sense is the simpler, alarm-first choice. Reolink records continuous video to its own NVR.
Why it suits this job
- No-cost core features
- On-site controls
- The catch
- Neither a camera nor a keypad is in the bundle.
- Go with X-Sense Smart Home Security System if
- A small home you monitor yourself that wants a loud central alarm
More reasons we picked it
- Sensors in the box
- Add-ons
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Before any paid monitoring is added, the system should still keep worthwhile alerts and controls.
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 “Protection that is useful without a monthly fee”, “Alerts in the app, no monitoring contract required”, and “Service on a month-to-month basis”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abode Smart Security Kit 8-Piece |
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| X-Sense Smart Home Security System |
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| Reolink 12MP 8-Channel PoE Security Camera System |
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3 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Abode, Smart Security Hub
Smart Security Kit 8-Piece
Abode’s hub, which can work with HomeKit, Zigbee and Z-Wave, comes with four contact sensors and two motion sensors.
Top pick ifSmart-home owners who need to cover several rooms and entries
Key facts
- Four mini door and window sensors are included
- One key fob and two motion sensors are included
The catch
Neither a camera nor a keypad is in the bundle.
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.
Reolink, RLK8-1200D4-A
12MP 8-Channel PoE Security Camera System
An eight-channel recorder takes in four wired 12MP cameras, giving continuous local surveillance and searchable events.
Best forHomeowners who put dependable local video ahead of entry alarms
Key facts
- Four 12MP PoE dome cameras are included
- A 2TB hard drive is included with the eight-channel NVR
The catch
Running Ethernet cable makes installation more involved than sticking on adhesive alarm sensors.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Abode Smart Security Kit 8-Piece
No-cost core features
See price & reviews on AmazonPick this instead if
X-Sense Smart Home Security System
A small home you monitor yourself that wants a loud central alarm
See price & reviews on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money