About a year ago, a package disappeared from outside my apartment door. Not a huge deal—just socks—but it was enough to send me down the rabbit hole of home security setups. And I’ll be honest: the DIY options out there in 2025 are a lot more advanced, customizable, and confusing than they were even a few years ago.
![Home Security Information [year]](/image/cta/b7834efb179442959068691ede54bcd8)
You’ve got AI-powered doorbells, Wi-Fi-connected floodlight cams, entry sensors with app alerts, and subscriptions layered onto subscriptions. For renters, homeowners, and tech lovers alike, there’s more control than ever—but also more noise.
So I’ve tested, researched, and combed through the fine print so you don’t have to. I’ve lived with these devices in small spaces and larger homes, and I’ve figured out which DIY systems are worth investing in—and which ones to skip or approach with caution.
Answer Corner
- Not all DIY security systems are created equal. Some excel at monitoring, while others overpromise and underdeliver.
- Subscription fatigue is real. Know which brands require a paid plan for basic functionality.
- Wi-Fi quality can make or break your system. A smart camera is only as smart as your network is stable.
- You don’t need everything. Focus on key entry points, not maximum coverage from day one.
- Local storage is underrated. Cloud options sound slick, but sometimes simple is more secure.
Why Home Security Has Gone DIY
First of all, professional home security systems can be… a lot. Monthly fees, long contracts, installation schedules that stretch into the next millennium—I’m not saying those systems are bad, but they’re not exactly flexible. That’s where DIY systems win. They give you control over what to install, how much to spend, and how to manage your space. Plus, they’ve gotten incredibly user-friendly over the years.
Over 60% of homeowners who switched to DIY home security systems in 2025 cited cost savings as their number one reason. No hidden charges, no fine print. You buy the tools, set them up, and you’re good.
Alright, enough backstory. It’s time to get into the nitty-gritty.
The DIY Security Essentials You Should Buy
Let’s start with the gear that earns its keep—products that consistently perform well, integrate easily, and offer true peace of mind.
1. Video Doorbells: Still the MVP
Recommended: Google Nest Doorbell (Battery), Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, Eufy Video Doorbell Dual
Video doorbells are still the most impactful upgrade for DIY home security. They let you screen visitors, deter theft, and check in on deliveries—all from your phone. Most models now include motion zones, package detection, and two-way audio.
The Google Nest Doorbell (Battery) is a standout if you use Google Home. It offers facial recognition, decent battery life, and strong notifications—without overwhelming you with false alerts. Ring’s Pro 2 works beautifully for Amazon households, though most features require a Ring Protect subscription. Eufy is ideal if you want local storage and zero monthly fees.
Skip if: You live in an apartment with a shared entry and can’t mount devices without permission. (Look into peephole cameras or indoor cams instead.)
2. Smart Cameras with Local Storage
Recommended: Eufy SoloCam S230, Wyze Cam v3 Pro, Arlo Pro 5S (with local hub)
Let’s be honest—cloud subscriptions for camera storage can add up. That’s why I now look for cameras that offer local storage via SD cards or base stations. They give you access to your footage without the recurring fee—and they work even when your Wi-Fi drops.
Eufy SoloCam impressed me with its sharp 2K footage, reliable app, and totally wireless install. Wyze Cam v3 Pro is budget-friendly but surprisingly robust, offering night vision and smart alerts. If you’re ready to splurge, Arlo’s Pro 5S offers advanced features—but it’s best used with the local storage hub to avoid cloud fees.
The average cloud plan for DIY cameras costs $3 to $10 per month, per camera. Multiply that by 3–4 units, and you’ve got a new streaming service on your hands.
3. Entry and Motion Sensors
Recommended: SimpliSafe Entry Sensors, Ring Alarm Contact Sensors, Aqara Motion Sensors
Sensors may not be flashy, but they’re some of the most reliable and useful tools in your DIY toolkit. Door and window sensors let you know when something opens, while motion sensors cover larger areas—like hallways or stairwells.
SimpliSafe has the edge on affordability and ease of use. Their sensors pair quickly and offer solid battery life. Ring’s sensors sync perfectly with their doorbell and camera ecosystem. Aqara, for the smart home nerds, offers cheap sensors that work well in Apple HomeKit or Alexa routines—just be ready for a little more setup.
4. Smart Locks That Actually Work
Recommended: August Smart Lock (4th Gen), Level Lock+, Yale Assure Lock 2
A smart lock can streamline your life—no more hiding keys or worrying about who has access. The best ones let you control access remotely, create guest codes, and lock/unlock via app or geofencing.
The August Smart Lock remains one of the most trusted. It fits over your existing deadbolt and doesn’t require new keys. Level Lock+ is perfect if you’re in the Apple ecosystem and want a minimalist design. Yale’s Assure Lock 2 is versatile and plays nicely with Alexa, Google, or Apple depending on the version.
Skip if: You live in a rental and can’t modify your existing hardware—unless you go for a model like August that preserves the exterior hardware.
5. Alarm Hubs and Sirens (Optional But Worth It)
Recommended: SimpliSafe Base Station, Ring Alarm Base Station
If you want a “full” DIY system, these hubs act as the brain. They sync with your sensors, arm/disarm your system, and sound sirens when something goes wrong.
For those who want a more traditional feel—keypads, arming routines, PIN codes—these hubs give structure to your setup. SimpliSafe and Ring both offer clean apps and responsive systems. Just know: these tend to work best when you commit to one ecosystem.
The Devices You Can Skip (Or Be Selective About)
Not every security gadget pulls its weight. Some are more sizzle than substance—and not worth the money unless you have a very specific need.
1. Facial Recognition Systems
They sound great—your camera “knows” your family and alerts you to strangers. But in reality? Many of these features are finicky, glitchy, and require a subscription. A camera that reliably detects motion is still better than one that tries (and fails) to recognize your aunt's face at the door.
2. Smart Garage Door Openers (For Most People)
Unless you have a standalone garage that isn’t attached to your home, this is an unnecessary layer of complexity. These devices often require specific opener models, cloud syncing, and don’t always integrate well with other systems. If you do use one, Chamberlain’s MyQ is the most polished experience.
3. Smart Floodlights with Built-In Cameras
The idea is solid: combine lighting and video. But many of these products are expensive, bulky, and sensitive to bugs, leaves, or weather. Unless you really need to monitor your driveway or backyard at night, a standalone motion light plus separate camera usually gives you better results.
4. Voice Assistant Integration for Everything
Voice control is cool—for lights, music, or timers. But for security? I’d be cautious. Having your smart speaker unlock your door or disable an alarm by voice might be convenient, but it’s a potential security risk. Most brands now require passcodes for this, but still—just because you can link it doesn’t mean you should.
Tips for Building a System That Actually Works
Smart security isn’t about buying the biggest bundle. It’s about matching the right tech to your home and habits. Here's what I've learned:
- Map your home’s vulnerabilities. Focus on first-floor doors, large windows, or delivery zones.
- Mix and match carefully. Try to stick to one ecosystem (Ring, Google, etc.) to keep things smooth.
- Check Wi-Fi strength near each install point. Poor signal = poor performance.
- Consider battery life and wiring. Not every spot has power—choose accordingly.
- Don’t forget you are the monitor. If you won’t check alerts, the system doesn’t help much.
Security Should Feel Smart
There’s something quietly empowering about knowing your home is covered—on your terms. DIY systems today are more flexible, more affordable, and more powerful than ever before. But the best part? You don’t need to be a tech expert to make it work.
Choose a few essentials. Set it up right. Test it. Then go live your life—not glued to your camera feed, but confident you’ll know if something’s up.
Smart home security isn’t about perfection or paranoia. It’s about peace of mind that fits in your pocket—and doesn’t require a 12-page contract.
