10 Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems to Stay Safe

Best Touch Screen Self-Monitored Home Security System

CasaCam Wireless Security Camera System

Enamored with the idea of hooking up your security system to a Google Home or Echo Show, but don’t want to spend hundreds on a smart monitor? The CasaCam wireless security system comes with its own seven-inch touchscreen monitor. Like an Echo Show, it simplifies switching between camera channels and seeing, hearing and speaking to people on your property.

A rechargeable battery and SD card allow homeowners to re-watch recordings. Select auto-mode to record five seconds prior to any notification, or schedule recording times in advance. Because it works locally, there’s no need to hook the system up to Wi-Fi or smart devices.

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Pros

• Seven-inch touchscreen monitor hub
• Auto, manual and scheduled recording modes
• Smart motion detection using heat and video motion

Cons

• Only supports up to four cameras
• App can be spotty

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What to Consider When Buying a Self-Monitored Home Security System

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When considering the best self-monitored home security system for your needs, determine the upfront costs and any monthly subscriptions the prospective system requires. You’ll also want to think about how you’ll monitor the system and what type of equipment it uses.

For large homes, consider expandable systems that support several cameras or motion sensors to cover every ground-floor entrance. Homes that already use a smart hub like Alexa may want to consider compatible systems because they allow you to disarm and more using voice controls. Overall, using any of the best self-monitored home security systems above will improve the safety of your home, family and property.

Types of Self-Monitored Home Security Systems

• Subscription or Contract Security Systems: Third-party security systems require a monthly or yearly subscription to store camera footage or use the system’s app or monitoring website.
• Sensors: Motion sensors pick up movement in a specified area, either inside or outside the home.
• Security Cameras: Cameras record video and take photos of an area inside or outside the home. This footage can then be stored for later use. You can get a security camera without Wi-Fi.
• Wireless: Wireless security systems run on a battery, which needs to be charged or replaced after a certain amount of time.
• Wired: Wired security systems are integrated into your home’s wiring, which sends information back to a central control.

Why You Should Trust Us

When it comes to home security, uncertainty just won’t do. Emily Way is an associate shopping editor for Family Handyman with experience researching products and recommending the best designs to consumers. She researched and updated this piece, consulted industry experts at ADT and combed through user reviews to find the best home security systems that are worth the price.

Way consulted David Olafson, the Director of Engineering at ADT. On the ADT team, David is responsible for developing ADT’s next-generation home security platform. In a number of roles, David developed software to manage large networks of distributed computers. For the last few years, those computers have been home security systems, cameras, and related mobile apps.

How We Found the Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We scoured through dozens of highly-rated security systems to find the best one for every need, budget and installation skill level. Then, we narrowed it down the the ten best, according to reviews and expert input. Then, we combed through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test. A few of the above picks are from notable brands, while others are hidden gems that work just as well as (or even better) than the name brands.

FAQ

What is the difference between self-monitored and monitored alarm systems?

When deciding between self-monitored and monitored alarm systems, consider your own diligence. According to Olafson, “Monitored alarm systems offer continuous surveillance by a team of professionals who can promptly notify emergency services on your behalf. In contrast, unmonitored alarm security systems rely on your self-monitoring capabilities, requiring you to act if your system is triggered.”

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The key distinctions between monitored and self-monitored alarm systems are:

• Monitored Alarm Systems: Offer the convenience of professional monitoring and comprehensive expertise
• Self-Monitored Alarm Systems: Come with lower upfront costs but require greater homeowner responsibility

When deciding between the two, there are a few factors to consider. “Monitored alarm systems are ideal for those who prefer the assurance of well-trained operators and a reliable team,” says Olafson. However, he mentions that it’s worth noting that the term ‘monitored alarm security’ is a general description, as each company may have distinct policies and features. He notes that in order to make an informed choice, consider the following questions:

1. 1. Who will be monitoring my home?
   2. Does the company monitor in-house, or do they outsource monitoring?
   3. What if my house still gets broken into?

That doesn’t mean that you should always opt for companies that offer optional subscriptions for higher levels of security coverage. “One thing to consider when switching to smart home monitoring is the commitment of the monitoring operators,” Olafson warns. “Ultimately, the difference between unmonitored and monitored smart home security systems is quite simple and can be broken down into this question: If an alarm chimes, will you need to check it out and call for help, or will you have a dedicated team of individuals to call for help?”

What home security system does not require a subscription?

Several companies offer home security systems without a subscription, including Ring, Arlo and SimpliSafe. However, it’s worth weighing the benefits and drawbacks of using a flat-fee security system. Many companies require a subscription to access certain features, such as recordings, doorbells and motion detection.

Do burglars avoid homes with security systems?

Many convicted burglars say they would avoid breaking into a house with a visible security camera, and the sound of a home alarm system going off deters most. Olafson says that when it comes to whether security systems deter burglars, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

“One particular study interviewed former burglars, who stated that two of the most prominent reasons they would avoid breaking into a specific home were security cameras and barking dogs,” he says. “This is one of the most obvious benefits that can make home security worth it for many families. Many criminals are looking out for security systems as it’s important to them that they can enter and leave a property without being noticed. The presence of a home security system is a common reason that burglars will move on to find an easier target. This leaves your property and your family safe.”

Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor