Home security is a top priority for homeowners. However, traditional home security systems can be expensive and difficult to install, which has made them inaccessible for many people. Fortunately, advancements in smart home technology have made it possible to create an affordable and effective DIY security system. With smart devices such as security cameras, motion sensors, and smart locks, you can create a comprehensive smart home security system on a budget.
If you’re interested in learning about smart home systems, including what is a smart home, the benefits and the challenges of setting a smart home system, be sure to check out my detailed post on the topic.
What’s great about smart home security systems is that they are modular, meaning that you can start with a basic system and add more devices as needed. Additionally, if you have a voice assistant such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, you can connect it to your smart security system and control it with your voice. In this article, we’ll explore how you can set up a smart home security system on a budget. From selecting the right devices to configuring your system, we’ll cover everything you need to know to secure your home without breaking the bank.
Why Smart Home Security Systems are Important
Smart home security systems offer a wide range of benefits, including:
- Protection against break-ins and theft
- Remote monitoring of your home from anywhere in the world
- Alerts and notifications in the event of suspicious activity
- Integration with other smart devices in your home, such as smart locks and lights
- Increased peace of mind and security for you and your family
If you’re interested in learning more about smart security systems, including their components and how they work, be sure to check out my detailed post on the topic.
Why Choose a Budget Option?
When it comes to setting up a smart home security system, there are a lot of options available at different price points. However, choosing a budget option has some distinct advantages:
- It’s more affordable: Traditional home security systems can cost thousands of dollars, but with a budget option, you can achieve a similar level of security for a fraction of the cost.
- It’s easier to install: Many budget options are designed to be DIY-friendly, meaning you don’t need professional installation.
- It’s more customizable: Because many budget options are modular, you can add and remove devices as needed to create a security system that’s tailored to your specific needs.
Factors to Consider When Setting Up a Smart Home Security System on a Budget
- Budget: One of the most important things to consider when setting up a smart home security system is your budget. How much money do you have to spend? How much can you afford to allocate to this project? Having a clear idea of your budget will help you determine which products and services you can realistically consider.
- Home Owner/Renter: Whether you own or rent your home can also impact your decision-making process. If you’re a renter, you may need to choose products that are easy to install and remove without causing damage to the property. On the other hand, if you own your home, you may have more freedom to choose products that require more extensive installation.
- Features: Another important consideration is the features you want in your smart home security system. Do you want indoor and outdoor cameras? Do you need a smart lock? Do you want motion sensors? By determining the features you need, you can start to narrow down your options and focus on products that meet your specific needs.
- Integration: It’s also important to consider how well the smart home security system integrates with other products and services you may already have in your home. For example, if you have a smart speaker or display, you may want to choose products that are compatible with it. This can help you streamline your system and make it more efficient to use.
- Scalability: Finally, it’s important to consider how scalable your smart home security system is. While you may be starting with a small budget and a few basic products, you may want to expand your system in the future. Choosing products that are easy to add on to and expand can help you save money in the long run and avoid having to replace your entire system down the road.
Choosing Your Devices
I understand that setting up a smart home security system on a budget can be challenging. There are many different devices available, but not all of them will fit your needs or your budget. To help you navigate your options, here are some of the best devices to consider when building a budget-friendly smart home security system:
Budget-friendly Smart Home Security Systems
SimpliSafe Home Security
SimpliSafe is a great option for those looking for a no-frills, easy-to-use home security system on a budget. With a range of affordable packages to choose from, SimpliSafe offers all the basic features you need to keep your home safe, including:
- Motion sensors
- Entry sensors
- Glass-break sensors
- Panic buttons
- 24/7 monitoring
Ring Alarm Security Kit
Ring Alarm is another popular option for a budget-friendly smart home security system. It offers a range of affordable packages that include a range of sensors and devices, such as:
- Motion detectors
- Contact sensors
- Keypads
- Base stations
- Panic buttons
- Video doorbells (in some packages)
Ring Alarm also offers 24/7 professional monitoring for an additional monthly fee.
Arlo Essential Wireless Security System
The Arlo Essential Wireless Security System is a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it offers a range of features that make it a great choice for those looking for a more comprehensive security system. Some of its features include:
- 1080p HD video recording
- Two-way audio
- Motion detection
- Night vision
- Weather-resistant design
- Siren and spotlight
Wyze Home Security System
The Wyze Home Security System is one of the most affordable options on this list, but don’t let its low price fool you. It offers a range of features that make it a great choice for those on a budget, including:
- Motion detection
- Contact sensors
- 24/7 monitoring (with optional subscription)
- Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Easy DIY installation
- Affordable monthly subscription
Security Cameras
Security cameras are a key component of any smart home security system. While high-end cameras can be expensive, there are some budget-friendly options available:
Wyze Cam
This is a popular option among budget-conscious homeowners. It offers 1080p HD video, motion detection, and two-way audio. It also has night vision and can be controlled using a smartphone app.
Yi Home Camera
This camera offers similar features to the Wyze Cam, including 1080p HD video, motion detection, and two-way audio. It also has night vision and can be controlled using a smartphone app.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are another important component of a smart home security system. Here are some budget-friendly options:
Kwikset 991 Juno Smart Lock
This lock offers keyless entry and can be controlled using a smartphone app. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
August Smart Lock
This lock also offers keyless entry and can be controlled using a smartphone app. It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Smart Lights
Smart lights are an often-overlooked but powerful tool in a smart home security system. You can integrate your lights into your security system to make it look like someone is home even when you’re away. This can help deter burglars and make it less likely that your home will be targeted.
One way to use smart lights for security is to set them up on a timer. You can use your smart home hub or app to set specific times for your lights to turn on and off, making it look like someone is home even if you’re out of town. You can also use motion sensors to trigger your lights, so they turn on when someone approaches your home.
Here are some budget-friendly options:
Philips Hue White LED Smart Bulb
This bulb can be controlled using a smartphone app and is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Sengled Smart LED Bulb
This bulb can also be controlled using a smartphone app and is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.