A guide to the best online stores where you can buy DIY home security systems.

Want to keep your home safe and secure without breaking the bank? DIY home security systems are a fantastic option! They offer a flexible and affordable way to protect your property and loved ones, giving you peace of mind without the hefty price tag of traditional security systems. But with so many companies offering a wide range of products and features, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

That’s where this guide comes in! We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best online stores for DIY home security systems, carefully considering factors like ease of installation, reliability, and customer support. We’ve also taken into account factors like pricing, features, and compatibility with smart home ecosystems, making sure you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

From the top-rated brands to up-and-coming newcomers, we’ve covered a diverse range of options. Whether you’re a tech-savvy homeowner or just starting out with home security, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the best places to buy your DIY home security system online.

Learn more about 20 Best Wireless DIY Home Security Systems

You can find more information on 14 Best DIY Home Security Systems in 2024

You’ll find everything you need in this guide, from basic alarm systems with motion sensors to more advanced options with cameras, door/window sensors, and even smart home integration. We’re confident that you’ll find the perfect system to meet your needs and budget, giving you the security and peace of mind you deserve.

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
Amazon			N/A	Jump to Review
Walmart			N/A	Jump to Review
Home Depot			N/A	Jump to Review
Lowe’s			N/A	Jump to Review
Target			N/A	Jump to Review
Best Buy			N/A	Jump to Review
Ace Hardware			N/A	Jump to Review
Costco			N/A	Jump to Review
Ring			N/A	Jump to Review
SimpliSafe			N/A	Jump to Review
ADT			N/A	Jump to Review
Vivint			N/A	Jump to Review
Frontpoint			N/A	Jump to Review
Scout Security			N/A	Jump to Review
Alarm.com			N/A	Jump to Review

Table of Contents

Amazon

Amazon is a massive online retailer that carries a wide variety of products, including DIY home security systems. They offer a range of brands and models, from basic security cameras to full-fledged smart home systems.

Specifications :

Wide range of products: Amazon offers a vast selection of DIY home security systems from different brands and manufacturers.
Competitive pricing: You can often find deals and discounts on Amazon, especially during sales events.
Prime membership benefits: Amazon Prime members receive free shipping and other benefits.

Reasons to buy :

Vast selection: Amazon has a wide variety of DIY home security systems to choose from, so you can find one that fits your specific needs and budget.
Competitive pricing: Amazon often offers competitive prices on DIY home security systems, especially during sales events.
Prime membership benefits: Amazon Prime members receive free shipping and other benefits, which can save you money and time.

Reasons to avoid :

Can be overwhelming: The sheer number of products on Amazon can be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right system for you.
Quality can vary: The quality of products sold on Amazon can vary, so it's important to read reviews and do your research before buying.
Customer service can be challenging: While Amazon has a reputation for good customer service, it can be difficult to reach a representative if you have an issue with a product.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You want a wide selection of products to choose from.
You're looking for competitive pricing.
You're an Amazon Prime member and value free shipping and other benefits.

Don't buy it if:

You're overwhelmed by too many choices.
You're looking for a specific brand or model that's not available on Amazon.
You're concerned about the quality of products sold on Amazon.

Bottom Line:

Amazon is a great option for DIY home security systems if you're looking for a wide selection of products, competitive pricing, and Prime membership benefits. However, the vast number of products can be overwhelming, and the quality of products can vary. It's important to read reviews and do your research before buying to ensure you get the best system for your needs.

Walmart

Walmart is a popular retailer known for its low prices. They offer a range of DIY home security systems, primarily from major brands like Ring and SimpliSafe.

Specifications :

Affordable options: Walmart offers competitive prices on DIY home security systems.
Limited selection: Compared to Amazon, Walmart has a smaller selection of DIY home security systems.
In-store availability: You can often find DIY home security systems in Walmart stores, allowing for hands-on inspection.

Reasons to buy :

Low prices: Walmart is known for its competitive pricing, and you can often find deals on DIY home security systems.
Convenient in-store availability: You can visit a Walmart store to see the systems in person before buying.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited selection: Walmart offers a smaller range of DIY home security systems compared to other retailers.
May not have the most advanced features: While affordable, Walmart's selection might not include the most cutting-edge features or advanced technologies.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You prioritize affordability.
You want to see the system in person before purchasing.

Don't buy it if:

You need a wide selection of products.
You're looking for the latest technology or advanced features.

Bottom Line:

Walmart is a great option for budget-conscious shoppers looking for basic DIY home security systems. They offer competitive prices and convenient in-store availability. However, their selection is limited, and they might not have the most advanced features. If you prioritize affordability and want to see the system in person, Walmart is a good choice. But if you're looking for a wide selection or advanced features, you might want to consider other retailers.

Home Depot

Home Depot is a well-known retailer specializing in home improvement products, including DIY home security systems. They offer a range of security cameras, smart home devices, and full-fledged security systems.

Specifications :

Focus on home improvement: Home Depot's selection leans towards DIY security systems with a home improvement focus.
In-store expertise: Home Depot staff often have knowledge about DIY security systems and can provide guidance.
Installation services: They offer installation services for some DIY security systems, providing professional help.

Reasons to buy :

Focused on home improvement: Home Depot offers a selection of DIY security systems that integrate well with other home improvement projects.
In-store expertise: Home Depot staff can often answer questions and provide guidance on choosing the right system.
Installation services: You can opt for professional installation for some systems, making setup easier.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited selection: Home Depot might not have as wide a selection of brands and models compared to some other retailers.
Pricing might be higher: Home Depot's prices might not be as competitive as some other online retailers.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You want a home improvement focused DIY security system.
You value in-store expertise and guidance.
You're interested in professional installation services.

Don't buy it if:

You want the widest possible selection of brands and models.
You prioritize the lowest possible price.

Bottom Line:

Home Depot is a good choice for DIY home security systems if you value home improvement integration, in-store expertise, and potential professional installation. They offer a solid selection of security systems that complement other home improvement projects. However, their selection might not be as extensive as other retailers, and their prices might not be the most competitive.

Lowe's

Lowe's is another popular home improvement retailer that carries DIY home security systems. Like Home Depot, their focus leans towards security products that fit into a home improvement context.

Specifications :

Similar focus to Home Depot: Lowe's offers a similar range of DIY home security systems as Home Depot, emphasizing integration with home improvement projects.
In-store consultations: Lowe's often offers in-store consultations with experts to help you choose the right system.
Installation services: Similar to Home Depot, they offer installation services for some DIY security systems.

Reasons to buy :

Home improvement focus: Lowe's offers a selection of DIY security systems that can be easily integrated with other home improvement projects.
In-store consultations: You can get expert advice from Lowe's staff on choosing the right system.
Installation services: Lowe's offers professional installation services for some systems, making setup easier.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited selection: Lowe's might not have as wide a range of brands and models as some other retailers.
Pricing might be higher: Like Home Depot, Lowe's prices might not be as competitive as other online retailers.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a home improvement focused DIY security system.
You value in-store consultations with experts.
You're interested in professional installation services.

Don't buy it if:

You want the widest possible selection of brands and models.
You prioritize the lowest possible price.

Bottom Line:

Lowe's is a good option for DIY home security systems if you're focused on home improvement, value expert advice, and want potential professional installation. Their selection of DIY security systems aligns well with home improvement projects, offering a good balance of functionality and integration. However, their selection might not be as extensive as other retailers, and their prices might be higher.

Target

Target is a well-known retailer offering a range of products, including DIY home security systems. They carry a mix of popular brands and smaller brands.

Specifications :

Moderate selection: Target offers a selection of DIY home security systems, though it might not be as extensive as Amazon or Walmart.
Competitive pricing: Target often offers competitive pricing on DIY home security systems.
Target Circle rewards: Target Circle members can earn rewards and discounts on their purchases.

Reasons to buy :

Competitive pricing: Target often offers competitive prices on DIY home security systems.
Target Circle rewards: Target Circle members can earn rewards and discounts, saving money on their purchases.
Convenient in-store availability: You can often find DIY home security systems at Target stores.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited selection: Target's selection of DIY home security systems might not be as wide as some other retailers.
Might not have the most advanced features: Target's selection might not include the latest technology or advanced features.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for competitive pricing.
You're a Target Circle member and value rewards and discounts.
You prefer in-store shopping and want to see the system in person.

Don't buy it if:

You want the widest possible selection of brands and models.
You're looking for the latest technology or advanced features.

Bottom Line:

Target is a good choice for DIY home security systems if you're looking for competitive pricing, Target Circle rewards, and convenient in-store availability. They offer a moderate selection of security systems from popular brands. However, their selection might not be as extensive as other retailers, and they might not have the most advanced features. If you value rewards, competitive pricing, and in-store convenience, Target is worth considering. But if you need the widest selection or the latest technology, you might want to look elsewhere.

Best Buy

Best Buy is a well-known electronics retailer that carries a range of DIY home security systems. They focus on smart home technology and offer a good selection of security cameras, smart home devices, and full-fledged systems.

Specifications :

Focus on smart home technology: Best Buy's selection emphasizes smart home technology and integration with other devices.
Expert staff: Best Buy employees often have knowledge about DIY security systems and can provide advice.
Geek Squad installation: Best Buy offers Geek Squad installation services for some DIY security systems.

Reasons to buy :

Smart home focus: Best Buy offers a selection of DIY security systems that integrate well with other smart home devices.
Expert staff: Best Buy employees can often provide advice and guidance on choosing the right system.
Geek Squad installation: Best Buy's Geek Squad offers professional installation services for some systems, making setup easier.

Reasons to avoid :

Higher prices: Best Buy's prices might be higher than other online retailers.
Limited selection: Their selection might not be as wide as Amazon or Walmart.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're looking for a smart home focused DIY security system.
You value expert advice from knowledgeable staff.
You're interested in professional Geek Squad installation services.

Don't buy it if:

You prioritize the lowest possible price.
You want the widest possible selection of brands and models.

Bottom Line:

Best Buy is a good option for DIY home security systems if you're looking for smart home integration, expert advice, and professional installation. They offer a solid selection of security systems from popular brands, focusing on seamless integration with other smart home devices. However, their prices might be higher than other retailers, and their selection might not be as extensive. If you value smart home integration, expert advice, and professional installation, Best Buy is worth considering. But if you prioritize the lowest possible price or want the widest selection, you might want to explore other retailers.

Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware is a well-known hardware retailer that offers a range of DIY home security systems, primarily focused on security cameras and basic monitoring systems.

Specifications :

Limited selection: Ace Hardware offers a smaller selection of DIY security systems compared to larger retailers.
Local focus: Ace Hardware stores are often locally owned, providing personalized service and community support.
In-store availability: You can find DIY security systems in Ace Hardware stores, allowing you to inspect them in person.

Reasons to buy :

Local service: Ace Hardware stores often provide personalized service and community support.
In-store availability: You can visit an Ace Hardware store to see the systems in person before purchasing.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited selection: Ace Hardware's selection of DIY security systems might not be as extensive as larger retailers.
Might not have the most advanced features: Their selection might not include the latest technology or advanced features.
Higher prices: Ace Hardware's prices might be higher than some other online retailers.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You value local service and personalized support.
You prefer in-store shopping and want to see the system in person.

Don't buy it if:

You want the widest possible selection of brands and models.
You prioritize the lowest possible price.
You're looking for the latest technology or advanced features.

Bottom Line:

Ace Hardware is a good option for DIY home security systems if you value local service, personalized support, and in-store convenience. They offer a smaller selection of security systems, primarily focusing on basic security cameras and monitoring systems. Their prices might be higher than some other retailers, and they might not have the most advanced features. If you prefer local service, in-store availability, and a personal touch, Ace Hardware is worth considering. But if you're looking for the widest selection, the lowest prices, or the latest technology, you might want to explore other retailers.

Costco

Costco is a membership-based warehouse club known for its bulk purchases and often discounted prices. They carry a limited selection of DIY home security systems, primarily focusing on popular brands like Ring and SimpliSafe.

Specifications :

Limited selection: Costco's selection of DIY home security systems is smaller compared to other retailers.
Bulk discounts: Costco offers bulk discounts, which can be beneficial if you need multiple cameras or sensors.
Membership required: You need a Costco membership to shop at Costco.

Reasons to buy :

Bulk discounts: If you need multiple cameras or sensors, Costco's bulk discounts can save you money.
Known brands: Costco primarily carries popular brands like Ring and SimpliSafe, known for their reliability.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited selection: You might not find the specific brand or model you want at Costco.
Membership required: You need a Costco membership to shop there.
In-store only: You can only purchase Costco's DIY home security systems in their physical stores.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You need multiple cameras or sensors and value bulk discounts.
You're already a Costco member.
You prefer shopping in physical stores.

Don't buy it if:

You want a wide selection of brands and models.
You don't have a Costco membership.
You prefer online shopping.

Bottom Line:

Costco is a good option for DIY home security systems if you're a Costco member, value bulk discounts, and prefer shopping in physical stores. Their selection is limited, focusing on popular brands, but they offer significant discounts for buying in bulk. However, you need a membership to shop at Costco, and they only offer in-store purchases. If you meet these criteria and need multiple security devices, Costco is worth exploring. But if you want a wide selection, prefer online shopping, or don't have a membership, you might want to look elsewhere.

Ring

Ring is a popular brand specializing in DIY home security systems, including doorbells, security cameras, and alarm systems. They sell their products directly through their website and through select retailers.

Specifications :

Focus on doorbells and cameras: Ring primarily offers doorbells, security cameras, and related accessories.
Subscription-based monitoring: Ring offers optional subscription-based monitoring plans for added features.
Direct sales and retail partnerships: Ring sells products through its website and select retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot.

Reasons to buy :

Wide range of doorbells and cameras: Ring offers a variety of doorbells and security cameras to suit different needs and budgets.
Easy setup and integration: Ring products are generally easy to set up and integrate with other smart home devices.
Excellent app interface: Ring's app is user-friendly and provides clear notifications and control over your system.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited alarm system options: Ring's alarm system options are more limited compared to other brands with full-fledged security systems.
Subscription costs: While not mandatory, Ring's subscription plans can add to the overall cost of the system.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You're primarily looking for doorbells and security cameras.
You value easy setup and integration with other smart home devices.
You're comfortable with optional subscription plans.

Don't buy it if:

You need a full-featured security system with extensive alarm capabilities.
You want to avoid subscription-based services.

Bottom Line:

Ring is a great option for DIY home security systems if you're looking for doorbells, security cameras, and easy integration with smart home devices. Their products are known for their user-friendliness and excellent app interface. While their alarm systems are more limited, they offer a solid foundation for basic home security. You should consider their subscription plans, which offer additional features, but are not mandatory. If you're looking for a simple, reliable, and user-friendly security solution, particularly for doorbells and cameras, Ring is worth considering. But if you need a comprehensive alarm system with extensive features, you might want to explore other brands.

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is another popular brand specializing in DIY home security systems, offering a range of alarm systems, sensors, and cameras. They sell their products directly through their website.

Specifications :

Focus on alarm systems: SimpliSafe primarily offers home security alarm systems, sensors, and cameras.
Self-monitoring or professional monitoring options: SimpliSafe allows you to choose between self-monitoring or professional monitoring plans.
Direct sales: SimpliSafe sells its products directly through its website, offering a streamlined purchasing process.

Reasons to buy :

Excellent alarm system options: SimpliSafe offers a comprehensive range of alarm system options, including sensors, motion detectors, and keypads.
Affordable self-monitoring: Their self-monitoring option is very affordable, making SimpliSafe a budget-friendly option.
Flexible professional monitoring: SimpliSafe's professional monitoring plans offer various options to suit your needs and budget.

Reasons to avoid :

Limited camera selection: SimpliSafe's camera selection is relatively limited compared to some other brands.
Website-only sales: You can only purchase SimpliSafe products through their website, which might not be ideal for everyone.

What you need to know :

Buy it if

You need a comprehensive alarm system with a variety of sensors.
You prefer affordable self-monitoring options.
You want flexible professional monitoring plans.

Don't buy it if:

You need a wide selection of cameras.
You prefer shopping in physical stores.

Bottom Line:

SimpliSafe is a great option for DIY home security systems if you're looking for a comprehensive alarm system with a variety of sensors, affordable self-monitoring, and flexible professional monitoring options. Their systems are known for their ease of use and intuitive setup. While their camera selection is limited, they offer a solid foundation for home security. They only sell their products through their website, which might not be ideal for everyone. If you're looking for a user-friendly and affordable alarm system with a strong emphasis on security, SimpliSafe is worth considering. But if you need a wide selection of cameras or prefer shopping in physical stores, you might want to explore other brands.

ADT

ADT is a well-known name in the home security industry, offering a wide range of DIY security systems. Their systems include a variety of features such as sensors, cameras, and smart home automation.

Specifications:

Professional monitoring plans available
Customizable security packages
Mobile app for remote control
24/7 customer support

Reasons to buy:

Established brand with a strong reputation
Variety of features and packages
Professional monitoring options available

Reasons to avoid:

Can be more expensive than other DIY options
Professional installation may be required for some features

What you need to know:

Buy it if

You want a well-known brand with a proven track record
You are looking for a comprehensive security system with a wide range of features
You are comfortable with professional monitoring and want the added peace of mind it provides

Don't buy it if:

You are on a tight budget and looking for the most affordable option
You prefer a completely DIY installation process

Bottom Line:

ADT is a great option for homeowners who want a reliable and feature-rich DIY home security system, especially those looking for professional monitoring. They offer a wide range of customizable packages to meet your specific needs, and their established reputation and 24/7 customer support provide peace of mind. However, they can be pricier than some competitors, and professional installation may be required for certain features.

Learn more about 18 Best DIY Home Security Systems with Video Doorbell and Outdoor Cameras

Vivint

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Vivint is another leading name in the home security space, offering both professionally installed and DIY security systems. Their DIY options include smart home automation features and professional monitoring services.

Specifications:

Smart home automation features
Professional monitoring plans available
Mobile app for remote control
24/7 customer support

Reasons to buy:

Comprehensive security systems with smart home automation
Professional monitoring options available
User-friendly mobile app

Reasons to avoid:

Can be more expensive than other DIY options
Professional installation may be required for some features

What you need to know:

Buy it if

You want a combination of security and smart home automation
You are comfortable with professional monitoring
You want a user-friendly mobile app for remote control

Don't buy it if:

You are looking for the most affordable DIY option
You prefer a completely DIY installation process

Bottom Line:

Vivint provides a robust DIY home security system with smart home automation features and professional monitoring options. They offer a comprehensive package that can address many homeowners' security needs. However, the systems can be more expensive than some alternatives, and some features may require professional installation.

Frontpoint

Frontpoint offers a fully DIY home security system with a focus on ease of use and affordability. They provide a range of sensors and a mobile app for remote control.

Specifications:

Easy-to-install components
Mobile app for remote control
24/7 professional monitoring plans available
No contracts required

Reasons to buy:

Affordable and easy to install
No contracts required
24/7 professional monitoring available

Reasons to avoid:

Limited smart home automation features compared to other options

What you need to know:

Buy it if

You are looking for a simple and affordable DIY security system
You don't want to be locked into a long-term contract
You want the peace of mind that comes with professional monitoring

Don't buy it if:

You want a security system with extensive smart home automation features
You prefer a professionally installed system

Bottom Line:

Frontpoint is a great option for homeowners who prioritize affordability and ease of use. Their fully DIY system is easy to install and offers reliable security with 24/7 professional monitoring. However, compared to other options, they offer fewer smart home automation features.

Scout Security

Scout Security stands out with its sleek design and focus on smart home integration. They offer a DIY security system with a range of sensors and smart home features.

Specifications:

Sleek design
Smart home integration with popular platforms
Mobile app for remote control
No contracts required

Reasons to buy:

Stylish and modern design
Extensive smart home integration capabilities
No contracts required

Reasons to avoid:

Can be more expensive than some other DIY options
Professional monitoring is not included

What you need to know:

Buy it if

You want a stylish and modern security system
You prioritize smart home integration and want to control your security system through various platforms
You don't want to be locked into a contract

Don't buy it if:

You are looking for the most affordable DIY option
You want professional monitoring for your security system

Bottom Line:

Scout Security offers a modern and technologically advanced DIY security system that excels at smart home integration. They offer a range of sensors and integration with popular smart home platforms. However, their focus on style and smart features comes with a higher price tag, and they do not offer professional monitoring.

Alarm.com

Alarm.com is a leading provider of smart home technology, offering a DIY security system that integrates with a variety of smart home devices.

Specifications:

Extensive smart home integration
Mobile app for remote control
Professional monitoring plans available
DIY or professional installation options

Reasons to buy:

Wide range of smart home integration options
DIY or professional installation available
Professional monitoring plans available

Reasons to avoid:

Can be more expensive than some other DIY options

What you need to know:

Buy it if

You want a robust security system with extensive smart home integration capabilities
You want the option for either DIY or professional installation
You are considering professional monitoring

Don't buy it if:

You are looking for the most affordable DIY option
You prefer a simple security system with limited smart home features

Bottom Line:

Alarm.com provides a comprehensive DIY security system that excels at smart home integration. They offer a wide range of features and integrate seamlessly with many popular smart devices, making it ideal for tech-savvy homeowners. Their system can be DIY or professionally installed, and they offer professional monitoring options for added peace of mind. However, their extensive features can come at a higher price point.

Choosing the right DIY home security system can be a daunting task, but with careful consideration and research, you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Remember to factor in your home's size and layout, the level of security you require, and your desired features, like smart home integration or professional monitoring.

By exploring the options presented in this article, you'll have a solid foundation to make an informed decision. Don't be afraid to compare prices, features, and customer reviews to ensure you're getting the best value for your investment.

Ultimately, the best DIY home security system is one that gives you peace of mind and makes you feel safe and secure in your own home. Investing in a reliable system can provide a sense of protection and help deter potential threats.

With the right DIY home security system, you can safeguard your family and belongings while maintaining control over your home's security, all at an affordable price. Take the first step toward a safer and more secure home by researching the best options available and choosing the system that best meets your individual needs.