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Home | Home Security | Best DIY home security systems of 2024
Find out which system will work best for you in our comparison of the best DIY home security systems.
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Wide smart home compatibility
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Spotlight and alarm
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100% wireless
View on Amazon
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Best budget camera system
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Under $350
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Security alarm
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100% wireless
View on Amazon
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Best alarm system
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Under $300
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Easy installation
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Affordable add-ons
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Best budget alarm system
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Cheap
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Loud
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Easy installation
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By Georgia Dixon
Nov 03, 2023
5 min read
SafeWise experts have years of firsthand experience testing the products we recommend. Learn how we test and review.
Security systems don't have to come with hefty installation or monitoring fees—you can easily install DIY alarms and security camera systems on your own, like our top pick, the EufyCam 2C Security Kit. It catches our attention with high-quality equipment, theft-deterrent features, solid smart home compatibility and free local storage.
Read on to learn more about our top picks for the best DIY camera security systems and the best DIY alarm security systems.
Best DIY security systems
- : Best DIY security camera system (and best system overall)
EufyCam 2C
- : Best budget DIY security camera system
TP-Link Tapo C400S2
- : Best DIY security alarm system
Eufy Security Home Alarm Kit
- : Best budget DIY security alarm system
GE Window/Door Alarms
Compare DIY home security systems
Product | Best for | Price | Smart home compatibility | Learn more | Read review |
| EufyCam 2C Security Kit | Best DIY security camera system (and best overall) | $729 | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT | View on Amazon | Read review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link Tapo C400S2 | Best DIY budget security camera system | $299.90 | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Eufy Security Home Alarm Kit | Best DIY security alarm system | $278 | N/A | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| GE Window/Door Alarms | Best budget DIY security alarm system | $37.32 (5-pack) | N/A | View on Amazon | Read Review |
Prices are accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
What equipment can I expect in my DIY system starter kit?
That depends on what type of DIY security system you're after. Simple alarm systems come with motion sensors, window/door sensors, and a central hub. Some come with a physical control panel, others can be controlled via a smartphone app. On the other hand, camera-based security systems come with cameras (surprise, surprise) and, depending on the brand, a Wi-Fi hub.
Another defining feature of DIY security systems is that, unlike many professional security systems, they're usually easy to add to. The following products are great starter kits, but you can always add additional sensors or cameras to the system down the line.
DIY home security system reviews
1. EufyCam 2C: Best DIY security camera system (and best overall)
Best overall
$729
(4 cameras)
View on Amazon
Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
The EufyCam 2C Security Kit is easily our top pick for the best DIY security system overall. Why? Simple—it's an easy-to-setup, feature-packed product with solid smart home compatibility and free local storage at a decent price.
Each camera boasts HD video, a truly wireless design, a bright spotlight for clear, colour night vision, and a motion-triggered alarm to deter would-be thieves. There's also two-way audio that allows you to chat to any visitors. If you're after better resolution video, the EufyCam 2C Pro 4-pack comes in at just $70 more.
Pros
Alarm, spotlight and two-way audio
Completely wireless
Free local storage
Smart home compatibility
Cons
Expensive
These cameras are built to withstand whatever the weather throws at them and can be used inside or outdoors, and because they're wireless, installation is a cinch. They can operate on a single charge for up to six months, otherwise, you can add compatible solar panels so you won't have to worry about low battery notifications again.
For those looking for a security camera system that meshes seamlessly with your smart home setup, you'd struggle to find something better than the EufyCam 2C. Out of the box, it works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. That said, it is the priciest pick on our list.
2. TP-Link Tapo C400S2: Best budget DIY security camera system
Best budget camera system
$299.90
View on Amazon
Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
The TP-Link Tapo C400S2 Wire-Free Camera System is one of the best value security camera systems in Australia. For just under $300, you get a wireless, weatherproof 1080p camera, plus a hub, which can be used to build a fully decked-out smart home system.
The budget-friendly TP-Link Tapo C400S2 shares quite a lot of the same features as its more premium sibling, the C420S2. They're both battery-powered and both offer two-way audio and night vision. Sure, the C400S2 has lower video resolution, but it'll still be plenty clear enough for most people. That said, if you want the higher 2K resolution, the C420S2 will only set you back approximately an extra $50.
Pros
MicroSD card slot for local storage
Completely wireless
Security alarm
Two-way audio
Night vision
Cons
No solar power option
Battery life could be better
Comparatively narrow field of view
We really like that this system includes local storage capabilities (which means no pesky subscription fees) and its IP65 waterproofing rating means you can install the cameras just about anywhere.
As for what we don't like about it, we would've loved a solar power option, better battery life and a wider field of view.
3. Eufy: Best DIY security alarm system
Best alarm system
$278
View on Amazon
Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
The Eufy Security Home Alarm Kit is a perfect starting point for those wanting to protect their home on a budget. It's quite similar to the Chuango system above, but lacks compatibility with smart home setups like Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Still, for under $300, what you do get is a fantastic value DIY alarm system.
Included in the kit is one motion sensor, two entry sensors (for windows or doors), the HomeBase hub, and a keypad for arming and disarming without needing to go through the app—though you can do so if you wish, even if you're not at home.
Eufy is well-known in the DIY home security space, meaning there are tons of affordable add-on products available should you wish to expand your security system. These include cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, and more.
Pros
Under $300
Remote arm/disarm
Includes keypad and hub
Affordable add-ons
Cons
No smart home compatibility
4. GE Window/Door Alarms: Best budget DIY security alarm system
Best budget alarm system
$37.32
(5-pack)
View on Amazon
Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
If you're on a serious budget but still need some sort of alarm system for your home, it's hard to go past a good ol' fashioned contact sensor. And at less than $40 for five of them, the GE Window/Door Alarms offer stellar value.
They're a breeze to install (simply stick them on your doors or windows and they're ready to go) and easy to use, thanks to a switch on each alarm that can be set to 'OFF', 'CHIME' or 'ALARM'. Plus, with a 120-decibel alarm, they certainly aren't quiet.
Of course, being so simple they do lack the features you'd find on a kit like the Eufy system above. There's no accompanying app, no way to control the alarms remotely. But at a price that good, who could say no?
Pros
Very affordable
Loud
Simple to install
Three modes
Cons
Very limited features
No remote control ability
Final word
The EufyCam 2C Security Kit is our favourite DIY home security system overall, combining smart home tech with traditional security system features for a reasonable upfront price and no ongoing monthly fees.
As for those who don't need (or want) any fancy cameras, the Eufy Security Home Alarm Kit will serve you well with its remote connectivity and buildability.
How to install a DIY home security system
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Best DIY home security systems FAQ
Most DIY security systems come with free companion apps that guide you through installation and allow you to control your system remotely.
Most DIY systems are easy to set up and can move with you, making them great for renters. The simple assembly makes for easy disassembly when you pack up to move out, which is convenient for renters.
Generally, DIY systems come with peel-and-stick sensors that attach directly to the wall. They are usually easy to remove, and you can replace the adhesive in your new place.
At most, you'll need a screwdriver to pop open battery cases or remove equipment from the wall.
Your house size determines how many contact sensors you'll need. At a minimum, you should have a door and window sensor at each main entry point—exterior doors and easily accessible windows. This may mean only one contact sensor if you live in an apartment or dozens if you have a larger house with multiple exit points.
Pets under 25 kg generally don't trigger motion detection. For dogs over 25 kg, you can replace the motion sensor with a glass break sensor or security camera.
Not usually, but some systems may be compatible with Z-Wave technology that allows allow you to customise your home with third-party smart home products like smart bulbs and outlets. For security products, however, it's best to stick within the one brand.
Hacking is a risk every user takes when using any internet-connected wireless system.
The good news is you can minimise the risk with proper internet security. Secure your system from online threats with these tips:
- Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
- Opt for extra security measures like two-factor authentication.
- Add multiple users instead of sharing login credentials for one account.
- Change your home Wi-Fi password frequently.
How we reviewed the best DIY security systems
To find the best fit for a range of lifestyles and budgets, we extensively researched a number of DIY security systems available in Australia. We looked at price, key features, ease of installation, and customer reviews to learn which systems were worth your hard-earned cash.
Learn more about the methodology we use for each of our reviews.
Disclaimer
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time of publish and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer’s website at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. SafeWise Australia utilises paid affiliate links.
Written by
Georgia Dixon
Georgia Dixon has 10 years of experience writing about all things tech, entertainment and lifestyle. She has bylines on Reviews.org, 7NEWS, Stuff.co.nz and in TechLife magazine, and in 2023 she won Best News Writer at the Consensus IT awards. In her spare time, you'll find her playing games and daydreaming about good food, wine, and dogs.
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