Ring Alarm Pro and SimpliSafe Lead the DIY Home Security Revolution

The home security landscape has transformed dramatically, and the winners are clear: DIY systems that deliver professional-grade protection without the traditional headaches of contracts, installation fees, or inflexible monitoring plans.

Wirecutter's latest comprehensive testing reveals that two systems stand head and shoulders above the competition, offering homeowners unprecedented value and flexibility.

The Clear Winner: Ring Alarm Pro

The Ring Alarm Pro isn't just a security system—it's a smart home command center that happens to excel at keeping your property safe. Currently available for $230 (down from $300) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Ring direct, this system delivers something remarkable: a built-in Eero Wi-Fi 6 router that can replace your existing home network entirely.

This dual functionality means you're essentially getting a premium mesh router (worth $200+ on its own) bundled with a top-tier security system. The Wi-Fi 6 capabilities significantly boost performance for security cameras and other smart devices throughout your home—addressing one of the biggest pain points in DIY security setups.

The Ring ecosystem shines brightest when it comes to cameras and monitoring. For $20 monthly, the professional monitoring plan includes 180 days of video storage and 24/7 backup internet—a combination that competing systems struggle to match at any price point.

The Budget Champion: Ring Alarm (2nd Generation)

For homeowners who already have solid Wi-Fi coverage, the standard Ring Alarm (2nd Generation) at $150 delivers identical security performance without the router integration. This system proves that effective home security doesn't require a massive upfront investment.

Both Ring systems excel in areas that matter most to real users: lightning-fast sensor response times, intuitive smartphone app control, and the industry's most extensive selection of cameras and video doorbells. The ability to self-monitor for free (receiving smartphone alerts without professional monitoring) makes these systems particularly attractive for budget-conscious buyers.

The Reliable Alternative: SimpliSafe

While Ring dominates the feature-rich category, SimpliSafe earns recognition for pure reliability and simplicity. Available for $200 at Costco (13-piece kit) or $141 direct from SimpliSafe with monitoring, this system appeals to users who prioritize straightforward operation over smart home integration.

Simplisafe's monitoring costs only slightly more than Ring's but doesn't include video storage—a significant consideration for camera-heavy setups. However, its sensors perform consistently, and the system rarely generates false alarms that plague some competitors.

Why This Matters Now

Traditional security companies built their business models around long-term contracts, expensive professional installation, and limited flexibility. These DIY alternatives flip that equation entirely. You can install any of these systems in under an hour, customize monitoring month-to-month, and expand capabilities as your needs evolve.

The timing couldn't be better. Supply chain improvements have driven prices down while feature sets have expanded dramatically. The Ring Alarm Pro's current $70 discount makes it an exceptional value for anyone considering both security upgrades and Wi-Fi improvements.

For most homeowners, the choice comes down to ecosystem preference and specific needs. Ring's camera selection and video storage make it ideal for comprehensive monitoring, while SimpliSafe's straightforward approach appeals to users seeking reliable basics without complexity.

Either way, the days of choosing between expensive professional systems and ineffective DIY alternatives are over. These systems prove that outstanding home security can be both affordable and user-friendly.

Sources

• Wirecutter: The Best Home Security System