Best Home Security Systems of 2024: Prepper’s Guide to Protecting Your Home
Staying safe and prepared is a top priority for preppers and anyone who wants to protect their home. With so many home security systems available, it can be tough to know which one is best for your survival plan. In 2024, there are plenty of options for every budget and need, whether you want to install it yourself or have professionals do it for you. CNET's team of experts has tested dozens of home security systems, looking at how easy they are to use, install, and how well they work. Here’s how these systems can fit into your prepping and self-reliance strategy.
SimpliSafe: Flexible and Affordable for Preppers
SimpliSafe is the top pick for 2024, and it’s a great choice for preppers who want flexibility and control. This system is easy to install yourself, so you don’t have to let strangers into your home. There are no long-term contracts, which means you can stop or start service whenever you want. The equipment is affordable, and monitoring plans start at just $18 a month. You can customize your SimpliSafe setup with sensors, cameras, and smart locks to fit your home’s unique needs. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control it with your voice or through your phone. The SimpliSafe app is easy to use, and the system performed reliably in CNET’s tests—important for when you need it most.
- No long-term contracts – more freedom for preppers
- DIY installation – set it up yourself, no outsiders needed
- Customizable – add sensors, cameras, and smart locks as needed
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant – easy control even in emergencies
- Affordable monitoring – plans start at $18 a month
ADT: Professional Monitoring and Reliability
If you want a system with a long history of reliability, ADT is a strong choice. ADT offers professional installation and monitoring, so you get expert help setting up your system. They have a wide range of equipment options, which is good for larger homes or more complex setups. ADT’s plans are more expensive and require a contract, but you get 24/7 monitoring and a reputation for reliability. Their system works with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Home, making it easy to control your security with other smart devices you might already use for prepping.
- Professional installation – great for those who want expert setup
- 24/7 monitoring – always someone watching out for you
- Smart home integration – works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
- Wide range of equipment – can cover large or complex homes
Ring Alarm: DIY Security for Self-Reliant Families
For preppers who like to do things themselves, Ring Alarm is a solid DIY option. The system is easy to set up, so you can install it without special tools or help. Ring offers affordable monitoring plans, and the Ring app gives you real-time alerts. You can control your system remotely, which is useful if you’re away from home or need to check on things during an emergency. Ring also has a variety of cameras and accessories, so you can expand your system as your prepping needs grow.
- Easy DIY setup – install it yourself, quickly and easily
- Affordable monitoring – keep costs low
- Remote control – manage your system from anywhere
- Expandable – add cameras and accessories as needed
Abode and Wyze: Budget-Friendly and Customizable
If you’re looking for more affordable options, Abode and Wyze Home Monitoring are both worth considering. Abode is highly customizable and supports a wide range of third-party devices, so you can mix and match to fit your prepping plan. Wyze Home Monitoring is one of the most affordable systems on the market, making it a good choice for preppers on a budget. Both Abode and Wyze offer DIY installation and flexible monitoring plans, so you can set up and manage your own security system without relying on outside help.
- DIY installation – set up your own system
- Customizable – especially with Abode’s support for third-party devices
- Budget-friendly – Wyze is one of the most affordable options
- Flexible monitoring – choose the plan that fits your needs
Prepper Tips for Choosing a Home Security System
When picking a home security system for your prepping needs, think about these important factors:
- Installation: Do you want to install it yourself (DIY) or have professionals do it?
- Monitoring: Will you monitor it yourself or pay for professional monitoring?
- Smart Home Compatibility: Does it work with devices like Alexa or Google Assistant?
- Cost: What’s your budget for equipment and monthly monitoring?
- App Control: Can you manage your system from your phone, even during emergencies?
- Customer Support: Is help available if you need it?
For preppers, a reliable home security system is more than just protection from burglars—it’s about being ready for anything. Whether you want a simple setup or a full system with cameras and smart home integration, there are plenty of options to keep your home safe in 2024. Choose the system that fits your self-reliance plan, and make sure your home is secure no matter what comes your way.