Best Self-Monitoring Security Systems 2024:Top Picks & What to Look For

You may have spent a ton of time researching self-monitoring security systems. However, you still scratch your head and don’t know which to choose yet. If so, you have come to the right place! In this post, we will share the benefits of self-monitored security systems with you, offer our best picks and tell you how to choose the best self-monitoring security systems for homes.

Why Should You Choose a Self-Monitoring Security System?

A self-monitoring home security system is a setup where homeowners oversee and manage their home security without relying on professional monitoring services. Many of you will encounter these two options: self-monitoring ones or monitored ones. To ease your headaches, check out the reasons why you should buy a self-monitoring system with our comparison:

Best Self Monitoring Security System

Among all the Reolink 's best self-monitored home security systems, we've selected the Reolink RLK8-800B4 as the top choice. This system includes four Reolink 4K cameras and an RLN8-410 NVR. As an integrated self-monitoring home security system, it efficiently protects your home around the clock. Here are some highlights for your reference:

• Ultra HD 4K 8MP High Resolution
• IP67 Weatherproof
• Smart Alarms with Person detection/vehicle detection/motion detection
• 24/7 Recording & Monitoring
• High-Quality Night Vision
• Big Storage Space with Pre-Installed 2TB Hard Disk Drive

Best Self Monitoring Home Security System

If you need a small camera system for your home, consider the Reolink Argus PT Ultra Kit with Home Hub. This self monitoring home security system includes two 4K battery-powered cameras with excellent pan and tilt capabilities, covering a 360-degree range. It connects to your phone or PC to send instant alerts. Here are its main features:

• 4K Color Footage Day & Night
• Extensive Coverage with 4K Resolution and 355° Pan and 140° Tilt
• 1 Year of Local Storage
• Exclusive Anti-Theft Algorithms
• Expandable System Up to 8 Reolink Cams

Best Self-Monitoring Security System No Monthly Fee

If you want to avoid subscription hassles, consider the Reolink RLK16-1200D8-A. This self-monitoring wired security system is ideal for medium to large properties. It comes with eight sleek and discreet 12MP dome cameras. The RLN16-410 NVR can be expanded to support up to 16 cameras. You can use a monitor and set up designated monitoring zones with this system. All these features are subscription-free. Check out its main features:

• 12MP Ultra HD Resolution
• Person/Vehicle Detection with Instant Alerts
• Power over Ethernet for Simple Setup
• 16-Channel NVR for Future Expansion

What to Look for When Buying the Best Self Monitored Security system

In this section, we will show you what to look for in self monitoring security systems and help you choose one that fits your needs and budget.

DIY and Easy Installation

You can DIY you own self-monitored security systems by integrating existing security systems with new cameras, DVRs and NVRs. This saves your labor and budget as well. Meanwhile, a DIY security system with easy installation and application procedures is more user-friendly compared to that with complicated steps.

Network Connection

Self-monitoring security systems normally transmit data via WiFi, cellular signal or Ethernet cables.

In an environment with strong WiFi signal coverage, you can apply WiFi security systems for self monitoring. Cellular security systems are good options under the situation where no WiFi is available.

Last but not least, you can consider about wired self-monitoring security systems if you are looking for stable data transmission and steady power supply for your security systems.

Intelligent Alerts

Brilliant no-monthly-fee security systems come with smart motion sensors and also intelligent alerts to inform you in time. Smart motion sensors are sensitive and able to detect every motion or abnormal event. No strange movement will slip through without your notice.

When any motions are detected, excellent alerts will be triggered and start recording. More importantly, a good self-monitored alarm system sends pushes, emails and even audio sirens to you immediately. Thus, you can make in-time actions to protect your family and property.

Easy Control

Best self-monitoring home security systems offer you easy control, which means that you can adjust settings of your systems through simple steps. For example, you can arm the motion detections when you go to work or sleep and disarm them when you are at home.

If you want to check out the situation of your home when you are on a vacation or at work, you can get access to your self-monitoring security systems remotely through your phones or PCs.
Some top self-monitored security system vendors offer free and customized software for you to view live streaming remotely via phones and PCs.

How to Convert Home Security System to Self-Monitoring?

If you already have a home security system and you want ti convert it to self-monitoring ones, you can try the following steps:

1. Assess Your Current System: Review your existing security system to determine if it supports self-monitoring or if you need to make upgrades. Check if your system has mobile app or online access for real-time alerts and monitoring.
2. Install a Compatible App or Software: Many modern security systems come with an app or online portal that allows you to monitor the system yourself. If your system doesn’t have this feature, consider upgrading to a newer version or adding a smart hub that enables app integration.
3. Disable Professional Monitoring Services: If your system is currently being monitored by a professional service, contact them to cancel the monitoring contract. Be sure to review any terms regarding equipment ownership and cancellation fees.
4. Configure Notifications and Alerts: Set up your system to send notifications to your phone or email when motion is detected. You can adjust settings to receive push notifications, emails, or texts.

FAQs

What is a self-monitoring security system

A self-monitoring security system is a type of home or business security setup that allows the user to monitor their own property without relying on professional monitoring services. With a self-monitoring system, users can receive alerts and notifications directly to their phone or other devices.

What security system does not require a monthly fee?

Reolink security camera systems come with no monthly subscription fees. They offer free smart features like motion detection, instant alerts, and local storage. Users can choose between wired and wireless Reolink security camera systems to suit their specific needs.

Are DIY security systems worth it?

DIY security systems can be worth it for many people. They are often more affordable than professional systems. You can install them yourself, which saves on installation fees. They offer good features like motion detection, alerts, and video surveillance.

Conclusion

Self-monitoring security systems are better choices than monitored ones in terms of their price and performance. They give you full control of your home security and you can monitor everything that happens around your property. Let us know if you have any further questions in the comments below and we would love to answer!