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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 Pro. 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.
Product | Best for | Price | Smart home compatibility | Learn more | Read review |
| Best DIY security camera system (and best overall) | $749 | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT | View on Amazon | Read review | |
| Best DIY budget security camera system | $198.45 | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | View on Amazon | Read Review | |
| Best DIY security alarm system | $379 | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | View on Amazon | Read Review | |
| Best budget DIY security alarm system | $249 | N/A | View on Amazon | Read Review |
Prices are accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
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.
The EufyCam 2C Pro 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 2K 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.
2K video resolution
Alarm, spotlight and two-way audio
Completely wireless
Free local storage
Smart home compatibility 
HomeKit video quality capped at 1080p 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 Pro. Out of the box, it works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. That said, those opting for HomeKit integration should note that video quality drops to 1080p.
The TP-Link Kasa Wire-Free Camera System is perhaps the best value security camera system in Australia. For just under $200, you get two wireless, weatherproof 1080p cameras, plus a hub. Additional cameras can be purchased for under $100, meaning you could potentially rig your whole home for half the price of our top pick above.
Speaking of our top pick, the budget-friendly TP-Link Kasa shares quite a lot of the same features. They're both battery-powered, both offer two-way audio and night vision. Sure, the Kasa has lower video resolution, but it'll still be plenty clear enough for most people.
Affordable
Completely wireless
Security alarm
Two-way audio
Night vision
Included hub doesn't offer storage
Limited cloud storage included for free
Limited smart home compatibility Unfortunately, despite the fact that this system does come with a hub, it doesn't include storage, which means you'll need to make do with the two days of cloud video storage included for free, or pay $19.99 per month for 30 days of video history.
What the hub does do, however, is alert the household to any potential intruders. The cameras themselves have sirens, but by placing the hub in a central location in your home, alarms are less likely to be missed.
One of the compromises you make by opting for a cheaper system like Kasa over something like the EufyCam 2C Pro is that smart home support only extends to Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa - no Apple HomeKit support.
DIY security alarm systems tend to be pretty basic, without too much functionality beyond a control panel or maybe an app. The Chuango Smart Home Security Alarm Kit stands out for its impressive smart home integration and connectivity options.
The kit includes one wireless PIR motion sensor (pet immune up to 25kg), two window/door sensors, and two remote controls with 24-hour SOS panic buttons. It also comes with a control hub, which can connect to an existing Wi-Fi network, or to a mobile network via SIM card. Yep, if you don't have Wi-Fi (or simply want a backup option in case it drops out), the Chuango system will remain working. That's a big plus.
Smart home integration
Remote arm/disarm
Can run on Wi-Fi or 4G
Hub emits loud siren when triggered
Cannot be armed or disarmed directly from hub Another feature we love is its integration with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, allowing you to use voice commands to arm or disarm the alarm system remotely. Of course, there's also an app that lets you do the same thing, in addition to setting schedules, review system history, and more.
The only real downside to the Chuango alarm system is that there are no buttons on the included security hub that allow you to arm or disarm the alarm through it directly—you have no choice but to use the app (or voice controls). You can add a wireless keypad that enables this functionality, but it'll set you back an extra $67. That won't be a dealbreaker for most people, but it's still something to be aware of.
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 $250, 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.
Under $250
Remote arm/disarm
Includes keypad and hub
Affordable add-ons
No smart home compatibility 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.
The EufyCam 2C Pro 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 Chuango Smart Home Security Alarm Kit will serve you well with its versatile connectivity and smart assistant options.
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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:
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.
